Proverbs 12:18-28

18 There is that promiseth, and is pricked as it were with a sword of conscience: but the tongue of the wise is health.

19 The lip of truth shall be steadfast for ever: but he that is a hasty witness, frameth a lying tongue.

20 Deceit is in the heart of them that think evil things: but joy followeth them that take counsels of peace.

21 Whatsoever shall befall the just man, shall not make him sad: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.

22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord: but they that deal faithfully, please him.

23 A cautious man concealeth knowledge: and the heart of fools publisheth folly.

24 The hand of the valiant shall bear rule: but that which is slothful shall be under tribute.

25 Grief in the heart of a man shall bring him low, but with a good word he shall be made glad.

26 He that neglecteth a loss for the sake of a friend, is just: but the way of the wicked shall deceive them.

27 The deceitful man shall not find gain: but the substance of a just man shall be precious gold.

28 In the path of justice is life: but the bye-way leadeth to death.

Proverbs 12:18-28 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KING 2

This chapter gives an account of the charge David gave to his son Solomon, a little before his death, to walk in the ways of the Lord, 1Ki 2:1-4; and of some instructions delivered to him concerning some particular persons he should either show favour to, or execute justice on, 1Ki 2:5-9; and the next account in it is concerning his death and burial, and the years of his reign, 1Ki 2:10,11; after which it relates an address of Bathsheba to Solomon in favour of Adonijah, which was refused, and the issue of it was his death, 1Ki 2:12-25; and the deposition of Abiathar from the priesthood, 1Ki 2:26,27; and the putting of Joab to death for his treason and murders, 1Ki 2:28-34; in whose post Benaiah was put, as Zadok was in the place of Abiathar, 1Ki 2:35; and lastly the confinement of Shimei in Jerusalem, who had cursed David, 1Ki 2:36-38; who upon transgressing the orders given him was put to death, 1Ki 2:39-46.