Proverbs 11:1-14

Dishonest scales are disgusting to the LORD, but accurate weights are pleasing to him. Arrogance comes, then comes shame, but wisdom remains with humble people. Integrity guides decent people, but hypocrisy leads treacherous people to ruin. Riches are of no help on the day of fury, but righteousness saves from death. The righteousness of innocent people makes their road smooth, but wicked people fall by their own wickedness. Decent people are saved by their righteousness, but treacherous people are trapped by their own greed. At the death of a wicked person, hope vanishes. Moreover, his confidence in strength vanishes. A righteous person is rescued from trouble, and a wicked person takes his place. With his talk a godless person can ruin his neighbor, but righteous people are rescued by knowledge. When righteous people prosper, a city is glad. When wicked people die, there are songs of joy. With the blessing of decent people a city is raised up, but by the words of wicked people, it is torn down. A person who despises a neighbor has no sense, but a person who has understanding keeps quiet. Whoever gossips gives away secrets, but whoever is trustworthy in spirit can keep a secret. A nation will fall when there is no direction, but with many advisers there is victory.