Proverbs 20:1-30 NLT

Proverbs 20:1-30 NLT [1] Wine produces mockers; alcohol leads to brawls. Those led astray by drink cannot be wise. [2] The king's fury is like a lion's roar; to rouse his anger is to risk your life. [3] Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor; only fools insist on quarreling. [4] Those too lazy to plow in the right season will have no food at the harvest. [5] Though good advice lies deep within the heart, a person with understanding will draw it out. [6] Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable? [7] The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them. [8] When a king sits in judgment, he weighs all the evidence, distinguishing the bad from the good. [9] Who can say, "I have cleansed my heart; I am pure and free from sin"? [10] False weights and unequal measures- the LORD detests double standards of every kind. [11] Even children are known by the way they act, whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right. [12] Ears to hear and eyes to see- both are gifts from the LORD. [13] If you love sleep, you will end in poverty. Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat! [14] The buyer haggles over the price, saying, "It's worthless," then brags about getting a bargain! [15] Wise words are more valuable than much gold and many rubies. [16] Get security from someone who guarantees a stranger's debt. Get a deposit if he does it for foreigners. [17] Stolen bread tastes sweet, but it turns to gravel in the mouth. [18] Plans succeed through good counsel; don't go to war without wise advice. [19] A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don't hang around with chatterers. [20] If you insult your father or mother, your light will be snuffed out in total darkness. [21] An inheritance obtained too early in life is not a blessing in the end. [22] Don't say, "I will get even for this wrong." Wait for the LORD to handle the matter. [23] The LORD detests double standards; he is not pleased by dishonest scales. [24] The LORD directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way? [25] Don't trap yourself by making a rash promise to God and only later counting the cost. [26] A wise king scatters the wicked like wheat, then runs his threshing wheel over them. [27] The LORD's light penetrates the human spirit, exposing every hidden motive. [28] Unfailing love and faithfulness protect the king; his throne is made secure through love. [29] The glory of the young is their strength; the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old. [30] Physical punishment cleanses away evil; such discipline purifies the heart.

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