Psalm 32:8-9

⁸ I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. ⁹ Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you.

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Psalm 32

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Other Translations of Psalm 32:8-9

King James Version

⁸ I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide guide...: Heb. counsel thee, mine eye shall be upon thee thee with mine eye. ⁹ Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.

English Standard Version

⁸ I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. ⁹ Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you.

The Message

⁸ Let me give you some good advice; I'm looking you in the eye and giving it to you straight: ⁹ "Don't be ornery like a horse or mule that needs bit and bridle to stay on track."

New King James Version

⁸ I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye. ⁹ Do not be like the horse or like the mule, Which have no understanding, Which must be harnessed with bit and bridle, Else they will not come near you.

New Living Translation

⁸ The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. ⁹ Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control."

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Psalm 32:8-9

Commentary on Psalm 32:8-11

(Read Psalm 32:8-11)

God teaches by his word, and guides with the secret intimations of his will. David gives a word of caution to sinners. The reason for this caution is, that the way of sin will certainly end in sorrow. Here is a word of comfort to saints. They may see that a life of communion with God is far the most pleasant and comfortable. Let us rejoice, O Lord Jesus, in thee, and in thy salvation; so shall we rejoice indeed.