Proverbs 22

English TL (The Living Bible) (1971)

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1If you must choose, take a good name rather than great riches; for to be held in loving esteem is better than silver and gold.

2The rich and the poor are alike before the Lord who made them all.

3A prudent man foresees the difficulties ahead and prepares for them; the simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.

4True humility and respect for the Lord lead a man to riches, honor, and long life.

5The rebel walks a thorny, treacherous road; the man who values his soul will stay away.

6Teach a child to choose the right path, and when he is older, he will remain upon it.

7Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.

8The unjust tyrant will reap disaster, and his reign of terror shall end.

9Happy is the generous man, the one who feeds the poor.

10Throw out the mocker, and you will be rid of tension, fighting, and quarrels.

11He who values grace and truth is the king's friend.

12The Lord preserves the upright but ruins the plans of the wicked.

13The lazy man is full of excuses. “I can't go to work!“ he says. “If I go outside, I might meet a lion in the street and be killed!“

14A prostitute is a dangerous trap; those cursed of God are caught in it.

15A youngster's heart is filled with rebellion, but punishment will drive it out of him.

16He who gains by oppressing the poor or by bribing the rich shall end in poverty.

17Listen to this wise advice; follow it closely,

18for it will do you good, and you can

19pass it on to others: Trust in the Lord.

20In the past, haven't I been right?

21Then believe what I am telling you now and share it with others.

22Don't rob the poor and sick!

23For the Lord is their defender. If you injure them, he will punish you.

24Keep away from angry, short-tempered men, lest you

25learn to be like them and endanger your soul.

26Unless you have the extra cash on hand, don't countersign a note. Why risk everything you own?

27They'll even take your bed!

28Do not move the ancient boundary marks. That is stealing.

29Do you know a hard-working man? He shall be successful and stand before kings!

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