Proverbs 13:12-25

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when desire is fulfilled, it is a tree of life. Whoever despises the word and counsel [of God] brings destruction upon himself, But he who [reverently] fears and respects the commandment [of God] will be rewarded. The teaching of the wise is a fountain and source of life, So that one may avoid the snares of death. Good understanding wins favor [from others], But the way of the unfaithful is hard [like barren, dry soil]. Every prudent and self-disciplined man acts with knowledge, But a [closed-minded] fool [who refuses to learn] displays his foolishness [for all to see]. A wicked messenger falls into hardship, But a faithful ambassador brings healing. Poverty and shame will come to him who refuses instruction and discipline, But he who accepts and learns from reproof or censure is honored. Desire realized is sweet to the soul; But it is detestable to fools to turn away from evil [which they have planned]. He who walks [as a companion] with wise men will be wise, But the companions of [conceited, dull-witted] fools [are fools themselves and] will experience harm. [Is 32:6] Adversity pursues sinners, But the [consistently] upright will be rewarded with prosperity. A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, And the wealth of the sinner is stored up for [the hands of] the righteous. Abundant food is in the fallow (uncultivated) ground of the poor, But [without protection] it is swept away by injustice. He who withholds the rod [of discipline] hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines and trains him diligently and appropriately [with wisdom and love]. [Prov 19:18; 22:15; 23:13; 29:15, 17; Eph 6:4] The [consistently] righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite, But the stomach of the wicked is in need [of bread].

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