Definition: The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, [and] the tongue that speaketh proud things:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down Psalm 12:3 – it’s a really important and thought-provoking verse. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse warns against vanity and pride in speech. It suggests that people who constantly talk about themselves, praise themselves, or seek attention are ultimately vulnerable to God's judgment. Let's unpack it word by word: “The LORD shall cut off…” – This refers to a higher power, likely God, but it’s not necessarily a literal cutting off of someone’s life. It means that God will remove or limit something harmful. “…all flattering lips…” - "Flattering lips" is a metaphorical way of saying words that praise ourselves and make us feel good about ourselves. It's about constantly seeking approval and admiration from others. “[and] the tongue that speaks proud things:” – “Proud things” refers to boasting, arrogance, self-importance, and an overestimation of our own abilities. It’s about constantly talking about what we are good at and thinking we're better than everyone else. So, putting it all together: This verse is saying that people who are overly focused on themselves, constantly praising themselves, or boasting will eventually be brought to their knees by God. It's a warning against being consumed by vanity. What does it mean in a broader sense? It’s about humility: The verse encourages us to cultivate humility – a recognition of our limitations and dependence on God. It’s about seeking God’s approval, not our own: It's not about being better than others; it's about seeking God's favor and blessings. In short, Psalm 12:3 is a reminder to be mindful of how we speak and to seek God’s character over our own. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of behaviors that could lead to this kind of speech? Connect it to a specific theme or story from the Bible?