A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet. In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice. The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it. Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise men turn away wrath. If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest. The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul. A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked. The poor and the deceitful man meet together: the LORD lighteneth both their eyes.
This last verse contains an abundance of gospel truths. When the Holy Ghost shines in upon the soul of the sinner, grace breaks through all the darkness of the mind. The poor in spirit, and the deceitful heart of the proud sinner; both are made equal debtors to the rich, free, and sovereign grace of God. Herein, in an eminent point of view, is that scripture fulfilled, which saith, God is no respecter of persons. For in the redemption by Christ, it is not that one sinner merits more than another sinner, in being made the distinguished object of such an unspeakable mercy: but that God's rich grace may be magnified. It is not a respect to our person, but a respect to the everlasting covenant of God in Christ. Romans 9:16-21.