Contemporary English Version 1that turn you into an enemy instead of a friend. A reputation for being dishonest will bring you nothing but shame and insults. 2Don't fall under the power of evil desires. They are burning flames that will destroy you, 3and you will be left to wither, like a tree with burned leaves and scorched fruit. 4Evil desires will destroy you, and your enemies will laugh. Be Friendly with Everyone 5If you speak pleasantly and politely, you will make friends and be welcome anywhere. 6Be friendly with everyone, but only listen to advice from those few you can trust. 7Make sure they are true friends before you trust them, 8because some will be friendly when everything is fine, but they won't help when you have trouble. 9If you argue with other friends, they will become enemies and tell about the argument so you will look bad. 10Still others will come to dinner but not to help if you have trouble. 11In good times, they will be so close, that your servants will have to obey them. 12But if you lose your wealth, they will disappear. 13Keep your distance from enemies and don't be fooled by false friends. * 14Loyal friends will protect you with all their strength 15and are worth more than any other treasure. * 16They are even like medicine that can save your life. And here's how you can have such loyal friends: 17obey the Lord and choose friends who also obey him. Become a Slave to Wisdom 18Students, be disciplined and learn Wisdom when you are young, and as your hair turns gray, she will never desert you. 19 Learning Wisdom isn't so hard. It's like plowing a little and planting a few seeds-- then a short time later eating food from the harvest. 20But to those who are fools or have no discipline, the job will seem too great, and they will give up. 21When Wisdom tests them, they will toss her aside, as if she were a stone too heavy to carry. 22Wisdom is hidden from most people, just as her name suggests. 23Pay attention, students-- don't reject my advice. 24Become a slave to Wisdom, with her chains fastened around your neck and feet. 25Carry her on your shoulders and don't let those chains make you angry. 26Make up your mind to follow and stay close to Wisdom wherever she goes. 27Search, and you will find her; once she is yours, hold her tightly. 28Then she will give you a peaceful and happy life. 29Her chains on your feet will become your protection, and those on your neck will turn into a royal robe, 30decorated with gold jewelry and tied with a purple cord. 31You will wear Wisdom like a beautiful robe or like a crown at a victory celebration. 32Students, you are able to discipline yourself and learn Wisdom-- just put your mind to it! 33Do you love to listen? That's all it really takes to gain Wisdom. 34Spend time with older people and stay close to those who are wise. 35When godly people speak, pay attention, and memorize every wise saying you hear. 36If you know smart people, visit them whenever you can, until their welcome mat wears thin from your feet. 37 Never stop considering God's laws and commands, and he will strengthen your mind with the Wisdom you want. Contemporary English Version, Second Edition (CEV®) © 2006 American Bible Society. All rights reserved. Bible text from the Contemporary English Version 2nd Edition (CEV®) is not to be reproduced in copies or otherwise by any means except as permitted in writing by American Bible Society, 101 North Independence Mall East, Floor 8, Philadelphia, PA 19106-2155 (www.americanbible.org). Learn more at www.cev.bible. Discover .BIBLE resources for your ministry at www.get.bible/cev. |