Psalms 139:24
And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Original Language Analysis
וּרְאֵ֗ה
And see
H7200
וּרְאֵ֗ה
And see
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
1 of 8
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
אִם
H518
אִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
2 of 8
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ
me in the way
H1870
בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ
me in the way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
3 of 8
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
וּ֝נְחֵ֗נִי
in me and lead
H5148
וּ֝נְחֵ֗נִי
in me and lead
Strong's:
H5148
Word #:
6 of 8
to guide; by implication, to transport (into exile, or as colonists)
Cross References
Psalms 143:10Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.Psalms 5:8Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face.Psalms 119:32I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.Psalms 16:11Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.Psalms 143:8Cause 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.John 14:6Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.Proverbs 28:26He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.Matthew 7:14Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.Colossians 2:6As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:Psalms 17:3Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing; I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.
Historical Context
This conclusion to Psalm 139 demonstrates David's mature spirituality shaped by past failures and God's restoration. The 'way everlasting' reflects Israel's understanding of the covenant path established by God's law and prophets, leading ultimately to Messiah. Ancient Israel distinguished between the way of life and the way of death (Deuteronomy 30:15-20).
Questions for Reflection
- What 'wicked way' might be present in your life that you've rationalized or overlooked?
- How does confidence in God's leadership along the 'way everlasting' free you to pray honestly for His correction?
Analysis & Commentary
The second imperative continues verse 23's prayer, asking God to identify 'any wicked way' (literally 'way of pain' or 'idolatrous way'). The contrast between 'wicked way' and 'way everlasting' (derek olam—the ancient, eternal path) presents two destinies. This prayer acknowledges human blindness to sin and dependence on divine illumination. The verb 'lead' (nachah) implies gentle guidance, not harsh condemnation. David's humble petition demonstrates the marks of genuine repentance and the believer's confidence in God's redemptive purpose. This anticipates Christ as 'the way' (John 14:6) and the Spirit's work to convict and guide (John 16:8, 13).