Psalm 12 - A Call For Protection

The author of Psalm 12 is David.  The theme of Psalm 12 is a call for protection against those who try to manipulate us.

 

"Help, Lord, for the godly are no more; the faithful have vanished from among men."

~ Psalm 12:1 

 

Living for God in a deceitful world can be a difficult and lonely battle. At one time the great prophet Elijah felt so lonely he wanted to die.  But God told him that there were 7,000 other faithful servants (1 Kings 19:4, 14, 18). We are never alone in our battle against evil. When you feel alone, seek out other believers for strength and support.

 

"Everyone lies to his neighbor; their flattering lips speak with deception. May the Lord cut off all flattering lips and every boastful tongue that says, 'We will triumph with our tongues; we own our lips -- who is our master?'" ~ Psalm 12:2-4

 

We may be tempted to believe that lies are relatively harmless, even useful at times. But God does not overlook lies, flattery, deception, or boasting. Each of these sins originates from bad attitude that is eventually expressed in our speech. The tongue can be our greatest enemy because, though small, it can do great damage. Be careful how you use yours.

 

"Because of the oppression of the weak and the groaning of the needy, I will now arise," says the Lord. "I will protect them from those who malign them." ~ Psalm 12:5

 

God cares for the weak and the needy. Here he promises to protect the downtrodden and confront their oppressors.  We should identify with God's attitude.  His work is not done until we care for the needs of the poor.

 

"And the words of the Lord are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times." ~ Psalm 12:6

 

Sincerity and truth are extremely valuable because they are so rare. Many people are deceivers, liars, flatterers; they think they will get what they want by deception. As a king, David certainly faced his share of such people, who hoped to win his favor and gain advancement through flattery. When we feel as though sincerity and truth have nearly gone out of existence, we have one hope -- the Word of God. God's word's are as flawless as refined silver. So listen carefully when he speaks.