Proverbs 16:1-33 NCV

[1] People may make plans in their minds, but only the LORD can make them come true. [2] You may believe you are doing right, but the LORD will judge your reasons. [3] Depend on the LORD in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. [4] The LORD makes everything go as he pleases. He has even prepared a day of disaster for evil people. [5] The LORD hates those who are proud. They will surely be punished. [6] Love and truth bring forgiveness of sin. By respecting the LORD you will avoid evil. [7] When people live so that they please the LORD, even their enemies will make peace with them. [8] It is better to be poor and right than to be wealthy and dishonest. [9] People may make plans in their minds, but the LORD decides what they will do. [10] The words of a king are like a message from God, so his decisions should be fair. [11] The LORD wants honest balances and scales; all the weights are his work. [12] Kings hate those who do wrong, because governments only continue if they are fair. [13] Kings like honest people; they value someone who speaks the truth. [14] An angry king can put someone to death, so a wise person will try to make him happy. [15] A smiling king can give people life; his kindness is like a spring shower. [16] It is better to get wisdom than gold, and to choose understanding rather than silver! [17] Good people stay away from evil. By watching what they do, they protect their lives. [18] Pride leads to destruction; a proud attitude brings ruin. [19] It is better to be humble and be with those who suffer than to share stolen property with the proud. [20] Whoever listens to what is taught will succeed, and whoever trusts the LORD will be happy. [21] The wise are known for their understanding. Their pleasant words make them better teachers. [22] Understanding is like a fountain which gives life to those who use it, but foolishness brings punishment to fools. [23] Wise people's minds tell them what to say, and that helps them be better teachers. [24] Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, making people happy and healthy. [25] Some people think they are doing right, but in the end it leads to death. [26] The workers' hunger helps them, because their desire to eat makes them work. [27] Useless people make evil plans, and their words are like a burning fire. [28] A useless person causes trouble, and a gossip ruins friendships. [29] Cruel people trick their neighbors and lead them to do wrong. [30] Someone who winks is planning evil, and the one who grins is planning something wrong. [31] Gray hair is like a crown of honor; it is earned by living a good life. [32] Patience is better than strength. Controlling your temper is better than capturing a city. [33] People throw lots to make a decision, but the answer comes from the LORD.