Here we have the opposite, viz., “the paths of the destroyer.” This seems to mean also that the man walking in these paths becomes himself a destroyer. Note that it is by God’s word we are kept from these paths, i.e., by the teaching of His Holy Spirit in our hearts whether through the written word or otherwise.

Observe how often the Psalmist speaks of being instructed by God in the night. Ps. IV: 3, XVI: 7, and XV11: 3. — Also converse in case of [the] wicked Ps. XXXVI: 4 and XL11: 9.

5 Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not.

6 I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O God: incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech.

7 Shew thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust in thee from those that rise up against them.

8 Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,

9 From the wicked that oppress me, from my deadly enemies, who compass me about.

10 They are inclosed in their own fat: with their mouth they speak proudly.

11 They have now compassed us in our steps: they have set their eyes bowing down to the earth;

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