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20 Those who are attentive to a matter will prosper,
    and happy are those who trust in the Lord.(A)
21 The wise of heart is called perceptive,
    and pleasant speech increases persuasiveness.
22 Wisdom is a fountain of life to one who has it,
    but folly is the punishment of fools.(B)
23 The mind of the wise makes their speech judicious
    and adds persuasiveness to their lips.
24 Pleasant words are like a honeycomb,
    sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

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20 Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers,[a](A)
    and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.(B)

21 The wise in heart are called discerning,
    and gracious words promote instruction.[b](C)

22 Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent,(D)
    but folly brings punishment to fools.

23 The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,(E)
    and their lips promote instruction.[c](F)

24 Gracious words are a honeycomb,(G)
    sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.(H)

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 16:20 Or whoever speaks prudently finds what is good
  2. Proverbs 16:21 Or words make a person persuasive
  3. Proverbs 16:23 Or prudent / and make their lips persuasive