1
A sterling reputation is better than striking it rich; a gracious spirit is better than money in the bank.
2
The rich and the poor shake hands as equals -
God made them both!
3
A prudent person sees trouble coming and ducks;
a simpleton walks in blindly and is clobbered.
4
The payoff for meekness and Fear-of-God
is plenty and honor and a satisfying life.
5
The perverse travel a dangerous road, potholed and mud-slick;
if you know what's good for you, stay clear of it.
6
Point your kids in the right direction -
when they're old they won't be lost.
7
The poor are always ruled over by the rich,
so don't borrow and put yourself under their power.
8
Whoever sows sin reaps weeds,
and bullying anger sputters into nothing.
9
Generous hands are blessed hands
because they give bread to the poor.
10
Kick out the troublemakers and things will quiet down;
you need a break from bickering and griping!
11
God loves the pure-hearted and well-spoken;
good leaders also delight in their friendship.
12
God guards knowledge with a passion,
but he'll have nothing to do with deception.
13
The loafer says, "There's a lion on the loose!
If I go out I'll be eaten alive!"
14
The mouth of a whore is a bottomless pit;
you'll fall in that pit if you're on the outs with God.
15
Young people are prone to foolishness and fads;
the cure comes through tough-minded discipline.
16
Exploit the poor or glad-hand the rich - whichever,
you'll end up the poorer for it.