1
To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the proper answer of the tongue.
2
All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the LORD.
3
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.
4
The LORD works out everything to its proper end— even the wicked for a day of disaster.
5
The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.
6
Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the LORD evil is avoided.
7
When the LORD takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.
8
Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice.
9
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.
10
The lips of a king speak as an oracle, and his mouth does not betray justice.
11
Honest scales and balances belong to the LORD; all the weights in the bag are of his making.
12
Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness.
13
Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value the one who speaks what is right.
14
A king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but the wise will appease it.
15
When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.
16
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!
17
The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives.
18
Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
19
Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.