Proverbs 1:18-32

18But these people set an ambush for themselves; they are trying to get themselves killed.

19Such is the fate of all who are greedy for money; it robs them of life.

20Wisdom shouts in the streets. She cries out in the public square.

21She calls to the crowds along the main street, to those gathered in front of the city gate:

22“How long, you simpletons, will you insist on being simpleminded? How long will you mockers relish your mocking? How long will you fools hate knowledge?

23Come and listen to my counsel. I’ll share my heart with you and make you wise.

24“I called you so often, but you wouldn’t come. I reached out to you, but you paid no attention.

25You ignored my advice and rejected the correction I offered.

26So I will laugh when you are in trouble! I will mock you when disaster overtakes you—

27when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster engulfs you like a cyclone, and anguish and distress overwhelm you.

28“When they cry for help, I will not answer. Though they anxiously search for me, they will not find me.

29For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the Lord.

30They rejected my advice and paid no attention when I corrected them.

31Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way, choking on their own schemes.

32For simpletons turn away from me—to death. Fools are destroyed by their own complacency.