Old Testament

New Testament

Proverbs 23:9-22 New International Version (NIV)

9. Do not speak to fools, for they will scorn your prudent words.

10. Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless,

11. for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you.

12. Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.

13. Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die.

14. Punish them with the rod and save them from death.

15. My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad indeed;

16. my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right.

17. Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord.

18. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

19. Listen, my son, and be wise, and set your heart on the right path:

20. Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat,

21. for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.

22. Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.

Read complete chapter Proverbs 23