Mercy and truth. — See above on Proverbs 3:3. Mercy and truth cannot, of course, in themselves “purge iniquity,” only so far as they are signs of the “faith which worketh by love” (Galatians 5:6), which accepts the salvation offered by God (Romans 1:16-17). (Comp. the statement with regard to charity, 1 Peter 4:8.)
By the fear of the Lord men depart from evil. — Or, rather, escape misfortune. (Comp. Psalms 37 throughout.)