Proverbs 22:1-29 NLT

[1] Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold. [2] The rich and poor have this in common: The LORD made them both. [3] A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. [4] True humility and fear of the LORD lead to riches, honor, and long life. [5] Corrupt people walk a thorny, treacherous road; whoever values life will avoid it. [6] Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. [7] Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender. [8] Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster, and their reign of terror will come to an end. [9] Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor. [10] Throw out the mocker, and fighting goes, too. Quarrels and insults will disappear. [11] Whoever loves a pure heart and gracious speech will have the king as a friend. [12] The LORD preserves those with knowledge, but he ruins the plans of the treacherous. [13] The lazy person claims, "There's a lion out there! If I go outside, I might be killed!" [14] The mouth of an immoral woman is a dangerous trap; those who make the LORD angry will fall into it. [15] A youngster's heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away. [16] A person who gets ahead by oppressing the poor or by showering gifts on the rich will end in poverty. [17] Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to my instruction. [18] For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart and always ready on your lips. [19] I am teaching you today-yes, you- so you will trust in the LORD. [20] I have written thirty sayings for you, filled with advice and knowledge. [21] In this way, you may know the truth and take an accurate report to those who sent you. [22] Don't rob the poor just because you can, or exploit the needy in court. [23] For the LORD is their defender. He will ruin anyone who ruins them. [24] Don't befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, [25] or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul. [26] Don't agree to guarantee another person's debt or put up security for someone else. [27] If you can't pay it, even your bed will be snatched from under you. [28] Don't cheat your neighbor by moving the ancient boundary markers set up by previous generations. [29] Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than working for ordinary people.