Psalm 12: Misuse of Words Key Verse: The words of the Lord are pure words; as silver tried in a furnace on the earth, refined seven times. (Psalm 12:6) The Bible reminds us that words are a powerful force for either good or evil. In the third chapter of James, we are told that the tongue can be a source of blessing or cursing, and it reveals what is within ones heart. A person can grow in Christian character and a disciplined life, but the tongue is the most difficult to control. In an instant, without thinking, we can express anger, put down someone with a cutting, sarcastic word, or just verbalize an attitude of complaining and griping—none of which glorifies God. Gossiping and spreading rumors about others stir up contention. Proverbs 26:20 says, For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down. In Proverbs 29:20 we are told, Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him. Therefore, he who restrains his lips is wise (Prov. 10:19). The psalmist seems to say that this is what brings down many a godly person to defeat. He constantly contrasts the righteous and unrighteous, but the references in Psalm 12 are about the godly person who has ceased to be godly and what has caused the faithful to disappear. It is because they spoke lies and falsehoods to one another and engaged in flattery from a double heart. Reference to a double heart in the Scripture highlights a devastating characteristic—to have double, conflicting affections or to carry on a pretense of believing and practicing one thing while actually being another. Flattery is a comment which is insincere, saying nice things to or about someone in order to impress or gain favor, when they are not true and not at all what we think in our hearts. It reflects insincerity and a lack of integrity. And we are told the Lord will cut off from fellowship with Him all who speak such things. The words of the Lord are pure. They are for blessing and edification. Another example of misusing the tongue is seen in those who are eloquent and persuasive and able to twist and distort issues so that people believe and follow them. They are able to use words to their own advantage and power; it feeds their ego and so exalts their pride that they come to believe they are accountable to no one—no one is Lord over them. While this may sound like a description of some politicians, it is amazing how many preachers seem to fall into this deceptive trap. The result of misusing words to carry on pretense, building up oneself, and putting down others is that someone is always victimized and hurt. The Lord will always side with the afflicted and needy and come to their aid. In contrast to the pride of the wicked, exalting evil and exerting influence that is worldly and vile, the words of the Lord are pure. They are for blessing and edification. His promises are true and will preserve those who seek refuge in Him and believe. Prayer: Lord, help me not to yield to the subtle temptation of misusing words for self-gain and in ways that would hurt others and dishonor You. Help me to avoid the pretense of flattery that is dishonest and self-serving. Help me always speak with integrity and use my words to edify and bless. Thank You for Your words that are true and dependable. In the Secret Place: A Pilgrimage through the Psalms.
Posted on: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 10:09:30 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015