Proverbs 15

1A gentle answer deflects anger,

but harsh words make tempers flare.

2The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing,

but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.

3The Lord is watching everywhere,

keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.

4Gentle words are a tree of life;

a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

5Only a fool despises a parent’s*15:5 Hebrew father’s. discipline;

whoever learns from correction is wise.

6There is treasure in the house of the godly,

but the earnings of the wicked bring trouble.

7The lips of the wise give good advice;

the heart of a fool has none to give.

8The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked,

but he delights in the prayers of the upright.