We connect the first and last of these verses, because the latter clause in both is the same. +I. Opposite characters revealed by a great contrast in speech+ (verse 11). When a righteous man opens his mouth, it is as if the cover was removed from a pure, clear well of water. He has no evil intentions to conceal; his words are an index to his heart. By them men may read his thoughts with the same ease as they can see what is at the bottom of a clear spring of water. There is medicinal virtue in them--they _heal_ as well as _refresh_ the spirits of men. What a well of life have the words of Christ been for centuries to millions of the human race. But a wicked man cannot let all the thoughts of his heart be laid open to the light of day. His "mouth conceals injury" (see Critical Notes). He has plans which are not devised for the good of his fellow-creatures, and he must use his words not to reveal, but to hide what is in his mind. And if he lets his tongue loose, and permits his thoughts to flow out into words, they do not bless his hearers, but are like a poisonous stream, carrying moral death wherever they flow. +II. Character yields a present blessing or a present curse.+ "Blessings _are_ upon the head of the righteous," etc. A man's present comfort within himself, and the inheritance of good-will he now receives from his fellow-men, as well as the favour of God, are all dependent upon what he is in his character. The kingdom of heaven is _now_ inherited by him. All the beatitudes uttered by our Lord speak of a present blessedness. "Blessed _are_ the poor in spirit," etc. The opposite truth is not expressed, but it is implied. Curses, not blessings, are the present inheritance of the man whose "mouth is covered by violence."