[12] Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness. [13] Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value the one who speaks what is right. [14] A king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but the wise will appease it. [15] When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring. [16] How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver! [17] The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives. [18] Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. [19] Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud. [20] Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD. [21] The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction. [22] Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent, but folly brings punishment to fools.
