Proverbs 21:15-31

When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous (the upright, the one in right standing with God), But to the evildoers it is disaster. A man who wanders from the way of understanding (godly wisdom) Will remain in the assembly of the dead. He who loves [only selfish] pleasure will become a poor man; He who loves and is devoted to wine and [olive] oil will not become rich. The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, And the treacherous in the place of the upright [for they fall into their own traps]. It is better to dwell in a desert land Than with a contentious and troublesome woman. There is precious treasure and oil in the house of the wise [who prepare for the future], But a short-sighted and foolish man swallows it up and wastes it. He who earnestly seeks righteousness and loyalty Finds life, righteousness, and honor. [Prov 15:9; Matt 5:6] A wise man scales the city [walls] of the mighty And brings down the stronghold in which they trust. He who guards his mouth and his tongue Guards himself from troubles. [Prov 12:13; 13:3; 18:21; James 3:2] “Proud,” “Haughty,” “Scoffer,” are his names Who acts with overbearing and insolent pride. The desire of the lazy kills him, For his hands refuse to labor; He craves all the day long [and does no work], But the righteous [willingly] gives and does not withhold [what he has]. [2 Cor 9:6-10] The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable and offensive [to the LORD]. How much more [unacceptable and insulting can it be] when he brings it with evil intention? A false witness will perish, But a man who listens to the truth will speak forever and go unchallenged. A wicked man puts on a bold face, But as for the upright, he considers, directs, and establishes his way [with the confidence of integrity]. There is no [human] wisdom or understanding Or counsel [that can prevail] against the LORD. The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But deliverance and victory belong to the LORD.

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