Proverbs 16:20-32

English Standard Version

²⁰ Whoever gives thought to the word^{[a] (A)}will discover good,
    and blessed is he ^(B)who trusts in the Lord.
²¹ The wise of heart is called discerning,
    and sweetness of speech ^(C)increases persuasiveness.
²² Good sense is ^(D)a fountain of life to him who has it,
    but the instruction of fools is folly.
^23 (E)The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious
    and adds persuasiveness to his lips.
^24 (F)Gracious words are like ^(G)a honeycomb,
    sweetness to the soul and ^(H)health to the body.
²⁵ There is a way that seems right to a man,
    but its end is the way to death.^[b]
26 A worker's appetite works for him;
    his ^(I)mouth urges him on.
^27 (J)A worthless man plots evil,
    and his speech^[c] is like ^(K)a scorching fire.
^28 (L)A dishonest man spreads strife,
    and ^(M)a whisperer ^(N)separates close friends.
²⁹ A man of violence ^(O)entices his neighbor
    and leads him in a way that is not good.
³⁰ Whoever winks his eyes plans^{[d] (P)}dishonest things;
    he who ^(Q)purses his lips brings evil to pass.
^31 (R)Gray hair is ^(S)a crown of glory;
    it ^(T)is gained in a righteous life.
^32 (U)Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty,
    and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.