Proverbs 20:1-30 CEB

[1] Wine is a mocker; beer a carouser. Those it leads astray won’t become wise. [2] A king is as terrifying as a lion’s growl. Those who anger him may lose their life. [3] It is honorable to back off from a fight, but fools jump right in. [4] The lazy don’t plow during winter; at harvest they look but find nothing. [5] Advice comes from the deep waters of the heart; those with understanding can draw it out. [6] Many people will say that they are loyal, but who can find a reliable person? [7] The righteous live with integrity; happy are their children who come after them. [8] A king who sits on his judgment throne sifts out all evil with his eyes. [9] Who can say, “I’m innocent to the core; I’m cleansed from my sin”? [10] False weights and measures—the LORD detests them both. [11] Even young people are known by their actions, whether their conduct is pure and upright. [12] Ears to hear and eyes to see—the LORD made them both. [13] Don’t love sleep or you will be poor; stay alert and you will have plenty to eat. [14] The buyer says, “Bad, bad,” but then goes away and brags. [15] Much gold and many pearls exist, but wise speech is the most precious jewel. [16] Take the garment of the person who secures a loan for a stranger; take his pledge for a foreigner. [17] Stolen bread is sweet, but afterward the mouth is full of gravel. [18] Plans are firmed up by advice; wage wars with good guidance. [19] Gossips reveal secrets; don’t associate with those who talk too much. [20] Those who curse their father or mother—their lamp will be snuffed out when it becomes dark. [21] Inheritance gained quickly at first won’t bless later on. [22] Don’t say, “I’ll repay the evildoer!” Wait for the LORD, and he will save you. [23] The LORD detests false weights; deceptive scales aren’t right. [24] A person’s steps are from the LORD; how then can people understand their path? [25] It is a snare to say rashly, “It is holy,” and only reflect after making the promise. [26] A wise king sifts out the wicked, and runs them over with a wheel. [27] The breath of a person is the lamp of the LORD, searching all the inmost parts. [28] Kindness and faithfulness protect the king; he supports his throne by kindness. [29] Strength is the glory of young men; gray hair is the splendor of old age. [30] Blows and bruises remove evil; beatings cleanse the inner parts.