Proverbs 24:23-34

¶These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judgment is not good. He who says to the wicked, “You are righteous,” Peoples will curse him, nations will denounce him; But to those [honorable judges] who rebuke the wicked, it will go well with them and they will find delight, And a good blessing will come upon them. He kisses the lips [and wins the hearts of people] Who gives a right and straightforward answer. ¶Prepare your work outside And get it ready for yourself in the field; Afterward build your house and establish a home. ¶Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, And do not deceive with your lips [speak neither lies nor half-truths]. [Eph 4:25] Do not say, “I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for his deed.” [Prov 20:22; Matt 5:39, 44; Rom 12:17, 19] ¶I went by the field of the lazy man, And by the vineyard of the man lacking understanding and common sense; And, behold, it was all overgrown with thorns, And nettles were covering its surface, And its stone wall was broken down. When I saw, I considered it well; I looked and received instruction. “Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest [and daydream],” Then your poverty will come as a robber, And your want like an armed man.