Proverbs 3:23

Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.

Then shalt thou walk {H3212} in thy way {H1870} safely {H983}, and thy foot {H7272} shall not stumble {H5062}.

Then you will walk your way securely, without hurting your foot.

Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble.

Then shalt thou walk in thy way securely, And thy foot shall not stumble.

Proverbs 3:23 offers a profound promise of security and stability to those who embrace and live by divine wisdom. This verse assures the reader that adherence to God's ways leads to a life free from unnecessary peril and significant moral or spiritual missteps.

Context

This verse is part of a larger exhortation from a father to a son in the book of Proverbs, urging him to heed wisdom's call. The preceding verses (Proverbs 3:1-22) lay the foundation for this promise. The safety and stability described in verse 23 are a direct result of cultivating a life centered on God's commands, trusting in the Lord wholeheartedly, and leaning not on one's own understanding. Specifically, it follows the instruction to "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6). Thus, the "then" in this verse signifies a consequence of living a life of faith and obedience.

Key Themes

  • Divine Protection and Guidance: The verse highlights God's active role in safeguarding those who walk in His ways. It suggests that the path of wisdom is divinely overseen, providing a shield against unseen dangers and moral pitfalls.
  • Security in Obedience: There is a clear link between righteous living and personal security. Living according to God's wisdom brings not only inner peace but also practical protection in daily life. This isn't a guarantee against all hardship, but rather against destructive stumbling that derails one's ultimate journey.
  • A Path Without Stumbling: The promise that "thy foot shall not stumble" implies not an absence of challenges, but resilience against significant falls or losing one's way. It speaks to a steady, purposeful walk through life, even amidst trials.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "safely" is betach (בֶּטַח), which conveys a sense of security, confidence, and trust. It implies not merely physical safety, but also an inner assurance that comes from relying on a greater power. The word for "stumble" is nagaph (נָגַף), which means to strike, smite, or trip. In a spiritual context, it often refers to moral failure, defeat, or falling away from the right path. So, the promise extends beyond mere physical accidents to include protection from spiritual and ethical missteps that could lead to ruin.

Practical Application

Proverbs 3:23 encourages believers today to prioritize God's wisdom and guidance in all areas of life. It reminds us that true security comes not from worldly safeguards or personal cleverness, but from a steadfast reliance on the Lord. When we commit our ways to Him and seek to live righteously, we can walk with confidence, knowing that He will direct our steps and protect us from destructive paths. This promise can bring great comfort and peace, assuring us that even when facing life's complexities, our steps are ordered by God, and we are guarded against being utterly cast down, as also seen in Psalm 37:23-24.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Proverbs 4:12

    When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.

  • Proverbs 10:9

    ¶ He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known.

  • Psalms 91:11

    For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

  • Psalms 91:12

    They shall bear thee up in [their] hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

  • Psalms 37:31

    The law of his God [is] in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.

  • Psalms 37:23

    The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.

  • Psalms 37:24

    Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth [him with] his hand.

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