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Psalms 17:5 meaning

We see here a believer’s confidence that a life grounded in the Lord remains secure.

David, who lived around 1010-970 BC and served as king of Israel, directs his heart toward God’s ways, affirming his trust and obedience when he cries out, “My steps have held fast to Your paths. My feet have not slipped.” (v.5) This verse shows David expressing a steadfast commitment to walk faithfully before God, implying that despite trials, he stays on the course God lays out for him. In David’s timeline, he experienced threats from enemies, leading him to seek the Lord’s protection, yet he underscores that he does not stray from God’s instructions. David’s statement highlights his determined effort to remain in the center of God’s will, confident that divine guidance keeps him from stumbling.

“My steps have held fast to Your paths. My feet have not slipped.” (v.5) also points to the power of righteous living and reliance on God’s grace. Throughout biblical history, the image of “paths” often symbolizes the moral and spiritual direction provided by the Lord (see Proverbs 3:5-6). David’s assurance of not slipping recalls the faithfulness of a believer’s journey with God, a trust that is ultimately fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ, who not only leads believers in the right path but provides forgiveness and righteousness for those who place their faith in Him (John 14:6). By clinging to God, David models an example of conviction and perseverance that calls readers to commit their hearts and feet to the Lord’s way.

Psalms 17:5