Proverbs 16:8-17

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

⁸ Better is a little with righteousness
    than large income with injustice.
⁹ The human mind plans the way,
    but the Lord directs the steps.
¹⁰ Inspired decisions are on the lips of a king;
    his mouth does not sin in judgment.
¹¹ Honest balances and scales are the Lord’s;
    all the weights in the bag are his work.
¹² It is an abomination to kings to do evil,
    for the throne is established by righteousness.
¹³ Righteous lips are the delight of a king,
    and he loves those who speak what is right.
¹⁴ A king’s wrath is a messenger of death,
    and whoever is wise will appease it.
¹⁵ In the light of a king’s face there is life,
    and his favor is like the clouds that bring the spring rain.
¹⁶ How much better to get wisdom than gold!
    To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
¹⁷ The highway of the upright avoids evil;
    those who guard their way preserve their lives.