Proverbs 24:1-14 ▼

1 BE not envious of evil men, neither desire to be with them,

2 For their hearts devise evil and their lips talk of iniquity.

3 Through wisdom a house is built; and by understanding it is established;

4 And by knowledge the inner chambers are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

5 A wise man is better than a strong man; yea, a man of knowledge than a mighty man.

6 For by provocation is war waged; and in a multitude of counsels there is salvation.

7 Wisdom crushes a fool; he opens not his mouth in the gate.

8 He who devises to do evil shall be called a mischievous person.

9 The thought of a fool is sin; and an abomination of men is evil.

10 The wicked shall be driven away by evil in the day of affliction.

11 Deliver those who are led away to death, and spare not to redeem those who are held to be slain.

12 If you say, Behold, I did not know it, then know that it is God who searches the thought of the heart; and he who keeps your soul knows it, and shall render to every man according to his works.

13 My son, eat honey because it is good, and the honeycomb, which is sweet to your taste.

14 Thus shall wisdom find your soul; and you will have good prospects, and your hope shall not be cut off.