Proverbs 20:17-30

Christian Standard Bible

¹⁷ Food gained by fraud is sweet to a person,^(A)
but afterward his mouth is full of gravel.^(B)

¹⁸ Finalize plans with counsel,^(C)
and wage war with sound guidance.^(D)

¹⁹ The one who reveals secrets is a constant gossip;^(E)
avoid someone with a big mouth.^(F)

²⁰ Whoever curses his father or mother^(G)—
his lamp will go out in deep darkness.^(H)

²¹ An inheritance gained prematurely
will not be blessed ultimately.^(I)

²² Don’t say, “I will avenge this evil!” ^(J)
Wait on the Lord,^(K) and he will rescue you.^(L)

²³ Differing weights^[a] are detestable to the Lord,^(M)
and dishonest scales^(N) are unfair.

²⁴ Even a courageous person’s steps are determined by the Lord,^(O)
so how can anyone understand his own way?

²⁵ It is a trap for anyone to dedicate something rashly
and later to reconsider his vows.^(P)

²⁶ A wise king separates out the wicked^(Q)
and drives the threshing wheel^(R) over them.

²⁷ The Lord’s lamp sheds light on a person’s life,^[b]
searching the innermost parts.^[c](S)

²⁸ Loyalty and faithfulness guard a king;
through loyalty he maintains his throne.

²⁹ The glory of young men is their strength,
and the splendor of old men is gray hair.^(T)

³⁰ Lashes and wounds purge away evil,^(U)
and beatings cleanse the innermost parts.^[d]