Proverbs 24:1-9 ▼

1 Do not be envious of evil men, Nor desire to be with them;

2 For their minds plot violence, And their lips talk of trouble [for the innocent].

3 Through [skillful and godly] wisdom a house [a life, a home, a family] is built, And by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation],

4 And by knowledge its rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches.

5 A wise man is strong, And a man of knowledge strengthens his power;

6 For by wise guidance you can wage your war, And in an abundance of [wise] counselors there is victory and safety.

7 Wisdom is too exalted for a [hardened, arrogant] fool; He does not open his mouth in the gate [where the city’s rulers sit in judgment].

8 He who plans to do evil Will be called a schemer or deviser of evil.

9 The devising of folly is sin, And the scoffer is repulsive to men.