[12] There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. [13] Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief. [14] The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the good rewarded for theirs. [15] The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps. [16] The wise fear the LORD and shun evil, but a fool is hotheaded and yet feels secure. [17] A quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who devises evil schemes is hated. [18] The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge. [19] Evildoers will bow down in the presence of the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous. [20] The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends. [21] It is a sin to despise one’s neighbor, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy. [22] Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness.
