Pure Words (Psalm 12)

The words of men can be cutting and hurtful. The Psalmist declared that everyone utters lies to his neighbors, with flattering lips and a double mind. They boast with their tongues saying they will prevail over them because of their words.

In contrast to the words of men, we are told about the wonderful words of the Lord. “The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace…purified seven times” (ESV). God’s word is pure and holy. We can take confidence in His promises. We have comfort because of His words of peace, hope, love, and joy.

Two things we should learn from this great Psalm: first, we need to control our tongues. It is not right to talk negatively about your neighbors and friends. It is not right to be using your mouth to lie. Instead, use your words to speak words of love and encouragement to others. Yes, the tongue is hard to control (James 3:2-12; esp.v8). Even so, we can use our speech for good things. “Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for edifying as the need be, that it may give grace to them that hear” (Ephesians 4:29).

Second, we need to remember that the Lord is in charge and His words are pure. We are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-28). He has given us the ability to communicate and He expects us to communicate in a positive manner. Let us strive to use our words in a positive and pure manner rather than the hurtful and lying words of men.