David’s appeal to the Lord in verses 1 and 2 has two parts. First, the faithful, those who are morally true and loyal have disappeared (1). Second, everyone is lying. Their lies are flattery, saying one thing while not believing what they say (2). The worst scenario is when they say kind words while secretly plotting to displace or even kill. False compliments with the intent to win favor are as devastating today as it was in David’s time.
David’s request to the Lord is in verses 3 and 4. David asks the Lord to cut off all flattering lips. Cut-off does not literally mean physical mutilation. Rather, it poetically means stop the lies and boasting. They are very proud of their crafty words that manipulate others. They plot wicked schemes and implement them with crafty lies. David is asking the Lord to put an end to words that are deadlier than weapons of war.
I pause this morning thinking about the motivation behind my words. Why do I say as I do? If my words are selfish and harmful, then I need to stop talking. My mother told the youthful me, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, do not say anything at all.” Now I have determined why I am not speaking purely and ask God to change my heart to be like Christ. And not only mine but my enemies as well.
