Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - Psalms 18:32
Psalms 18:32. It is God that girdeth me with strength That inspires me with courage, fortitude, and resolution, and gives me strength both of mind and body in battle and war. It is a metaphor taken, either from a military girdle, or a common girdle, wherewith their loose garments were girded about them, and whereby they were rendered fitter for any action. He maketh my way perfect Perfectly plain, and clear from impediments, as pioneers use to prepare the way for the march of an army. Or,... read more
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Psalms 18:32
It is God that girdeth me with strength - Who gives me strength. The word girdeth contains an allusion to the mode of dress among the orientals, the long flowing robe, which was girded up when they ran or labored, that it might not impede them; and, probably, with the additional idea that girding the loins contributed to strength. It is a common custom now for men who run a race, or leap, or engage in a strife of pugilism, to gird or bind up their loins. See Job 40:7, note; and Matthew 5:38-41,... read more