Proverbs 12:18-28

18 There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword, But the tongue of the wise heals.

19 Truth's lips will be established forever, But a lying tongue is only momentary.

20 Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil, But joy comes to the promoters of peace.

21 No mischief shall happen to the righteous, But the wicked shall be filled with evil.

22 Lying lips are an abomination to Yahweh, But those who do the truth are his delight.

23 A prudent man keeps his knowledge, But the hearts of fools proclaim foolishness.

24 The hands of the diligent ones shall rule, But laziness ends in slave labor.

25 Anxiety in a man's heart weighs it down, But a kind word makes it glad.

26 The righteous is cautious in friendship, But the way of the wicked leads them astray.

27 The slothful man doesn't roast his game, But the possessions of diligent men are prized.

28 In the way of righteousness is life; In its path there is no 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.