Proverbs 28:12-20

12When righteous people have power, everybody is happy. But when wicked people have power, good people run away to hide.

13Anyone who hides his sins will never do well. But God will forgive somebody, if he agrees that he has done wrong things, and if he turns away from his sins.

14If you are afraid to do wrong things, God will bless you. But trouble will happen to anyone who refuses to obey.

15A wicked ruler brings danger to poor people. He is as dangerous as an angry lion or a hungry bear.

16If a ruler is cruel, it shows that he is not wise. But a ruler who refuses bribes will rule for a long time.

17Someone who is guilty of murder will be running until he dies. Nobody should help him to escape.

18If you live in an honest way, you will be safe. But the hypocrite will suddenly fall into trouble.

19A farmer who works hard will have plenty of food to eat. But anyone who works only on useless things will always be poor.

20A faithful person will receive many blessings. But anyone who hurries to become rich will only receive punishment.