Proverbs 12:12

Different people have different ideas about work. Some people work with their hands. Managers use their intelligence as they work.

An evil person thinks that he is working. He uses his hands to steal from other people. He uses his intelligence to make evil plans. He thinks that he deserves to be wealthy.

An evil person does not behave in the proper way. He does not obey God’s law.

An evil man might seem impressive. He might be wealthy. He might seem clever. However, he is like a tree without roots. The part of his life that you see might seem good. The part that you do not see is terrible. His thoughts are terrible because they are evil.

A good man is like a tree that grows properly from its roots. He is strong (verse 3) because he trusts in God.

v13 When an evil man talks, his words are like a trap. His own words will cause him trouble.

An honest man gets out of trouble.

v14 A man’s words are like his work.

Both can bring a good reward.

v15 The fool thinks that he already knows the right way.

The wise man listens to advice.

v16 If you insult a fool, he becomes angry immediately.

An insult does not bother a wise man.

v17 An honest witness speaks the truth.

A lying witness tells lies.

v18 Evil words are like a sword. They will hurt you.

A wise man’s words can help to cure an injury.

v19 The truth is always true.

Lies can only last for a moment.

v20 People who make evil plans are lying in their hearts.

People who work for peace have joy in their hearts.

v21 Good people are safe.

Evil people always have troubles.

v22 God hates lies.

God loves truth.

v23 A wise man does not need to say what he knows.

A fool tells you all his foolish ideas.