Psalm 12 begins with David's desperate cry, "HELP, LORD," reflecting his profound need for divine intervention during Saul's oppressive government and persecution of him and other good men. David was destitute of human comfort, lamenting that "the godly man ceaseth" and "the faithful fail," signifying a widespread loss of mercy, humanity, and common honesty. The Psalm was composed as a plea for God's help amidst this pervasive moral corruption.
The Psalm highlights the deceit prevalent in society. Wicked men speak "vanity" or falsehood, using "flattering lips" and a "double heart" to feign sincerity while harboring cruel intentions. They speak "proud things"—great, bragging, or threatening words—believing they can "prevail" through slander and evil reports. Their actions demonstrate an arrogant disregard for any authority, as they behave as if "our lips are our own: who is lord over us?", meaning they are unrestrained by God or men in their speech. This pervasive wickedness, especially when "the vilest men are exalted" and "all manner of wickedness" is encouraged, exacerbates the suffering of the vulnerable.
In response to "the oppression of the poor" and "the sighing of the needy," the Lord declares, "Now will I arise," indicating a speedy and unexpected divine intervention. God promises to set the oppressed in safety from those who "puff at him" with contemptuous words. David finds profound comfort in the reliability of God's words, which are described as "pure words," sincere and without falsehood. They are likened to "silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times," emphasizing their absolute truthfulness and infallible fulfillment. This contrasts sharply with the unreliable and deceitful words of men, affirming God's holiness and faithfulness in all His doctrines, promises, and predictions. The Psalm ultimately provides assurance of God's commitment to protecting His people and fulfilling His word.
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