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Psalm 19:7
The law of the LORDis perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORDis sure, making wise the simple.

Psalm 51:10,12
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me…

Psalm 85:4-7
Turn us, O God of our salvation, and cause thine anger toward us to cease…

leadeth

Psalm 5:8
Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face.

Psalm 34:3
O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.

Psalm 143:8-10
Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee…

for his

Psalm 79:9
Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name's sake.

Ezekiel 20:14
But I wrought for my name's sake, that it should not be polluted before the heathen, in whose sight I brought them out.

Ephesians 1:6
To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

He guides me in the paths of righteousness
The imagery of guidance reflects the shepherd's role in leading sheep along safe and right paths. In ancient Israel, shepherds were responsible for finding paths that led to water and pasture, ensuring the well-being of their flock. The "paths of righteousness" symbolize a life lived in accordance with God's will and commandments. This guidance is not just moral but also practical, as seen inProverbs 3:5-6, where trusting in the Lord leads to straight paths. The guidance of God is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, with the Holy Spirit described as a guide into all truth (John 16:13), further connecting this guidance to the work of Christ in believers' lives.

for the sake of His name.
This phrase emphasizes that God's actions are ultimately for His glory and reputation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a name represented one's character and authority. God's name is synonymous with His nature, and His actions reflect His holiness and faithfulness. The idea that God acts for the sake of His name is seen throughout the Bible, such as inEzekiel 36:22-23, where God promises to act not for Israel's sake, but to uphold the sanctity of His name among the nations. This underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people, where His guidance and restoration are part of His commitment to His own character and promises.

• David pictures the LORD stepping into moments of exhaustion, failure, or grief and putting life back where it has leaked out. The same Shepherd who “makes me lie down in green pastures” (Psalm 23:2) now repairs what weariness, sin, or sorrow have broken.

• Scripture consistently shows God reviving His people:

– “The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul” (Psalm 19:7).

– “Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31).

– Jesus says, “Come to Me…and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

• Restoration is not simply a mood boost; it is the Shepherd reclaiming a wanderer (1 Peter 2:25) and re-centering a saint whose heart has grown faint (Psalm 42:11).

• The restored sheep does not wander randomly; the Shepherd leads along clearly marked tracks that are morally right and spiritually safe.

• These “paths” are practical:

– Daily obedience (Proverbs 3:5-6).

– Walking in the light of Christ (1 John 1:7).

– Learning His ways (Psalm 25:4).

• The leading is personal. Like Israel in the wilderness, we have an unfailing Guide who goes before us (Exodus 13:21). When the sheep stay close, they find both protection and progress.

• God’s motive is rooted in His own character and reputation. What He does for us ultimately showcases who He is.

• This reality runs through the Bible:

– “He saved them for the sake of His name, to make His power known” (Psalm 106:8).

– “It is not for your sake…but for My holy name” (Ezekiel 36:22-23).

– Jesus prays, “Holy Father, protect them by Your name” (John 17:11).

• Because His name is holy, just, and loving, He cannot abandon or mislead His flock. Every step of restoration and righteous guidance advertises His faithfulness, so that the watching world will glorify Him rather than mock Him (Romans 2:24).

Psalm 23:3 paints a two-part Shepherd ministry: first He mends the battered soul, then He directs that renewed life along right paths—and every bit of it is anchored in His unchanging name. Our confidence rests not in our grip on Him but in His covenant commitment to us, a commitment that both refreshes and steers us so His glory shines.

For his name's sake.--God's providential dealings are recognised as in accordance with His character for great graciousness.