PROVERBS CHAPTER 11.
V. 16. A gracious woman retaineth honor, her amiable and pleasant disposition, her grace and charm, give her an honored and powerful standing in the community; and strong men retain riches, making use of decision and energy in holding outward wealth, which, after all, cannot compare with the blessing of a high regard in the eyes of others.
V. 17. The merciful man doeth good to his own soul, that is, if he practices benevolence, manifests true goodness toward others, he thereby benefits his own soul, the Lord Himself granting him this as a reward; but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh, for God visits a cruel and hardhearted conduct with a severe penalty.
V. 18. The wicked worketh a deceitful work, the acquisitions which he gains are delusive, they are neither real nor lasting; but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward, for in scattering the seed of a righteous conduct he prepares for the harvest of God’s merciful reward.
V. 19. As righteousness tendeth to life, or, “genuine righteousness,” flowing from the fullness of a heart sound in faith, will result in a truly happy life, bringing happiness to all who practice it; so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death, that is the consequence of his act.