Psalm 23 3

Psalm 23:3 kjv

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Psalm 23:3 nkjv

He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake.

Psalm 23:3 niv

he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake.

Psalm 23:3 esv

He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Psalm 23:3 nlt

He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.

Psalm 23 verses

Psalm 23 3 Meaning

Psalm 23:3 declares that the Lord, as the divine Shepherd, undertakes a two-fold act for His flock: the holistic restoration of their inner being and the active guidance along pathways that align with His divine standard. This transformative work is not contingent upon the sheep’s merit but is motivated solely by the integrity and reputation of God’s own character. It signifies a profound renewal and ethical direction provided by God Himself, leading His people back to spiritual vitality and righteous living.

Psalm 23 3 Context

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved psalms, attributed to David. It paints a vivid picture of God as a benevolent Shepherd tending to His sheep. The preceding verses (v.1-2) establish the Shepherd's proactive provision, supplying basic needs like sustenance, rest, and refreshment ("green pastures," "still waters"). Verse 3 expands on this physical provision, moving into the deeper spiritual and moral care provided by the Shepherd. It describes a journey from potential weariness or straying to renewed vitality and adherence to a righteous path, all directed by the Shepherd's perfect nature. The historical context for David, often pursued by enemies or facing personal crises, would have underscored his reliance on God's restoration and guidance through times of profound struggle, giving personal weight to the Shepherd analogy. This psalm implicitly contrasts the faithful, life-giving care of the True God with the unreliable, often self-serving care offered by human leaders or pagan deities worshipped in surrounding cultures.

Psalm 23 3 Word analysis

• He restores: The Hebrew word is yashuv (יָשׁוּב), a form of shuv (שׁוּב). This verb means "to turn back," "return," "restore," "refresh," "revive," or "bring back." It signifies more than merely relaxing; it implies a renewal or a turning back from a state of weariness, wandering, or spiritual decline. It’s an active, redemptive turning by God of something that was depleted or lost back to its proper state. In the shepherd context, it evokes a sheep that has strayed or become exhausted, being gently brought back to vitality and the right path.
• my soul: The Hebrew word is napshiy (נַפְשִׁי), from nephesh (נֶפֶשׁ). This term denotes the entire inner being, the seat of emotions, will, mind, and life itself—not just an ethereal "soul" as in Greek thought, but the whole person, their very essence and life force. Therefore, the restoration is holistic and profound, impacting every facet of one's inner vitality.
• He leads me: The Hebrew word is yanḥeni (יַנְחֵנִי), from nachah (נָחָה). This means "to guide," "lead along," "conduct," or "make to go." It suggests a careful, purposeful, and authoritative direction, as a shepherd expertly guides sheep, often through challenging terrains. It’s a gentle yet firm leading.
• in paths: The Hebrew word is b'ma'gele (בְּמַעְגְּלֵי), from ma’gal (מַעְגָּל). This word can mean "track," "path," "course," "entrenchment," or even "wagon rut." It suggests well-worn, established routes, implying certainty and safety, not uncertain or wild paths. It denotes a prescribed and well-trodden way.
• of righteousness: The Hebrew word is tzedeq (צֶדֶק). This refers to conformity to a standard, integrity, moral rectitude, justice, or being in a right relationship with God and man. In the context of "paths," it means ways that are morally correct, aligned with God's perfect will and character.
• For His name's sake: The Hebrew phrase is lema'an sh'mo (לְמַעַן שְׁמוֹ). This is a crucial theological statement. "For His name's sake" means that God acts to uphold His own reputation, honor, and character. His motivation is His faithfulness to who He is, His inherent goodness, and His covenant promises. It signifies that God's actions toward His sheep are not because of their inherent goodness or deservingness, but because His nature requires Him to be faithful and good. His glory is tied to the well-being and righteous conduct of His people.

• "He restores my soul": This phrase captures the divine shepherd's restorative power. When sheep are lost, tired, or depleted, the shepherd actively brings them back to full strength and peace. Spiritually, it implies renewal from backsliding, despair, or spiritual lethargy, bringing the inner person back into communion and alignment with God. It speaks of spiritual healing and invigoration.
• "He leads me in paths of righteousness": Following the restoration, there is active guidance. The restored soul is not left aimless but is directed towards right conduct and living according to God’s moral will. These "paths of righteousness" are the way of life that pleases God, leading to blessing and spiritual flourishing, contrasting with the destructive paths of sin and error.
• "For His name's sake": This powerful concluding phrase establishes the divine motivation. God's ultimate reason for restoring and leading His sheep righteously is to honor Himself. It underscores God's sovereign initiative and commitment to His covenant. It reveals that the Shepherd's character and glory are inextricably linked to the care and guidance of His flock, ensuring His unwavering faithfulness.

Psalm 23 3 Bonus section

The order of "restores my soul" before "leads me in paths of righteousness" is significant. It implies that true moral conduct and consistent walking in God's ways originate from a Spirit-revived and internally strengthened soul. A faint or wandering soul cannot consistently follow righteous paths. Thus, God first brings renewal and then provides direction. This highlights God’s grace preceding human obedience. Furthermore, the divine activity implied by "He restores" and "He leads" positions the sheep as utterly dependent on the Shepherd's initiative and constant guidance. It’s an active leading, a proactive shepherd who doesn't wait for the sheep to find their own way but steps in to bring them back and direct their steps purposefully. This demonstrates God’s initiative in our spiritual journey, reinforcing His benevolence and sovereignty.

Psalm 23 3 Commentary

Psalm 23:3 profoundly illustrates the active and sovereign care of God as a Shepherd who addresses both the inner state and outward direction of His people. The "restoration of the soul" (נפש) signifies a holistic revitalization, healing spiritual weariness, bringing the person back to a state of peace and vigor from whatever has depleted or disheartened them. This goes beyond mere physical rest; it is a profound spiritual and psychological renewal that enables further progression. Once restored, the Shepherd "leads" them, guiding them with intentionality, not forcing but directing. These are "paths of righteousness" (מעגלי צדק), referring to moral uprightness, pathways of conduct aligned with God's holy character. It speaks of living in integrity, truth, and obedience. The ultimate underpinning of this divine action is not the sheep's merit but "for His name's sake." This critical phrase means God's motivation is rooted in His own honor, character, and faithfulness. His reputation is on the line; therefore, He must act consistently with His nature. This assures the believer that God's commitment to their well-being and moral direction is unbreakable, driven by His own glory. Practically, it encourages trust even when one feels depleted, knowing God is committed to restoring and guiding them on a good path, not for their sake initially, but ultimately for His own glorious name.Examples: A believer feeling spiritually burnt out finds renewed vigor in quiet time with God. A person who has strayed from moral living experiences repentance and begins to make choices aligning with biblical principles. One facing a major life decision prays for God’s clear guidance, trusting that He will illuminate the right way.