Proverbs 12:15-22

¹⁵ The way of the foolish man seems right to him? but the wise man gives ear to suggestions.

¹⁶ A foolish man lets his trouble be openly seen, but a sharp man keeps shame secret.

¹⁷ The breathing out of true words gives knowledge of righteousness; but a false witness gives out deceit.

¹⁸ There are some whose uncontrolled talk is like the wounds of a sword, but the tongue of the wise makes one well again.

¹⁹ True lips are certain for ever, but a false tongue is only for a minute.

²⁰ Deceit is in the heart of those whose designs are evil, but for those purposing peace there is joy.

²¹ No trouble will come to upright men, but sinners will be full of evil.

²² False lips are hated by the Lord, but those whose acts are true are his delight.

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Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 12:15-22

Commentary on Proverbs 12:15

(Read Proverbs 12:15)

A fool, in the sense of Scripture, means a wicked man, one who acts contrary to the wisdom that is from above. His rule is, to do what is right in his own eyes.

Commentary on Proverbs 12:16

(Read Proverbs 12:16)

A foolish man is soon angry, and is hasty in expressing it; he is ever in trouble and running into mischief. It is kindness to ourselves to make light of injuries and affronts, instead of making the worst of them.

Commentary on Proverbs 12:17

(Read Proverbs 12:17)

It is good for all to dread and detest the sin of lying, and to be governed by honesty.

Commentary on Proverbs 12:18

(Read Proverbs 12:18)

Whisperings and evil surmises, like a sword, separate those that have been dear to each other. The tongue of the wise is health, making all whole.

Commentary on Proverbs 12:19

(Read Proverbs 12:19)

If truth be spoken, it will hold good; whoever may be disobliged, still it will keep its ground.

Commentary on Proverbs 12:20

(Read Proverbs 12:20)

Deceit and falsehood bring terrors and perplexities. But those who consult the peace and happiness of others have joy in their own minds.

Commentary on Proverbs 12:21

(Read Proverbs 12:21)

If men are sincerely righteous, the righteous God has engaged that no evil shall happen to them. But they that delight in mischief shall have enough of it.