18 The fear of the Lord is the crown of wisdom, making peace and perfect health to flourish. 19 She rained down knowledge and discerning comprehension, and she heightened the glory of those who held her fast. 20 To fear the Lord is the root of wisdom, and her branches are long life. 21 A furious man cannot be justified; for the sway of his fury shall be his destruction. 22 Unjust anger cannot be justified, for anger tips the scale to one's ruin.

But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous, who takes vengeance? God forbid. He says, therefore, threatening, I will sharpen my sword, and my hand shall lay hold on judgment; and I will render justice to mine enemies, and requite those who hate me. I will make mine arrows drunk with blood, and my sword shall devour flesh from the blood of the wounded. It is clear, then, that those who are not at enmity with the truth, and do not hate the Word, will not hate their own salvation, but will escape the punishment of enmity. The crown of wisdom, then, as the book of Wisdom says, is the fear of the Lord. Very clearly, therefore, by the prophet Amos has the Lord unfolded His method of dealing, saying, I have overthrown you, as God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrha; and you shall be as a brand plucked from the fire: and yet you have not returned unto me, says the Lord .