Proverbs 3:26
For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יְ֭הוָה
For the LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
For the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
יִהְיֶ֣ה
H1961
יִהְיֶ֣ה
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
3 of 7
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
בְכִסְלֶ֑ךָ
shall be thy confidence
H3689
בְכִסְלֶ֑ךָ
shall be thy confidence
Strong's:
H3689
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, fatness, i.e., by implication (literally) the loin (as the seat of the leaf fat) or (generally) the viscera; also (figuratively) silliness o
וְשָׁמַ֖ר
and shall keep
H8104
וְשָׁמַ֖ר
and shall keep
Strong's:
H8104
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
Cross References
Psalms 91:3Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.1 Samuel 2:9He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail.Proverbs 14:26In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
Historical Context
Israel's history demonstrated this principle - though they experienced discipline, God never completely destroyed His covenant people. Exile punished but didn't annihilate them. Daniel and friends in Babylon exemplified divine protection amid hostile circumstances. The remnant theology reflected this verse: God preserves His people.
Questions for Reflection
- How does making the LORD your confidence differ from self-confidence or trusting in circumstances?
- What 'snares' threaten to trap you, and how does trusting God provide protection?
- In what ways has God kept your foot from being taken when you were vulnerable to spiritual danger?
Analysis & Commentary
The LORD as confidence prevents entrapment. The Hebrew 'kesel' (confidence) indicates sturdy trust, while 'regel' (foot) represents one's way of life. God guards the righteous from moral/spiritual entrapment that ensnares the wicked. This isn't promise of trouble-free living but assurance that God protects His people from catastrophic destruction. The covenant-keeping God ensures His people aren't ultimately overcome.