Proverbs 17:21-28

New International Version

²¹ To have a fool for a child brings grief;
    there is no joy for the parent of a godless fool.^(A)

²² A cheerful heart is good medicine,
    but a crushed^(B) spirit dries up the bones.^(C)

²³ The wicked accept bribes^(D) in secret
    to pervert the course of justice.^(E)

²⁴ A discerning person keeps wisdom in view,
    but a fool’s eyes^(F) wander to the ends of the earth.

²⁵ A foolish son brings grief to his father
    and bitterness to the mother who bore him.^(G)

²⁶ If imposing a fine on the innocent is not good,^(H)
    surely to flog honest officials is not right.

²⁷ The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,^(I)
    and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.^(J)

²⁸ Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
    and discerning if they hold their tongues.^(K)