[23] A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word! [24] The path of life leads upward for the prudent to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead. [25] The LORD tears down the house of the proud, but he sets the widow’s boundary stones in place. [26] The LORD detests the thoughts of the wicked, but gracious words are pure in his sight. [27] The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live. [28] The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil. [29] The LORD is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous. [30] Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. [31] Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. [32] Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding. [33] Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor.
