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CHAPTER 12 The Contrast in Relation to Various Conditions

In these proverbs we have the righteous mentioned, his thoughts, his words, his domestic relationship, his attitude toward animal creation Proverbs 12:10); his diligence; all is contrasted with the wicked in these beautiful antithetic expressions of wisdom. The thoughts of the righteous are right Proverbs 12:5), because his heart is right; his words bring deliverance Proverbs 12:6); in speaking truth he showeth forth righteousness Proverbs 12:17); his tongue is health Proverbs 12:18); the lip which uttereth truth shall be established for ever Proverbs 12:19); he knows nothing of lying lips, but dealing truly he is the Lord’s delight Proverbs 12:22). All is summed up in one statement, with which the chapter closeth: “In the way of righteousness there is life; in the pathway thereof there is no death.” Happy are we if we know this way, which is Christ Himself, and if we follow Him.Proverbs 12:21 speaks of the blessing of the righteous, “There shall no evil happen to the just,” that is, all things must work together for good.