Proverbs 16:1-16

The reflections of the heart belong to mankind, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD. All a person’s ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs motives. Commit your activities to the LORD, and your plans will be established. The LORD has prepared everything for his purpose — even the wicked for the day of disaster. Everyone with a proud heart is detestable to the LORD; be assured, he will not go unpunished. Iniquity is atoned for by loyalty and faithfulness, and one turns from evil by the fear of the LORD. When a person’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. Better a little with righteousness than great income with injustice. A person’s heart plans his way, but the LORD determines his steps. God’s verdict is on the lips of a king; his mouth should not give an unfair judgment. Honest balances and scales are the LORD’s; all the weights in the bag are his concern. Wicked behavior is detestable to kings, since a throne is established through righteousness. Righteous lips are a king’s delight, and he loves one who speaks honestly. A king’s fury is a messenger of death, but a wise person appeases it. When a king’s face lights up, there is life; his favor is like a cloud with spring rain. Get wisdom — how much better it is than gold! And get understanding — it is preferable to silver.