Proverbs 28:1-28 NLT

[1] The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions. [2] When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability. [3] A poor person who oppresses the poor is like a pounding rain that destroys the crops. [4] To reject the law is to praise the wicked; to obey the law is to fight them. [5] Evil people don't understand justice, but those who follow the LORD understand completely. [6] Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and rich. [7] Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents. [8] Income from charging high interest rates will end up in the pocket of someone who is kind to the poor. [9] God detests the prayers of a person who ignores the law. [10] Those who lead good people along an evil path will fall into their own trap, but the honest will inherit good things. [11] Rich people may think they are wise, but a poor person with discernment can see right through them. [12] When the godly succeed, everyone is glad. When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding. [13] People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. [14] Blessed are those who fear to do wrong, but the stubborn are headed for serious trouble. [15] A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a roaring lion or an attacking bear. [16] A ruler with no understanding will oppress his people, but one who hates corruption will have a long life. [17] A murderer's tormented conscience will drive him into the grave. Don't protect him! [18] The blameless will be rescued from harm, but the crooked will be suddenly destroyed. [19] A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies ends up in poverty. [20] The trustworthy person will get a rich reward, but a person who wants quick riches will get into trouble. [21] Showing partiality is never good, yet some will do wrong for a mere piece of bread. [22] Greedy people try to get rich quick but don't realize they're headed for poverty. [23] In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery. [24] Anyone who steals from his father and mother and says, "What's wrong with that?" is no better than a murderer. [25] Greed causes fighting; trusting the LORD leads to prosperity. [26] Those who trust their own insight are foolish, but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe. [27] Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed. [28] When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding. When the wicked meet disaster, the godly flourish.