New Century Version

Proverbs 24:19-26 New Century Version (NCV)

19. Don’t envy evil people,and don’t be jealous of the wicked.

20. An evil person has nothing to hope for;the wicked will die like a flame that is put out.

21. My child, respect the Lord and the king.Don’t join those people who refuse to obey them.

22. The Lord and the king will quickly destroy such people.Those two can cause great disaster!

23. These are also sayings of the wise:It is not good to take sides when you are the judge.

24. Don’t tell the wicked that they are innocent;people will curse you, and nations will hate you.

25. But things will go well if you punish the guilty,and you will receive rich blessings.

26. An honest answer is as pleasingas a kiss on the lips.