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 were the former days better than these?” For it is not from wisdom that you ask 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 wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone. |
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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 did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. |
Do not wear yourself out in the pursuit of wealth, and cease even to think about it. | Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to desist. |
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 a healing for your flesh and a refreshment for your body. |
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, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are 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, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly. |