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18 Thoughtless words wound like a sword thrust,
    but the tongue of the wise produces healing.
19 Truthful speech endures forever,
    but deceitful lies last only for a moment.[a]
20 Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil,
    but those who counsel peace have joy.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 12:19 A person who has spoken the truth has said it once and for all and need not open the mouth again; a liar must fall back on ever-new lies.

18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords,(A)
    but the tongue of the wise brings healing.(B)

19 Truthful lips endure forever,
    but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

20 Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil,
    but those who promote peace have joy.(C)

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