1 Sinners run away even when no one is chasing them. But those who do what is right are as bold as lions.
2 A country has many rulers when its people don't obey. But an understanding king knows how to keep order.
3 A ruler who beats poor people down is like a pounding rain that leaves no crops.
4 Those who turn away from the law praise sinners. But those who obey the law oppose them.
5 Sinful men don't understand what is fair. But those who worship the Lord understand it completely.
6 It is better to be poor and live without blame than to be rich and follow a crooked path.