1 We humans make plans,

but the Lord

has the final word.

2 We may think we know

what is right,

but the Lord is the judge

of our motives.

3 Share your plans with the Lord,

and you will succeed.

4 The Lord has a reason

for everything he does,

and he lets evil people live

only to be punished.

5 The Lord doesn't like

anyone who is conceited—

you can be sure

they will be punished.

6 * If we truly love God,

our sins will be forgiven;

if we show him respect,

we will keep away from sin.

7 When we please the Lord,

even our enemies

make friends with us.

8 * It's better to be honest

and poor

than to be dishonest

and rich.

9 We make our own plans,

but the Lord decides

where we will go.

10 Rulers speak with authority

and are never wrong.

11 The Lord watches to see

if we are fair

or if we cheat others.

12 Justice makes rulers powerful.

They should hate evil

13 and like honesty and truth.

14 An angry ruler

can put you to death.

So be wise!

Don't make one angry.

15 When a ruler is happy

and pleased with you,

it's like refreshing rain,

and you will live.

16 It's much better to be wise

and sensible

than to be rich.

17 God's people avoid evil ways,

and they protect themselves

by watching where they go.

18 Too much pride

will destroy you.

19 You are better off

to be humble and poor

than to get rich

from what you take by force.

20 If you know what you're doing,*

you will prosper.

God blesses everyone

who trusts him.

21 Good judgment proves

that you are wise,

and if you speak kindly,

you can teach others.

22 Good sense is a fountain

that gives life,

but fools are punished

by their foolishness.

23 You can persuade others

if you are wise

and speak sensibly.

24 Kind words are like honey—

they cheer you up

and make you feel strong.

25 * Sometimes what seems right

is really a road to death.

26 The hungrier you are,

the harder you work.

27 Worthless people plan trouble.

Even their words burn

like a flaming fire.

28 * Gossip is no good!

It causes hard feelings

and comes between friends.

29 Don't trust violent people.

They will mislead you

to do the wrong thing.

30 When someone winks

or grins behind your back,

trouble is on the way.

31 Gray hair is a glorious crown

worn by those

who have lived right.

32 Controlling your temper

is better than being a hero

who captures a city.

33 We make our own decisions,

but the Lord alone

determines what happens.