Old Testament

New Testament

Ecclesiastes 7:5-16 Contemporary English Version Anglicised (CEVUK00)

5. Harsh correction is betterthan the songs of a fool.

6. Foolish laughter is stupid.It sounds like thornscrackling in a fire.

7. Corruption makes foolsof sensible people,and bribes can ruin you.

8. Something completed is betterthan something just begun;patience is betterthan too much pride.

9. Only fools get angry quicklyand hold a grudge.

10. It isn't wise to ask,“Why is everything worsethan it used to be?”

11. Having wisdom is betterthan an inheritance.

12. Wisdom will protect youjust like money;knowledge with good sensewill lead you to life.

13. Think of what God has done!If God makes something crooked,can you make it straight?

14. When times are good,you should be cheerful;when times are bad,think what it means.God makes them bothto keep us from knowingwhat will happen next.

15. I have seen everything during this senseless life of mine. I have seen good citizens die for doing the right thing, and I have seen criminals live to a ripe old age.

16. So don't destroy yourself by being too good or acting too clever!

Read complete chapter Ecclesiastes 7