24 The diligent hand will rule,
but laziness will lead to forced labor.(A)

25 Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down,
but a good word cheers it up.(B)

26 A righteous man is careful in dealing with his neighbor,[a]
but the ways of the wicked lead them astray.(C)

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 12:26 Or man guides his neighbor

24 Diligent hands will rule,
    but laziness ends in forced labor.(A)

25 Anxiety weighs down the heart,(B)
    but a kind word cheers it up.

26 The righteous choose their friends carefully,
    but the way of the wicked leads them astray.(C)

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