15
The Lord has pulled up nations by the roots and established humbler ones in their place.
16
The Lord has overthrown empires and completely devastated their lands.
17
He destroyed some so completely that they are not even remembered any more.
18
The Creator never intended for human beings to be arrogant and violent.
19
Who deserves honor? The human race does, because people fear the Lord. Who does not deserve honor? The human race does not, because people break the Lord's commands.
20
A leader should be honored by those who follow him, and the Lord honors those who fear him.
22
Rich people, famous people, and poor people all take pride in their fear of the Lord.
23
It is not right to refuse honor to a poor person who is intelligent, and it is not right to give honor to a sinner.
24
People of influence, rulers, and judges will be honored, but none of them is greater than a person who fears the Lord.
25
A slave who is wise will have free citizens serving him; and if they are sensible, they will not resent it.