Psalm 12 Prayer

God of Power and Might,

We thank you that no matter our circumstances, you are in control of this world.  We know that you hear the cries of the oppressed and that your Church is called to minister to the hungry, homeless, brokenhearted, and needy.  Today we pray against those in positions of political, economic, or ecclesiastical power who use their power not to serve, but to oppress.  We pray against those who use power, greed, or influence to promote vile ungodliness and to sin against others.  Arise, Lord, and protect those who have been plundered and oppressed - protect your Church and her people - from evil in this world.

In the strong name of Christ we pray.

Amen

1

Help, Lord, for no one is faithful anymore;

    those who are loyal have vanished from the human race.

2 

Everyone lies to their neighbor;

    they flatter with their lips

    but harbor deception in their hearts.

3 

May the Lord silence all flattering lips

    and every boastful tongue—

4 

those who say,

    “By our tongues we will prevail;

    our own lips will defend us—who is lord over us?”

5 

“Because the poor are plundered and the needy groan,

    I will now arise,” says the Lord.

    “I will protect them from those who malign them.”

6 

And the words of the Lord are flawless,

    like silver purified in a crucible,

    like gold refined seven times.

7 

You, Lord, will keep the needy safe

    and will protect us forever from the wicked,

8 

who freely strut about

    when what is vile is honored by the human race.

Psalm 12