[1] To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.
[2] The Lord approves of those who are good, but he condemns those who plan wickedness.
[3] Wickedness never brings stability, but the godly have deep roots.
[4] A worthy wife is a crown for her husband, but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones.
[5] The plans of the godly are just; the advice of the wicked is treacherous.
[6] The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives.
[7] The wicked die and disappear, but the family of the godly stands firm.
[8] A sensible person wins admiration, but a warped mind is despised.
[9] Better to be an ordinary person with a servant than to be self-important but have no food.
[10] The godly care for their animals, but the wicked are always cruel.
[11] A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.
[12] Thieves are jealous of each other’s loot, but the godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit.
[13] The wicked are trapped by their own words, but the godly escape such trouble.
[14] Wise words bring many benefits, and hard work brings rewards.
[15] Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others.
[16] A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted.
[17] An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies.
[18] Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
[19] Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed.
[20] Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil; joy fills hearts that are planning peace!
[21] No harm comes to the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.
[22] The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.
[23] The wise don’t make a show of their knowledge, but fools broadcast their foolishness.
[24] Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave.
[25] Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.
[26] The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray.
[27] Lazy people don’t even cook the game they catch, but the diligent make use of everything they find.
[28] The way of the godly leads to life; that path does not lead to death.