6. Many rulers have beencompletely dishonored,and those once held in honorhave been handed over to others.
7. Don’t find fault before you investigate;consider first, and then reprimand.
8. Don’t answer before you listen,and don’t interrupt someonewho is speaking.
9. Don’t argue about somethingthat doesn’t matter to you,and don’t deliberate in a court casebetween sinners.
10. My child, don’t be busy with many things;if you multiply pursuits,you won’t be held guiltless.If you pursue them,you won’t overtake them,and when you flee, you won’t escape.
11. Some people work hard, struggle,and hurry—and end up even more deeply in need.
12. Others are sluggish and need support,lacking strengthand immersed in poverty.The Lord has looked upon themwith kindness,and has restored themfrom their low position.
13. He has raised up their heads,and many have been amazed at them.
14. Good things and bad, life and death,poverty and wealth come from the Lord.
17. The Lord’s gift remains with the godly,and his favor will always bring success.
18. Some become rich from diligenceand greed,and this is part of their reward:
19. When they say, "I’ve found rest,and now I’ll eat of my good things,"they don’t know when the timewill comewhen they will leave these thingsto others and die.
20. Stand by your agreement,devote attention to accomplishing it,and grow old in your work.
21. Don’t be amazed at the works of sinners,but trust in the Lordand continue your work,because it is easy in God’s sightto make the poor personquickly and suddenly rich.