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Psalms 37:23
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Summary
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- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
By Jahve (מן, ἀπό, almost equivalent to ὑπό with the passive, as in Job 24:1; Ecc 12:11, and in a few other passages) are a man's steps made firm, established; not: ordered or directed (lxx, Jerome, κατευθύνεται), which, according to the extant usage of the language, would be הוּכנוּ (passive of הכין, Pro 16:9; Jer 10:23; Ch2 27:6), whereas כּוננוּ, the Pulal of כּונן, is to be understood according to Psa 40:3. By גּבר is meant man in an emphatic sense (Job 38:3), and in fact in an ethical sense; compare, on the other hand, the expression of the more general saying, "Man proposes, and God disposes," Pro 16:9; Pro 20:24; Jer 10:23. Psa 37:23 shows that it is the upright man that is meant in Psa 37:23: to the way, i.e., course of life, of such an one God turns with pleasure (יחפּץ pausal change of vowel for יחפּץ): supposing he should fall, whether it be a fall arising from misfortune or from error, or both together, he is not prostrated, but Jahve upholds his hand, affords it a firm point of support or fulcrum (cf. תּמך בּ, Psa 63:9, and frequently), so that he can raise himself again, rise up again.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
steps--way, or, "course of life"; as ordered by God, failures will not be permanent.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Though he fall,.... Into temptation, and by it into sins, and these very great ones; from a lively and comfortable exercise of grace, and a degree of steadfastness in the doctrine of grace: he shall not be utterly cast down; because he is in the arms of everlasting love, and in the hands of Christ Jesus; is on him as the sure foundation, and is kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, and so shall not perish, but have everlasting life; for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand; with the right hand of his righteousness, and keeps him from falling finally and totally; see Isa 41:10; and See Gill on Psa 37:17.
Psalms 37:23
Delight Yourself in the LORD
22Surely those He blesses will inherit the land, but the cursed will be destroyed. 23The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey. 24Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, for the LORD is holding his hand.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Poland) Walking in the Spirit
By David Wilkerson9.4K59:05Walking In The Spirit1KI 10:7PSA 37:23ISA 1:18MAT 6:33JHN 16:132CO 1:20GAL 5:16In this sermon, the preacher shares personal anecdotes about his experiences in Broadway and as a preacher. He talks about a show on Broadway that received terrible reviews and only lasted four days. He also shares a story about how he and a businessman were able to rent a theater despite being initially told they couldn't afford it. The preacher then reflects on his own spiritual journey and realization that there was more to Pentecost than just getting blessed and speaking in tongues. He expresses a desire for the Church to go beyond the four walls and proclaim the Gospel to a hungry nation. The sermon ends with a mention of a prophecy that the preacher will share in the next session.
(Sermon Preparation) Lecture 02
By Alan Redpath5.4K26:28Sermon PreparationPSA 37:23PRO 3:5MAT 6:33JHN 8:32EPH 4:152TI 2:15JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of embracing one's own individuality when preaching and proclaiming the gospel. He highlights that the New Testament writers had different styles, and therefore, each preacher should be themselves and not try to copy others. The speaker emphasizes that the gospel is communicated through individuals, and it is important to avoid becoming carbon copies of others. He warns against the tendency to repress one's personality and urges listeners to avoid copying others, as it is the worst form of flattery.
Learning How to Be Ordinary
By David Wilkerson5.4K49:46PSA 37:23MRK 16:18ROM 6:14ROM 8:28HEB 4:9JAS 4:71JN 3:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the pressure that society puts on individuals to be successful and extraordinary. He gives examples of parents pushing their children to excel in sports or music, and the prevalence of self-help books promoting success and wealth. The preacher also highlights the dangers of this mindset by referencing Hitler and the impact of his success message on the German people. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of embracing ordinariness and recognizing that true worth and calling come from God, not from worldly achievements.
God Has Not Passed You By
By David Wilkerson4.2K51:37PainPSA 9:9PSA 37:23ISA 49:14In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of greed in various aspects of society, including individuals, ministries, churches, and even high priests. The preacher expresses concern about a new movie featuring homosexual cowboys and its potential impact on society, particularly in promoting tolerance for homosexuality. The sermon also highlights the importance of caring for others and the church's role in providing support and prayer for those in need. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that God has not given up on anyone and encourages the congregation to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength.
Abide in God's Shade, Warmth and Light
By Erlo Stegen2.2K49:45AbidingEXO 13:21PSA 37:23PSA 119:105PRO 14:12MAT 6:33JHN 14:6HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of delighting in God's way and following His footsteps. He uses Psalm 37:23 as a reference to highlight how God establishes the steps of those who delight in Him. The speaker urges the audience to keep their eyes fixed on God, represented by the cloud and fire, and to not move without His guidance. He emphasizes that walking in God's way is essential for a fulfilling and heavenly life, and encourages repentance and a desire for God's presence.
Psalms - Part 1
By Zac Poonen2.0K57:31PsalmsPSA 14:1PSA 22:1PSA 22:6PSA 22:14PSA 22:16PSA 22:18PSA 22:22PSA 30:11PSA 31:11PSA 31:19PSA 36:9PSA 37:4PSA 37:7PSA 37:11PSA 37:21PSA 37:23PSA 38:11PSA 40:13PSA 40:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of filling one's heart with the Word of God rather than simply avoiding evil. He references the story of a demon being cast out and returning with seven others to illustrate the need for a filled and clean heart. The speaker encourages meditating on the law of the Lord day and night, comparing the result to a tree planted by rivers of water that prospers in all endeavors. The sermon also touches on the qualities of a godly person, such as having clean hands and a pure heart, seeking guidance from the Lord, and being set apart for God's purposes.
Gettin' Religion
By Charlie Wireman1.2K40:35ReligionGEN 32:28PSA 23:6PSA 37:23MAT 6:33MAT 7:7ACT 16:311TH 5:17In this sermon, the preacher reflects on his past experiences and the choices he has made. He mentions his admiration for a man who remained steadfast and uncompromising in his beliefs. The preacher then shares a personal story about being in court and facing the possibility of going to prison. However, to his surprise, the judge presents him with a petition signed by the commonwealth attorney and others, asking for his release. The preacher expresses his desire to continue preaching the gospel and asks the judge for permission to return to a revival. The judge, moved by the preacher's words, allows him to go back to the revival.
David's Prayer of Distress
By Chuck Smith1.1K25:06DistressPSA 6:1PSA 37:5PSA 37:23PSA 37:34MAT 6:1In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith focuses on Psalm 6, which is a prayer of distress by David. David expresses his deep sorrow and grief, comparing his tears to a flood that has soaked his bed and couch. He pleads with God to have mercy on him and deliver him from his enemies. Pastor Chuck emphasizes the importance of having the right motives in our actions, as God judges not only our deeds but also the motives behind them. He encourages listeners to commit their ways to the Lord and trust in His plan for their lives.
The Steps of a Good Man Are Ordered by the Lord
By Teresa Conlon93358:54GEN 50:20PSA 37:23PSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 40:31JER 29:11ROM 8:28In this sermon, the speaker begins by praising the choir for their powerful worship. He acknowledges that many people have attended multiple services and have been greatly blessed and fed by the messages. The speaker then discusses the concept of being in a land of despair, where one moves from revival hour to survival hour. He uses the example of Abraham, who out of fear, asked his wife to lie about their relationship. The speaker emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God in difficult situations and trusting that the steps of a good person are ordered by the Lord. He also highlights the need for recognizing our sinfulness and relying on Jesus to break the power of sin in our lives. The sermon is based on Psalm 37:23 and emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and relying on His strength.
God Is My Strength and Power - Part 2
By Joshua Daniel89128:30DEU 10:12PSA 37:23PRO 16:9MAT 22:37GAL 5:13EPH 2:10PHP 4:131PE 5:71JN 4:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of fearing the Lord, walking in His ways, loving Him, and serving Him wholeheartedly. It highlights the transformation that occurs when individuals surrender their will to God, allowing Him to guide their paths and actions with love and service. The message encourages a life of faith, love, and service, reflecting Christ's love and overcoming challenges through God's strength.
Onto Jerusalem
By Steve Gallagher65752:10PSA 37:23PRO 16:9JER 29:11ACT 21:14ACT 22:14ROM 8:281CO 9:22JAS 4:15This sermon delves into the events in Acts 21 and 22, focusing on Paul's journey to Jerusalem, the tensions between Jews and Gentiles, and the unfolding of God's will in Paul's life despite challenges and misunderstandings. It highlights the importance of staying in God's will and the profound impact of being in His presence.
Opposition to the Church
By Steve Gallagher65556:36PSA 37:23PSA 116:15ACT 12:5HEB 9:27This sermon delves into the transition period of the early church, focusing on the shift from Peter as the main actor to the rise of the Apostle Paul. It covers the birth and growth of the church at Antioch, the martyrdom of James, Peter's miraculous escape from prison, and the death of King Herod Agrippa. The sermon also explores the chronology of events and the significance of prayer in the believers' lives.
What Is a Good Man?
By Shane Idleman49652:19PSA 37:23This sermon emphasizes the importance of being a good man according to biblical standards, focusing on the need for repentance, belief in Jesus, and returning to the simplicity of the Gospel. It highlights the qualities of a good man as ordered by the Lord, including being above reproach, faithful in marriage, not self-willed, hospitable, and a student of the Word. The sermon encourages men to lead in prayer with specificity, seeking God's guidance, and holding fast to the faith amidst challenges and temptations.
Hope for the Fallen
By Shane Idleman2741:39HopeRedemptionPSA 37:23PRO 3:19Shane Idleman delivers a powerful message titled 'Hope for the Fallen,' emphasizing that falling is not the end, but rather the failure to rise again is what truly harms us. He encourages those who have stumbled, particularly in struggles like addiction, to get back up and refocus on God, as there is always hope for redemption. Drawing from Proverbs 3:19, he highlights the importance of wisdom in navigating life's challenges and the need for a biblical worldview amidst societal issues. Shane passionately asserts that true confidence comes from knowing God and that even in our darkest moments, He is there to uphold us. The sermon concludes with a call to worship and a reminder that God’s grace is sufficient for all who seek Him.
What Is a "Good" Man?
By Shane Idleman1752:19The Nature of a Good ManIdentity in ChristPSA 37:23Shane Idleman emphasizes the true definition of a 'good man' in his Father's Day sermon, drawing from Psalm 37 to illustrate that while good men may stumble, they are upheld by the Lord. He encourages everyone, regardless of gender or age, to recognize their worth as created in God's image, while also acknowledging the importance of humility and the need for direction in their lives. Shane highlights the struggle of maintaining faith amidst life's challenges and the necessity of prayer and community support. He warns against the extremes of self-deprecation and self-righteousness, urging listeners to seek a balanced understanding of their identity in Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the simplicity of the gospel, where true goodness is found in repentance and faith in Jesus.
Oh Yes I Will!
By Shane Idleman1508:38Hope in RestorationOvercoming SinPSA 37:23Shane Idleman emphasizes the hope and restoration available to those who have fallen into sin, reminding believers that even when they stumble, God is there to uphold them. He draws parallels between God's support and a parent's care for a child, encouraging the congregation to reach out to God for strength and guidance. Idleman highlights the importance of worship and the power of God's presence in overcoming despair, urging believers to confront their spiritual apathy and embrace their calling. He reassures that God's faithfulness remains constant, and encourages a response of praise even in difficult times. The message culminates in a call to rise again, rooted in the assurance of God's unwavering support.
Who Does the Ordering in Your Life?
By David Wilkerson0Surrendering to GodWalking In The SpiritPSA 37:23JHN 5:30JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ROM 8:141CO 2:12GAL 5:25EPH 4:30PHP 2:132TI 1:7David Wilkerson emphasizes the necessity of allowing the Holy Spirit to have full control over our lives, as instructed by the Apostle Paul in Galatians 5:25. He points out that while many Christians acknowledge the Spirit's role in leading them to Jesus and providing comfort, they often struggle with what it truly means to walk in the Spirit. Wilkerson asserts that surrendering our will to the Holy Spirit and trusting His guidance can free us from confusion and strife. He reminds us that just as Jesus sought the Father's will, we too must seek the Spirit's direction in our lives. Ultimately, it is the Holy Spirit who orders our steps, leading us in accordance with God's will.
Lord, Do Something!
By David Wilkerson0Faith in CrisisTrusting God's TimingPSA 37:23ISA 40:31JAS 1:2David Wilkerson emphasizes the challenge of waiting on God during crises, urging believers to trust Him even when circumstances seem dire. He explains that God often leads us into difficult situations to test our faith and to mold us into examples of trust for a faithless world. The sermon highlights that standing still in faith is an active choice, and that God is always faithful, never abandoning His children in their trials. Wilkerson encourages Christians to cease questioning and instead rest in God's promises, affirming that faith can transform our situations.
Pride and the Voice of the Spirit
By David Wilkerson0PrideHumilityPSA 37:23PRO 3:5PRO 14:12ISA 66:2MAT 23:12LUK 14:11ROM 12:3PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the stark contrast between pride and humility, explaining that true humility involves complete dependence on God for guidance and strength, while pride stems from independence and self-reliance. He warns that a proud person, who relies on their own reasoning and abilities, is unteachable and cannot receive God's truth, as the Holy Spirit is absent in their life. Wilkerson highlights that God desires full control over our lives, and only through humility can we receive His grace and direction. The sermon calls for believers to seek God's counsel in every decision, recognizing that pride leads to spiritual death.
Three Certainties
By Zac Poonen0Spiritual WarfareGod's FaithfulnessPSA 37:23JER 1:19ROM 7:18HEB 12:21PE 3:13REV 12:11Zac Poonen emphasizes three certainties for disciples of the Lord based on Jeremiah 1:19: the inevitability of opposition from Satan and his agents, the assurance that they will not overcome us, and the promise that the Lord will always be with us to deliver us. He warns that believers will face tribulations, financial difficulties, and betrayal, but encourages them to trust in God rather than material possessions. Poonen reassures that while Satan may attack us, he cannot defeat us spiritually, as Christ's victory on the cross secures our triumph. The Lord's unwavering presence and support will guide us through our failures and challenges, urging us to focus on Jesus and move forward with confidence.
Jotham Became Mighty, Because He
By F.B. Meyer0OrderlinessFaithfulness in Small Things2CH 27:6PSA 37:23PRO 12:24PRO 16:3MAT 14:19LUK 16:10JHN 11:441CO 14:40COL 3:231PE 5:7F.B. Meyer emphasizes that Jotham became mighty because he ordered his ways, illustrating that success in life is closely tied to orderliness and method. He argues that a truly holy person embodies order in their life, reflecting God's nature and the example of Jesus, who valued organization in both ministry and personal conduct. Meyer encourages practical habits such as neatness, carefulness, and mental order in daily activities, suggesting that these contribute to a peaceful and successful life. By being faithful in small matters, one can achieve greater responsibilities and strength in their spiritual journey.
The Lord Taketh Pleasure in His People
By C.H. Spurgeon0God's LoveAssurance in ChristPSA 37:23ISA 63:9MAT 10:30ROM 8:15EPH 2:4C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the all-encompassing love of Jesus for His people, illustrating that every aspect of their lives is important to Him. He reassures believers that Jesus cares deeply for their mortal concerns, as well as their spiritual well-being, highlighting that even the smallest details, like the number of hairs on their heads, are known to Him. Spurgeon encourages Christians to recognize the vastness of Christ's love, which brings justification, adoption, sanctification, and eternal life, and to respond with heartfelt gratitude and devotion. He reminds believers that they are not alone but are cherished children of God, under His watchful care and protection. The sermon calls for a joyful acknowledgment of this divine love and a commitment to reciprocate it wholeheartedly.
God Moves in Mysterious Ways
By A.W. Tozer0Divine ProvidenceFaith in AdversityPSA 37:23PRO 16:9ISA 55:8JER 29:11ROM 8:28EPH 1:11A.W. Tozer emphasizes that for the child of God, there are no accidents, as their path is divinely appointed by God even before their existence. While misfortunes may appear to occur, they are merely illusions due to our inability to understand God's hidden providence. True faith dispels the notions of chance, affirming that those born of the Spirit are under God's special care. Although believers may face the same earthly challenges as others, they are spiritually protected and hidden with Christ in God. Tozer reassures that God's purposes are at work, even when circumstances seem unfavorable.
God Securing His Inheritance
By A.W. Pink0God's PursuitDivine PreservationDEU 32:10PSA 37:23PSA 138:8JHN 6:44JHN 14:6JHN 16:13JHN 17:3ROM 10:201PE 1:51JN 2:20A.W. Pink emphasizes God's relentless pursuit of His people, illustrating how He finds, leads, instructs, and preserves them as His cherished inheritance. He highlights that God actively seeks out those who are lost, revealing His love and grace in the process. Pink explains that once found, God leads His people through life, teaching them His truths and guiding them with His Spirit. He reassures believers of God's unwavering commitment to preserve them, regardless of their failures or circumstances. Ultimately, Pink calls for gratitude towards God for His faithful and protective nature.
Seventeenth Day: "In the Paths of righteousness."
By J. Wilbur Chapman0PSA 37:23PRO 3:5ECC 3:11ROM 8:28J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about trusting God's guidance in choosing the right paths for us, even when we are in the wilderness of life's uncertainties. He emphasizes that God works all things together for good, though it may not always bring immediate happiness or prosperity. Chapman encourages waiting for God's plan to unfold fully, likening it to a tapestry where we only see the underside but God sees the beautiful pattern being woven. He reminds the congregation that their presence in the world and current circumstances are not by chance, but part of God's purpose that will be revealed in due time.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
By Jahve (מן, ἀπό, almost equivalent to ὑπό with the passive, as in Job 24:1; Ecc 12:11, and in a few other passages) are a man's steps made firm, established; not: ordered or directed (lxx, Jerome, κατευθύνεται), which, according to the extant usage of the language, would be הוּכנוּ (passive of הכין, Pro 16:9; Jer 10:23; Ch2 27:6), whereas כּוננוּ, the Pulal of כּונן, is to be understood according to Psa 40:3. By גּבר is meant man in an emphatic sense (Job 38:3), and in fact in an ethical sense; compare, on the other hand, the expression of the more general saying, "Man proposes, and God disposes," Pro 16:9; Pro 20:24; Jer 10:23. Psa 37:23 shows that it is the upright man that is meant in Psa 37:23: to the way, i.e., course of life, of such an one God turns with pleasure (יחפּץ pausal change of vowel for יחפּץ): supposing he should fall, whether it be a fall arising from misfortune or from error, or both together, he is not prostrated, but Jahve upholds his hand, affords it a firm point of support or fulcrum (cf. תּמך בּ, Psa 63:9, and frequently), so that he can raise himself again, rise up again.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
steps--way, or, "course of life"; as ordered by God, failures will not be permanent.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Though he fall,.... Into temptation, and by it into sins, and these very great ones; from a lively and comfortable exercise of grace, and a degree of steadfastness in the doctrine of grace: he shall not be utterly cast down; because he is in the arms of everlasting love, and in the hands of Christ Jesus; is on him as the sure foundation, and is kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, and so shall not perish, but have everlasting life; for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand; with the right hand of his righteousness, and keeps him from falling finally and totally; see Isa 41:10; and See Gill on Psa 37:17.