This verse is about the things we say. The words of the wicked are spoken for the purpose of hurting others. While not always appearing to be evil, we can count on the fact that words from their mouths will eventually lead to an ambush.
The words of the upright, on the other hand, aren’t designed to hurt anyone – although, admittedly, sometimes that will happen. But, at that point, a truly upright person will acknowledge it has happened and address it appropriately.
This verse also notes that “the speech of the upright rescues them” – sometimes from their own messes, sometimes from the wicked who “lie in wait for blood.” If we can only be honest and appropriate with our words, what a difference they would make in our live and the lives of others.
So, this verse is a good reminder about life. It tells us what we can expect from the wicked. It also reminds us of God’s promise to deliver the upright. In fact, the Bible is quite clear that God will actually give the righteous the right words to say at the right time to deliver him from whatever difficult situations may arise.