Psalms 12
Read Psalms 12 (WEB)+
1Help, Yahweh; for the godly man ceases. For the faithful fail from among the children of men. 2Everyone lies to his neighbor. They speak with flattering lips, and with a double heart. 3May Yahweh cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that boasts, 4who have said, “With our tongue we will prevail. Our lips are our own. Who is lord over us?” 5“Because of the oppression of the weak and because of the groaning of the needy, I will now arise,” says Yahweh; “I will set him in safety from those who malign him.” 6Yahweh’s words are flawless words, as silver refined in a clay furnace, purified seven times. 7You will keep them, Yahweh. You will preserve them from this generation forever. 8The wicked walk on every side, when what is vile is exalted among the sons of men.
World English Bible (public domain)
“The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.”
Psalms 12:6
Summary
Psalm 12 is a poignant call to the Lord for help in a society where truth and faithfulness are scarce. The Psalmist, David, expresses distress over the deceitfulness and arrogance rampant among men. He contrasts the unreliable words of people with the pure and trustworthy words of the Lord. David beseeches God to arise and protect the needy, affirming his confidence in the Lord's promises. The psalm concludes with the assurance that God will preserve and safeguard his people despite the prevalence of wickedness. This chapter highlights the challenge of maintaining faith amid corruption and the solace found in God's unwavering goodness and truth.
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