[1] The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions.
[2] When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability.
[3] A poor person who oppresses the poor is like a pounding rain that destroys the crops.
[4] To reject the law is to praise the wicked; to obey the law is to fight them.
[5] Evil people don’t understand justice, but those who follow the Lord understand completely.
[6] Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and rich.
[7] Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents.
[8] Income from charging high interest rates will end up in the pocket of someone who is kind to the poor.
[9] God detests the prayers of a person who ignores the law.
[10] Those who lead good people along an evil path will fall into their own trap, but the honest will inherit good things.
[11] Rich people may think they are wise, but a poor person with discernment can see right through them.
[12] When the godly succeed, everyone is glad. When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding.
[13] People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.
[14] Blessed are those who fear to do wrong, but the stubborn are headed for serious trouble.
[15] A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a roaring lion or an attacking bear.
[16] A ruler with no understanding will oppress his people, but one who hates corruption will have a long life.
[17] A murderer’s tormented conscience will drive him into the grave. Don’t protect him!
[18] The blameless will be rescued from harm, but the crooked will be suddenly destroyed.
[19] A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies ends up in poverty.
[20] The trustworthy person will get a rich reward, but a person who wants quick riches will get into trouble.
[21] Showing partiality is never good, yet some will do wrong for a mere piece of bread.
[22] Greedy people try to get rich quick but don’t realize they’re headed for poverty.
[23] In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery.
[24] Anyone who steals from his father and mother and says, “What’s wrong with that?” is no better than a murderer.
[25] Greed causes fighting; trusting the Lord leads to prosperity.
[26] Those who trust their own insight are foolish, but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe.
[27] Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed.
[28] When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding. When the wicked meet disaster, the godly flourish.