Proverbs 20:3-21

It is an honor for a man to keep away from strife [by handling situations with thoughtful foresight], But any fool will [start a] quarrel [without regard for the consequences]. The lazy man does not plow when the winter [planting] season arrives; So he begs at the [next] harvest and has nothing [to reap]. A plan (motive, wise counsel) in the heart of a man is like water in a deep well, But a man of understanding draws it out. [Prov 18:4] Many a man proclaims his own loyalty and goodness, But who can find a faithful and trustworthy man? The righteous man who walks in integrity and lives life in accord with his [godly] beliefs— How blessed [happy and spiritually secure] are his children after him [who have his example to follow]. A [discerning] king who sits on the throne of judgment Sifts all evil [like chaff] with his eyes [and cannot be easily fooled]. Who can say, “I have cleansed my heart, I am pure from my sin?” [1 Kin 8:46; 2 Chr 6:36; Job 9:30; 14:4; Ps 51:5; 1 John 1:8] Differing weights [one for buying and another for selling] and differing measures, Both of them are detestable and offensive to the LORD. [Deut 25:13; Mic 6:10, 11] Even a boy is known and distinguished by his acts, Whether his conduct is pure and right. The hearing ear and the seeing eye, The [omnipotent] LORD has made both of them. Do not love [excessive] sleep, or you will become poor; Open your eyes [so that you can do your work] and you will be satisfied with bread. “It is [almost] worthless, it is [almost] worthless,” says the buyer [as he negotiates the price]; But when he goes his way, then he boasts [about his bargain]. There is gold, and an abundance of pearls, But the lips of knowledge are a vessel of preciousness [the most precious of all]. [Job 28:12, 16-19; Prov 3:15; 8:11] [The judge tells the creditor], “Take the clothes of one who is surety for a stranger; And hold him in pledge [when he guarantees a loan] for foreigners.” [Prov 27:13] Food gained by deceit is sweet to a man, But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel [just as sin may be sweet at first, but later its consequences bring despair]. Plans are established by counsel; So make war [only] with wise guidance. He who goes about as a gossip reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with a gossip [who talks freely or flatters]. [Rom 16:17, 18] Whoever curses his father or his mother, His lamp [of life] will be extinguished in time of darkness. An inheritance hastily gained [by greedy, unjust means] at the beginning Will not be blessed in the end. [Prov 28:20; Hab 2:6]