Proverbs 15:21-33

New International Version

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

²² Plans fail for lack of counsel,^(B)
    but with many advisers^(C) they succeed.^(D)

²³ A person finds joy in giving an apt reply^(E)—
    and how good is a timely word!^(F)

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

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

²⁶ The Lord detests the thoughts^(I) of the wicked,^(J)
    but gracious words are pure^(K) in his sight.

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

²⁸ The heart of the righteous weighs its answers,^(M)
    but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.^(N)

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

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

³¹ Whoever heeds life-giving correction
    will be at home among the wise.^(Q)

³² Those who disregard discipline despise themselves,^(R)
    but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.^(S)

³³ Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord,^(T)
    and humility comes before honor.^(U)