Proverbs 29:1-18

1Whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy.

2When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.

3A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.

4By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for Or who give bribes tear it down.

5Those who flatter their neighbors are spreading nets for their feet.

6Evildoers are snared by their own sin, but the righteous shout for joy and are glad.

7The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.

8Mockers stir up a city, but the wise turn away anger.

9If a wise person goes to court with a fool, the fool rages and scoffs, and there is no peace.

10The bloodthirsty hate a person of integrity and seek to kill the upright.

11Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.

12If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials become wicked.

13The poor and the oppressor have this in common: The LORD gives sight to the eyes of both.

14If a king judges the poor with fairness, his throne will be established forever.

15A rod and a reprimand impart wisdom, but a child left undisciplined disgraces its mother.

16When the wicked thrive, so does sin, but the righteous will see their downfall.

17Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.

18Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.