[1] If you must choose, take a good name rather than great riches; for to be held in loving esteem is better than silver and gold. [2] The rich and the poor are alike before the Lord who made them all. [3] A prudent man foresees the difficulties ahead and prepares for them; the simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. [4] True humility and respect for the Lord lead a man to riches, honor, and long life. [5] The rebel walks a thorny, treacherous road; the man who values his soul will stay away. [6] Teach a child to choose the right path, and when he is older, he will remain upon it. [7] Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender. [8] The unjust tyrant will reap disaster, and his reign of terror shall end. [9] Happy is the generous man, the one who feeds the poor. [10] Throw out the mocker, and you will be rid of tension, fighting, and quarrels. [11] He who values grace and truth is the king's friend. [12] The Lord preserves the upright but ruins the plans of the wicked. [13] The lazy man is full of excuses. "I can't go to work!" he says. "If I go outside, I might meet a lion in the street and be killed!" [14] A prostitute is a dangerous trap; those cursed of God are caught in it. [15] A youngster's heart is filled with rebellion, but punishment will drive it out of him. [16] He who gains by oppressing the poor or by bribing the rich shall end in poverty. [17] Listen to this wise advice; follow it closely, for it will do you good, and you can pass it on to others: Trust in the Lord. [20] In the past, haven't I been right? Then believe what I am telling you now and share it with others. [22] Don't rob the poor and sick! For the Lord is their defender. If you injure them, he will punish you. [24] Keep away from angry, short-tempered men, lest you learn to be like them and endanger your soul. [26] Unless you have the extra cash on hand, don't countersign a note. Why risk everything you own? They'll even take your bed! [28] Do not move the ancient boundary marks. That is stealing. [29] Do you know a hard-working man? He shall be successful and stand before kings!
