Psalms 18:32

Authorized King James Version

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It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.

Original Language Analysis

הָ֭אֵל It is God H410
הָ֭אֵל It is God
Strong's: H410
Word #: 1 of 6
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
הַמְאַזְּרֵ֣נִי that girdeth H247
הַמְאַזְּרֵ֣נִי that girdeth
Strong's: H247
Word #: 2 of 6
to belt
חָ֑יִל me with strength H2428
חָ֑יִל me with strength
Strong's: H2428
Word #: 3 of 6
probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength
וַיִּתֵּ֖ן and maketh H5414
וַיִּתֵּ֖ן and maketh
Strong's: H5414
Word #: 4 of 6
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
תָּמִ֣ים perfect H8549
תָּמִ֣ים perfect
Strong's: H8549
Word #: 5 of 6
entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth
דַּרְכִּֽי׃ my way H1870
דַּרְכִּֽי׃ my way
Strong's: H1870
Word #: 6 of 6
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

Analysis & Commentary

God is the one who 'equipped' ('azar'—girded) David with strength and made his way blameless ('tamim'). Divine enablement makes integrity possible. The girding imagery suggests preparation for battle or journey. This anticipates Paul's armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17) and the truth that God works in us to will and work according to His purpose (Philippians 2:13). Holiness is God's gift, not human achievement.

Historical Context

Reflects David's preparation for kingship through years of training in wilderness—God developing character and military skill through trials.

Questions for Reflection