Proverbs 28:1-28 CEV

[1] Wicked people run away when no one chases them, but those who live right are as brave as lions. [2] In time of civil war there are many leaders, but a sensible leader restores law and order. [3] When someone poor takes over and mistreats the poor, it's like a heavy rain destroying the crops. [4] Lawbreakers praise criminals, but law-abiding citizens always oppose them. [5] Criminals don't know what justice means, but all who respect the LORD understand it completely. [6] It's better to be poor and live right, than to be rich and dishonest. [7] It makes good sense to obey the Law of God, but you disgrace your parents if you make friends with worthless nobodies. [8] If you make money by charging high interest rates, you will lose it all to someone who cares for the poor. [9] God cannot stand the prayers of anyone who disobeys his Law. [10] By leading good people to sin, you dig a pit for yourself, but all who live right will have a bright future. [11] The rich think highly of themselves, but anyone poor and sensible sees right through them. [12] When an honest person wins, it's time to celebrate; when crooks are in control, it's best to hide. [13] If you don't confess your sins, you will be a failure. But God will be merciful if you confess your sins and give them up. [14] The LORD blesses everyone who is afraid to do evil, but if you are cruel, you will end up in trouble. [15] A ruler who mistreats the poor is like a roaring lion or a bear hunting for food. [16] A heartless leader is a fool, but anyone who refuses to get rich by cheating others will live a long time. [17] Don't give help to murderers! Make them stay on the run for as long as they live. [18] Honesty will keep you safe, but everyone who is crooked will suddenly fall. [19] Work hard, and you will have a lot of food; waste time, and you will have a lot of trouble. [20] God blesses his loyal people, but punishes all who want to get rich quick. [21] It isn't right to be unfair, but some people can be bribed with only a piece of bread. [22] Don't be selfish and eager to get rich- you will end up worse off than you can imagine. [23] Honest correction is appreciated more than flattery. [24] If you cheat your parents and don't think it's wrong, you are a common thief. [25] Selfish people cause trouble, but you will live a full life if you trust the LORD. [26] Only fools would trust what they alone think, but if you live by wisdom, you will do all right. [27] Giving to the poor will keep you from poverty, but if you close your eyes to their needs, everyone will curse you. [28] When crooks are in control, everyone tries to hide, but when they lose power, good people are everywhere.