Proverbs 29
[1] He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck,
will suddenly be broken beyond healing.
[2] When the righteous increase, the people rejoice,
but when the wicked rule, the people groan.
[3] He who loves wisdom makes his father glad,
but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.
[4] By justice a king builds up the land,
but he who exacts gifts tears it down.
[5] A man who flatters his neighbor
spreads a net for his feet.
[6] An evil man is ensnared in his transgression,
but a righteous man sings and rejoices.
[7] A righteous man knows the rights of the poor;
a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.
[8] Scoffers set a city aflame,
but the wise turn away wrath.
[9] If a wise man has an argument with a fool,
the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.
[10] Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless
and seek the life of the upright.
[11] A fool gives full vent to his spirit,
but a wise man quietly holds it back.
[12] If a ruler listens to falsehood,
all his officials will be wicked.
[13] The poor man and the oppressor meet together;
the LORD gives light to the eyes of both.
[14] If a king faithfully judges the poor,
his throne will be established forever.
[15] The rod and reproof give wisdom,
but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.
[16] When the wicked increase, transgression increases,
but the righteous will look upon their downfall.
[17] Discipline your son, and he will give you rest;
he will give delight to your heart.
[18] Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,
but blessed is he who keeps the law.
[19] By mere words a servant is not disciplined,
for though he understands, he will not respond.
[20] Do you see a man who is hasty in his words?
There is more hope for a fool than for him.
[21] Whoever pampers his servant from childhood
will in the end find him his heir.
[22] A man of wrath stirs up strife,
and one given to anger causes much transgression.
[23] One’s pride will bring him low,
but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.
[24] The partner of a thief hates his own life;
he hears the curse, but discloses nothing.
[25] The fear of man lays a snare,
but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.
[26] Many seek the face of a ruler,
but it is from the LORD that a man gets justice.
[27] An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous,
but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked. (ESV)
