Grace

Answered Prayers, Rejoicing Praise, Glory To God

We want to know how God has blessed your life or the lives of your loved ones through prayers. Please share with us answered prayers of healing, salvation, finances, relationships, family, reconciliation, jobs, and any other miracles in your lives. Your answered prayer testimonies will be encouraging to others and will give them hope during difficult times. We would like to rejoice with you in your answered prayers and your testimonies of victory will bring glory to God. Your testimonies of answered prayers will be posted upon content approval, we greatly appreciate your efforts.

World Prayers, International Prayers, Global Praying Worldwide

Welcome to the international prayers global section, we encourage you to make and submit worldwide global prayers in this zone. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you would like to post or write prayers for the world. While praying please keep a humble and well meaning attitude. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to posting your global praying prayers. Please post your world prayers in the submissions box below and click the submit button. Your world prayers will be reviewed by our nations praying team prior to inclusion. You will not be able to view your international world prayers until after they have been reviewed.

Salvation Prayer Requests For The Unsaved, Christian Conversion Praying

Welcome to our Christian salvation prayers ministry section, we look forward to assisting you with your conversion prayer request needs. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you are submitting prayers of salvation for conversion of those who are unsaved. While praying for the lost and unsaved it would be most helpful to have their first names and their relationship to you, if any. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers of anyone. We thank you for your cooperation, we look forward to praying with you on their salvation behalf. Please post your salvation prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our christian praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after salvation prayers have been posted on their behalf. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16 "But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works, otherwise grace is no longer grace." Romans 11:6 "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." Ephesians 2:8

Grief Prayer Requests Bereavement Prayers

Welcome to our grief ministry praying section, we look forward to assisting you with your grief prayer request needs. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you have need of bereavement type prayers. While praying it would be most helpful to have any first names of those in need of comforting and their relationship to you. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers of anybody. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying for you and any others whom may be suffering. Please post your grief prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our ministry praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after the prayers have been posted on your behalf. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 …ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. John 16:20 We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 1 Thessalonians 4:14 When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: "Death has been swallowed up in victory." 1 Corinthians 15:54

Financial Prayer Requests Wealth Praying Sowing Needs

Welcome to our financial prayers ministry section, we look forward to assisting you with your wealth prayer request needs. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you are seeking prayers for financial assistance. While praying for your financial needs to be met it would be most helpful to have your first name and some insight as to the financial burdens you face. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying for your wealth increase. Please post your wealth prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your financial relief prayer requests submissions will be reviewed and responded to by our ministry praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after the financial prayers have been made on your behalf.

To increase the wealth flow in your life, you need to start planting some seeds with expectation. Increase is multiplied by expansion, the more you give to others the greater your abundance. With thoughtful loving intentions, (seeds of love), you can produce a harvest of overflow. In your giving there is receiving, in order to get a return, one must first make an initial investment. For every action there is a reaction, your harvesting commences with your sowing. If you are seeking prayers for personal financial needs, improvement, and multiplication please go here now.

Praying For Our Troops & Soldiers, Sending Troop Prayers

Welcome to our military troop prayers ministry section, we look forward to assisting you with your prayer request needs. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you would like prayers for soldiers or troops. Whether praying for your loved ones or other troops it would be most helpful to have their first names, their relationship to you, or their squadron or platoon name. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers of any soldiers. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying for the with you on the soldiers behalf. Please post your troop and soldiers prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our ministry praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after prayers have been made on their behalf.

Personal Prayer Requests Praying For Your Personal Needs

Welcome to our personal prayers ministry section, we look forward to assisting you with your personal prayer request needs. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you have personal praying needs. While praying for your needs it would be most helpful to have a clear idea as to the needs you are requesting. Please avoid posting your personal last name, street address, email address, or phone numbers. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying for your highest good. Please post your personal prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our ministry praying team.
You will not be able to view your requests until after prayers have been made on your behalf.

Please consider the following bible verses when praying for yourself:
No weapon formed against you shall prosper… Isaiah 54:17
All things, Whatsoever ye shall ask for in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. Matthew 21:22
Lord you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. Psalm 16:5-6
"I am leaving you with a gift–peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27 (NLT)
"He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9
 

Healing Prayers, Praying For Medical Health Recovery

Welcome to our healing ministry prayers section, we look forward to assisting you with your health and medical prayer requests. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your healing prayer requests. Please use this section only if you would like to submit prayer requests for those in need of healing and health recovery. While praying for your loved ones it would be most helpful to have their first names and their relationship to you. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers of anyone in hospitals. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying with you on their behalf. Please post your medical, health, or healing prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our christian praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after prayers have been made on their behalf. If you are seeking prayers for your own personal health or healing please go here now.

Prayer Requests For Friends Group Friendship Prayers

Welcome to our friendship prayers ministry section, we look forward to assisting you with your praying needs for your friends or groups of friends. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you have a friend or small groups of friends that are in need of prayers. While praying for your friends or groups it would be most helpful to have their first names or small group name. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers of anyone. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying with you on your friends behalf. Please post your friendship prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our ministry praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after prayers have been made on your friends behalf.

Marriage Prayers, Praying For Marriages & Relationships

Click Here To:
Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage

Top 100 Questions Before Getting A Divorce

Welcome to our marriage prayers ministry section, we look forward to assisting you with your relationship prayer request needs. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you are in need of prayers for a relationship such as marriage or if you are engaged in some kind of relationship. While praying for your marriage or relational needs it would be most helpful to have your spouses or significant others first name. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers of any boyfriends, girlfriends, or spouses. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying with you on their behalf. Please post your relational, marriage, or couples prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our ministry praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after prayers have been made on behalf of your marriage or relationship.

If your marriage really matters to you then you should first humble yourself and realize that the issues surrounding the conflict are not solely one persons doing. It is possible that one person may have a higher percentage of responsibility, but you both have made choices that have gotten you where you are today. The resolutions in your difficulty do not rest upon the other persons shoulders, you need to take responsibility of your own short comings before you can resolve the marriage issues. You are at a point where you need to finally get honest with yourself and with each other. Too many people think that they have tried everything, most have not, and most want a resolution, but they want it their way. It does not work that way folks!  Admit your own mistakes! Lay down your foolish pride, for it is that pride that is keeping you apart. Quit pointing the finger at the other person, turn that finger inward and realize your not perfect…….You have room to grow! If you did not have room to grow then you would not have the marriage problems you are now suffering through. If you refuse to admit your faults and still say it's all the other persons fault, then the reason the marriage is ending at this point is you. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:8

After you make your prayer request, I would suggest you make reasonable, but not overwhelming effort, to contact your spouse and apologize to them for your own lack of understanding, for your own lack of compassion, for your own lack of forgiveness, and beg them to go with you to a Godly counselor at a local Christian church. If they refuse to go, go without them, but let them know you are going to go, and give them the opportunity to change their mind. You want to restore your relationship, now is the time. On the right side of this page are numerous links to relational articles that will help you in your marriage, it's your marriage and it's your choice. 1 Peter 4:8 …for love covers a multitude of sins.

Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:18
The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. Galatians 5:6
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:8
Love is more important than anything else. It is what ties everything completely together. Colossians 3:14
This is my prayer for you: that your love will grow more and more, and that you will have knowledge and understanding with your love. Philippians 1:9

A lot of marriage issues occur because someones needs are not being met. Don't ask yourself about your needs, ask yourself if you are meeting your spouses needs. For those of you who are still together and want to resolve the conflicts, please GO RENT THE MOVIE FIREPROOF  and WATCH IT WITH YOUR SPOUSE TODAY!

Also, you should both answer these 100 Questions Before Considering Divorce

Childrens Prayer Requests Ministry Praying For Kids

Welcome to our childrens prayers ministry section, we look forward to assisting you with your prayer request needs. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you have children that are in need of prayers. While praying for your children or other kids it would be most helpful to have their first names and their relationship to you. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers of any children. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying with you on their behalf. Please post your children's prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our ministry praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after prayers have been posted on the children's behalf.

Online Family Member Prayer Requests Ministry

Welcome to our family prayers ministry section, we look forward to assisting you with your prayer request needs. We do humbly request that you make every effort to find the most suitable category for your prayer requests. Please use this section only if you have family members that are in need of prayers. While praying for your family members it would be most helpful to have their first names and their relationship to you. Please avoid posting last names, addresses, and phone numbers of your family members. We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to praying with you on their behalf. Please post your family prayer requests in the box below and click the submit button. Your prayer requests will be reviewed and responded to by our ministry praying team. You will not be able to view your requests until after prayers have been made on their behalf.

The Gifts Of The Spirit

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11

Supporting Gifts

Evangelism: Brings the good news of Jesus Christ especially to the lost.
Prophecy: Speaks forth the Word of God.
Apostleship: Begins and establishes new ministries.
Pastor – Teacher: Shepherds and nurtures the souls of others.
Teacher: Presents God’s Word so that others learn God’s truths.
Wisdom: Applies the Biblical truths of God to the everyday life.
Knowledge: Knows and understands the truths of God.

Serving Gifts

Leadership: Stands out front so that others are willing to follow.
Administration: Keeps the church on course like the pilot of a ship or plane.
Exhortation – Encouragement: Comes along side of others to comfort and strengthen them.
Faith: Heroically stands up for Jesus Christ, no matter the cost.
Giving: Gladly, generously, and sacrificially supports the work of the church.
Helps: Shares the burdens of others, particularly leaders in the church.
Hospitality: Welcomes strangers with warmth and love.
Mercy: Identifies with and responds to the hurts of others.

Sign Gifts

Discerning of spirits: Cuts through what is false and evil to what is true and good.
Miracles: By the power of God and in the name of Jesus Christ performs a supernatural act.
Healing: Brings wholeness to the sick.
Tongues: Speaks in a strange, spiritual language, drawing closer to God.
Interpretation: Interprets or translates a message spoken in unknown language.

We all have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching let him teach; if it is encouraging let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Romans 12:6-8

Teach Train Think Wisely Proverbs 1 Through Proverbs 10:32

Proverbs 1

Purpose

 1 These are the proverbs of Solomon. He was the son of David and the king of Israel.

 2 Proverbs teach you wisdom and train you.
      They help you understand wise sayings.
 3 They provide you with training and help you live wisely.
      They lead to what is right and honest and fair.
 4 They give understanding to childish people.
      They give knowledge and good sense to those who are young.
 5 Let wise people listen and add to what they have learned.
      Let those who understand what is right get guidance.
 6 What I’m teaching also helps you understand proverbs and stories.
      It helps you understand the sayings and riddles of those who are wise.

Main Point

 7 If you really want to gain knowledge, you must begin by having respect for the Lord.
      But foolish people hate wisdom and training.

Think and Live Wisely

A Warning Against a Life of Crime

 8 My son, listen to your father’s advice.
      Don’t turn away from your mother’s teaching.
 9 What they teach you will be like a beautiful crown on your head.
      It will be like a chain to decorate your neck.
 10 My son, if sinners tempt you,
      don’t give in to them.
 11 They might say, "Come along with us.
      Let’s hide and wait to spill someone’s blood.
      Let’s catch some harmless people in our trap.
 12 Let’s swallow them alive, as the grave does.
      Let’s swallow them whole, like those who go down into the pit.
 13 We’ll get all kinds of valuable things.
      We’ll fill our houses with what we steal.
 14 Come and join our gang.
      We’ll share everything we have."
 15 My son, don’t go along with them.
      Don’t even set your feet on their paths.
 16 They are always in a hurry to sin.
      They are quick to spill someone’s blood.
 17 How useless it is to spread a net
      while all the birds are watching!
 18 Those who hide and wait will spill their own blood.
      They will be caught in their own trap.
 19 That’s what happens to everyone
      who goes after money in the wrong way.
   That kind of money takes away
      the lives of those who get it.

A Warning Against Turning Away From Wisdom

 20 Wisdom calls out in the street.
      She raises her voice in public places.
 21 At the noisy street corners she cries out.
      Here is what she says near the gates of the city.
 22 "How long will you childish people love your childish ways?
      How long will you rude people enjoy making fun of God and others?
      How long will you foolish people hate knowledge?
 23 Suppose you had paid attention to my warning.
      Then I would have poured out my heart to you.
      I would have told you what I was thinking.
 24 But you turned away from me when I called out to you.
      None of you paid attention when I reached out my hand.
 25 You turned away from all my advice.
      You wouldn’t accept my warning.
 26 So I will laugh at you when you are in danger.
      I will make fun of you when hard times come.
 27 I will laugh when hard times hit you like a storm.
      I will laugh when danger comes your way like a windstorm.
      I will make fun of you when suffering and trouble come.
 28 "Then you will call to me. But I won’t answer.
      You will look for me. But you won’t find me.
 29 You hated knowledge.
      You didn’t choose to have respect for the Lord.
 30 You wouldn’t accept my advice.
      You turned your backs on my warnings.
 31 So you will eat the fruit of the way you have lived.
      You will choke on the fruit of what you have planned.
 32 "Childish people go down the wrong path. They will die.
      Foolish people are satisfied with the way they live. They will be destroyed.
 33 But those who listen to me will live in safety.
      They will not worry. They won’t be afraid of getting hurt."

Proverbs 2

Good Things Come From Wisdom

 1 My son, accept my words.
      Store up my commands inside you.
 2 Let your ears listen to wisdom.
      Apply your heart to understanding.
 3 Call out for the ability to be wise.
      Cry out for understanding.
 4 Look for it as you would look for silver.
      Search for it as you would search for hidden treasure.
 5 Then you will understand how to have respect for the Lord.
      You will find out how to know God.
 6 The Lord gives wisdom.
      Knowledge and understanding come from his mouth.
 7 He stores up success for honest people.
      He is like a shield to those who live without blame. He keeps them safe.
 8 He guards the path of those who are honest.
      He watches over the way of his faithful ones.
 9 You will understand what is right and honest and fair.
      You will understand the right way to live.
 10 Your heart will become wise.
      Your mind will delight in knowledge.
 11 Good sense will keep you safe.
      Understanding will guard you.
 12 Wisdom will save you from the ways of evil men.
      It will save you from men who twist their words.
 13 Men like that leave the straight paths
      to walk in dark ways.
 14 They take delight in doing what is wrong.
      They take joy in twisting everything around.
 15 Their paths are crooked.
      Their ways are not straight.
 16 Wisdom will save you from a woman who commits adultery.
      It will save you from a sinful wife and her tempting words.
 17 She leaves the man she married when she was young.
      She breaks the promise she made to her God.
 18 Her house leads down to death.
      Her paths lead to the spirits of the dead.
 19 No one who goes to her comes back
      or reaches the paths of life.
 20 You will walk in the ways of good people.
      You will follow the paths of those who do right.
 21 Honest people will live in the land.
      Those who are without blame will remain in it.
 22 But sinners will be cut off from the land.
      Those who aren’t faithful will be torn away from it.

Proverbs 3

More Good Things Come From Wisdom

 1 My son, do not forget my teaching.
      Keep my commands in your heart.
 2 They will help you live for many years.
      They will bring you success.
 3 Don’t let love and truth ever leave you.
      Tie them around your neck.
      Write them on the tablet of your heart.
 4 Then you will find favor and a good name
      in the eyes of God and people.
 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart.
      Do not depend on your own understanding.
 6 In all your ways remember him.
      Then he will make your paths smooth and straight.
 7 Don’t be wise in your own eyes.
      Have respect for the Lord and avoid evil.
 8 That will bring health to your body.
      It will make your bones strong.
 9 Honor the Lord with your wealth.
      Give him the first share of all your crops.
 10 Then your storerooms will be so full they can’t hold everything.
      Your huge jars will spill over with fresh wine.
 11 My son, do not hate the Lord’s training.
      Do not object when he corrects you.
 12 The Lord trains those he loves.
      He is like a father who trains the son he is pleased with.
 13 Blessed is the one who finds wisdom.
      Blessed is the one who gains understanding.
 14 Wisdom pays better than silver does.
      She earns more than gold does.
 15 She is worth more than rubies.
      Nothing you want can compare with her.
 16 Long life is in her right hand.
      In her left hand are riches and honor.
 17 Her ways are pleasant ways.
      All her paths lead to peace.
 18 She is a tree of life to those who hold her close.
      Those who hold on to her will be blessed.
 19 By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations.
      Through understanding he set the heavens in place.
 20 By his knowledge the seas were separated,
      and the clouds dropped their dew.
 21 My son, hold on to good sense and the understanding of what is right.
      Don’t let them out of your sight.
 22 They will be life for you.
      They will be like a gracious necklace around your neck.
 23 Then you will go on your way in safety.
      You will not trip and fall.
 24 When you lie down, you won’t be afraid.
      When you lie down, you will sleep soundly.
 25 Don’t be terrified by sudden trouble.
      Don’t be afraid when sinners are destroyed.
 26 The Lord is the one you will trust in.
      He will keep your feet from being caught in a trap.
 27 Don’t hold back good from those who are worthy of it.
      Don’t hold it back when you can help.
 28 Suppose you have something to give.
      Don’t say to your neighbor,
   "Come back later.
      I’ll give it to you tomorrow."
 29 Don’t plan to harm your neighbor.
      He lives near you and trusts you.
 30 Don’t bring charges against a man without any reason.
      He has not harmed you.
 31 Don’t be jealous of a man who hurts others.
      Don’t choose any of his ways.
 32 The Lord really hates sinful people.
      But he makes honest people his closest friends.
 33 The Lord puts a curse on the houses of sinners.
      But he blesses the homes of those who do what is right.
 34 He laughs at proud people who make fun of others.
      But he gives grace to those who are not proud.
 35 Wise people receive honor.
      But the Lord puts foolish people to shame.

Proverbs 4

Wisdom Is Best

 1 My children, listen to a father’s teaching.
      Pay attention and gain understanding.
 2 I give you good advice.
      So don’t turn away from what I teach you.
 3 I was once a young boy in my father’s house.
      I was my mother’s only child.
 4 My father taught me.
      He said, "Hold on to my words with all your heart.
      Keep my commands. Then you will live.
 5 Get wisdom. Get understanding.
      Don’t forget my words. Don’t turn away from them.
 6 Stay close to wisdom, and she will keep you safe.
      Love her, and she will watch over you.
 7 Wisdom is best. So get wisdom.
      No matter what it costs, get understanding.
 8 Value wisdom, and she will lift you up.
      Hold her close, and she will honor you.
 9 She will set a beautiful crown on your head.
      She will give you a glorious crown."
 10 My son, listen. Accept what I say.
      Then you will live for many years.
 11 I guide you in the way of wisdom.
      I lead you along straight paths.
 12 When you walk, nothing will slow you down.
      When you run, you won’t trip and fall.
 13 Hold on to my teaching. Don’t let it go.
      Guard it well. It is your life.
 14 Don’t take the path of evil people.
      Don’t live the way sinners do.
 15 Stay away from their path. Don’t travel on it.
      Turn away from it. Go on your way.
 16 Sinners can’t sleep until they do what is evil.
      They can’t rest until they make someone fall.
 17 They do evil just as easily as they eat food.
      They hurt others as easily as they drink wine.
 18 The path of those who do what is right is like the first gleam of dawn.
      It shines brighter and brighter until the full light of day.
 19 But the way of those who do what is wrong is like deep darkness.
      They don’t know what makes them trip and fall.
 20 My son, pay attention to what I say.
      Listen closely to my words.
 21 Don’t let them out of your sight.
      Keep them in your heart.
 22 They are life to those who find them.
      They are health to your whole body.
 23 Above everything else, guard your heart.
      It is where your life comes from.
 24 Don’t speak with twisted words.
      Keep evil talk away from your lips.
 25 Let your eyes look straight ahead.
      Keep looking right in front of you.
 26 Make level paths for your feet to walk on.
      Only go on ways that are firm.
 27 Don’t turn to the right or left.
      Keep your feet from the path of evil.

Proverbs 5

A Warning Against Committing Adultery

 1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom.
      Listen carefully to my wise sayings.
 2 Then you will continue to have good sense.
      Your lips will keep on speaking words of knowledge.
 3 A woman who commits adultery has lips that drip honey.
      What she says is smoother than oil.
 4 But in the end she is like bitter poison.
      She cuts like a sword that has two edges.
 5 Her feet go down to death.
      Her steps lead straight to the grave.
 6 She doesn’t give any thought to her way of life.
      Her paths are crooked, but she doesn’t realize it.
 7 My sons, listen to me.
      Don’t turn away from what I say.
 8 Stay on a path far away from that evil woman.
      Don’t even go near the door of her house.
 9 If you do, you will give your best strength to others.
      You will give the best years of your life to someone who is mean.
 10 Strangers will use up all of your wealth.
      Your hard work will make someone else rich.
 11 At the end of your life you will groan.
      Your skin and your body will be worn out.
 12 You will say, "How I hated to take advice!
      How my heart refused to be corrected!
 13 I would not obey my teachers.
      I wouldn’t listen to those who taught me.
 14 I was almost totally destroyed.
      It happened right in front of the whole community."
 15 Drink water from your own well.
      Drink running water from your own spring.
 16 Should your springs pour out into the streets?
      Should your streams of water pour out in public places?
 17 No! Let them belong to you alone.
      Never share them with strangers.
 18 May your fountain be blessed.
      May the wife you married when you were young make you happy.
 19 She is like a loving doe, a graceful deer.
      May her breasts always satisfy you.
      May you always be captured by her love.
 20 My son, why be captured by a woman who commits adultery?
      Why hug the wife of another man?
 21 The Lord watches a man’s ways.
      He studies all of his paths.
 22 A sinner is trapped by his own evil acts.
      He is held tight by the ropes of his sins.
 23 He will die because he refused to be corrected.
      His sins will capture him because he was very foolish.

Proverbs 6

Warnings Against Foolish Acts

 1 My son, don’t put up money for what your neighbor owes.
      Don’t agree to pay up for someone else.
 2 Don’t be trapped by what you have said.
      Don’t be caught by the words of your mouth.
 3 Instead, my son, do something to free yourself.
      Don’t fall into your neighbor’s hands.
   Don’t be proud.
      Hurry and make your appeal to your neighbor.
 4 Don’t let your eyes go to sleep.
      Don’t let your eyelids close.
 5 As a deer frees itself from a hunter, free yourself.
      As a bird frees itself from a trapper, free yourself.
 6 You people who don’t want to work, think about the ant!
      Consider its ways and be wise!
 7 It has no commander.
      It has no leader or ruler.
 8 But it stores up its food in summer.
      It gathers its food at harvest time.
 9 You lazy people, how long will you lie there?
      When will you get up from your sleep?
 10 You might sleep a little or take a little nap.
      You might even fold your hands and rest.
 11 Then you would be poor, as if someone had robbed you.
      You would have little, as if someone had stolen from you.
 12 A worthless and evil man
      goes around saying twisted things with his mouth.
    13 He winks with his eyes.
      He makes signals with his feet.
      He motions with his fingers.
    14 His plans are evil. He has lies in his heart.
      He is always stirring up fights.
 15 Trouble will catch up with him in an instant.
      He will suddenly be destroyed. Nothing can save him.
 16 There are six things the Lord hates.
      In fact, he hates seven things.
    17 The Lord hates proud eyes,
         a lying tongue,
         and hands that kill those who aren’t guilty.
    18 He also hates hearts that make evil plans,
         feet that are quick to do evil,
    19 any witness who pours out lies,
         and anyone who stirs up family fights.

A Warning Against Committing Adultery

 20 My son, keep your father’s commands.
      Don’t turn away from your mother’s teaching.
 21 Tie them to your heart forever.
      Put them around your neck.
 22 When you walk, they will guide you.
      When you sleep, they will watch over you.
      When you wake up, they will speak to you.
 23 Your father’s commands are like a lamp.
      Your mother’s teaching is like a light.
   And the training that corrects you
      leads to life.
 24 It keeps you from a sinful woman.
      It keeps you from the smooth tongue of a woman who commits adultery.
 25 Don’t hunger in your heart after her beauty.
      Don’t let her eyes capture you.
 26 A prostitute leaves you with only a loaf of bread.
      Another man’s wife hunts your very life.
 27 You can’t shovel fire into your lap
      without burning your clothes.
 28 You can’t walk on hot coals
      without burning your feet.
 29 It’s the same for anyone who has sex with another man’s wife.
      Anyone who touches her will be punished.
 30 People don’t hate a thief who steals
      to fill his empty stomach.
 31 But when he is caught, he must pay seven times as much as he stole.
      It may even cost him everything he has.
 32 A man who commits adultery has no sense.
      Anyone who does it destroys himself.
 33 He will be beaten up and dishonored.
      His shame will never be wiped away.
 34 Jealousy stirs up a husband’s anger.
      He will show no mercy when he gets even.
 35 He won’t accept any payment.
      He won’t take any money, no matter how much he is offered.

Proverbs 7

A Warning Against a Woman Who Commits Adultery

 1 My son, obey my words.
      Store up my commands inside you.
 2 Obey my commands and you will live.
      Guard my teachings as you would your own eyes.
 3 Tie them on your fingers.
      Write them on the tablet of your heart.
 4 Say to wisdom, "You are my sister."
      Call understanding a member of your family.
 5 They will keep you from a woman who commits adultery.
      They will keep you from the smooth talk of a sinful wife.
 6 I stood at the window of my house.
      I looked out through it.
 7 Among those who were childish
      I saw a young man who had no sense.
 8 He went down the street near that sinful woman’s corner.
      He walked toward her house.
 9 The sun had gone down. Day was fading.
      The darkness of night was falling.
 10 A woman came out to meet him.
      She was dressed like a prostitute and had a clever plan.
 11 She was a loud and pushy woman.
      She never stayed at home.
 12 Sometimes in the streets, sometimes at other places,
      at every corner she would wait.
 13 She took hold of the young man and kissed him.
      With a bold face she spoke to him.
 14 She said, "At home I have meat left over from my offerings.
      Today I offered what I had promised I would.
 15 So I came out to meet you.
      I looked for you. And I have found you!
 16 I have covered my bed
      with colored sheets from Egypt.
 17 I’ve perfumed my bed with spices.
      I used myrrh, aloes and cinnamon.
 18 Come, let’s drink our fill of love until morning.
      Let’s enjoy ourselves by having sex!
 19 My husband isn’t home.
      He’s gone on a long journey.
 20 He took his bag full of money.
      He won’t be home for several days."
 21 She led him down the wrong path with her clever words.
      She charmed him with her smooth talk.
 22 All at once he followed her.
      He was like an ox going to be killed.
   He was like a deer stepping into a trap
    23 until an arrow struck its liver.
   He was like a bird rushing into a trap.
      Little did he know it would cost him his life!
 24 My sons, listen to me.
      Pay attention to what I say.
 25 Don’t let your hearts turn to her ways.
      Don’t step onto her paths.
 26 She has brought down a lot of men.
      She has killed a huge crowd.
 27 Her house is a road to the grave.
      It leads down to the place of the dead.

Proverbs 8

Wisdom Is Worth More Than Anything

 1 Doesn’t wisdom call out?
      Doesn’t understanding raise her voice?
 2 On the high roads along the way,
      she takes her place where the paths meet.
 3 Beside the gates leading into the city,
      she cries out at the entrances.
 4 She says, "Men, I call out to you.
      I raise my voice to all human beings.
 5 You who are childish, get some good sense.
      You who are foolish, gain understanding.
 6 Listen! I have worthy things to say.
      I open my lips to speak what is right.
 7 My mouth speaks what is true.
      My lips hate evil.
 8 All the words of my mouth are honest.
      None of them is twisted or sinful.
 9 To those who have understanding, all my words are right.
      To those who have knowledge, they are true.
 10 Choose my teaching instead of silver.
      Choose knowledge rather than fine gold.
 11 Wisdom is worth more than rubies.
      Nothing you want can compare with her.
 12 "I, wisdom, live together with understanding.
      I have knowledge and good sense.
 13 To have respect for the Lord is to hate evil.
      I hate pride and bragging.
      I hate evil ways and twisted words.
 14 I have good sense and give good advice.
      I have understanding and power.
 15 By me kings rule.
      Leaders make laws that are fair.
 16 By me princes govern.
      By me all nobles rule on earth.
 17 I love those who love me.
      Those who look for me find me.
 18 With me are riches and honor.
      With me are lasting wealth and success.
 19 My fruit is better than fine gold.
      My gifts are better than the finest silver.
 20 I walk in ways that are honest.
      I take paths that are right.
 21 I leave riches to those who love me.
      I give them more than they have room for.
 22 "The Lord created me as the first of his works,
      before his acts of long ago.
 23 I was formed at the very beginning.
      I was formed before the world began.
 24 Before there were any oceans, I was born.
      There weren’t any springs of water at that time.
 25 Before the mountains were settled in place, I was born.
      Before there were any hills, I was born.
 26 It happened before the Lord made the earth and its fields.
      It was before he made the dust of the world.
 27 I was there when he set the heavens in place.
      When he marked out the place where the sky meets the sea, I was there.
 28 That was when he put the clouds above.
      It was when he fixed the ocean springs in place.
 29 It was when he set limits for the sea
      so that the waters had to obey his command.
   When he marked out the foundations of the earth, I was there.
    30 I was the skilled worker at his side.
   I was filled with delight day after day.
      I was always happy to be with him.
 31 His whole world filled me with joy.
      I took delight in all human beings.
 32 "My children, listen to me.
      Blessed are those who keep my ways.
 33 Listen to my teaching and be wise.
      Don’t turn away from it.
 34 Blessed is the one who listens to me.
      He watches every day at my doors.
      He waits beside my doorway.
 35 Those who find me find life.
      They receive favor from the Lord.
 36 But those who don’t find me harm only themselves.
      Everyone who hates me loves death."

Proverbs 9

Wisdom and Foolishness Call Out

 1 Wisdom has built her house.
      She has made its seven pillars.
 2 She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine.
      She has also set her table.
 3 She has sent out her female servants.
      She calls out from the highest point of the city.
 4 She says, "Let all who are childish come in here!"
      She speaks to those who have no sense.
 5 "Come and eat my food.
      Drink the wine I have mixed.
 6 Leave your childish ways and you will live.
      Walk in the way that leads to understanding.
 7 "When you correct someone who makes fun of others, you might be laughed at.
      When you warn a sinner, you might get hurt.
 8 Don’t warn those who make fun of others. They will hate you.
      Warn those who are wise. They will love you.
 9 Teach a wise man. He will become even wiser.
      Teach a person who does right. He will learn even more.
 10 "If you really want to become wise, you must begin by having respect for the Lord.
      To know the Holy One is to gain understanding.
 11 Through me, you will live a long time.
      Years will be added to your life.
 12 If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you.
      If you make fun of others, you alone will suffer."
 13 The woman called Foolishness is loud.
      She doesn’t control herself. She doesn’t know anything.
 14 She sits at the door of her house.
      She sits at the highest point of the city.
 15 She calls out to those who pass by.
      She calls out to those who go straight on their way.
 16 She says, "Let all who are childish come in here!"
      She speaks to those who have no sense.
 17 She says, "Stolen water is sweet.
      Food eaten in secret tastes good!"
 18 But they don’t know that dead people are there.
      They don’t know that her guests are in the deepest parts of the grave.

Proverbs 10

The Proverbs of Solomon

 1 These are the proverbs of Solomon.
   A wise son makes his father glad.
      But a foolish son brings sorrow to his mother.
 2 Riches that are gained by sinning aren’t worth anything.
      But doing what is right saves you from death.
 3 The Lord gives those who do right the food they need.
      But he lets those who do wrong go hungry.
 4 Hands that don’t want to work make you poor.
      But hands that work hard bring wealth to you.
 5 A child who gathers crops in summer is wise.
      But a child who sleeps at harvest time brings shame.
 6 Blessings are like crowns on the heads of those who do right.
      But the trouble caused by what sinners say destroys them.
 7 To remember those who do right is a blessing.
      But the names of those who do wrong will rot.
 8 A wise heart accepts commands.
      But foolish chattering destroys you.
 9 Anyone who lives without blame walks safely.
      But anyone who takes a crooked path will get caught.
 10 An evil wink gets you into trouble.
      And foolish chattering destroys you.
 11 The mouths of those who do right are a fountain of life.
      But the trouble caused by what sinners say destroys them.
 12 Hate stirs up fights.
      But love erases all sins by forgiving them.
 13 Wisdom is found on the lips of those who understand what is right.
      But those who have no sense are punished.
 14 Wise people store up knowledge.
      But the mouths of foolish people destroy them.
 15 The wealth of rich people is like a city that makes them feel safe.
      But having nothing destroys those who are poor.
 16 People who do what is right earn life.
      But what sinners earn causes them to be punished.
 17 Anyone who pays attention to his training
      is on his way to life.
   But anyone who refuses to be corrected
      leads others down the wrong path.
 18 Anyone who hides hatred has lying lips.
      And anyone who spreads lies is foolish.
 19 Those who talk a lot are likely to sin.
      But those who control their tongues are wise.
 20 The tongues of those who do right are like fine silver.
      But the hearts of those who do wrong aren’t worth very much.
 21 The words of those who do right benefit many people.
      But those who are foolish die because they have no sense.
 22 The blessing of the Lord brings wealth.
      Trouble doesn’t come with it.
 23 A foolish person finds pleasure in doing evil things.
      But a man who has understanding takes delight in wisdom.
 24 What sinners are afraid of will catch up with them.
      But those who do right will get what they want.
 25 When the storm is over, sinners are gone.
      But those who do right stand firm forever.
 26 Anyone who doesn’t want to work hurts those who send him.
      He is like vinegar on the teeth or smoke in the eyes.
 27 Having respect for the Lord leads to a longer life.
      But the years of evil people are cut short.
 28 Those who do right can expect joy.
      But the hopes of sinners are bound to fail.
 29 The way of the Lord leads to a safe place for those who do right.
      But it destroys those who do evil.
 30 Those who do right will never be removed from the land.
      But those who do wrong will not remain in it.
 31 The mouths of those who do right produce wisdom.
      But tongues that speak twisted words will be cut out.
 32 Those who do right know the proper thing to say.
      But those who do wrong speak only twisted words.

Honesty Pride Proud Proverbs 11 Through Proverbs 20:30

 Proverbs 11

 1 The Lord hates it when people use scales to cheat others.
      But he is delighted when people use honest weights.
 2 When pride comes, shame follows.
      But wisdom comes to those who are not proud.
 3 Those who do what is right are guided by their honest lives.
      But those who aren’t faithful are destroyed by their trickery.
 4 Wealth isn’t worth anything when God judges you.
      But doing what is right saves you from death.
 5 The ways of honest people are made straight because they do what is right.
      But those who do what is wrong are brought down by their own sins.
 6 Godly people are saved by doing what is right.
      But those who aren’t faithful are trapped by evil longings.
 7 When an evil man dies, his hope dies with him.
      Everything he expected to gain from his power will be lost.
 8 Those who do right are saved from trouble.
      But trouble comes on those who do wrong.
 9 With their words ungodly people destroy their neighbors.
      But those who do what is right escape because of their knowledge.
 10 When those who do right succeed, their city is glad.
      When those who do wrong die, people shout for joy.
 11 The blessing of honest people builds up a city.
      But the words of sinners destroy it.
 12 A person who has no sense makes fun of his neighbor.
      But a man who has understanding controls his tongue.
 13 Those who talk about others tell secrets.
      But those who can be trusted keep things to themselves.
 14 Without the guidance of good leaders a nation falls.
      But many good advisers can save it.
 15 Anyone who puts up money for what someone else owes will certainly suffer.
      But a person who doesn’t agree to pay up for someone else is safe.
 16 A woman who has a kind heart gains respect.
      But men who are not kind gain only wealth.
 17 A kind man benefits himself.
      But a mean person brings trouble on himself.
 18 Those who do what is wrong really earn nothing.
      But those who plant what is right will certainly be rewarded.
 19 Right living leads to life.
      But anyone who runs after evil will die.
 20 The Lord hates those whose hearts are twisted.
      But he is pleased with those who live without blame.
 21 You can be sure that sinners will be punished.
      And you can also be sure that godly people will go free.
 22 A beautiful woman who has no sense
      is like a gold ring in a pig’s nose.
 23 What godly people long for ends only in what is good.
      But what sinners hope for ends only in God’s anger.
 24 Some give freely but get even richer.
      Others don’t give what they should but get even poorer.
 25 Anyone who gives a lot will succeed.
      Anyone who renews others will be renewed.
 26 People call down curses on those who store up grain for themselves.
      But blessing makes those who are willing to sell feel like kings.
 27 Anyone who looks for what is good finds favor.
      But bad things happen to a person who plans to do evil.
 28 Those who trust in their riches will fall.
      But those who do right will be as healthy as a green leaf.
 29 Those who bring trouble on their families will receive nothing but wind.
      And foolish people will serve wise people.
 30 The fruit that godly people bear is like a tree of life.
      And those who lead others to do what is right are wise.
 31 Godly people get what they should get on earth.
      So ungodly people and sinners will certainly get what they should get!

Proverbs 12 

1 Anyone who loves to be trained loves knowledge.
      Anyone who hates to be corrected is stupid.
 2 The Lord blesses anyone who does good.
      But he judges any man who is tricky.
 3 If a man does what is evil, he can’t become strong and steady.
      But if people do what is right, they can’t be removed from the land.
 4 A noble wife is her husband’s crown.
      But a wife who brings shame is like sickness in his bones.
 5 The plans of godly people are right.
      But the advice of sinners will lead you the wrong way.
 6 The words of those who are evil hide and wait to spill people’s blood.
      But the speech of those who are honest saves them from traps like that.
 7 Sinners are destroyed and taken away.
      But the houses of godly people stand firm.
 8 A man is praised for how wise he is.
      But people hate those who have twisted minds.
 9 Being nobody and having a servant
      is better than pretending to be somebody and having no food.
 10 Those who do what is right take good care of their animals.
      But the kindest acts of those who do wrong are mean.
 11 Anyone who farms his land will have plenty of food.
      But a person who chases dreams has no sense.
 12 Those who do what is wrong want to steal from others.
      But those who do what is right bear good fruit because of their deep roots.
 13 A sinner is trapped by his sinful talk.
      But a godly person escapes trouble.
 14 Many good things come from what a man says.
      And the work of his hands rewards him.
 15 The way of a foolish person seems right to him.
      But a wise person listens to advice.
 16 Foolish people are easily upset.
      But wise people pay no attention to hurtful words.
 17 An honest witness tells the truth.
      But a dishonest witness tells lies.
 18 Thoughtless words cut like a sword.
      But the tongue of wise people brings healing.
 19 Truthful words last forever.
      But lies last for only a moment.
 20 There are lies in the hearts of those who plan evil.
      But there is joy for those who work to bring peace.
 21 No harm comes to godly people.
      But sinners have all the trouble they can handle.
 22 The Lord hates those whose lips tell lies.
      But he is pleased with people who tell the truth.
 23 Wise people keep their knowledge to themselves.
      But the hearts of foolish people shout foolish things.
 24 Hands that work hard will rule.
      But people who don’t want to work will become slaves.
 25 Worry makes a man’s heart heavy.
      But a kind word cheers him up.
 26 Godly people are careful about the friends they choose.
      But the way of sinners leads them down the wrong path.
 27 Anyone who refuses to work doesn’t even cook what he catches.
      But a man who works hard values what he has.
 28 There is life in doing what is right.
      Along that path you will never die.

Proverbs 13 

1 A wise child pays attention to what his father teaches him.
      But anyone who makes fun of others doesn’t listen to warnings.
 2 The good things a man says benefit him.
      But a liar loves to hurt others.
 3 Anyone who guards what he says guards his life.
      But anyone who speaks without thinking will be destroyed.
 4 People who refuse to work want things and get nothing.
      But the longings of people who work hard are completely satisfied.
 5 Those who do right hate what is false.
      But those who do wrong bring shame and dishonor.
 6 Doing right guards those who are honest.
      But evil destroys those who are sinful.
 7 Some people pretend to be rich but have nothing.
      Others pretend to be poor but have great wealth.
 8 A man who is rich might have to pay to save his life.
      But a poor person is not in danger of that.
 9 The lights of godly people shine brightly.
      But the lamps of sinners are blown out.
 10 Pride only leads to arguing.
      But those who take advice are wise.
 11 Money that is gained in the wrong way disappears.
      But money that is gathered little by little grows.
 12 Hope that is put off makes one sick at heart.
      But a longing that is met is like a tree of life.
 13 Anyone who hates what he is taught will pay for it later.
      But a person who respects a command will be rewarded.
 14 The teaching of wise people is like a fountain that gives life.
      It turns those who listen to it away from the jaws of death.
 15 Good understanding wins favor.
      But the way of liars doesn’t last.
 16 Wise people act in keeping with the knowledge they have.
      But foolish people show how foolish they are.
 17 An evil messenger gets into trouble.
      But a messenger who is trusted brings healing.
 18 Those who turn away from their training become poor and ashamed.
      But those who accept warnings are honored.
 19 A longing that is met is like something that tastes sweet.
      But foolish people hate to turn away from evil.
 20 Anyone who walks with wise people grows wise.
      But a companion of foolish people suffers harm.
 21 Hard times chase those who are sinful.
      But success is the reward of those who do right.
 22 A good person leaves what he owns to his children and grandchildren.
      But a sinner’s wealth is stored up for those who do right.
 23 The fields of poor people might produce a lot of food.
      But those who beat them down destroy it all.
 24 Those who don’t correct their children hate them.
      But those who love them are careful to train them.
 25 Those who do right eat until they are full.
      But the stomachs of those who do wrong go hungry.

Proverbs 14 

1 A wise woman builds her house.
      But a foolish woman tears hers down with her own hands.
 2 An honest person has respect for the Lord.
      But a person whose paths are crooked hates him.
 3 Foolish people are punished for what they say.
      But the things wise people say keep them safe.
 4 Where there are no oxen, the feed box is empty.
      But a strong ox brings in a great harvest.
 5 An honest witness does not lie.
      But a dishonest witness pours out lies.
 6 Those who make fun of others look for wisdom and don’t find it.
      But knowledge comes easily to those who understand what is right.
 7 Stay away from a foolish man.
      You won’t find knowledge in what he says.
 8 People are wise and understanding when they think about the way they live.
      But people are foolish when their foolish ways trick them.
 9 Foolish people laugh at making things right when they sin.
      But honest people try to do the right thing.
 10 Each heart knows its own sadness.
      And no one else can share its joy.
 11 The houses of sinners will be destroyed.
      But the tents of honest people will stand firm.
 12 There is a way that may seem right to a man.
      But in the end it leads to death.
 13 Even when you laugh, your heart can be hurting.
      And your joy can end in sadness.
 14 Those who aren’t faithful will be paid back
      for what they’ve done.
   And good men will receive rewards
      for how they’ve lived.
 15 A childish person believes anything.
      But a wise person thinks about how he lives.
 16 A wise person has respect for the Lord and avoids evil.
      But a foolish person gets mad and is thoughtless.
 17 Anyone who gets angry quickly does foolish things.
      And a man who is tricky is hated.
 18 Childish people act in keeping with their foolish ways.
      But knowledge makes wise people feel like kings.
 19 Evil people will bow down in front of good people.
      And those who do wrong will bow down at the gates of those who do right.
 20 Poor people are avoided even by their neighbors.
      But rich people have many friends.
 21 Anyone who hates his neighbor commits sin.
      But blessed is the person who is kind to those in need.
 22 Those who plan evil go down the wrong path.
      But those who plan good find love and truth.
 23 All hard work pays off.
      But if all you do is talk, you will be poor.
 24 The wealth of wise people is their crown.
      But the foolish ways of foolish people lead to what is foolish.
 25 An honest witness saves lives.
      But a dishonest witness tells lies.
 26 Anyone who shows respect for the Lord has a strong tower.
      It will be a safe place for his children.
 27 Respect for the Lord is like a fountain that gives life.
      It turns you away from the jaws of death.
 28 A large population is a king’s glory.
      But a prince without followers is destroyed.
 29 Anyone who is patient has great understanding.
      But anyone who gets angry quickly shows how foolish he is.
 30 A peaceful heart gives life to the body.
      But jealousy rots the bones.
 31 Anyone who crushes poor people makes fun of their Maker.
      But anyone who is kind to those in need honors God.
 32 When trouble comes, sinners are brought down.
      But godly people have a safe place even when they die.
 33 Wisdom rests in the hearts of those who understand what is right.
      And even among foolish people she makes herself known.
 34 Doing what is right lifts people up.
      But sin brings shame to any nation.
 35 A king is pleased with a wise servant.
      But a servant who is full of shame invites the king’s anger.

Proverbs 15 

1 A gentle answer turns anger away.
      But mean words stir up anger.
 2 The tongues of wise people use knowledge well.
      But the mouths of foolish people pour out foolish words.
 3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere.
      They watch those who are evil and those who are good.
 4 A tongue that brings healing is like a tree of life.
      But a tongue that tells lies produces a broken spirit.
 5 A foolish person turns his back on how his father has trained him.
      But anyone who accepts being corrected shows understanding.
 6 The houses of those who do what is right hold great wealth.
      But those who do what is wrong earn only trouble.
 7 The lips of wise people spread knowledge.
      But that’s not true of the hearts of foolish people.
 8 The Lord hates the sacrifice of sinful people.
      But the prayers of honest people please him.
 9 The Lord hates how sinners live.
      But he loves those who run after what is right.
 10 Hard training is in store for anyone who leaves the right path.
      A person who hates to be corrected will die.
 11 Death and the Grave lie open in front of the Lord.
      So the hearts of mere men certainly lie open to him!
 12 Anyone who makes fun of others doesn’t like to be corrected.
      He won’t ask wise people for advice.
 13 A happy heart makes a face look cheerful.
      But a sad heart produces a broken spirit.
 14 A heart that understands what is right looks for knowledge.
      But the mouths of foolish people feed on what is foolish.
 15 All the days of those who are crushed are filled with pain and suffering.
      But a cheerful heart enjoys a good time that never ends.
 16 It is better to have respect for the Lord and have little
      than to be rich and have trouble.
 17 A meal of vegetables where there is love
      is better than the finest meat where there is hatred.
 18 A man who burns with anger stirs up fights.
      But a person who is patient calms things down.
 19 The way of people who don’t want to work is blocked with thorns.
      But the path of honest people is a wide road.
 20 A wise son makes his father glad.
      But a foolish son hates his mother.
 21 A person who has no sense enjoys doing foolish things.
      But a man who has understanding walks straight ahead.
 22 Plans fail without good advice.
      But they succeed when there are many advisers.
 23 Joy is found in giving the right answer.
      And how good is a word spoken at the right time!
 24 The path of life leads up for those who are wise.
      It keeps them from going down to the grave.
 25 The Lord tears down the proud person’s house.
      But he keeps the widow’s property safe.
 26 The Lord hates the thoughts of sinful people.
      But the thoughts of pure people are pleasing to him.
 27 Anyone who always wants more brings trouble to his family.
      But a person who refuses to be paid off will live.
 28 The hearts of those who do right think about how they will answer.
      But the mouths of those who do wrong pour out evil.
 29 The Lord is far away from those who do wrong.
      But he hears the prayers of those who do right.
 30 A cheerful look brings joy to your heart.
      And good news gives health to your body.
 31 If you listen to a warning, you will live.
      You will be at home among those who are wise.
 32 Anyone who turns away from his training hates himself.
      But anyone who accepts being corrected gains understanding.
 33 Having respect for the Lord teaches you how to live wisely.
      So don’t be proud if you want to be honored.

Proverbs 16 

1 People make plans in their hearts.
      But the Lord controls what they say.
 2 Everything a man does might seem right to him.
      But the Lord knows what that man is thinking.
 3 Commit to the Lord everything you do.
      Then your plans will succeed.
 4 The Lord works everything out for his own purposes.
      Even those who do wrong were made for a day of trouble.
 5 The Lord hates all those who have proud hearts.
      You can be sure that they will be punished.
 6 Through love and truth sin is paid for.
      People avoid evil when they have respect for the Lord.
 7 When the way you live pleases the Lord,
      he makes even your enemies live at peace with you.
 8 It is better to have a little and do right
      than to have a lot and be unfair.
 9 In your heart you plan your life.
      But the Lord decides where your steps will take you.
 10 A king might speak as if his words come from God.
      But what he says should not turn right into wrong.
 11 Honest scales and balances come from the Lord.
      He made all of the weights in the bag.
 12 A king hates it when his people do what is wrong.
      A ruler is made secure when they do what is right.
 13 Kings are pleased when what you say is honest.
      They value people who speak the truth.
 14 An angry king can order your death.
      But a wise man will try to calm him down.
 15 When a king’s face is happy, it means life.
      His favor is like rain in the spring.
 16 It is much better to get wisdom than gold.
      It is much better to choose understanding than silver.
 17 The path of honest people takes them away from evil.
      Those who guard their ways guard their lives.
 18 If you are proud, you will be destroyed.
      If you are proud, you will fall.
 19 Suppose you are lowly in spirit and are with those who are beaten down.
      That’s better than sharing stolen goods with those who are proud.
 20 If anyone pays attention to what he is taught, he will succeed.
      Blessed is the person who puts his trust in the Lord.
 21 Wise hearts are known for understanding what is right.
      Pleasant words make people want to learn more.
 22 Understanding is like a fountain of life to those who have it.
      But foolish people are punished for the foolish things they do.
 23 The hearts of wise people guide their mouths.
      Their words make people want to learn more.
 24 Pleasant words are like honey.
      They are sweet to the spirit and bring healing to the body.
 25 There is a way that may seem right to a man.
      But in the end it leads to death.
 26 The hunger of a worker makes him work.
      His hunger drives him on.
 27 A worthless man plans to do evil things.
      His words are like a burning fire.
 28 A twisted person stirs up fights.
      Anyone who talks about others comes between close friends.
 29 A man who wants to hurt others tries to get them to sin.
      He leads them down a path that isn’t good.
 30 When he winks with his eyes, he is planning to do wrong.
      When his lips are tightly closed, he is up to no good.
 31 Gray hair is a glorious crown.
      You get it by living the right way.
 32 It is better to be patient than to fight.
      It is better to control your temper than to take a city.
 33 Lots are cast into the lap to make decisions.
      But everything they decide comes from the Lord.

Proverbs 17 

1 It is better to eat a dry crust of bread in peace and quiet
      than to eat a big dinner in a house that is full of fighting.
 2 A wise servant will rule over a shameful child.
      He will be given part of the property as if he were a family member.
 3 Fire tests silver. Heat tests gold.
      But the Lord tests our hearts.
 4 An evil person listens to evil words.
      A liar pays attention to words that are harmful.
 5 Anyone who laughs at those who are poor makes fun of their Maker.
      Anyone who is happy when others suffer will be punished.
 6 Grandchildren are like a crown to older people.
      And children are proud of their parents.
 7 It isn’t proper for foolish people to brag.
      And it certainly isn’t proper for rulers to tell lies!
 8 Money buys favors for those who give it.
      No matter where they turn, they succeed.
 9 Those who erase a sin by forgiving it show love.
      But those who talk about it come between close friends.
 10 A person who understands what is right learns more from just a warning
      than a foolish person learns from 100 strokes with a whip.
 11 An evil person never wants to obey.
      An official who shows no mercy will be sent against him.
 12 It is better to meet a bear whose cubs have been stolen
      than to meet a foolish person who is acting foolishly.
 13 Evil will never leave the house
      of anyone who pays back evil for good.
 14 Starting to argue is like making a crack in a dam.
      So drop the matter before a fight breaks out.
 15 The Lord hates two things.
      He hates it when the guilty are set free.
      He also hates it when those who aren’t guilty are punished.
 16 What good is money in the hands of a foolish person?
      He doesn’t want to become wise.
 17 A friend loves at all times.
      He is there to help when trouble comes.
 18 A man who has little sense agrees to pay what other people owe.
      It isn’t wise to put up money for others.
 19 The one who loves to argue loves to sin.
      The one who builds a high gate is just asking to be destroyed.
 20 If your heart is twisted, you won’t succeed.
      If your tongue tells lies, you will get into trouble.
 21 It is sad to have a foolish child.
      The parents of a foolish person have no joy.
 22 A cheerful heart makes you healthy.
      But a broken spirit dries you up.
 23 Anyone who does wrong accepts favors in secret.
      Then he turns what is right into wrong.
 24 Anyone who understands what is right keeps wisdom in view.
      But the eyes of a foolish person look everywhere else.
 25 A foolish child makes his father sad
      and his mother sorry.
 26 It isn’t good to punish those who aren’t guilty.
      It isn’t good to whip officials just because they are honest.
 27 Anyone who has knowledge controls his words.
      A man who has understanding is not easily upset.
 28 We think even a foolish person is wise if he keeps silent.
      We think he understands what is right if he controls his tongue.

Proverbs 18 

1 A person who isn’t friendly looks out only for himself.
      He opposes all good sense.
 2 A foolish person doesn’t want to understand.
      He takes delight in saying only what he thinks.
 3 People hate it when evil comes.
      And they refuse to honor those who bring shame.
 4 The words of a person’s mouth are like deep water.
      But the fountain of wisdom is like a flowing stream.
 5 It isn’t good to favor those who do wrong.
      And it isn’t good to hold back what is fair from those who aren’t guilty.
 6 What a foolish person says leads to arguing.
      He is just asking for a beating.
 7 The words of a foolish person drag him down.
      He is trapped by what he says.
 8 The words of anyone who talks about others are like tasty bites of food.
      They go deep down inside you.
 9 Anyone who doesn’t want to work
      is like someone who destroys.
 10 The name of the Lord is like a strong tower.
      Godly people run to it and are safe.
 11 The wealth of rich people is like a city that makes them feel safe.
      They think of it as a city with walls that can’t be climbed.
 12 If a man’s heart is proud, he will be destroyed.
      So don’t be proud if you want to be honored.
 13 To answer before listening
      is foolish and shameful.
 14 A man’s cheerful heart gives him strength when he is sick.
      You can’t keep going if you have a broken spirit.
 15 Those whose hearts understand what is right get knowledge.
      The ears of those who are wise listen for it.
 16 A gift opens the way for the one who gives it.
      It helps him meet important people.
 17 The first one to tell his case seems right.
      Then someone else comes forward and questions him.
 18 Casting lots will put a stop to arguing.
      It will keep the strongest enemies apart.
 19 A broken friendship is harder to deal with than a city that has high walls around it.
      And arguing is like the locked gates of a mighty city.
 20 A man can fill his stomach with what he says.
      The words from his lips can satisfy him.
 21 Your tongue has the power of life and death.
      Those who love to talk will eat the fruit of their words.
 22 The one who finds a wife finds what is good.
      He receives favor from the Lord.
 23 Poor people beg for mercy.
      But rich people answer in a mean way.
 24 Even a man who has many companions can be destroyed.
      But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 19 

1 It is better to be poor and to live without blame
      than to be foolish and to twist words around.
 2 It isn’t good to get all stirred up without knowledge.
      And it isn’t good to be in a hurry and miss the way.
 3 A man’s own foolish acts destroy his life.
      But his heart is angry with the Lord.
 4 Wealth brings many friends.
      But the friends of poor people leave them alone.
 5 A dishonest witness will be punished.
      And those who pour out lies will not go free.
 6 Many try to win the favor of rulers.
      And everyone is the friend of a man who gives gifts.
 7 A poor person is avoided by his whole family.
      His friends avoid him even more.
   The poor person runs after them to beg.
      But he can’t find them.
 8 Anyone who gets wisdom loves himself.
      Anyone who values understanding succeeds.
 9 A dishonest witness will be punished.
      And those who pour out lies will die.
 10 It isn’t proper for a foolish person to live in great comfort.
      And it is much worse when a slave rules over princes!
 11 A man’s wisdom makes him patient.
      He will be honored if he forgives someone who sins against him.
 12 A king’s anger is like a lion’s roar.
      But his favor is like dew on the grass.
 13 If a child is foolish, he destroys his father.
      A nagging wife is like dripping that never stops.
 14 You will receive houses and wealth from your parents.
      But a wise wife is given by the Lord.
 15 Anyone who doesn’t want to work sleeps his life away.
      And a person who refuses to work goes hungry.
 16 Those who obey what they are taught guard their lives.
      But those who don’t care how they live will die.
 17 Anyone who is kind to poor people lends to the Lord.
      God will reward him for what he has done.
 18 Train your child. Then there is hope.
      Don’t do anything to bring about his death.
 19 Anyone who burns with anger must pay for it.
      If you save him, you will have to do it again.
 20 Listen to advice and accept what you are taught.
      In the end you will be wise.
 21 A man may have many plans in his heart.
      But the Lord’s purpose wins out in the end.
 22 Every man longs for love that never fails.
      It is better to be poor than to be a liar.
 23 Having respect for the Lord leads to life.
      Then you will be content and free from trouble.
 24 A person who doesn’t want to work leaves his hand in the dish.
      He won’t even bring it back up to his mouth!
 25 If you whip a person who makes fun of others,
      childish people will learn to be wise.
   If you warn someone who already understands what is right,
      he will gain even more knowledge.
 26 A child who robs his father and drives out his mother
      brings shame and dishonor.
 27 My son, if you stop listening to what I teach you,
      you will wander away from the words of knowledge.
 28 A dishonest witness makes fun of what is right.
      The mouths of those who do wrong gulp down evil.
 29 Those who make fun of others will be judged.
      Foolish people will be punished.

Proverbs 20

1 Wine causes you to make fun of others, and beer causes you to start fights.
      Anyone who is led down the wrong path by them is not wise.
 2 A king’s anger is like a lion’s roar.
      Anyone who makes him angry may lose his life.
 3 Avoiding a fight brings honor to a man.
      But every foolish person is quick to argue.
 4 Anyone who refuses to work doesn’t plow in the right season.
      When he looks for a crop at harvest time, he doesn’t find it.
 5 The purposes of a man’s heart are like deep water.
      But a man who has understanding brings them out.
 6 Many claim to have love that never fails.
      But who can find a faithful man?
 7 Anyone who does what is right lives without blame.
      Blessed are his children after him.
 8 A king sits on his throne to judge.
      He gets rid of all evil when he sees it.
 9 No one can say, "I have kept my heart pure.
      I’m clean. I haven’t sinned."
 10 The Lord hates two things.
      He hates weights that weigh things heavier or lighter than they really are.
      He also hates measures that measure things larger or smaller than they really are.
 11 A child is known by his actions.
      He is known by whether his conduct is pure and right.
 12 The Lord has made two things.
      He has made ears that hear.
      He has also made eyes that see.
 13 Don’t love sleep, or you will become poor.
      Stay awake, and you will have more food than you need.
 14 "It’s no good. It’s no good!" says a buyer.
      Then off he goes and brags about what he bought.
 15 There is gold. There are plenty of rubies.
      But lips that speak knowledge are a priceless jewel.
 16 Take the coat of one who puts up money for what a stranger owes.
      Hold it until you get paid back if he does it for a woman who commits adultery.
 17 Food gained by cheating tastes sweet to a man.
      But he will end up with a mouth full of sand.
 18 Make plans by asking for guidance.
      If you go to war, get good advice.
 19 A person who talks about others tells secrets.
      So avoid anyone who talks too much.
 20 If anyone calls down curses on his father or mother,
      his lamp will be blown out in total darkness.
 21 Property you gain quickly at the beginning
      will not be blessed in the end.
 22 Don’t say, "I’ll get even with you for the wrong you did to me!"
      Wait for the Lord, and he will save you.
 23 The Lord hates weights that weigh things heavier or lighter than they really are.
      Scales that are not honest don’t please him.
 24 The Lord directs a man’s steps.
      So how can anyone understand his own way?
 25 A man is trapped if he makes a hasty promise to God
      and only later thinks about what he said.
 26 A wise king gets rid of evil people.
      He runs the threshing wheel over them.
 27 The lamp of the Lord searches a man’s heart.
      It searches deep down inside him.
 28 Love and truth keep a king safe.
      Faithful love makes his throne secure.
 29 Young men are proud of their strength.
      Gray hair brings honor to old men.
 30 Blows and wounds wash evil away.
      And beatings make you pure deep down inside.