Proverbs

¹²Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. ¹³Whoever scorns instruction will pay for it, but whoever respects a command is rewarded. ¹⁴The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death. ¹⁵Good judgment wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful leads to their destruction. ¹⁶All who are prudent act with knowledge, but fools expose their folly. ¹⁷A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing. ¹⁸Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.