Proverbs 22:1-29 GNT

[1] If you have to choose between a good reputation and great wealth, choose a good reputation. [2] The rich and the poor have this in common: the LORD made them both. [3] Sensible people will see trouble coming and avoid it, but an unthinking person will walk right into it and regret it later. [4] Obey the LORD, be humble, and you will get riches, honor, and a long life. [5] If you love your life, stay away from the traps that catch the wicked along the way. [6] Teach children how they should live, and they will remember it all their life. [7] Poor people are slaves of the rich. Borrow money and you are the lender's slave. [8] If you plant the seeds of injustice, disaster will spring up, and your oppression of others will end. [9] Be generous and share your food with the poor. You will be blessed for it. [10] Get rid of a conceited person, and then there will be no more arguments, quarreling, or name-calling. [11] If you love purity of heart and graciousness of speech, the king will be your friend. [12] The LORD sees to it that truth is kept safe by disproving the words of liars. [13] Lazy people stay at home; they say a lion might get them if they go outside. [14] Adultery is a trap-it catches those with whom the LORD is angry. [15] Children just naturally do silly, careless things, but a good spanking will teach them how to behave. [16] If you make gifts to rich people or oppress the poor to get rich, you will become poor yourself. [17] Listen, and I will teach you what the wise have said. Study their teachings, [18] and you will be glad if you remember them and can quote them. [19] I want you to put your trust in the LORD; that is why I am going to tell them to you now. [20] I have written down thirty sayings for you. They contain knowledge and good advice, [21] and will teach you what the truth really is. Then when you are sent to find it out, you will bring back the right answer. [22] Don't take advantage of the poor just because you can; don't take advantage of those who stand helpless in court. [23] The LORD will argue their case for them and threaten the life of anyone who threatens theirs. [24] Don't make friends with people who have hot, violent tempers. [25] You might learn their habits and not be able to change. [26] Don't promise to be responsible for someone else's debts. [27] If you should be unable to pay, they will take away even your bed. [28] Never move an old property line that your ancestors established. [29] Show me someone who does a good job, and I will show you someone who is better than most and worthy of the company of kings.