Proverbs 16

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16 <1> People might plan what they want to say, but it is the Lord who gives them the right words.

<2> People think that whatever they do is right, but the Lord judges their reason for doing it.

<3> Turn to the Lord for help in everything you do, and you will be successful.

<4> The Lord has a plan for everything. In his plan, the wicked will be destroyed.

<5> The Lord hates those who are proud. You can be sure he will punish them all.

<6> Faithful love and loyalty will remove your guilt.[40] Respect the Lord, and you will stay far away from evil.

<7> When people live to please the Lord, even their enemies will be at peace with them.

<8> It is better to be poor and do right than to be rich and do wrong.

<9> People can plan what they want to do, but it is the Lord who guides their steps.

<10> When a king speaks, his words are law. So when he makes a decision, it is never a mistake.

<11> The Lord wants all scales and balances to be right; he wants all business agreements to be fair.

<12> Kings hate anyone doing wrong,[41] because kingdoms grow strong only when everyone is honest and fair.

<13> Kings want to hear the truth. They like those who are honest.

<14> When a king gets angry, he can put someone to death. So it is wise to keep the king happy.

<15> When the king is happy, life is better for everyone. When he is pleased, it is like a refreshing spring rain.

<16> Wisdom is worth much more than gold. Understanding is worth much more than silver.

<17> Good people try to avoid evil. They watch what they do and protect themselves.

<18> Pride is the first step toward destruction. Proud thoughts will lead you to defeat.

<19> It is better to be a humble person living among the poor than to share the wealth among the proud.

<20> Good things happen to those who learn from their experiences, and the Lord blesses those who trust him.

<21> People will know if someone is wise. Those who choose their words carefully can be very convincing.

<22> Good sense is a spring of fresh water to those who have it, but fools can offer only foolishness.

<23> Wise people always think before they speak, so what they say is worth listening to.

<24> Kind words are like honey; they are easy to accept and good for your health.

<25> There is a way that seems right to people, but that way leads only to death.

<26> The thought of hunger keeps the workers working so that they can eat.

<27> Troublemakers create disasters. Their advice destroys like a wildfire.

<28> Troublemakers are always causing problems. Their gossip breaks up the closest of friends.

<29> Cruel people trick their neighbors and make them do wrong. <30> With a wink of the eye they plan to trick someone. With a grin they make plans to hurt their friends.

<31> Gray hair is a crown of glory on people who have lived good lives. It is earned by living right.

<32> It is better to be patient than to be a strong soldier. It is better to control your anger than to capture a city.

<33> People might throw lots[42] to make a decision, but the answer always come from the Lord.