Proverbs 29

The Stiff-Necked will be Destroyed

1 A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery. 2 When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan. 3 A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. 4 By justice a king gives stability to the land, but a man who exacts tribute
Or who taxes heavily or who takes bribes
demolishes it.
5 A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet. 6 An evil man is caught by his own sin, but a righteous one sings and rejoices. 7 The righteous consider the cause of the poor, but the wicked have no regard for such concerns. 8 Mockers inflame a city, but the wise turn away anger. 9 If a wise man goes to court with a fool, there will be raving and laughing with no resolution. 10 Men of bloodshed hate a blameless man, but the upright care for his life.
Or but the upright seek his soul
11 A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back. 12 If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials will be wicked. 13 The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: The LORD gives light to the eyes of both. 14 A king who judges the poor with fairness— his throne will be established forever. 15 A rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself disgraces his mother. 16 When the wicked thrive, rebellion increases; but the righteous will see their downfall. 17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will bring delight to your soul. 18 Where [there is] no vision, the people cast off restraint; but blessed [is] he who keeps the law. 19 A servant cannot be corrected by words [alone] ; though he understands, he will not respond. 20 Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him. 21 A servant pampered from his youth will bring grief in the end. 22 An angry man stirs up dissension, and a hot-tempered man abounds in transgression. 23 A man’s pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor. 24 A partner to a thief hates his own soul; he receives the oath, but will not testify. 25 The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD will be set securely on high. 26 Many seek the ruler’s favor, but a man receives justice from the LORD. 27 An unjust man is detestable to the righteous, and one whose way is upright is detestable to the wicked.
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