Proverbs 24:23–34

²³These also are for the wise:—To discern faces in judgment is not good. ²⁴Whoso is saying to the wicked, ‘Thou art righteous,’ Peoples execrate him—nations abhor him. ²⁵And to those reproving it is pleasant, And on them cometh a good blessing. ²⁶Lips he kisseth who is returning straightforward words.

²⁷Prepare in an out-place thy work, And make it ready in the field—go afterwards, Then thou hast built thy house.

²⁸Be not a witness for nought against thy neighbour, Or thou hast enticed with thy lips. ²⁹Say not, ‘As he did to me, so I do to him, I render to each according to his work.’

³⁰Near the field of a slothful man I passed by, And near the vineyard of a man lacking heart. ³¹And lo, it hath gone up—all of it—thorns! Covered its face have nettles, And its stone wall hath been broken down. ³²And I see—I—I do set my heart, I have seen—I have received instruction, ³³A little sleep—a little slumber—A little folding of the hands to lie down. ³⁴And thy poverty hath come as a traveller, And thy want as an armed man!

Chapter 25