Proverbs 15:23-33

English Standard Version

²³ To make an apt answer is a joy to a man,
    and ^(A)a word in season, how good it is!
²⁴ The path of life leads upward ^(B)for the prudent,
    that he may turn away from Sheol beneath.
²⁵ The Lord tears down the house of ^(C)the proud
    but ^(D)maintains ^(E)the widow's boundaries.
^26 (F)The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord,
    but ^(G)gracious words are pure.
²⁷ Whoever is ^(H)greedy for unjust gain ^(I)troubles his own household,
    but he who hates ^(J)bribes will live.
²⁸ The heart of the righteous ^(K)ponders how to answer,
    but ^(L)the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.
²⁹ The Lord is ^(M)far from the wicked,
    but he ^(N)hears the prayer of the righteous.
^30 (O)The light of the eyes rejoices the heart,
    and ^(P)good news refreshes^[a] the bones.
^31 (Q)The ear that listens to ^(R)life-giving reproof
    will dwell among the wise.
³² Whoever ^(S)ignores instruction ^(T)despises himself,
    but he who listens to reproof ^(U)gains intelligence.
^33 (V)The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom,
    and ^(W)humility comes before honor.