Proverbs 29:1-27 AMP

[1] He who hardens his neck and refuses instruction after being often reproved (corrected, criticized), Will suddenly be broken beyond repair. [2] When the righteous are in authority and become great, the people rejoice; But when the wicked man rules, the people groan and sigh. [3] A man who loves [skillful and godly] wisdom makes his father joyful, But he who associates with prostitutes wastes his wealth. [4] The king establishes (stabilizes) the land by justice, But a man who takes bribes overthrows it. [5] A man who flatters his neighbor [with smooth words intending to do harm] Is spreading a net for his own feet. [6] By his wicked plan an evil man is trapped, But the righteous man sings and rejoices [for his plan brings good things to him]. [7] The righteous man cares for the rights of the poor, But the wicked man has no interest in such knowledge. [8] Scoffers set a city afire [by stirring up trouble], But wise men turn away anger [and restore order with their good judgment]. [9] If a wise man has a controversy with a foolish and arrogant man, The foolish man [ignores logic and fairness and] only rages or laughs, and there is no peace (rest, agreement). [10] The bloodthirsty hate the blameless [because of his integrity], But the upright are concerned for his life. [11] A [shortsighted] fool always loses his temper and displays his anger, But a wise man [uses self-control and] holds it back. [12] If a ruler pays attention to lies [and encourages corruption], All his officials will become wicked. [13] The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: The LORD gives light to the eyes of both. [14] If a king faithfully and truthfully judges the poor, His throne shall be established forever. [15] The rod and reproof (godly instruction) give wisdom, But a child who gets his own way brings shame to his mother. [16] When the wicked are in authority, transgression increases, But the righteous will see the downfall of the wicked. [17] Correct your son, and he will give you comfort; Yes, he will delight your soul. [18] Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. [19] A servant will not be corrected by words alone; For though he understands, he will not respond [nor pay attention]. [20] Do you see a [conceited] man who speaks quickly [offering his opinions or answering without thinking]? There is more hope for a [thickheaded] fool than for him. [21] He who pampers his slave from childhood Will find him to be a son in the end. [22] An angry man stirs up strife, And a hot-tempered and undisciplined man commits many transgressions. [23] A man’s pride and sense of self-importance will bring him down, But he who has a humble spirit will obtain honor. [24] Whoever is partner with a thief hates his own life; He hears the curse [when swearing an oath to testify], but discloses nothing [and commits perjury by omission]. [25] The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in and puts his confidence in the LORD will be exalted and safe. [26] Many seek the ruler’s favor, But justice for man comes from the LORD. [27] An unjust man is repulsive to the righteous, And he who is upright in the way [of the LORD] is repulsive to the wicked.