Proverbs 29:1-27 VOICE

[1] The one who remains defiant after repeated reprimands will suddenly be shattered, and there will be no remedy for him. [2] When just leaders are in power, the citizens celebrate; but when evil people gain control, their joys become moans. [3] An adult who loves wisdom and follows its ways gives his parents joy, but one who hangs out with women of the street will lose everything. [4] A king brings stability to a land with his justice, but one who makes unjust demands brings it to ruin. [5] The one who flatters his friend is laying a trap that will catch his friend's feet. [6] An evil person is sure to be trapped by his sin, but a man who lives right is free to sing and be glad. [7] The just get involved with the poor and know their issues, but the wicked cannot comprehend such concerns. [8] Mockers stir up a city and inflame passions, but the wise know how to put out the fire and ease tensions. [9] When the wise go to court against a fool, there will be ranting and raving but no resolution. [10] Bloodthirsty men despise those who are honest, but the just find a way to help them. [11] A fool does not think before he unleashes his temper, but a wise man holds back and remains quiet. [12] When it is known that a ruler listens to the words of liars, soon he will have only scoundrels for advisors. [13] A poor man and his oppressor have this in common: the Eternal created them and provides both with light and life. [14] The king who is fair in his treatment of the poor will see his dynasty continue forever. [15] Corporal punishment and correction produce wisdom, but a child left to follow his own willful way shames his mother. [16] When evil people are free to flourish, sin is on the rise, but the just will surely see their destruction. [17] If you discipline your children, they will make your life easier and refresh your soul. [18] Where there is no vision from God, the people run wild, but those who adhere to God's instruction know genuine happiness. [19] Words are not enough to correct a servant; even if he understands, he will not respond. [20] Have you ever met someone who is overly eager to talk? There is more hope for a fool than for him. [21] If you indulge your servant from early in life, in the end it won't go well for either of you. [22] A hot-head provokes quarrels, and one mastered by anger commits all kinds of sins. [23] A person's pride brings him down, but one of humble spirit has a firm hold on honor and respect. [24] Anyone who teams up with a thief must despise his own life, for he is bound by an oath to tell the truth and yet refuses. [25] If you fear other people, you are walking into a dangerous trap; but if you trust in the Eternal, you will be safe. [26] Many people vie for special treatment from a ruler, yet genuine justice proceeds from the Eternal. [27] The right-living are disgusted by the actions of the unjust; likewise, the wicked are disgusted by the ways of the righteous.