Proverb for the Day 19:9 — Now That Doesn’t Sound Very Good!!

A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.

This proverb is all about dishonest people – “a false witness” and “whoever pours out lies.” They don’t sound very nice…and neither is what happens to them.

“A false witness” is one who affirms something to be true that they know isn’t. The idea of “witness” here suggests passing along information that is serious or important.

That it is “false” make it clear this wasn’t a flippant statement – they weren’t confused or mistaken. They simply spoke an untruth about an important matter – whether in official legal business or personal relationships.

“Whoever pours out lies” is a similar person and action, although the term suggests a bit more focus on deception. That their lies “pour out” suggests it’s almost compulsive!

While there’s a tendency to think these folks might be slick enough in their dishonestly and deception to get away with it – in truth, it always catches up with them.

This verse notes they “will not go unpunished” – literally will not be “clean” of their guilt. They “will perish,” that is be ruined or destroyed.

Of course, this can happen many different ways. Frequently they’re exposed publicly and literally lose everything.

Admittedly, some may never be legally convicted – but they have to live with the consequences of their choices – and being that kind of person makes lots of enemies! Then there is the burden and guilt that tends to eat us up alive on the inside.

And God’s not mentioned here, at all. But we know He’s been watching and He will get involved!