The Value of a Good Reputation

A good reputation and respect are worth much more than silver and gold. The rich and the poor are all created by the LORD. When you see trouble coming, don’t be stupid and walk right into it— be smart and hide. Respect and serve the LORD! Your reward will be wealth, a long life, and honor. Crooks walk down a road full of thorny traps. Stay away from there! Teach your children right from wrong, and when they are grown they will still do right. The poor are ruled by the rich, and those who borrow are slaves of moneylenders. Troublemakers get in trouble, and their terrible anger will get them nowhere. The LORD blesses everyone who freely gives food to the poor. Arguments and fights will come to an end, if you chase away those who insult others. The king is the friend of all who are sincere and speak with kindness. The LORD watches over everyone who shows good sense, but he frustrates the plans of deceitful liars. Don’t be so lazy that you say, “If I go to work, a lion will eat me!” The words of a bad woman are like a deep pit; if you make the LORD angry, you will fall right in. All children are foolish, but firm correction will make them change. Cheat the poor to make profit or give gifts to the rich— either way you lose. This is the word of the Lord Ref: Proverbs 22