Proverbs 29

The Flourishing of the Righteous

1 Whoever stays stubborn after correction will suddenly get destroyed without remedy.

2 When the righteous rule, people rejoice; when the wicked rule, people groan.

3 A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but hanging with prostitutes wastes wealth.

4 By justice a king makes a nation strong, but one who loves bribes tears it down.

5 Whoever flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.

6 An evil man trapped by his sin, but the righteous shout for joy.

7 The righteous care about the poor’s rights, but the wicked do not understand it.

8 Mockers stir up a city, but the wise calm anger.

9 If a wise man argues with a fool, he will get rage or laughter, no peace either way.

10 Bloodthirsty men hate the blameless, but the upright try to save them.

11 A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back.

12 If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials get corrupt.

13 The poor and the oppressor share this, the Lord gives sight to both.

14 If a king judges the poor fairly, his throne stands forever.

15 The rod and correction give wisdom, but a spoiled child shames his mother.

16 When the wicked increase, sin multiplies; but the righteous 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, people run wild; but blessed are those who keep God’s law.

19 A servant will not learn by words alone; though he understands, he will not obey.

20 See someone quick to speak, There is more hope for a fool than him.

21 If you pamper a servant from youth, he will act entitled later.

22 An angry man stirs conflict, a hothead commits many sins.

23 Pride brings a man low, but humility gains honor.

24 A thief’s partner hates his own life; he hears the curse but says nothing.

25 The fear of man is a trap, but trusting the Lord keeps you safe.

26 Many seek a ruler’s favor, but justice comes from the Lord.

27 The righteous hate the wicked, and the wicked hate the upright.