Proverbs 20:4-24

The slacker does not plow during planting season;  at harvest time he looks,  and there is nothing.  Counsel in a person’s heart is deep water;  but a person of understanding draws it out. Many a person proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy person?  A righteous person acts with integrity;  his children who come after him will be happy.  A king sitting on a throne to judge separates out all evil with his eyes.  Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am cleansed from my sin”?  Differing weights and varying measures   — both are detestable to the  LORD.  Even a young man is known by his actions — by whether his behavior is pure and upright.  The hearing ear and the seeing eye — the LORD made them both.  Don’t love sleep, or you will become poor; open your eyes, and you’ll have enough to eat.  “It’s worthless, it’s worthless! ” the buyer says, but after he is on his way, he gloats. There is gold and a multitude of jewels, but knowledgeable lips are a rare treasure.  Take his garment, for he has put up security for a stranger; get collateral if it is for foreigners.  Food gained by fraud is sweet to a person,  but afterward his mouth is full of gravel.  Finalize plans with counsel,  and wage war with sound guidance.  The one who reveals secrets is a constant gossip;  avoid someone with a big mouth.  Whoever curses his father or mother   —  his lamp will go out in deep darkness.  An inheritance gained prematurely will not be blessed ultimately.  Don’t say, “I will avenge this evil! ”  Wait on the LORD,  and he will rescue you.  Differing weights  are detestable to the  LORD,  and dishonest scales  are unfair. Even a courageous person’s steps are determined by the  LORD,  so how can anyone understand his own way?