Psalms 120:3

“What shall be given unto thee? or what shall be done unto thee, thou false tongue?”

1. Context: Psalm 120 is one of the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134), which were likely sung by the Israelites as they ascended to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. These psalms express various emotions and themes, including a longing for God’s help and deliverance. Psalm 120 specifically addresses the problem of deceitful tongues or false speech.

2. Understanding the Verse: The psalmist poses a rhetorical question, asking what should be given or done to the false tongue. This question reveals the psalmist’s frustration and desire for justice in the face of those who spread lies and deceit. The psalmist seeks divine intervention and asks what consequences or retribution should befall those who engage in falsehood.

3. The Problem of False Tongues: Throughout the Bible, false tongues or deceitful speech is condemned as a destructive force. It includes lies, slander, gossip, and any form of speech that distorts the truth or causes harm to others. Proverbs 12:22 states, “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.” False tongues can damage relationships, sow discord, and undermine trust.

4. Seeking God’s Intervention: The psalmist’s question reflects a desire for God’s intervention and justice. When faced with the consequences of false tongues, it is natural to seek divine assistance. The psalmist longs for God’s judgment and asks what should be done to those who engage in deceitful speech.

5. Application: As believers, we can draw several lessons from Psalm 120:3:

• a. Guarding our Speech: We should be cautious about our own speech and strive to speak truthfully, lovingly, and responsibly. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”
• b. Seeking God’s Justice: When we encounter false tongues or experience the negative effects of deceitful speech, we can turn to God in prayer. We can trust Him to bring about justice and deal with those who engage in falsehood.
• c. Forgiveness and Grace: While seeking justice, it is essential to cultivate a heart of forgiveness and extend God’s grace to those who have used false tongues against us. Jesus teaches us to pray for our enemies and bless those who curse us (Matthew 5:44).
• d. Reflecting God’s Truth: As followers of Christ, we are called to be bearers of truth and light in a world prone to falsehood. We can counter false tongues by speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and being people of integrity and honesty.