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I. THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF TRUTH (ver. 17). The highest and only proper use of speech is to show the right. It may be used to set forth —

1. Right views of God (Psalm 11:9; John 17:25, 26; Romans 3:21, 22).

2. Right views of personal experience (Psalm 66:16).

3. Right estimates of character. Testimonials should be given with great caution.

4. Right statements as to the value of articles of merchandise.

5. Right expositions of Scripture. Some "wrest" the Scriptures (2 Peter 3:16); others make them void by their traditions (Mark 7:13); others handle them deceitfully (2 Corinthians 4:2); but the God-taught expositor aims at "the manifestation of the truth."

II. THE WHOLESOMENESS OF TRUTH (ver. 18). Foolish speech often wounds, but in the word of wisdom is healing. Healthy doctrine produces healthy living, and thus it becomes its own advocate.

III. THE STABILITY OF TRUTH (ver. 19). "Truth, like cork, will be uppermost one time or other, though an effort be made to keep it under water." Time is on the side of truth, and so is eternity. There has been an abundant establishment of —

1. The testimony of prophets.

2. Words spoken by the opponents of error. Lies often die hard, but sooner or later they die surely.

IV. THE SAFETY OF TRUTH. We may be afraid to be wrong, but should never be afraid to be right.

V. THE REWARD OF TRUTH (ver. 22.)

(H. Thorne.)

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KJV: The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

WEB: Truth's lips will be established forever, but a lying tongue is only momentary.