Psalm 17:4

Modern

As for the deeds of men—by the word of Your lips I have avoided the ways of the violent.

Traditional

Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.

Literal

As for the works of men, by the word of Your lips I have kept myself from the ways of a violent one.

Latin

Ut non loquatur os meum opera hominum: propter verba labiorum tuorum, ego custodivi vias duras.

Hebrew

English

As for the deeds of men—by the word of Your lips I have avoided the ways of the violent.

The psalmist declares his innocence (Psalm 17:1) and commits himself to integrity by being open to God’s examination.

The psalmist asks for God's protection and justice, affirms his own integrity, and prays for the Lord to defeat his strong enemies.

The psalms in this section emphasize integrity and purity (Psalms 17:15; 18:20–26; 19:13–14). They describe people as living in God’s presence (Psalms 16:9–11; 17:15) and remaining steadfast (15:5; 16:8).

Theme notes and profiles

Psalm 119:9–11
How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.
1 Peter 5:8
Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
1 Corinthians 3:3
…for you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?
Revelation 12:11
They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. And they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death.
Matthew 4:10
“Away from Me, Satan!” Jesus told him. “For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’”
Matthew 4:7
Jesus replied, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
Ephesians 6:17
And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Proverbs 2:10–15
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will delight your soul.
James 1:18
He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we would be a kind of firstfruits of His creation.
Matthew 4:4
But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
John 17:17
Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.
Psalm 14:1–3
For the choirmaster. Of David. The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt; their acts are vile. There is no one who does good.