Proverbs 24:23–34

Further Sayings of the Wise

²³These also are sayings of the wise:

Partiality in judging is not good.^*

²⁴Whoever says to the wicked, “You are innocent,”

will be cursed by peoples, abhorred by nations,^*

²⁵but those who rebuke the wicked will have delight,

and a good blessing will come upon them.^*

²⁶One who gives an honest answer

gives a kiss on the lips.

²⁷Prepare your work outside;

get everything ready for you in the field;

and after that build your house.

²⁸Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause,

and do not deceive with your lips.^*

²⁹Do not say, “I will do to others as they have done to me;

I will pay them back for what they have done.”^*

³⁰I passed by the field of one who was lazy,

by the vineyard of a stupid person,^*

³¹and see, it was all overgrown with thorns;

the ground was covered with nettles,

and its stone wall was broken down.

³²Then I saw and considered it;

I looked and received instruction.

³³A little sleep, a little slumber,

a little folding of the hands to rest,^*

³⁴and poverty will come upon you like a robber,

and want, like an armed warrior.