Psalm 18:36 kjv
Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.
Psalm 18:36 nkjv
You enlarged my path under me, So my feet did not slip.
Psalm 18:36 niv
You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way.
Psalm 18:36 esv
You gave a wide place for my steps under me, and my feet did not slip.
Psalm 18:36 nlt
You have made a wide path for my feet
to keep them from slipping.
Psalm 18 36 Cross References
| Verse | Text | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Psa 4:1 | Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress; be gracious to me... | God gives relief and expands space in trouble |
| Psa 31:8 | You have not delivered me into the hand of the enemy; you have set my feet in a broad place. | Setting in a broad place for deliverance |
| Psa 37:23-24 | The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD upholds his hand. | Lord establishes steps and prevents falling |
| Psa 119:45 | I will walk in a broad place, for I have sought your precepts. | Freedom through adherence to God's law |
| Psa 118:5 | Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me in a broad place. | Deliverance from distress to a broad place |
| Prov 4:12 | When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble. | Wisdom enables unhindered movement |
| Prov 16:9 | The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps. | God's ultimate direction of steps |
| Jer 10:23 | I know, O LORD, that the way of man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps. | Man's steps directed by the Lord |
| 1 Sam 2:9 | He will guard the feet of his faithful ones, but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness... | God's protection of His saints' feet |
| Job 18:7 | His strong stride is shortened, and his own devices trip him up. | Contrast: wicked's stride shortened/tripped |
| Job 22:10 | Therefore snares are all around you, and sudden terror overwhelms you... | Contrast: slipping for those unaligned |
| Psa 66:9 | who keeps our soul among the living and does not allow our feet to slip. | God preventing feet from slipping |
| Psa 73:2 | But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. | Recognition of near failure without God's help |
| Isa 41:10 | fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. | God's presence strengthens and upholds |
| Heb 12:13 | and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed. | Straight paths for healing and stability |
| Deut 32:4 | The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he. | God as a solid foundation (The Rock) |
| Matt 7:24-27 | Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock... | Building life on Christ, the solid foundation |
| Isa 43:2 | When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire, you shall not be burned... | God's presence through challenging passages |
| 2 Sam 22:36 | You have given me the shield of your salvation, and your humility has made me great. Your grace makes me great. (ESV alternate reading similar to Ps 18:36: "your gentleness made me great; your enlargements multiply for me" or "your forbearance has made me great; your enlarging makes me proceed") | Parallel account in David's Psalm |
| Psa 23:3 | He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. | God's guidance on the right path |
Psalm 18 verses
Psalm 18 36 Meaning
God actively creates ample space and secure footing for His servants, ensuring that their progress is stable, unhindered, and free from stumbling or faltering, even amidst difficulties. This speaks to divine enablement, removing constraints and providing unwavering support.
Psalm 18 36 Context
Psalm 18 is a psalm of thanksgiving by King David, expressing his praise to God for deliverance from all his enemies, especially from King Saul (as noted in the superscription). The entire psalm is a rich tapestry of metaphor, portraying God as a mighty warrior and steadfast deliverer. Verses 32-45 specifically describe the strength and triumph God granted David in battle. In this military and personal context, "enlarged my steps" signifies that God provided him with the strategic freedom, unhampered movement, and unwavering stability necessary to maneuver effectively, escape dangers, and secure victories against powerful adversaries. It contrasts with being trapped, restricted, or losing one's footing in the heat of conflict or personal tribulation.
Psalm 18 36 Word analysis
- You have enlarged: (Hebrew: rachav - רָחַב) This word means "to make wide," "to make roomy," or "to broaden." It implies moving from a place of confinement, restriction, or narrowness to a place of ample space, freedom, and maneuverability. Spiritually, it signifies God liberating one from distress or allowing for spiritual growth without limitation. It speaks to divine liberation and empowerment.
- my steps: (Hebrew: tza'adi - צַעֲדִי) Refers to one's literal walking pace, strides, or progress. Metaphorically, it encompasses one's life's journey, path, and all endeavors. It highlights every aspect of a person's advancement and movement.
- under me: (Hebrew: takh'tai - תַּחְתָּי) This emphasizes the direct and foundational nature of God's provision. It's not just an external help but support precisely where one treads, beneath one's very feet. This denotes stability at the point of action and reliance.
- so that: Introduces the intended outcome or direct consequence of God's action. It clearly links the cause (God enlarging steps) with the effect (feet not slipping).
- my feet: (Hebrew: raglai - רַגְלָי) Refers to the physical feet, which are essential for walking and maintaining balance. Metaphorically, "feet" represent one's stability, security, and ability to stand firm in any situation, symbolizing one's entire being.
- did not slip: (Hebrew: lo ma'adu - לֹא מָעֲדוּ) Ma'ad means "to totter," "to waver," "to stumble," or "to give way." The negation (lo) emphasizes the absolute prevention of failure, instability, or a complete fall. It means the walk remains sure-footed, unyielding, and secure.
Words-group analysis
- "You have enlarged my steps under me": This phrase paints a picture of divine intervention where God clears away obstacles and broadens the path for an individual. It implies that God doesn't just clear a small path but provides an expansive environment for confident movement, particularly in what might otherwise be perilous territory. This suggests a divine enabling that transforms constricted circumstances into opportunities for confident and free action.
- "so that my feet did not slip": This is the crucial consequence and purpose of the previous divine action. It signifies that as a direct result of God's provision of "enlarged steps," one is prevented from faltering, losing balance, or falling, regardless of the terrain or challenges encountered. This speaks to steadfastness, secure progression, and unwavering spiritual and physical stability guaranteed by God.
Psalm 18 36 Bonus section
This verse deeply highlights the active, personal, and meticulous care God exercises over His people. It is not merely a passive protection but an active intervention that reshapes circumstances to ensure His servant's stability and progress. The concept of "enlarged steps" can also refer to being set free from any form of physical, emotional, or spiritual constriction, enabling freedom of movement and growth. It emphasizes that the believer's competence and assurance in their walk through life, especially in trials or opposition, are entirely attributable to God's continuous support and provision, making every "step" a testament to His faithfulness and strength.
Psalm 18 36 Commentary
Psalm 18:36 encapsulates God's comprehensive provision of stability and freedom for His devoted servants. The imagery of "enlarged steps" implies not just the removal of impediments but the active creation of a spacious environment for sure-footed progress. In the context of David's life, this meant God enabling him to maneuver skillfully in battle, to escape from pursuing enemies, and to maintain his poise under intense pressure. Spiritually, it speaks to God expanding one's capacity, understanding, or opportunities, granting the spiritual agility needed to walk steadfastly in truth. "Feet did not slip" signifies unwavering resilience and the prevention of spiritual or moral collapse. It underscores that true security and effectiveness come from a divine empowerment that establishes one's footing firmly on His truth and grace. For instance, in times of moral temptation, God provides "broad room" through His Word and Spirit, preventing one from "slipping" into sin by giving clear discernment and strength for steadfastness. Similarly, facing unforeseen challenges, His enabling ensures we remain firm, not tottering under pressure.