7
Give to good people, but do not help sinners.
8
When things are going well, it is hard to tell who your real friends are, but in hard times you can recognize your enemies;
9
even your friends will leave you then. But when you are successful, your enemies will act like friends.
10
Never trust an enemy; his wickedness is as destructive as rust.
11
Watch out, and be on guard against him, even if he acts ever so humble. He is like a metal mirror that rusts away if you don't keep it polished.
12
Seat an enemy at your right hand, and the next thing you know he'll be trying to get your own place of honor. Put him next to you, and he will overthrow you. Then you will realize the truth of my words, and be stung with regret when you remember them.
13
Nobody feels sorry for snake charmers or wild animal tamers who get bitten,
14
and nobody will feel sorry for you if you run around with sinners and get involved in their wrongdoing.
15
An enemy will stay with you for a while, but not when trouble comes.
16
He will speak fine words while he plots how to trap you. He will pretend to share your sorrows, but he will kill you if he gets a chance.
17
If trouble comes your way, you will find him waiting, ready to trip you up while he pretends to help you.