Proverbs 12:17-19

The Message

¹⁷Truthful witness by a good person clears the air,
but liars lay down a smoke screen of deceit.

¹⁸Rash language cuts and maims,
but there is healing in the words of the wise.

¹⁹Truth lasts;
lies are here today, gone tomorrow.

Proverbs 12:17-19

New International Version

¹⁷An honest witness tells the truth,
but a false witness tells lies.^(A)

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

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

The Message (MSG)

New International Version (NIV)