1Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whoever is deceived by it is not wise. 2The fear of a king is like the roaring of a lion; whoever provokes him to anger puts their life at risk. 3It is honorable for a man to avoid conflict, but every fool is quick to quarrel. 4The sluggard will not plow in season because of the cold; therefore, he shall have nothing and beg at harvest time. 5The intent of a man’s heart, like deep water, is hard to fathom, but a man of understanding will draw it out. 6Most men will claim his own goodness; but who can find a truly faithful man? 7The just man walks in his integrity; blessed are his children that follow his example. 8When a wise king sits on the throne of judgment, he weighs all the evidence, discerning good from evil. 9Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure and clean from sin”? 10Differing weights, and measures - the LORD detests them both as abominations. 11Even a child is known by his actions, whether his conduct is pure, and truly right. 12The hearing ear, and the seeing eye - the LORD has made them both. 13Do not crave sleep, or you will come to poverty; keep your eyes open, and you shall have abundant food. 14“It is no good, it is no good”, says the buyer; then after the purchase, he goes off and boasts about his acquisition. 15There is gold, and there are rubies, but the lips that speak prudence and knowledge are a rare jewel. 16Take the garment of one that puts up security for a stranger, and hold it in pledge if it is done for an outsider. 17Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel. 18Plans are established by good counsel; and do not make war without good advice. 19Avoid those who go about telling secrets; and those that flatter with their lips. 20Whoever curses his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in pitch darkness. 21An inheritance gotten too hastily will not be a blessing in the end. 22Do not say, “I will get even for this wrong”, but wait upon the LORD, and He shall avenge you. 23The LORD detests false weights and double standards; and dishonest scales do not please Him. 24Man's steps are directed by the LORD; how can any man, then, understand his own way? 25Do not trap yourself by making a rash promise to God before considering the cost of your vow. 26A wise king scatters the wicked like wheat, and then drives the threshing wheel over them. 27The spirit of man is the lamp of the LORD, searching all the inward parts. 28Mercy and truth preserve the king, and his throne is made secure by love. 29The glory of young men is their strength, and the gray head is the splendor of old men. 30Physical punishment can cleanse away evil; as can stripes the inmost parts. Reader-Friendly Bible: Purple Letter Edition © 2024 by Jim Musser. Used by Permission. All rights Reserved. Bible Hub |