PROVERBS CHAPTER 12.
V. V. 15. The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, in his own judgment, making it practically impossible to convince him of the contrary; but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise, or, “the wise listens to sound advice,” it is one of his characteristics.
V. 16. A fool’s wrath is presently known, his indignation breaks out suddenly, often without a careful examination of the difficulty which caused it; but a prudent man covereth shame, he exercises prudent self-control, he keeps his temper well in hand always.
V. 17. He that speaketh truth showeth forth righteousness; breathing the atmosphere of the love of truth, he utters that which is strictly just; but a false witness deceit, he breathes and speaks lies.
V. 18. There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword, his speeches being as rude and sharp as knife thrusts, their intention being to hurt and injure; but the tongue of the wise is health, healing, intended to overcome the effect of sharp speeches and to bind up the wounds inflicted by foolish babblers.