Proverbs 22:1-29 ICB

[1] Being respected is more important than having great riches. To be well thought of is better than owning silver or gold. [2] The rich and the poor are alike in that the Lord made them all. [3] When a wise person sees danger ahead, he avoids it. But a foolish person keeps going and gets into trouble. [4] Respecting the Lord and not being proud will bring you wealth, honor and life. [5] The lives of evil people are like paths covered with thorns and traps. People who protect themselves don't have such problems. [6] Train a child how to live the right way. Then even when he is old, he will still live that way. [7] The rich rule over the poor. And borrowers become servants to those who lend. [8] A person who does evil things will receive trouble in return. Then he won't be cruel to others any longer. [9] A generous person will be blessed because he shares his food with the poor. [10] Get rid of the person who makes fun of wisdom. Then fighting, quarrels and insults will stop. [11] A person who loves innocent thoughts and kind words will have even the king as a friend. [12] The Lord protects knowledge from being lost. But he destroys false words. [13] The lazy person says, "There's a lion outside! I might get killed out in the street!" [14] The words of an unfaithful wife are like a deep trap. Those who make the Lord angry will get caught by them. [15] Every child is full of foolishness. But punishment can get rid of it. [16] The one who gets rich by being cruel to the poor will become poor. And so will the one who gives presents to the wealthy. [17] Pay attention and listen to what wise people say. Remember what I am teaching you. [18] It will be good to keep these things in mind. Be prepared to repeat them. [19] I am teaching them to you now so that you will put your trust in the Lord. [20] I have written down 30 sayings for you. They give knowledge and good advice. [21] I am teaching you true and reliable words. Then you can give true answers to anyone who asks. [22] Do not abuse poor people because they are poor. And do not take away the rights of the needy in court. [23] The Lord will defend them in court. And he will take the life of those who take away their rights. [24] Don't make friends with someone who easily gets angry. Don't spend time with someone who has a bad temper. [25] If you do, you may learn to be like him. Then you will be in real danger. [26] Don't promise to pay what someone else owes. And don't give guarantees that you will pay what he owes. [27] If you cannot pay what he owes, your own bed will be taken and sold. [28] Don't move an old stone that shows where a person's land is. These stones were set up by your ancestors. [29] Do you see a man skilled in his work? That man will work for kings. He won't have to work for ordinary people.