24:23 These sayings also are from the wise:
To show partiality in judgment is terrible:
24:24 The one who says to the guilty, “You are innocent,”
peoples will curse him, and nations will denounce him.
24:25 But there will be delight for those who convict the guilty,
and a pleasing blessing will come on them.
24:26 Like a kiss on the lips
is the one who gives an honest answer.
24:27 Establish your work outside and get your fields ready;
afterward build your house.
24:28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause,
and do not deceive with your words.
24:29 Do not say, “I will do to him just as he has done to me;
I will pay him back according to what he has done.”
24:30 I passed by the field of a sluggard,
by the vineyard of one who lacks wisdom.
24:31 I saw that thorns had grown up all over it,
the ground was covered with weeds,
and its stone wall was broken down.
24:32 When I saw this, I gave careful consideration to it;
I received instruction from what I saw:
24:33 “A little sleep, a little slumber,
a little folding of the hands to relax,
24:34 and your poverty will come like a bandit,
and your need like an armed robber.”