Proverbs 15:16-33

16Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.

17Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.

18A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

19The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway.

20A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.

21Folly brings joy to one who has no sense, but whoever has understanding keeps a straight course.

22Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.

23A person finds joy in giving an apt reply— and how good is a timely word!

24The path of life leads upward for the prudent to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead.

25The Lord tears down the house of the proud, but he sets the widow’s boundary stones in place.

26The Lord detests the thoughts of the wicked, but gracious words are pure in his sight.

27The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live.

28The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.

29The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

30Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.

31Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.

32Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.

33Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor.