Psalms 12:1-8
David laments the decline of godly people and faithful leaders among the children of men. He denounces those who speak flattering words with deceitful intentions, claiming they can prevail through their words. God promises to arise in defense of the oppressed and needy.
This chapter is notable for its emphasis on the importance of integrity and authenticity in speech, as well as God's promise to defend the vulnerable.
1To the chief Musician upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David.Help, Lord; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.
2They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak.
3The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things:
4Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us?
5For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the Lord; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.
6The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.
7Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.
8The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted.