Proverbs 20:15-29

Christian Standard Bible

¹⁵ There is gold and a multitude of jewels,
but knowledgeable lips are a rare treasure.^(A)

¹⁶ Take his garment,
for he has put up security for a stranger;
get collateral if it is for foreigners.^(B)

¹⁷ Food gained by fraud is sweet to a person,^(C)
but afterward his mouth is full of gravel.^(D)

¹⁸ Finalize plans with counsel,^(E)
and wage war with sound guidance.^(F)

¹⁹ The one who reveals secrets is a constant gossip;^(G)
avoid someone with a big mouth.^(H)

²⁰ Whoever curses his father or mother^(I)—
his lamp will go out in deep darkness.^(J)

²¹ An inheritance gained prematurely
will not be blessed ultimately.^(K)

²² Don’t say, “I will avenge this evil!” ^(L)
Wait on the Lord,^(M) and he will rescue you.^(N)

²³ Differing weights^[a] are detestable to the Lord,^(O)
and dishonest scales^(P) are unfair.

²⁴ Even a courageous person’s steps are determined by the Lord,^(Q)
so how can anyone understand his own way?

²⁵ It is a trap for anyone to dedicate something rashly
and later to reconsider his vows.^(R)

²⁶ A wise king separates out the wicked^(S)
and drives the threshing wheel^(T) over them.

²⁷ The Lord’s lamp sheds light on a person’s life,^[b]
searching the innermost parts.^[c](U)

²⁸ Loyalty and faithfulness guard a king;
through loyalty he maintains his throne.

²⁹ The glory of young men is their strength,
and the splendor of old men is gray hair.^(V)