Proverbs 16:9-20

9In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.

10The lips of a king speak as an oracle, and his mouth does not betray justice.

11Honest scales and balances belong to the LORD ; all the weights in the bag are of his making.

12Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness.

13Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value the one who speaks what is right.

14A king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but the wise will appease it.

15When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.

16How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!

17The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives.

18Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

19Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.

20Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, Or whoever speaks prudently finds what is good and blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD .