The wicked and the righteous are compared in these verses as in the rest of this chapter. The wicked can have power over others in this world (7). The wicked can have hope and expectations too. Yet, when death comes their hope perishes and their power comes to nothing (7).
The godless and the wicked have similarities though these life choices are different. The godless speak and write lies about others, especially their neighbors (9). Yet, just because a person speaks a lie doesn’t mean they are godless. A person of God when they speak a lie will accept their error and do all they can to make recompense. The godless liar will keep up the lie.
Many reasons exist why lies are spoken; to protect self or others, to do damage to others, out of fear, out of pride, to gain attention, to gain power, and to impress others. All lies are an insult to God who is the origin of truth. Jesus called the Spirit of God the Spirit of Truth. (John 16:13) Jesus said of the devil, “He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44) When a lie is spoken for whatever reason we speak the language of the devil.
Many times I have been in situations where telling the truth was hard and it was hard not to lie. These are times when my integrity and character are being tested. “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” (1 Corinthians 10:12-13)
Through knowledge, the righteous escape lies (9).
