Proverbs 16:1-15 ▼

1 The reflections of the heart belong to mankind, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.

2 All a person’s ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs motives.

3 Commit your activities to the LORD, and your plans will be established.

4 The LORD has prepared everything for his purpose — even the wicked for the day of disaster.

5 Everyone with a proud heart is detestable to the LORD; be assured, he will not go unpunished.

6 Iniquity is atoned for by loyalty and faithfulness, and one turns from evil by the fear of the LORD.

7 When a person’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

8 Better a little with righteousness than great income with injustice.

9 A person’s heart plans his way, but the LORD determines his steps.

10 God’s verdict is on the lips of a king; his mouth should not give an unfair judgment.

11 Honest balances and scales are the LORD’s; all the weights in the bag are his concern.

12 Wicked behavior is detestable to kings, since a throne is established through righteousness.

13 Righteous lips are a king’s delight, and he loves one who speaks honestly.

14 A king’s fury is a messenger of death, but a wise person appeases it.

15 When a king’s face lights up, there is life; his favor is like a cloud with spring rain.