David sets up a contrast in Psalm 12. In verses two through four, he gives a description of the words of the wicked:

“² They speak vanity every one with his neighbor: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. ³ The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaks proud things: ⁴ Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us?“

The words of the wicked are

• empty words – words with no substance
• flattering words from a double, or untrue, heart
• words of self will and pride
• words that challenge God’s authority

If you are like me, you have heard a few of these words recently in advertisements, from politicians, on bumper stickers and social media, and from the man on the street.

These words chafe and scar. They initiate discontent and anger. They discourage and tear down. They lead astray, and they oppress. They cause us to think like David that there are no more godly people (Psalm 12:1).

Then in verses six and seven, David gives the contrast when he describes God’s words.

“The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. You will keep them, O Lord, You will preserve them from this generation for ever.”

The wicked may spout and sputter. They may strut their words across screens and through the air. They may bombard the godly, but they will never overcome.

God has spoken. His words are pure, and they will stand forever!

So, when the world’s words grate on your soul, run to the word of Truth. God’s words are our protection, and they are our only weapon (Ephesians 6:17) against the words of the wicked.

Why are they our only weapon?

Because they are enough!

Psalm 18:30 As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.

Psalm 33:4 For the word of the Lord is right; and all his works are done in truth.

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Photo – Steadfast, Beth Mims – Glacier National Park, Montana