Study Desk

He who learns from instruction and correction is on the [right] path of life [and for others his example is a path toward wisdom and blessing], But he who ignores and refuses correction goes off course [and for others his example is a path toward sin and ruin].

When there are many words, transgression and offense are unavoidable, But he who controls his lips and keeps thoughtful silence is wise.

The lips of the righteous feed and guide many, But fools [who reject God and His wisdom] die for lack of understanding.

The hope of the righteous [those of honorable character and integrity] is joy, But the expectation of the wicked [those who oppose God and ignore His wisdom] comes to nothing.

A false balance and dishonest business practices are extremely offensive to the LORD, But an accurate scale is His delight.

The righteousness of the blameless will smooth their way and keep it straight, But the wicked will fall by his own wickedness.

When the wicked man dies, his expectation will perish; And the hope of [godless] strong men perishes.

The righteous is rescued from trouble, And the wicked takes his place.

With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbor, But through knowledge and discernment the righteous will be rescued.

He who despises his neighbor lacks sense, But a man of understanding keeps silent.

He who puts up security and guarantees a debt for an outsider will surely suffer [for his foolishness], But he who hates (declines) being a guarantor is secure [from its penalties].

The merciful and generous man benefits his soul [for his behavior returns to bless him], But the cruel and callous man does himself harm.

The wicked man earns deceptive wages, But he who sows righteousness and lives his life with integrity will have a true reward [that is both permanent and satisfying].

He who is steadfast in righteousness attains life, But he who pursues evil attains his own death.

The perverse in heart are repulsive and shamefully vile to the LORD, But those who are blameless and above reproach in their walk are His delight!

He who leans on and trusts in and is confident in his riches will fall, But the righteous [who trust in God's provision] will flourish like a green leaf.

He who troubles (mismanages) his own house will inherit the wind (nothing), And the foolish will be a servant to the wise-hearted.

A virtuous and excellent wife [worthy of honor] is the crown of her husband, But she who shames him [with her foolishness] is like rottenness in his bones.

A man will be commended according to his insight and sound judgment, But the one who is of a perverse mind will be despised.

A righteous man has kind regard for the life of his animal, But even the compassion of the wicked is cruel.