Proverbs 17:3-11 Holy Bible: Easy-To-Read Version (ETR)

3. Fire is used to make gold and silver pure, but a person’s heart is made pure by the Lord.

4. People who do evil listen to evil ideas. Liars listen to liars.

5. Whoever makes fun of beggars insults their Maker. Whoever laughs at someone else’s trouble will be punished.

6. Grandchildren are the pride and joy of old age, and children take great pride in their parents.

7. You wouldn’t expect to hear a fine speech from a fool, and you shouldn’t expect lies from a ruler.

8. Some people think a bribe is like a lucky charm—it seems to work wherever they go.

9. Forgive someone, and you will strengthen your friendship. Keep reminding them, and you will destroy it.

10. Smart people learn more from a single correction than fools learn from a hundred beatings.

11. Those who are evil only want to cause trouble. In the end, punishment without mercy will be sent to them.

Proverbs 17