Proverbs 28:1-16 ▼

1 THE wicked flee when no man pursues them; but the righteous are confident as a lion.

2 Because of the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof; but by righteous men who know justice the stability thereof shall be prolonged.

3 A poor man who oppresses the poor is like a sweeping rain which is of no benefit.

4 Those who forsake the law glory in wickedness; but those who keep the law receive strength.

5 Evil men do not understand justice; but those who seek the LORD understand all good things.

6 Better is the poor man walking in his uprightness than a rich man whose ways are perverse.

7 He who keeps the law is a wise son; but he who is engaged in vanity shames his father.

8 He who increases his wealth by usury and unjust means shall leave it for him who is kind to the poor.

9 He who closes his ears from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.

10 He who causes the righteous to go astray in an evil path shall fall himself into the pit; but the upright shall inherit good things.

11 The rich man is wise in his own eyes; but a poor man of understanding will reprove him.

12 When righteous men are strong, there is a great glory; but when the wicked rise to power, the glory diminishes.

13 He who hides his transgression shall not prosper; but he who confesses his sins and forsakes them, God will have mercy upon him.

14 Blessed is the man who is reverent always; but he who hardens his heart shall fall into mischief.

15 As a roaring lion and a raging bear, so is a wicked ruler over the poor.

16 A ruler who lacks understanding is also a great oppressor; but he who hates deceit shall prolong his life.