Proverbs 25:1-28 VOICE

[1] These words, too, are proverbs of King Solomon, words which Hezekiah, king of Judah, later told his scribes to record for posterity: [2] God's glory is shown when He conceals things; a king's glory is shown in his ability to explore the facts of the matter. [3] As the heights of heaven and the depths of earth are beyond comprehension, so are the hearts of kings. [4] Take away the impurities from the silver, and a good smith can create something of value; [5] Take away the wicked from among the king's advisors, and his reign will be established with integrity. [6] Do not claim to be important in the presence of the king or vie for a position within the company of great men. [7] Truly, it is far sweeter to have someone of influence say to you, "Come up here and join us," than to be ordered to some lower rank in front of a noble. Just because you think you have seen something [8] doesn't mean you should be quick to go to court, For what will you do when your neighbor disproves the charge and embarrasses you? [9] Instead, discuss the matter directly with your neighbor, but in doing so, remember never to reveal another person's secrets; [10] For if you do, someone who hears you could disgrace you, and a bad reputation will cling to you ever afterward. [11] A well-spoken word at just the right moment is like golden apples in settings of silver. [12] To an attentive ear, constructive criticism from a truly wise person is like an earring or jewelry made of fine gold. [13] Like a cooling snow that breaks the heat of a harvest day, so is the messenger who is faithful to those who sent him, for he refreshes the soul of his masters. [14] Like clouds and wind that bring no rain, so is one who boasts of gifts promised but never delivered. [15] Patience can soften up a leader, and a tender tongue can break even bone. [16] When you find honey, remember to eat only what you need, because if you eat in excess, you may be sick and lose all of it. [17] Don't visit your neighbor too often, or he will become tired of you and grow to hate you. [18] Like a maul and a sword and a sharp arrow all in one, so is anyone who bears false witness against a neighbor. [19] Like a tooth that is rotten or a foot that is unsteady, so is relying on a person who can't be trusted in times of trouble. [20] Like a man who undresses in winter or a woman who pours vinegar on a wound, So is anyone who tries to sing happy songs to a sorrowful heart. [21] If your enemy is hungry, give him something to eat; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink, [22] For your kind treatment will be like heaping hot coals on his head, it may cause a change in heart, and the Eternal will repay you. [23] As surely as a north wind drives the rain before it, a backbiting tongue brings angry looks. [24] It is better to dwell outside on the corner of your roof than to live inside your house with a badgering wife. [25] Like cool water to a weary soul, so is good news from a distant country. [26] Like a muddy spring or a polluted fountain, so is a righteous person who gives in to the wicked. [27] Eating too much honey is not good for you, nor is it good to seek one honor after another. [28] Like a conquered city with no walls, so is a man who has no self-control.