Proverbs 20:1-30 BSB

[1] Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise. [2] The terror of a king is like the roar of a lion; whoever provokes him forfeits his own life. [3] It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel. [4] The slacker does not plow in season; at harvest time he looks, but nothing is there. [5] The intentions of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out. [6] Many a man proclaims his loving devotion, but who can find a trustworthy man? [7] The righteous man walks with integrity; blessed are his children after him. [8] A king who sits on a throne to judge sifts out all evil with his eyes. [9] Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am cleansed from my sin”? [10] Differing weights and unequal measures—both are detestable to the LORD. [11] Even a young man is known by his actions—whether his conduct is 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; open your eyes, and you will have plenty of food. [14] “Worthless, worthless!” says the buyer, but on the way out, he gloats. [15] There is an abundance of gold and rubies, but lips of knowledge are a rare treasure. [16] Take the garment of the one who posts security for a stranger; get collateral if it is for a foreigner. [17] Food gained by fraud is sweet to a man, but later his mouth is full of gravel. [18] Set plans by consultation, and wage war under sound guidance. [19] He who reveals secrets is a constant gossip; avoid the one who babbles with his lips. [20] Whoever curses his father or mother, his lamp will be extinguished in deepest darkness. [21] An inheritance gained quickly will not be blessed in the end. [22] Do not say, “I will avenge this evil!” Wait on the LORD, and He will save you. [23] Unequal weights are detestable to the LORD, and dishonest scales are no good. [24] A man’s steps are from the LORD, so how can anyone understand his own way? [25] It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows. [26] A wise king separates out the wicked and drives the threshing wheel over them. [27] The spirit of a man is the lamp of the LORD, searching out his inmost being. [28] Loving devotion and faithfulness preserve a king; by these he maintains his throne. [29] The glory of young men is their strength, and gray hair is the splendor of the old. [30] Lashes and wounds scour evil, and beatings cleanse the inmost parts.