In the deeds of men, by the word of Your lips I keep myself from the paths of violent men.
David connects his preservation with the word of God. The ways of evil people could have pushed him toward similar responses—deceit, revenge, or violence. But the Lord’s word sets a boundary for his conduct. The phrase “by the word of Your lips” shows that God’s revealed will is practical protection. Scripture does not only give information, but also keeps a person from destructive decisions. The believer, especially in moments of pressure and injustice, needs to cling to the Lord’s word, because personal feelings can easily persuade him that his anger or harsh reply is justified. Yet it is God’s word that shows what is truly right before Him. The injustice done to us does not give us the right to answer with the same injustice. This verse teaches that God’s commandments are not a restriction, but protection. His commandments keep us from paths that at first promise victory, but in the end lead to loss and also destroy the soul. Therefore, obeying the Lord’s word keeps a person not only from doing evil to others, but also from hardening his own heart in evil.