Proverbs 24:1-9

Do not be envious of evil men, Nor desire to be with them; For their minds plot violence, And their lips talk of trouble [for the innocent]. ¶Through [skillful and godly] wisdom a house [a life, a home, a family] is built, And by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation], And by knowledge its rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches. ¶A wise man is strong, And a man of knowledge strengthens his power; [Prov 21:22; Eccl 9:16] For by wise guidance you can wage your war, And in an abundance of [wise] counselors there is victory and safety. ¶Wisdom is too exalted for a [hardened, arrogant] fool; He does not open his mouth in the gate [where the city’s rulers sit in judgment]. ¶He who plans to do evil Will be called a schemer or deviser of evil. The devising of folly is sin, And the scoffer is repulsive to men.