Book of Psalms - Chapter 17 - Verse 4

The verse "Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer." conveys the idea of finding guidance and protection through God's teachings. In this verse, the speaker acknowledges that through God's word, they have been able to navigate away from harmful paths and behaviors that could lead to destruction. By closely following the teachings and commandments found in the Bible, one can avoid falling into the traps set by the enemy and stay on the path of righteousness. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of relying on God's word as a source of wisdom and protection in times of temptation and difficulty. It encourages readers to seek guidance from the Bible to stay on the right path and avoid the destructive ways of the world.

Here, the phrase "by the word of thy lips" holds significant theological importance. This expression suggests divine intervention or guidance from God through His teachings and commandments, which serve as a protective shield against the temptations and schemes of the evil one. The word "word" can be understood as the wisdom and instruction found in the Scriptures, providing believers with the knowledge and discernment needed to navigate through life and avoid falling into the traps set by the enemy. In this context, the "word of thy lips" refers to the spoken revelation of God, emphasizing the power and authority inherent in His divine message. By adhering to God's word, one can steer clear of destructive paths and align themselves with His will, ultimately safeguarding against the influence of the destroyer. This verse underscores the importance of relying on God's teachings and instructions as a source of strength and protection in the face of spiritual challenges.