Psalms 18:32

Commentary on Psalms 18:32 (KJV)

Psalms 18:32: "[It is] God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect."

Context

Psalm 18 is a powerful song of thanksgiving and praise from King David, offered to the Lord after He had delivered him from all his enemies, especially from the hand of Saul (as indicated in the psalm's superscription). This psalm is also recorded in 2 Samuel 22, highlighting its significance in David's life. Throughout the psalm, David recounts God's mighty acts of deliverance, His righteous character, and His faithfulness. Verse 32 fits within David's declaration of God as his ultimate source of power and guidance, enabling him to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and walk in integrity.

Key Themes

• Divine Empowerment: The verse emphatically states that strength does not originate from human might or skill, but solely from God. He is the one who "girdeth me with strength," equipping David for battle and for life's challenges. This highlights God's active involvement in empowering His servants.
• Divine Guidance and Perfection of Way: God not only provides strength but also "maketh my way perfect." This signifies God's guidance leading to a life of integrity, righteousness, and effectiveness. It implies that God directs David's path so that it is complete, sound, and ultimately successful in fulfilling His purposes, even amidst trials.
• Absolute Reliance on God: David's testimony underscores a deep trust and absolute dependence on the Lord for every aspect of his existence and success. His victories are not his own, but God's.

Linguistic Insights

• The phrase "girdeth me with strength" uses the Hebrew word ḥāgar (חָגַר), which means to gird, tie on, or bind. It often refers to putting on a belt or armor, preparing oneself for action, service, or battle. Thus, God is depicted as actively equipping David, like a warrior putting on his gear before combat, making him ready and able.
• "Maketh my way perfect" employs the Hebrew word tāmîm (תָּמִים) for "perfect." This word carries connotations of being complete, sound, blameless, or whole. It doesn't necessarily imply flawlessness in every action, but rather that God ensures David's path is one of integrity, leading to a righteous and effective life, aligned with God's will. It speaks to God's providence in making one's journey successful and honorable.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalms 18:32 serves as a powerful reminder of God's enduring faithfulness and provision. In a world full of challenges and uncertainties, this verse encourages us to look to God as our ultimate source of strength and guidance. When we feel weak, overwhelmed, or unsure of our next step, we can trust that:

• God is ready to empower us with the strength we need to face any situation, whether it's a physical, emotional, or spiritual struggle. This resonates with the New Testament assurance that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).
• He actively directs our paths, ensuring that our "way" is made "perfect" – sound, complete, and aligned with His divine purpose. This doesn't mean a life without difficulties, but a life where God's hand is guiding us towards integrity and ultimate fulfillment of His plan, much like Proverbs 3:6 advises us to acknowledge Him in all our ways so He can direct our paths.

This verse fosters a spirit of dependence and confidence, knowing that the God who equipped David for victory is the same God who equips and perfects the way of His people today.