NIV Proverbs 20 Chapter
20:1
Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
20:2
A king's wrath is like the roar of a lion; he who angers him forfeits his life.
20:3
It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.
20:4
A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing.
20:5
The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.
20:6
Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful man who can find?
20:7
The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his children after him.
20:8
When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes.
20:9
Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?
20:10
Differing weights and differing measures-- the LORD detests them both.
20:11
Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right.
20:12
Ears that hear and eyes that see-- the LORD has made them both.
20:13
Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare.
20:14
"It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.
20:15
Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.
20:16
Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if he does it for a wayward woman.
20:17
Food gained by fraud tastes sweet to a man, but he ends up with a mouth full of gravel.
20:18
Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance.
20:19
A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.
20:20
If a man curses his father or mother, his lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness.
20:21
An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning will not be blessed at the end.
20:22
Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you.
20:23
The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him.
20:24
A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way?
20:25
It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows.
20:26
A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing wheel over them.
20:27
The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being.
20:28
Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure.
20:29
The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.
20:30
Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being.