Psalm 23:3 — Circles of Justice

“He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”

We often read this verse and imagine a straight, clear road—a well-paved highway of obedience and clarity. But the Hebrew tells a deeper story. The phrase translated as “paths of righteousness” is actually b’ma‘gəlē-ṣedeq in Hebrew, which means “circles of justice” or “circular tracks of righteousness.”

That changes everything.

God isn’t promising a straight path from point A to point B. Instead, He leads us in gentle loops, slow circles, the kinds of worn paths that sheep take when climbing hills. They don’t go straight up—they circle slowly, rising with every round. It takes longer. It can feel repetitive. But it’s the safest way forward.

This picture feels so true to life.

How many times do we feel like we’re circling the same struggles, the same prayers, the same waiting seasons? But in those sacred loops, God is forming us, steadying us, shepherding us.

And He does it all “for His name’s sake.” Not because we earn it. Not because we have it all figured out. But because His character is faithful, just, and good.

He leads us in circles, not because we’re lost, but because He is wise.

He walks with us, not to rush us, but to reveal His heart as we rise.

So if your path feels slow or repetitive today, take heart:

You’re not off track. You’re being led.

And the One leading you is both Shepherd and Savior—never in a hurry, always on time, and always leading you with mercy.

Let the circles teach you to trust.