Psalms 31:3
For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
סַלְעִ֣י
For thou art my rock
H5553
סַלְעִ֣י
For thou art my rock
Strong's:
H5553
Word #:
2 of 8
a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress)
וּלְמַ֥עַן
H4616
וּלְמַ֥עַן
Strong's:
H4616
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that
שִׁ֝מְךָ֗
therefore for thy name's
H8034
שִׁ֝מְךָ֗
therefore for thy name's
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
6 of 8
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
Cross References
Psalms 79:9Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name's sake.Luke 1:79To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.Jeremiah 14:7O LORD, though our iniquities testify against us, do thou it for thy name's sake: for our backslidings are many; we have sinned against thee.John 16:13Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.Isaiah 49:10They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.Psalms 139:24And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.Psalms 43:3O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.Psalms 25:5Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.Psalms 25:11For thy name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great.Nehemiah 9:12Moreover thou leddest them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go.
Historical Context
Throughout Israel's history, God's name (reputation, character) motivated His faithfulness despite Israel's unfaithfulness (Ex. 32:11-14, Ezek. 36:22). God's commitment to His own glory ensures His people's preservation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's commitment to His own glory provide security for you?
- What does praying 'for Your name's sake' teach about proper motivation in prayer?
Analysis & Commentary
The petition 'For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me' appeals to God's revealed character as basis for continued guidance. Because God is rock and fortress, He should act consistently—leading and guiding. 'For thy name's sake' means 'according to Your character.' Reformed theology emphasizes that God's glory motivates His actions toward His people. He guides us to honor His reputation as faithful covenant Lord.