Proverbs 20:10-23

10Differing weights [one for buying and another for selling] and differing measures, Both of them are detestable and offensive to the Lord.

11Even a boy is known and distinguished by his acts, Whether his conduct is pure and right.

12The hearing ear and the seeing eye, The [omnipotent] Lord has made both of them.

13Do not love [excessive] sleep, or you will become poor; Open your eyes [so that you can do your work] and you will be satisfied with bread.

14“It is [almost] worthless, it is [almost] worthless,” says the buyer [as he negotiates the price]; But when he goes his way, then he boasts [about his bargain].

15There is gold, and an abundance of pearls, But the lips of knowledge are a vessel of preciousness [the most precious of all].

16[The judge tells the creditor], “Take the clothes of one who is surety for a stranger; And hold him in pledge [when he guarantees a loan] for foreigners.”

17Food gained by deceit is sweet to a man, But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel [just as sin may be sweet at first, but later its consequences bring despair].

18Plans are established by counsel; So make war [only] with wise guidance.

19He who goes about as a gossip reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with a gossip [who talks freely or flatters].

20Whoever curses his father or his mother, His lamp [of life] will be extinguished in time of darkness.

21An inheritance hastily gained [by greedy, unjust means] at the beginning Will not be blessed in the end.

22Do not say, “I will repay evil”; Wait [expectantly] for the Lord, and He will rescue and save you.

23Differing weights are detestable and offensive to the Lord, And fraudulent scales are not good.