Proverbs 16

₁We humans make plans,

but the LORD

has the final word.

₂We may think we know

what is right,

but the LORD is the judge

of our motives.

₃Share your plans with the LORD,

and you will succeed.

₄The LORD has a reason

for everything he does,

and he lets evil people live

only to be punished.

₅The LORD doesn't like

anyone who is conceited—

you can be sure

they will be punished.

₆If we truly love God,

our sins will be forgiven;

if we show him respect,

we will keep away from sin.

₇When we please the LORD,

even our enemies

make friends with us.

₈It's better to be honest

and poor

than to be dishonest

and rich.

₉We make our own plans,

but the LORD decides

where we will go.

₁₀Rulers speak with authority

and are never wrong.

₁₁The LORD doesn't like it

when we cheat in business.

₁₂Justice makes rulers powerful.

They should hate evil

₁₃and like honesty and truth.

₁₄An angry ruler

can put you to death.

So be wise!

Don't make one angry.

₁₅When a ruler is happy

and pleased with you,

it's like refreshing rain,

and you will live.

₁₆It's much better to be wise

and sensible

than to be rich.

₁₇God's people avoid evil ways,

and they protect themselves

by watching where they go.

₁₈Too much pride

will destroy you.

₁₉You are better off

being humble and poor

than getting rich

from what you take by force.

₂₀If you know what you're doing,

you will prosper.

God blesses everyone

who trusts him.

₂₁Good judgment proves

that you are wise,

and if you speak kindly,

you can teach others.

₂₂Good sense is a fountain

that gives life,

but fools are punished

by their foolishness.

₂₃You can persuade others

if you are wise

and speak sensibly.

₂₄Kind words are like honey—

they cheer you up

and make you feel strong.

₂₅Sometimes what seems right

is really a road to death.

₂₆The hungrier you are,

the harder you work.

₂₇Worthless people plan trouble.

Even their words burn

like a flaming fire.

₂₈Gossip is no good!

It causes hard feelings

and comes between friends.

₂₉Don't trust violent people.

They will mislead you

to do the wrong thing.

₃₀When someone winks

or grins behind your back,

trouble is on the way.

₃₁Grey hair is a glorious crown

worn by those

who have lived right.

₃₂Controlling your temper

is better than being a hero

who captures a city.

₃₃We make our own decisions,

but the LORD alone

determines what happens.