United Commentaries

Ps.12.1-8

This community lament seeks the Lord’s help against the prevalence of evil. Because of the Lord’s answer, the godly can face the future knowing that God protects them.

Ps.12.1-4

Evil becomes so pervasive that the godly pray for rescue (Isa 57:1; Mic 7:2; cp. Pss 1:6; 37:20; 58:7; 104:35).

Ps.12.4

The words they say reveal the character of the wicked. They deceive and overpower the godly and arrogantly question the Lord’s purposes.

Ps.12.6

The godly can rely on the Lord’s promises, but not on the lies of the wicked (12:2-4).

Seven times means totally or completely.

Ps.12.7-8

The godly know that the Lord cares, even though the wicked continue to oppress them. The Lord sees the corrupt and foolish people who praise evildoers (see 9:19-20; 14:2-6).