Proverbs 20:1-30 NIV

Proverbs 20:1-30 NIV [1] Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise. [2] A king’s wrath strikes terror like the roar of a lion; those who anger him forfeit their lives. [3] It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel. [4] Sluggards do not plow in season; so at harvest time they look but find nothing. [5] The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out. [6] Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find? [7] The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them. [8] When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes. [9] Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin”? [10] Differing weights and differing measures—the LORD detests them both. [11] Even small children are known by their actions, so is their conduct really pure and upright? [12] Ears that hear and eyes that see—the LORD has made them both. [13] Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare. [14] “It’s no good, it’s no good!” says the buyer—then goes off and boasts about the purchase. [15] Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel. [16] Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if it is done for an outsider. [17] Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel. [18] Plans are established by seeking advice; so if you wage war, obtain guidance. [19] A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much. [20] If someone curses their father or mother, their lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness. [21] An inheritance claimed too soon will not be blessed at the end. [22] Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the LORD, and he will avenge you. [23] The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him. [24] A person’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand their own way? [25] It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one’s vows. [26] A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing wheel over them. [27] The human spirit is the lamp of the Lord that sheds light on one’s inmost being. [28] Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure. [29] The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old. [30] Blows and wounds scrub away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being.

Find out more about this Bible translation: