Do not assert that the past was better than the present, for such a statement is not a sign of wisdom. | Do not say, “Why is it that the former days were better than these?” For it is not from wisdom that you ask about this. |
Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the most of your opportunity. Let your speech always be gracious and seasoned with wisdom, so that you will know how to respond properly to all. | Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Your speech must always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. |
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For God did not give us a spirit of timidity but rather a spirit of power and of love and of wisdom. | For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. |
Do not wear yourself out in the pursuit of wealth, and cease even to think about it. | Do not weary yourself to gain wealth; Stop dwelling on it. |
Do not pride yourself on your own wisdom; fear the Lord and turn your back on evil. This will provide healing for your flesh and restore strength to your body. | Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your body And refreshment to your bones. |
The law of the Lord is perfect, affording refreshment to the soul. The decree of the Lord is worthy of trust, imparting wisdom to the simple. | The Law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. |
For the grace of God has appeared bringing salvation to the entire human race. It teaches us to reject godless ways and worldly desires, and in the present age to lead lives that are temperate, just, and godly. | For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly manner in the present age. |