Proverbs 28:4-14

4 If you have no regard for the law, you are on the side of the wicked; but if you obey it, you are against them.

5 Evil people do not know what justice is, but those who worship the Lord understand it well.

6 Better to be poor and honest than rich and dishonest.

7 Young people who obey the law are intelligent. Those who make friends with good-for-nothings are a disgrace to their parents.

8 If you get rich by charging interest and taking advantage of people, your wealth will go to someone who is kind to the poor.

9 If you do not obey the law, God will find your prayers too hateful to hear.

10 If you trick an honest person into doing evil, you will fall into your own trap. The innocent will be well rewarded.

11 Rich people always think they are wise, but a poor person who has insight into character knows better.

12 When good people come to power, everybody celebrates, but when bad people rule, people stay in hiding.

13 You will never succeed in life if you try to hide your sins. Confess them and give them up; then God will show mercy to you.

14 Always obey the Lord and you will be happy. If you are stubborn, you will be ruined.

Proverbs 28:4-14 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 15

In this chapter we have a short history of the reign of Abijam, 1Ki 15:1-8 and of Asa, 1Ki 14:9-24, both kings of Judah; and of the reigns of Nadab the son of Jeroboam, and of Baasha, who destroyed his family, both kings of Israel, 1Ki 15:25-34.