1
Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.
2
The rich and poor have this in common: The LORD made them both.
3
A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.
4
True humility and fear of the LORD lead to riches, honor, and long life.
5
Corrupt people walk a thorny, treacherous road; whoever values life will avoid it.
6
Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.
7
Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.
8
Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster, and their reign of terror will come to an end.
9
Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor.
10
Throw out the mocker, and fighting goes, too. Quarrels and insults will disappear.
11
Whoever loves a pure heart and gracious speech will have the king as a friend.
12
The LORD preserves those with knowledge, but he ruins the plans of the treacherous.
13
The lazy person claims, “There’s a lion out there! If I go outside, I might be killed!”
14
The mouth of an immoral woman is a dangerous trap; those who make the LORD angry will fall into it.
15
A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away.
16
A person who gets ahead by oppressing the poor or by showering gifts on the rich will end in poverty.
17
Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to my instruction.
18
For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart and always ready on your lips.
19
I am teaching you today—yes, you— so you will trust in the LORD .