God’s faithful, unfailing love holds up those who stumble.
“If I should say, ‘My foot has slipped,’ Your lovingkindness, O LORD, will hold me up.” (v.18) This verse showcases the Psalmist’s vulnerability in acknowledging a personal shortcoming or failing. The phrase “My foot has slipped” conveys a sense of losing one’s footing in life, whether through moral failing, fear, or anxiety. Yet, in the very moment of slipping, the Psalmist points to the LORD’s strength, affirming that God’s lovingkindness offers immediate support rather than condemnation. This highlights God’s role as a caring protector, ready to catch His people whenever they stumble, reflecting the same gracious compassion Jesus demonstrates to all who seek His rest and refuge (Matthew 11:28).
The word “lovingkindness” emphasizes the LORD’s loyal and unwavering covenant love, a key theme throughout the Psalms. Although no specific geographical location is mentioned in this verse, the historical and cultural context places the writing in ancient Israel, which formed around 1400 BC after the exodus from Egypt and conquest of the Promised Land. The community to whom these words would have first been read would have readily understood that life’s journey is filled with literal and figurative dangers—hilly terrains and spiritual hardships alike. Therefore, the Psalmist’s comforting truth was meant to assure them that the LORD’s hand remains steadfast, preserving them in every stumble.
By comforting readers in their weaknesses, this verse echoes a universal truth that has encouraged believers for centuries. In the New Testament, the idea of the LORD gently supporting those who falter also appears as Jesus invites the weary to cast their burdens on Him (1 Peter 5:6-7). In this way, Psalm 94:18 ties the Old Testament emphasis on God’s covenant faithfulness to the gospel message of Christ’s sustaining grace.
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Psalms 94:18 meaning
“If I should say, ‘My foot has slipped,’ Your lovingkindness, O LORD, will hold me up.” (v.18) This verse showcases the Psalmist’s vulnerability in acknowledging a personal shortcoming or failing. The phrase “My foot has slipped” conveys a sense of losing one’s footing in life, whether through moral failing, fear, or anxiety. Yet, in the very moment of slipping, the Psalmist points to the LORD’s strength, affirming that God’s lovingkindness offers immediate support rather than condemnation. This highlights God’s role as a caring protector, ready to catch His people whenever they stumble, reflecting the same gracious compassion Jesus demonstrates to all who seek His rest and refuge (Matthew 11:28).
The word “lovingkindness” emphasizes the LORD’s loyal and unwavering covenant love, a key theme throughout the Psalms. Although no specific geographical location is mentioned in this verse, the historical and cultural context places the writing in ancient Israel, which formed around 1400 BC after the exodus from Egypt and conquest of the Promised Land. The community to whom these words would have first been read would have readily understood that life’s journey is filled with literal and figurative dangers—hilly terrains and spiritual hardships alike. Therefore, the Psalmist’s comforting truth was meant to assure them that the LORD’s hand remains steadfast, preserving them in every stumble.
By comforting readers in their weaknesses, this verse echoes a universal truth that has encouraged believers for centuries. In the New Testament, the idea of the LORD gently supporting those who falter also appears as Jesus invites the weary to cast their burdens on Him (1 Peter 5:6-7). In this way, Psalm 94:18 ties the Old Testament emphasis on God’s covenant faithfulness to the gospel message of Christ’s sustaining grace.