Proverbs 16:21-33

The wise in heart will be called understanding, And sweet speech increases persuasiveness and learning [in both speaker and listener]. Understanding (spiritual insight) is a [refreshing and boundless] wellspring of life to those who have it, But to give instruction and correction to fools is foolishness. The heart of the wise instructs his mouth [in wisdom] And adds persuasiveness to his lips. Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweet and delightful to the soul and healing to the body. There is a way which seems right to a man and appears straight before him, But its end is the way of death. The appetite of a worker works for him, For his hunger urges him on. A worthless man devises and digs up evil, And the words on his lips are like a scorching fire. A perverse man spreads strife, And one who gossips separates intimate friends. [Prov 17:9] A violent and exceedingly covetous man entices his neighbor [to sin], And leads him in a way that is not good. He who [slyly] winks his eyes does so to plot perverse things; And he who compresses his lips [as if in a secret signal] brings evil to pass. The silver-haired head is a crown of splendor and glory; It is found in the way of righteousness. [Prov 20:29] He who is slow to anger is better and more honorable than the mighty [soldier], And he who rules and controls his own spirit, than he who captures a city. The lot is cast into the lap, But its every decision is from the LORD.