New International Reader's Version

Proverbs 20:11-25 New International Reader's Version (NIRV)

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.