.22:1-16.

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Children and adults (Prov 22:1-16)

People vary in reputation and status, but they should respect one another as being equally God’s creatures (Prov 22:1-2).

Wise people will act with caution and humility. They will bring up their children in a way that prepares them for the experiences they will face in the life ahead (Prov 22:3-6).

Those who borrow will fall into the power of the lenders, and this can lead to unjust treatment of the poor by the rich. Such oppression will be punished, but generosity will be rewarded (Prov 22:7-9).

When people are trying to work together as a group, harmony and understanding are essential. It is better to get rid of, than to tolerate, the person who makes trouble. A sincere person is an asset (Prov 22:10-11).

God wants people to act according to truth and knowledge. He has no pleasure in the lazy who make excuses or the immoral who seduce others (Prov 22:12-14).

Wise parental discipline can correct childish foolishness. Adult greed can lead to persecution of the poor and bribery of the rich, but in due course it will be punished (Prov 22:15-16).