19The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns,

but the path of the upright is a highway.

20A wise son brings joy to his father,

but a foolish man despises his mother.

21Folly delights a man who lacks judgment,

but a man of understanding keeps a straight course.

22Plans fail for lack of counsel,

but with many advisers they succeed.

23A man finds joy in giving an apt reply—

and how good is a timely word!

24The path of life leads upward for the wise

to keep him from going down to the grave.^b

25The Lord tears down the proud man’s house

but he keeps the widow’s boundaries intact.

26The Lord detests the thoughts of the wicked,

but those of the pure are pleasing to him.

27A greedy man brings trouble to his family,

but he who hates bribes will live.

28The heart of the righteous weighs its answers,

but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.

29The Lord is far from the wicked

but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

30A cheerful look brings joy to the heart,

and good news gives health to the bones.

31He who listens to a life-giving rebuke

will be at home among the wise.

32He who ignores discipline despises himself,

but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.

33The fear of the Lord teaches a man wisdom,^c

and humility comes before honor.