The contrast between evil and goodness is continued in our reading today. God promises us that, "He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: but whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he" (chapter 16:20). The only lasting happiness known to mankind comes from knowing the Lord. That happiness gives peace in time of trouble and sorrow; comfort in the time of death of a loved one; and it offers an eternal home in heaven with Christ after this life is over.
Chapter 17:28 says, "He that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding." I have often heard this statement: "Keep your mouth closed and people may think you are a fool; but open your mouth and you remove all doubt." When you hear a person bragging about his accomplishments, they are only as the words you hear him say--you hear them one minute and they are gone the next. All of us should remember that the lips are exercised by words coming forth from the heart. We should carefully examine everything we say. Time is too short for foolish words. That same shortness of time should challenge and encourage us to use our tongue and lips to honor and glorify Jesus Christ, and to share with others what He has done in our lives.
