14 A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his words , And the deeds of a man's hands will return to him.

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes , But a wise man is he who listens to counsel .

16 A fool's anger is known at once , But a prudent man conceals dishonor .

17 He who speaks truth tells what is right , But a false witness , deceit .

18 There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword , But the tongue of the wise brings healing .

19 Truthful lips will be established forever , But a lying tongue is only for a moment .

20 Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil , But counselors of peace have joy .

21 No e harm befalls the righteous , But the wicked are filled with trouble .

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 12:14-21

Commentary on Proverbs 12:14

(Read Proverbs 12:14)

When men use their tongues aright, to teach and comfort others, they enjoy acceptance through Christ Jesus; and the testimony of their conscience, that they in some measure answer the end of their being.

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.