Psalm 12:4

They say, "With our tongues we will prevail. We own our lips--who can be our master?"

Study Bible

They say,
This phrase introduces the voice of the wicked, highlighting their arrogance and self-confidence. In the context of Psalm 12, the psalmist is lamenting the prevalence of deceit and falsehood in society. The "they" refers to those who are corrupt and boastful, contrasting with the faithful who are oppressed. This sets the stage for understanding the moral and spiritual decay that the psalmist observes.

“With our tongues we will prevail.
The wicked believe that their words alone can achieve victory and dominance. This reflects a cultural context where rhetoric and speech were powerful tools for influence and control. Biblically, the tongue is often seen as a powerful force, capable of both blessing and cursing (James 3:5-8). The confidence in their speech suggests a disregard for truth and righteousness, relying instead on manipulation and deceit.

We own our lips—
This phrase indicates a sense of ownership and autonomy over their speech, implying that they feel no accountability to God or others. In the biblical worldview, speech is a gift from God and should be used to glorify Him and edify others (Ephesians 4:29). The claim of ownership here reveals a rebellious spirit, rejecting divine authority and moral responsibility.

who can be our master?”
The rhetorical question underscores their defiance and perceived invincibility. It echoes the attitude of those who reject God's sovereignty, similar to the defiance seen in other parts of Scripture, such as Pharaoh's question, "Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice?" (Exodus 5:2). This phrase highlights the theme of human pride and the illusion of self-sufficiency, contrasting with the biblical teaching that God is the ultimate authority and judge.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 12, David is expressing concern over the deceitful and boastful speech of the wicked.

2. The Wicked
The individuals who are speaking arrogantly and deceitfully, believing they are accountable to no one.

3. God
Implicit in the text as the ultimate judge and master, contrasting the wicked's claim of self-mastery.

4. Israel
The broader community affected by the deceit and arrogance of the wicked, often the context for David's psalms.

5. The Righteous
Those who are oppressed or troubled by the deceitful words of the wicked, seeking God's intervention.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Words have the power to build up or destroy. As believers, we must be mindful of our speech, recognizing its potential impact.

Accountability to God
Despite the wicked's claim of self-mastery, all are ultimately accountable to God. We should live with the awareness that our words and actions are subject to His judgment.

The Illusion of Self-Sufficiency
The wicked believe they are their own masters, but this is an illusion. True freedom and mastery come from submission to God.

Guarding Our Speech
As followers of Christ, we are called to guard our tongues and speak truthfully, reflecting God's character in our communication.

Seeking God's Intervention
In times of deceit and arrogance around us, we should turn to God for justice and protection, trusting in His sovereignty.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the attitude of the wicked in Psalm 12:4 reflect a misunderstanding of true authority and mastery?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our speech aligns with the teachings of Christ, as seen in James 3 and 1 Peter 3?

3. How can we apply the principle of accountability for our words in our daily interactions, considering Matthew 12:36-37?

4. What practical steps can we take to guard our tongues and promote truth in our communities, in light of Proverbs 18:21?

5. How does understanding the power of words influence our approach to conflict resolution and communication within the church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 3:5-6
This passage discusses the power of the tongue, emphasizing how small but influential it can be, much like the boastful claims in Psalm 12:4.

Proverbs 18:21
Highlights the power of the tongue to bring life or death, connecting to the destructive potential of the wicked's speech.

Matthew 12:36-37
Jesus speaks about being accountable for every careless word, countering the wicked's belief that they have no master.

Romans 3:13-14
Paul describes the sinful nature of humanity, including deceitful speech, echoing the themes of Psalm 12.

1 Peter 3:10
Encourages believers to keep their tongues from evil, contrasting the behavior of the wicked in Psalm 12:4.