Proverbs 22

1 A good reputation is more desirable than great wealth, and favorable acceptance more than silver and gold.ISV — Proverbs 22:1

2 The rich and the poor have this in common— the LORD created both of them.ISV — Proverbs 22:2

3 The prudent person sees trouble ahead and hides, but the naive continue on and suffer the consequences.ISV — Proverbs 22:3

4 The reward of humility is the fear of the LORD, along with wealth, honor, and life.ISV — Proverbs 22:4

5 Thorns and snares lie in the path of the perverse person, but whoever is cautious stays far away from them.ISV — Proverbs 22:5

6 Train a child in the way appropriate for him, and when he becomes older, he will not turn from it.ISV — Proverbs 22:6

7 The wealthy rule over the poor, and anyone who borrows is a slave to the lender.ISV — Proverbs 22:7

8 Whoever sows wickedness reaps trouble, and the anger he uses for a weapon ^{a22:8 Lit. rod} will be destroyed.ISV — Proverbs 22:8

9 Whoever is generous ^{b22:9 Lit. A good eye} will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.ISV — Proverbs 22:9

10 Throw out the mocker and strife departs, too; ^{c22:10 The Heb. lacks too} furthermore, quarrels ^{d22:10 Or litigation} and discord will end.ISV — Proverbs 22:10

11 Whoever loves purity ^{e22:11 Lit. purity of heart} and gracious speech will gain the king as his friend.ISV — Proverbs 22:11

12 The LORD watches over anyone with knowledge, but he ruins the plans ^{f22:12 Lit. words} of the unfaithful.ISV — Proverbs 22:12

13 The lazy person says, “There is a lion outside! I will be killed in the street!”ISV — Proverbs 22:13

14 The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit; a man experiencing the LORD’s wrath will fall into it.ISV — Proverbs 22:14

15 A child’s heart has a tendency to do wrong, but the rod of discipline removes it far away from him.ISV — Proverbs 22:15

16 Whoever oppresses the poor to enrich himself and whoever gives gifts to the wealthy will yield only loss.ISV — Proverbs 22:16

17 Pay attention and listen to the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my teaching,ISV — Proverbs 22:17

18 for it is pleasant when you treasure them within you and have them ready on your lips.ISV — Proverbs 22:18

19 As a result, your trust will be in the LORD, that’s why I’m teaching you today, even you.ISV — Proverbs 22:19

20 Have I not written for you 30 sayings containing counsel and knowledge,ISV — Proverbs 22:20

21 to teach you true and reliable advice, so you can give truthful answers to those who sent you?ISV — Proverbs 22:21

22 Don’t rob the poor person because he is poor, and don’t crush the helpless in court, ^{g22:22 Lit. gate}ISV — Proverbs 22:22

23 for the LORD will plead their case and ruin the lives of those who ruin them.ISV — Proverbs 22:23

24 Don’t make friends with a hot-tempered man, and do not associate with someone who is easily angered,ISV — Proverbs 22:24

25 or you may learn his ways and find yourself caught in a trap.ISV — Proverbs 22:25

26 Don’t be one of those who make promises to guarantee loans for debts.ISV — Proverbs 22:26

27 If you don’t have the ability to pay, why should your very bed be taken from under you?ISV — Proverbs 22:27

28 Don’t remove an ancient boundary stone that was set up by your ancestors.ISV — Proverbs 22:28

29 Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will work for kings, not unimportant people.ISV — Proverbs 22:29