Old Testament
Psalms 12:3
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The LORD will cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaks proud things—
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The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things:
What Psalms 12:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a strong warning about the consequences of deceitful speech and arrogance. Flattering lips refer to those who use sweet words to manipulate or deceive others, while the proud tongue represents those who boast and speak arrogantly. The LORD, as the ultimate judge, will not tolerate such behavior and will bring judgment upon those who engage in it. This reflects God's commitment to truth and justice, emphasizing that He will protect the innocent and humble from the harm caused by deceitful and proud individuals. The verse serves as a reminder that God values honesty and humility, and He will act against those who misuse their words for selfish gain. It encourages believers to be mindful of their speech and to avoid flattery and pride, aligning their words with truth and humility instead.
How to apply Psalms 12:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to be cautious with our words, avoiding flattery and pride. We should strive to speak truthfully and humbly, recognizing the power of our speech. By doing so, we align ourselves with God's values and contribute to a more honest and respectful community.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 12:3 mean?
Psalms 12:3 warns against deceitful speech and arrogance, stating that God will judge those who use flattering words to manipulate others or speak with pride. It highlights God's commitment to truth and justice.
What is the meaning of flattering lips in Psalms 12:3?
Flattering lips refer to those who use sweet or insincere words to deceive or manipulate others. This verse indicates that such behavior is unacceptable to God.
How does Psalms 12:3 relate to pride?
Psalms 12:3 connects pride to the use of arrogant speech, indicating that God will not tolerate those who boast or speak with arrogance. It underscores the need for humility in our words.
What themes are present in Psalms 12:3?
The themes in Psalms 12:3 include God's judgment, deceitful speech, pride, humility, truth, and divine justice. These themes highlight the importance of speaking truthfully and humbly.
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