4 Though people tried to bribe me, I have kept myself from the ways of the violent through what your lips have commanded.
4 Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.
4 With regard to the works of man, by the word of your lips I have avoided the ways of the violent.
4 I'm not trying to get my way in the world's way. I'm trying to get your way, your Word's way.
4 Concerning the works of men, By the word of Your lips, I have kept away from the paths of the destroyer.
4 I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Psalm 17:4
Commentary on Psalm 17:1-7
(Read Psalm 17:1-7)
This psalm is a prayer. Feigned prayers are fruitless; but if our hearts lead our prayers, God will meet them with his favour. The psalmist had been used to pray, so that it was not his distress and danger that now first brought him to his duty. And he was encouraged by his faith to expect God would notice his prayers. Constant resolution and watchfulness against sins of the tongue, will be a good evidence of our integrity. Aware of man's propensity to wicked works, and of his own peculiar temptations, David had made God's word his preservative from the paths of Satan, which lead to destruction. If we carefully avoid the paths of sin, it will be very lead to destruction. If we carefully avoid the paths of sin, it will be very comfortable in the reflection, when we are in trouble. Those that are, through grace, going in God's paths, should pray that their goings may be held up in those paths. David prays, Lord, still hold me up. Those who would proceed and persevere in the ways of God, must, by faith prayer, get daily fresh supplies of grace and strength from him. Show thy marvellous loving-kindness, distinguishing favours, not common mercies, but be gracious to me; do as thou usest to do to those who love thy name.