Proverbs

²²For their calamity shall rise suddenly, and who knows the punishment and ruin which both [the Lord and the king] will bring upon [the rebellious]? ²³These also are sayings of the wise: To discriminate and show partiality, having respect of persons in judging, is not good. ²⁴He who says to the wicked, You are righteous and innocent–peoples will curse him, nations will defy and abhor him. ²⁵But to those [upright judges] who rebuke the wicked, it will go well with them and they will find delight, and a good blessing will be upon them. ²⁶He kisses the lips [and wins the hearts of men] who give a right answer. ²⁷[Put first things first.] Prepare your work outside and get it ready for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house and establish a home. ²⁸Be not a witness against your neighbor without cause, and deceive not with your lips. [Eph. 4:25.]