The Deceitful Times: Finding Truth When the Faithful Have Vanished – Psalm 12

Executive Summary ✨

Psalm 12, a lament amidst pervasive deceit, unveils a society where flattery replaces sincerity and truthfulness wanes. The psalmist cries out for divine intervention as the “godly man ceases” and faithfulness disappears. This cry resonates throughout history, echoing the challenges faced by believers in every generation, including our own. This commentary will explore the profound spiritual implications of the psalm, drawing upon Coptic Orthodox tradition, Patristic wisdom, and biblical context. We’ll examine the nature of deceit, the importance of integrity, and the unwavering hope we find in God’s promises. Understanding this psalm empowers us to discern truth from falsehood and cling steadfastly to faith in a world increasingly marked by deception. The focus key phrase, “The Faithful Have Vanished,” highlights the psalm’s central concern.

Introduction: Psalm 12, a poignant plea from the heart, captures the essence of a society crumbling under the weight of deceit. It is a timeless reflection on the erosion of truth and the desperation of those who seek righteousness in a world saturated with falsehood. Let’s delve into this powerful psalm and uncover its enduring message of hope and perseverance.

Commentary: Psalm 12 Verse-by-Verse

Verse 1

Original (Hebrew): לַ֭מְנַצֵּחַ עַֽל־הַשְּׁמִינִית מִזְמ֥וֹר לְדָוִֽד׃ הוֹשִׁיעָ֣ה יְ֭הוָה כִּי־גָמַ֣ר חָסִ֑יד כִּי־פַסּ֥וּ אֱ֝מוּנִ֗ים מִבְּנֵי אָדָֽם׃

KJV: Help, Lord; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.

NKJV: Help, Lord, for the godly man ceases! For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men.

Commentary: The psalm begins with a desperate cry for help. “Help, Lord!” expresses the urgency of the psalmist’s plea. The reason for this plea is that “the godly man ceases.” This isn’t a literal death of every righteous person, but rather a metaphorical vanishing of integrity and genuine faith from public life. The Hebrew word translated as “godly” (chasid) refers to someone loyal to God and to covenantal relationships. The faithful (emûnîm) have disappeared, meaning trustworthiness and reliability have become rare commodities. This societal decay echoes Genesis 6:5, where the wickedness of humanity necessitates divine intervention. For those struggling with website creation, check out these amazing services

Spiritual Application: In our daily lives, we must examine our own hearts. Are we contributing to the decline of faithfulness by compromising our values? Or are we actively striving to be examples of integrity and truth in a world that desperately needs them?

Verse 2

Original (Hebrew): שָׁ֤וְאׅ יְדַבְּר֨וּ אִ֪ישׁ אֶת־רֵ֫עֵ֥הוּ שְׂפַ֥ת חֲלָק֑וֹת בְּלֵ֖ב וָלֵ֣ב יְדַבֵּֽרוּ׃

KJV: They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak.

NKJV: They speak idly everyone with his neighbor; With flattering lips and a double heart they speak.

Commentary: This verse exposes the core of the problem: pervasive deceit in communication. People “speak vanity,” meaning their words are empty, worthless, and ultimately deceptive. The phrase “flattering lips and a double heart” highlights the hypocrisy prevalent in their interactions. They say one thing to a person’s face but harbor different intentions in their hearts. This duplicity is a direct violation of the commandment against bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). St. Basil the Great warns against such duplicity: “Μὴ ἔστω ἡ γλῶσσα σου σπαθίον κοπίδιον, ἄλλα καταρτισμὸς ἀγαθῶν ἔργων” (Mē estō hē glōssa sou spathion kopidion, alla katartismos agathōn ergōn) – “Let your tongue not be a sharp sword, but rather a means of perfecting good works.” (Basil, Homilia in Psalmum 14).

Spiritual Application: We are called to be truthful in our words and deeds. Before speaking, we should ask ourselves: Are my words genuine? Do my words align with my true intentions? Am I building up or tearing down?

Verse 3

Original (Hebrew): יַכְרֵ֤ת יְהוָהׅ כָּל־שִׂפְתֵיׅ חֲלָקּוֹת לָשׁוֹן מְדַבֶּרֶת גְּדֹלֽוֹת׃

KJV: The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things:

NKJV: May the Lord cut off all flattering lips, And the tongue that speaks proud things,

Commentary: Here, the psalmist expresses a prayer, a plea for divine justice. He asks that the Lord “cut off all flattering lips and the tongue that speaks proud things.” This isn’t necessarily a call for physical harm, but rather a desire for God to silence and render powerless those who use their words to deceive and oppress. The phrase “proud things” (gedolot) refers to arrogant boasting and self-exaltation. This verse points towards the eventual judgment of those who use their tongues for evil, a theme echoed in Revelation 21:8, where liars are listed among those excluded from the New Jerusalem.

Spiritual Application: We must be mindful of the power of our words. We should strive to use them for good, to speak truth, to encourage, and to build up others. Let us pray for God to purify our speech and to help us avoid flattery, gossip, and other forms of harmful communication.

Verse 4

Original (Hebrew): אֲשֶׁ֤ר אָֽמְר֨וּ לִלְשֹׁנֵ֣נוּ נַ֭גְבִּיר שְׂפָתֵ֣ינוּ אִתָּ֑נוּ מִ֥י אָ֝דֹ֗ן לָֽנוּ׃

KJV: Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us?

NKJV: Who have said, “With our tongue we will prevail; Our lips are our own; Who is lord over us?”

Commentary: This verse reveals the arrogance and self-sufficiency of the wicked. They believe they can “prevail” with their tongues, meaning they can manipulate, deceive, and dominate others through their words. They declare, “Our lips are our own; who is lord over us?” This is a blatant rejection of God’s authority and a declaration of their independence. This attitude is similar to that of Pharaoh in Exodus 5:2, who asked, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice?” St. Cyril of Alexandria states “Οὐ γὰρ οἶδεν ὅτι τοῦ Θεοῦ δοῦλός ἐστιν” (Ou gar oiden hoti tou Theou doulos estin) – “For he does not know that he is a servant of God,” (Cyril of Alexandria, Commentary on Isaiah, Book 3).

Spiritual Application: Humility is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. We must recognize that we are not autonomous beings, but rather creatures dependent on God’s grace. We must submit our tongues, our thoughts, and our lives to His Lordship.

Verse 5

Original (Hebrew): מִשֹּׁד עֲנִיִּים מֵאַנְקַת אֶבְיוֹנִים עַתָּה אָקוּם יֹאמַר יְהוָה אָשִׁית בְּיֵשַׁע יָפִ֥יחַ לֽוֹ׃

KJV: For 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.

NKJV: “For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, Now I will arise,” says the Lord; “I will set him in the safety for which he yearns.”

Commentary: This verse marks a turning point in the psalm. God speaks! He declares, “For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise.” God hears the cries of the oppressed and promises to act on their behalf. This verse reflects God’s concern for the vulnerable and His commitment to justice. He will “set him in the safety for which he yearns,” offering protection and deliverance to those who are suffering. This promise echoes throughout the scriptures, from the Exodus to the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels (Luke 4:18).

Spiritual Application: God hears our cries in times of need. We can trust in His promise to intervene on behalf of the oppressed and to provide safety and deliverance to those who seek Him. We are also called to be advocates for the poor and needy, reflecting God’s own compassion and commitment to justice.

Verse 6

Original (Hebrew): אִמְר֣וֹת יְ֭הוָה אֲמָר֣וֹת טְהֹר֑וֹת כֶּ֥סֶף צָ֝ר֗וּף בַּעֲלִ֥יל לָאָֽרֶץ מְזֻקָּק שִׁבְעָתָֽיִם׃

KJV: The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

NKJV: The words of the Lord are pure words, Like silver tried in a furnace of earth, Purified seven times.

Commentary: This verse emphasizes the absolute purity and reliability of God’s words. They are compared to “silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” This imagery conveys the idea that God’s words are completely free from falsehood and deception. Just as refined silver is valuable and unblemished, so too are God’s promises trustworthy and true. The number “seven” often symbolizes completeness or perfection in the Bible. This verse stands in stark contrast to the deceitful words of the wicked described earlier in the psalm.

Spiritual Application: We can anchor our lives in the unwavering truth of God’s Word. In a world filled with conflicting opinions and deceptive voices, we can find certainty and guidance in the Bible. Let us meditate on Scripture and allow it to shape our thoughts, words, and actions.

Verse 7

Original (Hebrew): אַתָּֽה־יְהוָה תִּשְׁמְרֵם תִּצְּרֵנוּ מִן־הַדּוֹר ז֖וּ לְעוֹלָֽם׃

KJV: Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.

NKJV: You shall keep them, O Lord, You shall preserve them from this generation forever.

Commentary: The psalmist expresses confidence in God’s protection. “Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, thou shalt preserve them from this generation forever.” God promises to safeguard His people from the corrupting influence of the wicked generation. This is a promise of both temporal and eternal protection. God’s preservation extends beyond the immediate crisis and reaches into eternity. St. Athanasius comments on this preservation: “Τί γὰρ ἄλλο ἐστὶ τὸ τηρεῖν, εἰ μὴ τὸ φυλάττειν ἀπὸ παντὸς πειρασμοῦ;” (Ti gar allo esti to tērein, ei mē to phylattein apo pantos peirasmou?) – “For what else is ‘to keep’ if not to guard from every temptation?” (Athanasius, Contra Gentes, 46).

Spiritual Application: We can find comfort and security in knowing that God is our protector. He promises to preserve us from the spiritual dangers of this world. We must trust in His faithfulness and rely on His grace to guide and protect us.

Verse 8

Original (Hebrew): סָבִיב רְשָׁעִים יִתְהַלָּכוּן כְּרֻם זֻלּוּת לִבְנֵי אָדָֽם׃

KJV: The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted.

NKJV: The wicked prowl on every side, When vileness is exalted among the sons of men.

Commentary: The psalm concludes with a sober observation: “The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted.” Despite God’s promise of protection, the psalmist acknowledges that evil continues to thrive. The “vilest men” are those who lack moral character and integrity. Their exaltation signifies a moral decay in society. This reality should not discourage us, but rather motivate us to remain steadfast in our faith and to continue to fight for righteousness. This verse reminds us that the battle between good and evil is ongoing, and we must be vigilant in our commitment to truth and justice.

Spiritual Application: We must be aware of the pervasive influence of evil in the world. We should not be surprised or discouraged when we encounter wickedness, but rather remain firm in our commitment to Christ. Let us pray for discernment and strength to resist temptation and to live lives that are pleasing to God.

Subtopic: The Importance of Truth in a Deceitful World 💡

In a world saturated with information, where truth is often obscured by propaganda and manipulation, it is essential to cultivate discernment and to prioritize truthfulness in our own lives. Consider these reflections:

• Seek God’s Guidance: Pray for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your mind and to guide you in discerning truth from falsehood.
• Study Scripture: Immerse yourself in the Word of God, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105).
• Cultivate Humility: Be willing to admit when you are wrong and to learn from others.
• Speak Truth in Love: Communicate with honesty and compassion, even when it is difficult.
• Avoid Gossip and Slander: Refuse to participate in conversations that spread rumors or defame others.
• Be a Witness for Truth: Stand up for what is right, even when it is unpopular.

FAQ ❓

Q: How can I discern truth from falsehood in a world filled with misinformation?

A: Discernment is a spiritual gift that is cultivated through prayer, study of Scripture, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Seek wise counsel from trusted mentors and be wary of information that is presented without evidence or that appeals primarily to emotions. Consider the source and its potential biases.

Q: What does it mean to have a “double heart,” as mentioned in Psalm 12:2?

A: A “double heart” refers to hypocrisy and insincerity. It describes a person who says one thing but believes or intends something else. Such duplicity is condemned in Scripture and should be avoided by all who seek to live a life of integrity.

Q: How can I respond when I encounter people who are deceitful or manipulative?

A: Respond with discernment and grace. Do not be naive or easily swayed by flattery. Speak the truth in love, but do not engage in arguments or become entangled in their deceitful schemes. Pray for them, that they may turn from their wicked ways.

Q: How does Psalm 12 relate to the Coptic Orthodox understanding of salvation?

A: Psalm 12 highlights the pervasive nature of sin and the need for God’s intervention. It demonstrates our reliance on God’s grace for protection and deliverance from the corrupting influences of the world. This dependence aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on grace, repentance, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion ✨

Psalm 12, “The Faithful Have Vanished”, serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of deceit and a powerful reminder of the importance of truthfulness. In a world where flattery and hypocrisy often prevail, we must cling to the unwavering promises of God and strive to live lives of integrity. The cry “The Faithful Have Vanished” is a challenge to us. We must seek God’s guidance, study His Word, and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us into vessels of truth and righteousness. Let us be beacons of hope in a world shrouded in darkness, reflecting the light of Christ in all that we say and do. Remembering that God promises to protect us and preserve us, let’s strive to be faithful witnesses in these challenging times.

Tags

Psalm 12, Deceit, Truth, Faithfulness, Integrity, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic Theology, Bible Commentary, Spiritual Warfare, God’s Promises

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Explore Psalm 12’s profound message on truth and faithfulness in a deceitful world. This Coptic Orthodox commentary offers insights and spiritual applications. The Faithful Have Vanished