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2. A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.
The first clause has been lately before us. (Chapter 12:14.) But let it ever be fixed in our minds, that if the Christian is walking with God, his tongue will pour out godly communication. Whatever be the effect on others, at least his own soul will be warmed, refreshed and edified. He shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth. Never shall we carry upon our lips that Beloved Name to our fellow-sinners in simplicity, but its “savor” to our own souls will be “as ointment poured forth.” (Song of Solomon 1:3.) We shall feed ourselves in the Christian distribution of the heavenly manna.
The transgressor also eats the fruit of his mouth — yet not good. His soul sets his tongue on a flame. He loves violence, and therefore eats it to his own ruin. (Psalm 64:8.) “Death as well as life are in the power of the tongue.” (Chapter 18:21.) Let us look, that it be under the influence of Divine grace, restrained from evil, disciplined for usefulness, the fruitful instrument of our own happiness.
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