Psalms 109:17
As he loved cursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not in blessing, so let it be far from him.
Psalms 109:17
This verse personifies cursing as a consistent companion to the adversary: “As he loved cursing, so let it come unto him.” The psalmist portrays the enemy’s speech as a habitual delight, linking speech to destiny. In ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature, words carry power and reveal the inner character of a person. If someone takes pleasure in cursing others, they invite a response that mirrors their own words. The verse also implies a moral cause-and-effect: one’s verbal choices shape one’s life experience. By withholding blessing and embracing curses, the foe aligns with a life governed by hostility rather than benevolence. The broader psalm expresses longing for divine justice against those who manipulate language to harm the righteous. The context shows that David doesn't retaliate with his own curses but leaves judgment to God while preserving integrity in speech.
The verse foregrounds the moral gravity of speech. It suggests that words are not neutral but potent: they bless or condemn, build up or tear down. A consistent love for cursing reveals a posture of malice that, if unchecked, becomes a spiritual and social poison. Theologically, it affirms divine justice: God will not tolerate unrepented malice forever. It also aligns with Jesus’ teaching in the New Testament about blessing and cursing arising from the same mouth (James 3). The verse thus participates in the biblical ethic that calls believers to reframe their speech in light of God’s character, choosing words that reflect mercy, truth, and love rather than bitterness.
Practice mindful speech today. If you’re tempted to speak ill of someone, pause and reframe your words into blessing or neutral observation. In office or school, choose language that builds rather than tears down. If you’ve been the recipient of repeated verbal attack, resist repeating the cycle; respond with firmness and truth, not vengeance. When you pray, ask God to replace curses with blessing for your enemies, mirroring Jesus’ teaching. Consider establishing a habit of speaking well about coworkers, family, or competitors, even when you disagree. This verse invites you to measure your words by whether they uplift or harm. In social media, slow down before posting—ask, “Is this language I would want to own?” Let your speech reflect the trust that God governs justice, not your own tongue’s power.
Cross-References: James 3:9-12; Proverbs 26:28; Psalm 15:3; Romans 12:14-21; Matthew 5:44