Proverbs 24:23-34

23These also are the sayings of wise people: Showing partiality as a judge is not good.

24Whoever says to a guilty person, “You are innocent,” will be cursed by people and condemned by nations.

25But people will be pleased with those who convict a guilty person, and a great blessing will come to them.

26Giving a straight answer is ⌞like⌟ a kiss on the lips.

27Prepare your work outside, and get things ready for yourself in the field. Afterwards, build your house.

28Do not testify against your neighbor without a reason, and do not deceive with your lips.

29Do not say, “I’ll treat him as he treated me. I’ll pay him back for what he has done to me.”

30I passed by a lazy person’s field, the vineyard belonging to a person without sense.

31I saw that it was all overgrown with thistles. The ground was covered with weeds, and its stone fence was torn down.

32When I observed ⌞this⌟, I took it to heart. I saw it and learned my lesson.

33“Just a little sleep, just a little slumber, just a little nap.”

34Then your poverty will come like a drifter, and your need will come like a bandit.