Proverbs 14:26-35

Confidence and strength flood the hearts of the lovers of God who live in awe of him, and their devotion provides their children with a place of shelter and security. To worship God in wonder and awe opens a fountain of life within you, empowering you to escape death’s domain. A king glories in the number of his loyal followers, but a dwindling population spells ruin for any leader. When your heart overflows with understanding you’ll be very slow to get angry. But if you have a quick temper, your impatience will be quickly seen by all. A tender, tranquil heart will make you healthy, but jealousy can make you sick. Insult your Creator, will you? That’s exactly what you do every time you oppress the powerless! Showing kindness to the poor is equal to honoring your maker. The wicked are crushed by every calamity, but the righteous find a strong hope in the time of death. Wisdom soothes the heart of the one with living-understanding, but the heart of the fool just stockpiles stupidity. A nation is exalted by the righteousness of its people, but sin heaps disgrace upon the land. A wise and faithful servant receives promotion from the king, but the one who acts disgracefully gets to taste the anger of the king.