Proverbs 21:1-31 CEB

[1] The king’s heart is like channels of water in the hand of the LORD; he directs it wherever he wants. [2] Everyone’s path is straight in their own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart. [3] Acting with righteousness and justice is more valued by the LORD than sacrifice. [4] Prideful eyes, an arrogant heart, and the lamp of the wicked are all sinful. [5] The plans of the diligent end up in profit, but those who hurry end up with loss. [6] Those who gain treasure with lies are like a drifting fog, leading to death. [7] The violence of the wicked will sweep them away, for they refuse to act with justice. [8] The ways of some people are twisted and strange, but the behavior of those who do right is pure. [9] Better to live on the edge of a roof than with a contentious woman in a large house. [10] Wicked people desire evil; their neighbors receive no mercy from them. [11] When a mocker is punished, the naive person gains wisdom; when insight comes to the wise, knowledge increases. [12] The righteous one observes the house of the wicked, turning the wicked toward trouble. [13] Those who close their ears to the cries of the poor will themselves call out but receive no answer. [14] A secret gift calms anger, and a hidden bribe removes furious wrath. [15] Acting justly is a joy to the righteous, but dreaded by those who do evil. [16] People who wander from the path of insight will rest in the company of the dead. [17] Those who love pleasure end up poor; lovers of wine and oil won’t get rich. [18] The wicked are a ransom for the righteous; the treacherous will be punished in the place of the virtuous. [19] Better to live in a wilderness than in a house with a contentious and angry woman. [20] Precious treasure and oil stay in the home of the wise, but fools swallow them up. [21] Those who pursue righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor. [22] A wise person fought a city of warriors and brought down the stronghold in which they felt safe. [23] Those who guard their mouths and their tongues guard themselves from trouble. [24] Incredibly proud—mockers are their name! Their conduct involves excessive pride. [25] The desires of the lazy will kill them, because their hands refuse to do anything. [26] The lazy desire things constantly, but the righteous give without holding back. [27] The LORD detests the sacrifices of the wicked, especially when brought with devious motives. [28] A lying witness will perish, but one who listens will testify successfully. [29] The wicked person appears brash, but the virtuous think about the path ahead. [30] No wisdom, understanding, or advice can stand up against the LORD. [31] A horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory belongs to the LORD.