Psalm 12: Help, Lord

Psalm 12
Help, Lord

1. Help, Lord, for no one is faithful anymore; those who are loyal have vanished from the human race.

8. who freely strut about when what is vile is honored by the human race.

◇ How can we better understand the Bible? This is a question that every Christian has probably pondered at least once. The answer lies in seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, as the Bible was written under His inspiration. Additionally, since it was written by humans, we should consider the authors' perspectives and the literary genres used. Understanding the historical context and the intended audience of each book is also crucial. A text written 2,000 or 3,000 years ago may not directly align with our modern-day context. We need to interpret it with an understanding of its original circumstances and then apply it to our lives today.

As I read through the Psalms, now on the twelfth chapter, I reflect on the circumstances of its author, David. Why does David sing of God as righteous, a refuge, and a fortress? Why does he call for the judgment of the wicked? Why does he plead for the care of the righteous, the poor, the orphans, the oppressed, and the humble?

David is wandering in the wilderness, pursued by Saul. How unjust it must have felt for David, who had done nothing wrong, to be driven into the wilderness. How terrifying it must have been to be targeted by a king blinded by jealousy and envy.

In his exhaustion and fear, God is David's only hope. He is the only one who can protect David from Saul. He is the ruler of the world who punishes the wicked and upholds the righteous. David continually cries out to God with tears, pleading for help. He walks the path he must take, doing what he can. He walks the path of those who fear God. Amid his fear and exhaustion, he calls upon God and walks forward.

♧ God, you are the refuge and fortress for David, who stands in the midst of exhaustion and fear, who is mocked and threatened by the wicked, yet who quietly walks the path of those who fear you. I confess and thank you for being my God. Holy Spirit, lead me in truth. Amen.