Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 12

Evil becomes so widespread that the godly pray for rescue (Isaiah 57:1; Micah 7:2; compare Psalms 1:6; 37:20; 58:7; 104:35).

This prayer from the community asks the Lord for help against the many evil acts in the world. Because God answers, the godly can face the future with confidence, knowing that God protects them.

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

• The godly can trust the Lord's promises, but not the lies of the wicked (Psalm 12:2–4).

• Sevenfold means entirely or completely.

Those who follow God know that he cares, even when the wicked oppress them. God sees the corrupt and foolish people who praise those who do evil (see Psalms 9:19–20; 14:2–6).