Proverbs 21:1-31 CEV

[1] The LORD controls rulers, just as he determines the course of rivers. [2] We may think we are doing the right thing, but the LORD always knows what is in our hearts. [3] Doing what is right and fair pleases the LORD more than an offering. [4] Evil people are proud and arrogant, but sin is the only crop they produce. [5] If you plan and work hard, you will have plenty; if you get in a hurry, you will end up poor. [6] Cheating to get rich is a foolish dream and no less than suicide. [7] You destroy yourself by being cruel and violent and refusing to live right. [8] All crooks are liars, but anyone who is innocent will do right. [9] It's better to stay outside on the roof of your house than to live inside with a nagging wife. [10] Evil people want to do wrong, even to their friends. [11] An ignorant fool learns by seeing others punished; a sensible person learns by being instructed. [12] God is always fair! He knows what the wicked do and will punish them. [13] If you won't help the poor, don't expect to be heard when you cry out for help. [14] A secret bribe will save you from someone's fierce anger. [15] When justice is done, good citizens are glad and crooks are terrified. [16] If you stop using good sense, you will find yourself in the grave. [17] Heavy drinkers and others who live only for pleasure will lose all they have. [18] God's people will escape, but all who are wicked will pay the price. [19] It's better out in the desert than at home with a nagging, complaining wife. [20] Be sensible and store up precious treasures- don't waste them like a fool. [21] If you try to be kind and good, you will be blessed with life and goodness and honor. [22] One wise person can defeat a city full of soldiers and capture their fortress. [23] Watching what you say can save you a lot of trouble. [24] If you are proud and conceited, everyone will say, "You're a snob!" [25] If you want too much and are too lazy to work, it could be fatal. [26] But people who obey God are always generous. [27] The Lord despises the offerings of wicked people with evil motives. [28] If you tell lies in court, you are done for; only a reliable witness can do the job. [29] Wicked people bluff their way, but God's people think before they take a step. [30] No matter how much you know or what plans you make, you can't defeat the LORD. [31] Even if your army has horses ready for battle, the LORD will always win.