Proverbs 29

1 He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck Shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

2 When the righteous are increased, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man beareth rule, the people sigh.

3 Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father; But he that keepeth company with harlots wasteth his substance.

4 The king by justice establisheth the land; But he that exacteth gifts overthroweth it.

5 A man that flattereth his neighbor Spreadeth a net for his steps.

6 In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare; But the righteous doth sing and rejoice.

7 The righteous taketh knowledge of the cause of the poor; The wicked hath not understanding to know it.

8 Scoffers set a city in a flame; But wise men turn away wrath.

9 If a wise man hath a controversy with a foolish man, Whether he be angry or laugh, there will be no rest.

10 The bloodthirsty hate him that is perfect; And as for the upright, they seek his life.

11 A fool uttereth all his anger; But a wise man keepeth it back and stilleth it.

12 If a ruler hearkeneth to falsehood, All his servants are wicked.

13 The poor man and the oppressor meet together; Jehovah lighteneth the eyes of them both.

14 The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, His throne shall be established for ever.

15 The rod and reproof give wisdom; But a child left to himself causeth shame to his mother.

16 When the wicked are increased, transgression increaseth; But the righteous shall look upon their fall.

17 Correct thy son, and he will give thee rest; Yea, he will give delight unto thy soul.

18 Where there is no vision, the people cast off restraint; But he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

19 A servant will not be corrected by words; For though he understand, he will not give heed.

20 Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than of him.

21 He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child Shall have him become a son at the last.

22 An angry man stirreth up strife, And a wrathful man aboundeth in transgression.

23 A man’s pride shall bring him low; But he that is of a lowly spirit shall obtain honor.

24 Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul; He heareth the adjuration and uttereth nothing.

25 The fear of man bringeth a snare; But whoso putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be safe.

26 Many seek the ruler’s favor; But a man’s judgment cometh from Jehovah.

27 An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous; And he that is upright in the way is an abomination to the wicked.

Proverbs 29

Use good sense

1 If you keep being stubborn
after many warnings,
you will suddenly discover
you have gone too far.

2 When justice rules a nation,
everyone is glad;
when injustice rules,
everyone groans.

3 If you love wisdom
your parents will be glad,
but chasing after bad women
will cost you everything.

4 An honest ruler
makes the nation strong;
a ruler who takes bribes
will bring it to ruin.

5 Flattery is nothing less
than setting a trap.

6 Your sins will catch you,
but everyone who lives right
will sing and celebrate.

7 The wicked don't care
about the rights of the poor,
but good people do.

8 Sneering at others is a spark
that sets a city on fire;
using good sense can put out
the flames of anger.

9 Be wise and don't sue a fool.
You won't get satisfaction,
because all the fool will do
is sneer and shout.

10 A murderer hates everyone
who is honest
and lives right.t

11 Don't be a fool
and quickly lose your temper—
be sensible and patient.

12 A ruler who listens to lies
will have corrupt officials.

13 The poor and all who abuse them
must each depend on God
for light.

14 Kings who are fair to the poor
will rule for ever.

15 Correct your children,
and they will be wise;
children out of control
disgrace their mothers.

16 Crime increases
when crooks are in power,
but law-abiding citizens
will see them fall.

17 If you correct your children,
they will bring you peace
and happiness.

18 Without guidance from God
law and order disappear,
but God blesses everyone
who obeys his Law.

19 Even when servants are clever,
it takes more than words
to make them obey.

20 There is more hope for a fool
than for someone who speaks
without thinking.

21 Slaves you treat kindly
from their childhood
will cause you sorrow.t

22 A person with a quick temper
stirs up arguments
and commits a lot of sins.

23 Too much pride brings disgrace;
humility leads to honour.

24 If you take part in a crime
you are your worst enemy,
because even under oath
you can't tell the truth.

25 Don't fall into the trap
of being a coward—
trust the Lord,
and you will be safe.

26 Many try to make friends
with a ruler,
but justice comes
from the Lord.

27 Good people and criminals
can't stand each other.