Proverbs 21:18-31

English Standard Version

^18 (A)The wicked is a ^(B)ransom for the righteous,
    and the traitor for the upright.
¹⁹ It is ^(C)better to live in a desert land
    than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman.
^20 (D)Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling,
    but a foolish man ^(E)devours it.
²¹ Whoever ^(F)pursues righteousness and kindness
    will find ^(G)life, righteousness, and honor.
^22 (H)A wise man scales the city of the mighty
    and brings down the stronghold in which they trust.
^23 (I)Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue
    ^(J)keeps himself out of ^(K)trouble.
^24 (L)“Scoffer” is the name of the arrogant, haughty man
    who acts with arrogant pride.
²⁵ The desire of ^(M)the sluggard kills him,
    for his hands refuse to labor.
²⁶ All day long he craves and craves,
    but the righteous ^(N)gives and does not hold back.
^27 (O)The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination;
    how much more ^(P)when he brings it with evil intent.
^28 (Q)A false witness will perish,
    but the word of a man who hears will endure.
²⁹ A wicked man puts on a bold face,
    but the upright ^(R)gives thought to^[a] his ways.
^30 (S)No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel
    can avail against the Lord.
^31 (T)The horse is made ready for the day of battle,
    but ^(U)the victory belongs to the Lord.