Proverbs 12:18-22

Easy-to-Read Version

¹⁸Speak without thinking, and your words can cut like a knife. Be wise, and your words can heal.

¹⁹Lies last only a moment, but the truth lasts forever.

²⁰People who work for evil make trouble, but those who plan for peace bring happiness.

²¹The Lord will keep good people safe, but evil people will have many troubles.

²²The Lord hates people who tell lies, but he is pleased with those who tell the truth.

Proverbs 12:18-22

New International Version

¹⁸The words of the reckless pierce like swords,^(A)
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.^(B)

¹⁹Truthful lips endure forever,
but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

²⁰Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil,
but those who promote peace have joy.^(C)

²¹No harm overtakes the righteous,^(D)
but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

²²The Lord detests lying lips,^(E)
but he delights^(F) in people who are trustworthy.^(G)

Easy-to-Read Version (ERV)

New International Version (NIV)