Psalms 37:31
Psalms 37:31 in Multiple Translations
The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not falter.
The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.
The law of his God is in his heart; None of his steps shall slide.
The law of his God is in his heart; he will never make a false step.
God's law lives in their minds, so they will not slip from his way.
For the Lawe of his God is in his heart, and his steppes shall not slide.
The law of his God [is] his heart, His steps do not slide.
The law of his God is in his heart. None of his steps shall slide.
The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.
They continually think about God’s laws; they do not stray from God’s path.
Berean Amplified Bible — Psalms 37:31
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Psalms 37:31 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
תּוֹרַ֣ת
אֱלֹהָ֣י/ו
בְּ/לִבּ֑/וֹ
לֹ֖א
תִמְעַ֣ד
אֲשֻׁרָי/ו
תּוֹרַ֣ת
tôwrâh
H8451
instruction
N-fs
אֱלֹהָ֣י/ו
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
God
N-mp | Suff
בְּ/לִבּ֑/וֹ
lêb
H3820
heart
Prep | N-ms | Suff
לֹ֖א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
תִמְעַ֣ד
mâʻad
H4571
to slip
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
אֲשֻׁרָי/ו
ʼâshur
H838
step
N-fp | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 37:31
תּוֹרַ֣ת
tôwrâh
H8451
"instruction"
N-fs
The Hebrew word for instruction or law, referring to the Ten Commandments or the first five books of the Bible, guiding human behavior and moral code.
Definition: 1) law, direction, instruction 1a) instruction, direction (human or divine) 1a1) body of prophetic teaching 1a2) instruction in Messianic age 1a3) body of priestly direction or instruction 1a4) body of legal directives 1b) law 1b1) law of the burnt offering 1b2) of special law, codes of law 1c) custom, manner 1d) the Deuteronomic or Mosaic Law
Usage: Occurs in 213 OT verses. KJV: law. See also: Genesis 26:5; Nehemiah 8:7; Psalms 1:2.
אֱלֹהָ֣י/ו
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
"God"
N-mp | Suff
The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.
Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.
בְּ/לִבּ֑/וֹ
lêb
H3820
"heart"
Prep | N-ms | Suff
Leb refers to the heart, but also represents feelings, will, and intellect in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe the center of something, and is often translated as heart or mind. Leb is a complex concept that encompasses emotions and thoughts.
Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage
Usage: Occurs in 552 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] care for, comfortably, consent, [idiom] considered, courag(-eous), friend(-ly), ((broken-), (hard-), (merry-), (stiff-), (stout-), double) heart(-ed), [idiom] heed, [idiom] I, kindly, midst, mind(-ed), [idiom] regard(-ed), [idiom] themselves, [idiom] unawares, understanding, [idiom] well, willingly, wisdom. See also: Genesis 6:5; 2 Samuel 13:33; Psalms 4:8.
לֹ֖א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
תִמְעַ֣ד
mâʻad
H4571
"to slip"
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
To slip or waver is the meaning of this verb, which can also mean to cause something to shake. It is used in various forms throughout the Bible. In KJV translations, it is rendered as make to shake or slide.
Definition: 1) to slip, slide, totter, shake 1a) (Qal) to slip 1b) (Hiphil) to cause or make to shake or totter
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: make to shake, slide, slip. See also: 2 Samuel 22:37; Psalms 26:1; Psalms 18:37.
אֲשֻׁרָי/ו
ʼâshur
H838
"step"
N-fp | Suff
The Hebrew word for step refers to the act of walking or going. It is used in the Bible to describe movement or progress, as seen in the story of Jacob's ladder in Genesis. This word is translated as going or step in the KJV.
Definition: step, going Also means: a.shur (אַשֻּׁר "step" H0838B)
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: going, step. See also: Job 23:11; Psalms 37:31; Psalms 17:5.
Study Notes — Psalms 37:31
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Psalms 37:31 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Psalms 37:31
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 37:31
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 37:31
- Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 37:31
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 37:31
- Cambridge Bible on Psalms 37:31
- Barnes' Notes on Psalms 37:31
- Sermons on Psalms 37:31
Context — Delight Yourself in the LORD
29The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever.
30The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice.
31The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not falter.
32Though the wicked lie in wait for the righteous, and seek to slay them, 33the LORD will not leave them in their power or let them be condemned under judgment.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 40:8 | I delight to do Your will, O my God; Your law is within my heart.” |
| 2 | Deuteronomy 6:6 | These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. |
| 3 | Isaiah 51:7 | Listen to Me, you who know what is right, you people with My law in your hearts: Do not fear the scorn of men; do not be broken by their insults. |
| 4 | Psalms 119:11 | I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You. |
| 5 | Psalms 37:23 | The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey. |
| 6 | Jeremiah 31:33 | “But this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD. I will put My law in their minds and inscribe it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people. |
| 7 | Psalms 121:3 | He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber. |
| 8 | Psalms 119:98 | Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies, for they are always with me. |
| 9 | Job 23:11 | My feet have followed in His tracks; I have kept His way without turning aside. |
| 10 | Deuteronomy 11:18–20 | Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, speaking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates, |
Psalms 37:31 Summary
Psalms 37:31 tells us that when we have God's law in our heart, our steps will not falter. This means that when we know and love God's teachings, we will be able to make good choices and live a life that honors Him. It's like having a map or a guide that shows us the way to go, and it helps us to stay on the right path, even when things get tough (Proverbs 3:5-6). By reading God's Word and seeking His guidance, we can have confidence that He will help us navigate life's challenges and stay close to Him (Psalms 119:105).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to have the law of God in one's heart?
Having the law of God in one's heart means that a person has internalized God's teachings and principles, allowing them to guide their thoughts, words, and actions, as seen in Psalms 37:31 and Jeremiah 31:33.
How can we ensure that our steps do not falter like the righteous in Psalms 37:31?
To ensure that our steps do not falter, we must stay connected to God through prayer, reading His Word, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, as encouraged in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Psalms 119:105.
Is it possible for a believer to falter or stumble, even with the law of God in their heart?
Yes, it is possible for a believer to falter or stumble, but as Psalms 37:24 says, even if they fall, they will not be rejected, because the Lord is near to help them up, and as seen in 1 John 1:9, God is faithful to forgive and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
How does having the law of God in one's heart relate to wisdom and justice, as mentioned in Psalms 37:30?
Having the law of God in one's heart enables a person to speak wisdom and justice, as seen in Psalms 37:30, because they are guided by God's principles and teachings, which promote righteousness, fairness, and compassion, as emphasized in Micah 6:8.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can internalize God's law and principles in my own heart, so that my steps do not falter?
- How do I know if I am truly living according to God's law, and what are the signs that I may be straying from His path?
- In what ways can I seek guidance from the Holy Spirit to ensure that my steps are steady and secure, even in uncertain or challenging times?
- What role does community and accountability play in helping me stay on the right path, and how can I surround myself with people who will encourage and support me in my walk with God?
Gill's Exposition on Psalms 37:31
The law of his God [is] in his heart,.... Which may be understood of the moral law, which was written in the heart of Adam an his creation, and continued there during his state of innocence, but was
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 37:31
The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment. The mouth ... and his tongue ... judgment. The law ... his heart ... shall slide.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 37:31
According to God’ s command, , and promise, . His thoughts, and meditations, and affections are fixed upon it. He doth not talk religiously in design, or with ostentation, but out of the abundance of his heart, . None of his steps shall slide: this passage describes either, 1. His safety, consequent upon his piety; God will uphold and preserve him from falling into that mischief which wicked men plot against him. Or rather, 2. His virtue or piety; which is evidenced by his words, , by his heart, in the former part of this verse, and by his actions, in these words. His steps or goings (i.e. his actions) shall not (or rather, do not; for this verb, though future, may and should be rendered by the present, as futures frequently are in the Hebrew language, and as the two foregoing future verbs are rendered, ) slide, or slip, or swerve, to wit, from the rule, or from God’ s law; which is to be understood as that passage, , They do no iniquity, and some such expressions, not simply and absolutely, as if all good men were sinless; which is abundantly confuted, both by many scriptures and by universal experience; but comparatively, and in respect of his design, and course, or custom. His conversation is ordinarily regular and unblamable. He not only begins well, but constantly perseveres in God’ s ways, and will not be drawn to forsake God and religion upon any terms.
Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 37:31
Psalms 37:31 The law of his God [is] in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.Ver. 31. The law of his God is in his heart] He hath a Bible in his head and another in his heart; he hath a good treasure within, and there hence bringeth good things; he speaketh not by rote, and as a bungler, or as a philosopher only; but by proof, and as one that can say, I believed, I have felt it, and therefore have I spoken. None of his steps shall slide] How should they, when they walk so exactly, and by such a rule? Jeremiah holding to it, durst say, Lord, if I am deceived, thou hast deceived me.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 37:31
Verse 31. The law of his God is in his heart] The Lord promised that a time should come in which he would make a new covenant with the house of Israel; he would put his laws in their minds, and in their hearts he would write them. This is fulfilled in the case above. None of his steps shall slide.] His holy heart always dictates to his eyes, his mouth, his hands, and his feet. The precepts which direct his conduct are not only written in his Bible, but also in his heart.
Cambridge Bible on Psalms 37:31
31. Cp. Psalms 119:11. God’s law, treasured in his heart, regulates all his conduct. Without wavering or variation he pursues the path of right. Cp. Psalms 26:1; Psalms 73:2.
Barnes' Notes on Psalms 37:31
The law of his God is in his heart - That is, he loves it; he thinks of it; he makes it the inward rule of his conduct: Deuteronomy 6:6; Psalms 40:8 The word “law” here is a general term for the
Sermons on Psalms 37:31
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Holy Harmony - Part 1 by Elisabeth Elliot | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of a holy harmony in our lives. He reflects on the difference that Jesus Christ has made in his own life and challenges the au |
|
(The Church in the Last Days) Personal Testimony by Milton Green | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal testimony of a time when he made a mistake and was punished for it. He recalls the fear and trembling he felt when he believed he woul |
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1 John - the Glory of Fellowship by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude to God for the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. The focus of the sermon is on the importance of practicing righteousness an |
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The Snare of the Satisfied by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker begins by asking God to give them His Word and for it to burn within them. They ask God to keep them from laziness and the snares of victory. The speake |
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Nature of Lawlessness - Part 2 by Bob Mumford | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of coming under the leadership of the will of God and doing His will. He refers to Matthew 7, where Jesus questions how He wi |
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A New Creation by Robert B. Thompson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the difference between men and boys, stating that it is determined by the cost of their toys. He compares this concept to God's commandments |
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The Way to God by Madame Guyon | Madame Guyon preaches about the journey of the Soul towards God through different degrees of transformation and union. The first degree involves the return of the Soul to God throu |