² When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily; but with honest, sensible leaders there is stability.

¹² When the godly are successful, everyone is glad. When the wicked succeed, everyone is sad.

¹⁵ A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a lion or bear attacking them.

¹⁶ Only a stupid prince will oppress his people, but a king will have a long reign if he hates dishonesty and bribes.

¹⁷ A murderer’s conscience will drive him into hell. Don’t stop him!

²⁸ When the wicked prosper, good men go away; when the wicked meet disaster, good men return.

² With good men in authority, the people rejoice; but with the wicked in power, they groan.

⁴ A just king gives stability to his nation, but one who demands bribes destroys it.

¹² A wicked ruler will have wicked aides on his staff.

¹⁴ A king who is fair to the poor shall have a long reign.

¹⁶ When rulers are wicked, their people are too; but good men will live to see the tyrant’s downfall.

¹⁸ Where there is ignorance of God, crime runs wild; but what a wonderful thing it is for a nation to know and keep his laws.