Proverbs 17:1-10

New Living Translation

17 Better a dry crust eaten in peace
    than a house filled with feasting—and conflict.

² A wise servant will rule over the master’s disgraceful son
    and will share the inheritance of the master’s children.

³ Fire tests the purity of silver and gold,
    but the Lord tests the heart.

⁴ Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip;
    liars pay close attention to slander.

⁵ Those who mock the poor insult their Maker;
    those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished.

⁶ Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged;
    parents^[a] are the pride of their children.

⁷ Eloquent words are not fitting for a fool;
    even less are lies fitting for a ruler.

⁸ A bribe is like a lucky charm;
    whoever gives one will prosper!

⁹ Love prospers when a fault is forgiven,
    but dwelling on it separates close friends.

¹⁰ A single rebuke does more for a person of understanding
    than a hundred lashes on the back of a fool.