Proverbs 12:8-22 (Vespers, 2nd Reading)
8 |
A man will be commended according to his wisdom, But he who is of a perverse heart will be despised. |
9 |
Better is the one who is slighted but has a servant, Than he who honors himself but lacks bread. |
10 |
A righteous man regards the life of his animal, But the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. |
11 |
He who tills his land will be satisfied with bread, But he who follows frivolity is devoid of understanding. |
12 |
The wicked covet the catch of evil men, But the root of the righteous yields fruit. |
13 |
The wicked is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, But the righteous will come through trouble. |
14 |
A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth, And the recompense of a man’s hands will be rendered to him. |
15 |
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is wise. |
16 |
A fool’s wrath is known at once, But a prudent man covers shame. |
17 |
He who speaks truth declares righteousness, But a false witness, deceit. |
18 |
There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, But the tongue of the wise promotes health. |
19 |
The truthful lip shall be established forever, But a lying tongue is but for a moment. |
20 |
Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy. |
21 |
No grave trouble will overtake the righteous, But the wicked shall be filled with evil. |
22 |
Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight. |