Proverbs 16:12-17

New International Version

¹² Kings detest wrongdoing,
    for a throne is established through righteousness.^(A)

¹³ Kings take pleasure in honest lips;
    they value the one who speaks what is right.^(B)

¹⁴ A king’s wrath is a messenger of death,^(C)
    but the wise will appease it.^(D)

¹⁵ When a king’s face brightens, it means life;^(E)
    his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.^(F)

¹⁶ How much better to get wisdom than gold,
    to get insight^(G) rather than silver!^(H)

¹⁷ The highway of the upright avoids evil;
    those who guard their ways preserve their lives.^(I)