Proverbs 19.28
“A worthless witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the wicked devours iniquity.”
This is one of several proverbs that emphasizes the importance of telling the truth, especially in legal situations. Liars and deceivers are dangerous. When a false witness lies in court, they mock justice. The difference can be a matter of life and death. We need faithful witnesses, not false witnesses. We need truth-tellers, not people who “breathe out lies.”
“A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness breathes out lies.” (Proverbs 14.5)
Everything in our society (work, home, education, government, journalism, ministry) requires faithful people who speak truth and hear truth. And wherever there are false witnesses and lies, great damage is done to relationships and organizations and society.
The truthfulness of someone’s words is critical. You can trust faithful people because they tell you the truth. You cannot trust foolish people because they lie and seek to deceive you.
Be a truth-teller.
Proverbs 19.29
“Condemnation is ready for scoffers, and beating for the backs of fools.”
There is a cause-and-effect relationship between punishment and fools. Foolish people speak and act impulsively. They lack discipline; they do not pause and think. As result, their impulsive words and reckless actions get them into trouble.
“By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back, but the lips of the wise will preserve them.” (Proverbs 14.3)
Wise people, on the other hand, are careful about what they say and disciplined about what they do. They think before they act or speak, which keeps them out of trouble.
Proverbs 20.1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.”
Wisdom requires clear thinking and effective decision-making. The consumption of too much alcohol impairs a person’s thinking and clouds their judgment, which can lead to foolish behavior.
This proverb is not advocating abstinence; it is advocating moderation. If you drink too much alcohol or take drugs, you will be led astray by its intoxicating influence. And you will not like where it takes you.
“For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.” (Romans 12.3)
