Proverbs 16:8-17

New International Version

⁸ Better a little with righteousness
    than much gain^(A) with injustice.^(B)

⁹ In their hearts humans plan their course,
    but the Lord establishes their steps.^(C)

¹⁰ The lips of a king speak as an oracle,
    and his mouth does not betray justice.^(D)

¹¹ Honest scales and balances belong to the Lord;
    all the weights in the bag are of his making.^(E)

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

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

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

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

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

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