Proverbs 16:2-25

2All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but Adonai weighs the motives.

3Commit whatever you do to Adonai, and your plans will succeed.

4Adonai works everything out for his own purpose— even the wicked for a day of disaster.

5Adonai abhors all the proud in heart. Be assured, they will not go unpunished.

6By mercy and truth is iniquity atoned, and by the fear of Adonai one avoids evil.

7When one’s ways are pleasing to Adonai, he makes even his enemies be at peace with him.

8Better a little with righteousness than much income without justice.

9The heart of man plans his course, but Adonai directs his steps.

10An oracle is on the lips of the king— let his mouth never be treacherous in judgment.

11Honest balances and scales are Adonai’s. All the weights in a bag are His handiwork.

12Wrongdoing is an abomination to kings, for a throne is established by righteousness.

13Righteous lips are the delight of kings. He loves those who speak honestly.

14A king’s fury is like messengers of death, but a wise man will appease it.

15In the light of a king’s face there is life, and his favor like a cloud of spring rain.

16How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver.

17The highway of the upright avoids evil. He who guards his way protects his life.

18Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.

19Better to be lowly in spirit with the afflicted than to share the spoil with the proud.

20One prudent in a matter will find good Blessed is the one who trusts in Adonai.

21The wise in heart is called discerning, and sweetness of lips increases persuasiveness.

22Insight is a fountain of life to one who has it, but folly leads to the discipline of fools.

23A wise man’s heart teaches his mouth and adds persuasiveness to his lips.

24Pleasant words are honeycomb— sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

25There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.