Proverbs 21

Several proverbs affirm the LORD’s rule over all, even kings — “the king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD” — and His concern for justice over ritual: “to do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.” They warn against the sluggard’s cravings, the deceit of ill-gotten wealth, and pride, concluding that “no wisdom... can avail against the LORD.”