24 He who says to the wicked, “You are righteous,” Peoples will curse him, nations will abhor him;

25 But to those who rebuke the wicked will be delight, And a good blessing will come upon them.

26 He kisses the lips Who gives a right answer.

27 Prepare your work outside, And make it ready for yourself in the field; Afterwards, then, build your house.

28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, And do not deceive with your lips.

29 Do not say, “Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work.”

30 I passed by the field of the sluggard, And by the vineyard of the man lacking sense;

31 And behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles, Its surface was covered with nettles, And its stone wall was broken down.

32 When I saw, I reflected upon it; I looked, and received instruction.

33 “A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest,”

34 Then your poverty will come as a robber, And your want like an armed man.

Proverbs 24:24-34, New American Standard 1977. Copyright © 1977 by The Lockman Foundation.
Proverbs 23
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