A prayer of the godly when oppressed by the arrogant wicked, who have grown so powerful that they shape and control the social order.

Scripture References:
st. 1 = vv.1-2
st. 2 =vv. 3-4
st. 3 = v. 5
st. 4 = vv. 6-8

The circumstances out of which Psalm 12 arises are not uncommon in human history. Whereas Psalm 11 features an individual professing confidence in the LORD's protection against wicked, formidable powers, Psalm 12 uses the voice of the oppressed (v. 7). We stand with the oppressed to ask God for help in a time when the whole social order has become morally corrupt (st. 1), to ask God to execute due penalties on the arrogant wicked (st. 2), to hear a reassuring Word from the divine Protector (st. 3), and to respond with confidence that God's promised protection will not fail (st. 4). Marie J. Post (PHH 5) versified this psalm in 1983 for the Psalter Hymnal.

Liturgical Use:
Any occasion of oppression in the world when God's people want to cry out to the Lord for justice.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook