Proverbs 29:1-10

He who hardens his neck and refuses instruction after being often reproved (corrected, criticized), Will suddenly be broken beyond repair. When the righteous are in authority and become great, the people rejoice; But when the wicked man rules, the people groan and sigh. A man who loves [skillful and godly] wisdom makes his father joyful, But he who associates with prostitutes wastes his wealth. The king establishes (stabilizes) the land by justice, But a man who takes bribes overthrows it. A man who flatters his neighbor [with smooth words intending to do harm] Is spreading a net for his own feet. By his wicked plan an evil man is trapped, But the righteous man sings and rejoices [for his plan brings good things to him]. The righteous man cares for the rights of the poor, But the wicked man has no interest in such knowledge. [Job 29:16; 31:13; Ps 41:1] Scoffers set a city afire [by stirring up trouble], But wise men turn away anger [and restore order with their good judgment]. If a wise man has a controversy with a foolish and arrogant man, The foolish man [ignores logic and fairness and] only rages or laughs, and there is no peace (rest, agreement). The bloodthirsty hate the blameless [because of his integrity], But the upright are concerned for his life. [Gen 4:5, 8; 1 John 3:12]