Proverbs 28:1-28 TLB

[1] The wicked flee when no one is chasing them! But the godly are bold as lions! [2] When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily; but with honest, sensible leaders there is stability. [3] When a poor man oppresses those even poorer, he is like an unexpected flood sweeping away their last hope. [4] To complain about the law is to praise wickedness. To obey the law is to fight evil. [5] Evil men don't understand the importance of justice, but those who follow the Lord are much concerned about it. [6] Better to be poor and honest than rich and a cheater. [7] Young men who are wise obey the law; a son who is a member of a lawless gang is a shame to his father. [8] Income from exploiting the poor will end up in the hands of someone who pities them. [9] God doesn't listen to the prayers of those who flout the law. [10] A curse on those who lead astray the godly. But men who encourage the upright to do good shall be given a worthwhile reward. [11] Rich men are conceited, but their real poverty is evident to the poor. [12] When the godly are successful, everyone is glad. When the wicked succeed, everyone is sad. [13] A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance. [14] Blessed is the man who reveres God, but the man who doesn't care is headed for serious trouble. [15] A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a lion or bear attacking them. [16] Only a stupid prince will oppress his people, but a king will have a long reign if he hates dishonesty and bribes. [17] A murderer's conscience will drive him into hell. Don't stop him! [18] Good men will be rescued from harm, but cheaters will be destroyed. [19] Hard work brings prosperity; playing around brings poverty. [20] The man who wants to do right will get a rich reward. But the man who wants to get rich quick will quickly fail. [21] Giving preferred treatment to rich people is a clear case of selling one's soul for a piece of bread. [22] Trying to get rich quick is evil and leads to poverty. [23] In the end, people appreciate frankness more than flattery. [24] A man who robs his parents and says, "What's wrong with that?" is no better than a murderer. [25] Greed causes fighting; trusting God leads to prosperity. [26] A man is a fool to trust himself! But those who use God's wisdom are safe. [27] If you give to the poor, your needs will be supplied! But a curse upon those who close their eyes to poverty. [28] When the wicked prosper, good men go away; when the wicked meet disaster, good men return.