Proverbs 11:1-16

The LORD hates dishonest scales, but he is pleased with honest weights. Pride leads only to shame; it is wise to be humble. Good people will be guided by honesty; dishonesty will destroy those who are not trustworthy. Riches will not help when it’s time to die, but right living will save you from death. The goodness of the innocent makes life easier, but the wicked will be destroyed by their wickedness. Doing right brings freedom to honest people, but those who are not trustworthy will be caught by their own desires. When the wicked die, hope dies with them; their hope in riches will come to nothing. The good person is saved from trouble; it comes to the wicked instead. With words an evil person can destroy a neighbor, but a good person will escape by being resourceful. When good people succeed, the city is happy. When evil people die, there are shouts of joy. Good people bless and build up their city, but the wicked can destroy it with their words. People without good sense find fault with their neighbors, but those with understanding keep quiet. Gossips can’t keep secrets, but a trustworthy person can. Without leadership a nation falls, but lots of good advice will save it. Whoever guarantees to pay somebody else’s loan will suffer. It is safer to avoid such promises. A kind woman gets respect, but cruel men get only wealth.