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Psalms 17:4

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

When it comes to the things people do, I have used your words to keep myself away from the ways of those who cause destruction.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

The writer is saying that God's word has protected him from following destructive paths that others take.

📚 Historical Context

This psalm is attributed to David, likely written during a time when he was facing persecution or false accusations. David is declaring his innocence and integrity before God, contrasting his faithful behavior with that of his enemies. The 'destroyer' likely refers to the wicked or violent people who were opposing him.

Explore Similar Verses

Revelation 21:8
But here's who won't make it: the cowards who turned away, people who refused to believe, those who did disgusting things, murderers, anyone who treated sex like a transaction, people messing with dark spiritual stuff, idol worshippers, and straight-up liars. They'll end up in the lake of fire and sulfur — that's what the second death looks like.
Romans 1:32
They know exactly what God thinks about all this — that people who live this way are headed for destruction. But here's the thing: they don't just keep doing it themselves, they actually cheer on others who do it too.
2 Chronicles 34:28
Look, I will let you die and be buried with your ancestors in peace. You won't have to see all the terrible things I'm going to bring on this place and the people who live here. So they brought this message back to the king.

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Translation & Methodology Sources

The original manuscript text provided is based on the King James Version (KJV), which is in the public domain. Our modern English simplifications are generated via proprietary philological synthesis, cross-referenced against Strong's Exhaustive Concordance and the Textus Receptus to ensure unwavering theological and etymological precision.

Read our full translation methodology →