Proverbs

²⁶The thoughts of the wicked are shamefully vile and exceedingly offensive to the Lord, but the words of the pure are pleasing words to Him. ²⁷He who is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live. [Isa. 5:8; Jer. 17:11.] ²⁸The mind of the [uncompromisingly] righteous studies how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things. [I Pet. 3:15.] ²⁹The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the [consistently] righteous (the upright, in right standing with Him). ³⁰The light in the eyes [of him whose heart is joyful] rejoices the hearts of others, and good news nourishes the bones. ³¹The ear that listens to the reproof [that leads to or gives] life will remain among the wise. ³²He who refuses and ignores instruction and correction despises himself, but he who heeds reproof gets understanding.