Proverbs 12:9-28

12:9 Better is a person of humble standing who nevertheless has a servant,

than one who pretends to be somebody important yet has no food.

12:10 A righteous person cares for the life of his animal,

but even the most compassionate acts of the wicked are cruel.

12:11 The one who works his field will have plenty of food,

but whoever chases daydreams lacks wisdom.

12:12 The wicked person desires a stronghold,

but the righteous root endures.

12:13 The evil person is ensnared by the transgression of his speech,

but the righteous person escapes out of trouble.

12:14 A person will be satisfied with good from the fruit of his words,

and the work of his hands will be rendered to him.

12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own opinion,

but the one who listens to advice is wise.

12:16 A fool’s annoyance is known at once,

but the prudent overlooks an insult.

12:17 The faithful witness tells what is right,

but a false witness speaks deceit.

12:18 Speaking recklessly is like the thrusts of a sword,

but the words of the wise bring healing.

12:19 The one who tells the truth will endure forever,

but the one who lies will last only for a moment.

12:20 Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil,

but those who promote peace have joy.

12:21 The righteous do not encounter any harm,

but the wicked are filled with calamity.

12:22 The Lord abhors a person who lies,

but those who deal truthfully are his delight.

12:23 The shrewd person conceals knowledge,

but foolish people publicize folly.

12:24 The diligent person will rule,

but the slothful will become a slave.

12:25 Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs him down,

but an encouraging word brings him joy.

12:26 The righteous person is cautious in his friendship,

but the way of the wicked leads them astray.

12:27 The lazy person does not roast his prey,

but personal possessions are precious to the diligent.

12:28 In the path of righteousness there is life,

but another path leads to death.