Psalms 17:5
Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not.
Psalms 17:5
David asks for God to guide his steps, keeping them from stumbling. The imagery of stepping in God’s paths emphasizes a steady, directed life. It assumes a walk with God that requires dependence on divine guidance to avoid missteps and moral failure.
This verse presents a trust-based model of sanctification: God leads; the believer follows. It echoes the broader biblical pattern of walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5) and the path of righteousness. Theologically, it underlines grace-enabled obedience.
Practical steps: seek God’s guidance before major decisions; memorize verses about direction; slow down to discern. Example: choosing a school, job, or relocation with prayer, consulting wise mentors, and aligning with biblical values.
Cross-References: Psalm 23:3; Proverbs 3:5–6; Isaiah 30:21; Proverbs 16:9; Galatians 5:16