Proverbs 19:20-29

English Standard Version

²⁰ Listen to advice and accept instruction,
    that you may gain wisdom in ^(A)the future.
^21 (B)Many are the plans in the mind of a man,
    but ^(C)it is the purpose of the Lord ^(D)that will stand.
²² What is desired in a man is steadfast love,
    and a poor man is better than a liar.
²³ The fear of the Lord ^(E)leads to life,
    and whoever has it rests ^(F)satisfied;
    he will ^(G)not be visited by harm.
^24 (H)The sluggard buries his hand in ^(I)the dish
    and will not even bring it back to his mouth.
^25 (J)Strike ^(K)a scoffer, and the simple will ^(L)learn prudence;
    ^(M)reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge.
²⁶ He who does violence to his father and chases away his mother
    is ^(N)a son who brings shame and reproach.
²⁷ Cease to hear instruction, my son,
    ^(O)and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
²⁸ A worthless witness mocks at justice,
    and the mouth of the wicked ^(P)devours iniquity.
²⁹ Condemnation is ready for ^(Q)scoffers,
    and ^(R)beating for the backs of fools.