[1] Whoever stubbornly refuses to accept criticism will suddenly be destroyed beyond recovery. [2] When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan. [3] The man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but if he hangs around with prostitutes, his wealth is wasted. [4] A just king gives stability to his nation, but one who demands bribes destroys it. [5] To flatter friends is to lay a trap for their feet. [6] Evil people are trapped by sin, but the righteous escape, shouting for joy. [7] The godly care about the rights of the poor; the wicked don't care at all. [8] Mockers can get a whole town agitated, but the wise will calm anger. [9] If a wise person takes a fool to court, there will be ranting and ridicule but no satisfaction. [10] The bloodthirsty hate blameless people, but the upright seek to help them. [11] Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back. [12] If a ruler pays attention to liars, all his advisers will be wicked. [13] The poor and the oppressor have this in common- the LORD gives sight to the eyes of both. [14] If a king judges the poor fairly, his throne will last forever. [15] To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child. [16] When the wicked are in authority, sin flourishes, but the godly will live to see their downfall. [17] Discipline your children, and they will give you peace of mind and will make your heart glad. [18] When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful. [19] Words alone will not discipline a servant; the words may be understood, but they are not heeded. [20] There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking. [21] A servant pampered from childhood will become a rebel. [22] An angry person starts fights; a hot-tempered person commits all kinds of sin. [23] Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honor. [24] If you assist a thief, you only hurt yourself. You are sworn to tell the truth, but you dare not testify. [25] Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the LORD means safety. [26] Many seek the ruler's favor, but justice comes from the LORD. [27] The righteous despise the unjust; the wicked despise the godly.
