Psalm 12

The Psalmist regrets the disappearance of godliness among the sons of men. He sees people with deceptive speech speaking falsehood and flattery. He even describes them as having a "double heart" when they speak.

What is the answer? That the Lord would move to stop it. The question seems to be "Do you rule over yourself or does your old nature?" How can we know? The Psalmist says it is revealed by what you speak! He points out that the "wicked strut about on every side as vileness is exalted". On the other hand, the words of the Lord are pure.

James certainly agrees with the Psalmist. "If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless" (James 1:26). Let us each rededicate ourselves to godliness, especially as it relates to our speech.

"Lord, be glorified in us and may our speech reflect your work in us and draw others to you."

Amen