Proverbs 16:1-33 ICB

[1] People make plans in their hearts. But only the Lord can make those plans come true. [2] A person may believe he is doing right. But the Lord will judge his reasons. [3] Depend on the Lord in whatever you do. Then your plans will succeed. [4] The Lord makes everything work the way he wants it. He even has a day of disaster for evil people. [5] The Lord hates those who are proud. You can be sure that they will be punished. [6] Love and truth bring forgiveness of sin. By respecting the Lord you will avoid evil. [7] A person should live so that he pleases the Lord. If he does, even his enemies will make peace with him. [8] It is better to be poor and do what is right than to be wealthy and be unfair. [9] A person may think up plans. But the Lord decides what he will do. [10] The words of a king are like a message from God. So his decisions should be fair. [11] The Lord wants honest balances and scales to be used. He wants all weights to be honest. [12] Kings hate those who do wrong because governments only last if they are fair. [13] Kings are pleased with those who speak honest words. They value a person who speaks the truth. [14] If a king becomes angry, he may put someone to death. So a wise man will try to keep peace. [15] A king's kindness can give people life. His kindness is like a spring shower. [16] It is better to get wisdom than gold. It is better to choose understanding than silver! [17] A good person stays away from evil. A person who watches what he does protects his life. [18] Pride leads to destruction. A proud attitude brings ruin. [19] It is better not to be proud and to be with those who suffer than to share stolen property with proud people. [20] Whoever pays attention to what he is taught will succeed. And whoever trusts the Lord will be happy. [21] A wise person is known for his understanding. He wins people to his side with pleasant words. [22] Understanding is like a fountain of water which gives life to those who use it. But foolishness will cause foolish people to be punished. [23] A wise person's mind tells him what to say. This helps him to teach others better. [24] Pleasant words are like a honeycomb. They make a person happy and healthy. [25] Some people think they are doing what's right. But in the end it causes them to die. [26] The worker's hunger helps him. His desire to eat makes him work. [27] An evil person makes evil plans. And his words are like a burning fire. [28] An evil person causes trouble. And a person who gossips ruins friendships. [29] A cruel man tricks his neighbor. He leads him to do wrong. [30] Someone who winks at you is planning evil. And the one who grins at you is about to do something wrong. [31] Gray hair is like a crown of honor. You earn it by living a good life. [32] Patience is better than strength. Controlling your temper is better than capturing a city. [33] People throw lots to make a decision. But the answer comes from the Lord.