Proverbs 15:1-17

Christian Standard Bible

15 A gentle answer turns away anger,^(A)
but a harsh word stirs up wrath.^(B)

² The tongue of the wise makes knowledge attractive,
but the mouth of fools blurts out foolishness.^(C)

³ The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,
observing the wicked and the good.^(D)

⁴ The tongue that heals is a tree of life,^(E)
but a devious tongue^[a] breaks the spirit.

⁵ A fool despises his father’s discipline,
but a person who accepts correction is sensible.^(F)

⁶ The house of the righteous has great wealth,
but trouble accompanies the income of the wicked.

⁷ The lips of the wise broadcast knowledge,
but not so the heart of fools.

⁸ The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to the Lord,^(G)
but the prayer of the upright is his delight.^(H)

⁹ The Lord detests the way of the wicked,
but he loves the one who pursues righteousness.^(I)

¹⁰ Discipline is harsh for the one who leaves the path;
the one who hates correction will die.

¹¹ Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the Lord^(J)—
how much more, human hearts.^(K)

¹² A mocker doesn’t love one who corrects him;^(L)
he will not consult the wise.

¹³ A joyful heart makes a face cheerful,
but a sad heart produces a broken spirit.^(M)

¹⁴ A discerning mind seeks knowledge,^(N)
but the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.^(O)

¹⁵ All the days of the oppressed are miserable,
but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

¹⁶ Better a little with the fear of the Lord
than great treasure with turmoil.^(P)

¹⁷ Better a meal of vegetables where there is love
than a fattened ox^(Q) with hatred.^(R)