Proverbs 16:1-15 ▼

1 THE reasoning of the mind is from man; but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.

2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD directs his way.

3 Commit your works to the LORD, and he will establish your thoughts.

4 All the works of the LORD are for those who will hearken to him; but the wicked are reserved for the day of calamity.

5 Every one who is proud in his heart is an abomination to the LORD; and he who stretches out his hand against his neighbor shall not be pardoned because of this evil.

6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged; and reverence of the LORD causes men to depart from evil.

7 When a man's ways are according to the will of the LORD, even to his enemies he shall recompense.

8 Better is a little with righteousness than great ingathering acquired unjustly.

9 A man's heart devises his ways; but the LORD directs his steps.

10 Oracles are on the lips of the king; his mouth does not err in judgment.

11 The weight of a just balance is the LORD'S judgment; all his works are just weights.

12 Kings who commit wickedness are an abomination; for a throne is established by righteousness.

13 The lips of a righteous man are the delight of a king; and he loves the word of the upright.

14 The wrath of a king is as messengers of death; but a wise man will pacify it.

15 In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favor is like a cloud of the early rain.