Proverbs 13:1-12

A wise son heeds and accepts [and is the result of] his father’s discipline and instruction, But a scoffer does not listen to reprimand and does not learn from his errors. From the fruit of his mouth a [wise] man enjoys good, But the desire of the treacherous is for violence. The one who guards his mouth [thinking before he speaks] protects his life; The one who opens his lips wide [and chatters without thinking] comes to ruin. The soul (appetite) of the lazy person craves and gets nothing [for lethargy overcomes ambition], But the soul (appetite) of the diligent [who works willingly] is rich and abundantly supplied. [Prov 10:4] A righteous man hates lies, But a wicked man is loathsome, and he acts shamefully. Righteousness (being in right standing with God) guards the one whose way is blameless, But wickedness undermines and overthrows the sinner. There is one who pretends to be rich, yet has nothing at all; Another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth. [Prov 12:9; Luke 12:20, 21] The ransom for a man’s life is his wealth, But the poor man does not even have to listen to a rebuke or threats [from the envious]. The light of the righteous [within him—grows brighter and] rejoices, But the lamp of the wicked [is a temporary light and] goes out. Through pride and presumption come nothing but strife, But [skillful and godly] wisdom is with those who welcome [well-advised] counsel. Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles, But he who gathers gradually by [honest] labor will increase [his riches]. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when desire is fulfilled, it is a tree of life.