« | Proverbs 6 | » |
1 My child, have you promised to be responsible for someone else's debts?
2 Have you been caught by your own words, trapped by your own promises?
3 Well then, my child, you are in that person's power, but this is how to get out of it: hurry to him, and beg him to release you.
4 Don't let yourself go to sleep or even stop to rest.
5 Get out of the trap like a bird or a deer escaping from a hunter.
6 Lazy people should learn a lesson from the way ants live.
7 They have no leader, chief, or ruler,
8 but they store up their food during the summer, getting ready for winter.
9 How long is the lazy man going to lie around? When is he ever going to get up?
10 "I'll just take a short nap," he says; "I'll fold my hands and rest a while."
11 But while he sleeps, poverty will attack him like an armed robber.
12 Worthless, wicked people go around telling lies.
13 They wink and make gestures to deceive you,
14 all the while planning evil in their perverted minds, stirring up trouble everywhere.
15 Because of this, disaster will strike them without warning, and they will be fatally wounded.
16 There are seven things that the LORD hates and cannot tolerate: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that kill innocent people, a mind that thinks up wicked plans, feet that hurry off to do evil, a witness who tells one lie after another, and someone who stirs up trouble among friends.
17 (SEE 6:16)
18 (SEE 6:16)
19 (SEE 6:16)
20 Son, do what your father tells you and never forget what your mother taught you.
21 Keep their words with you always, locked in your heart.
22 Their teaching will lead you when you travel, protect you at night, and advise you during the day.
23 Their instructions are a shining light; their correction can teach you how to live.
24 It can keep you away from bad women, from the seductive words of other men's wives.
25 Don't be tempted by their beauty; don't be trapped by their flirting eyes.
26 A man can hire a prostitute for the price of a loaf of bread, but adultery will cost him all he has.
27 Can you carry fire against your chest without burning your clothes?
28 Can you walk on hot coals without burning your feet?
29 It is just as dangerous to sleep with another man's wife. Whoever does it will suffer.
30 People don't despise a thief if he steals food when he is hungry;
31 yet if he is caught, he must pay back seven times more---he must give up everything he has.
32 But a man who commits adultery doesn't have any sense. He is just destroying himself.
33 He will be dishonored and beaten up; he will be permanently disgraced.
34 A husband is never angrier than when he is jealous; his revenge knows no limits.
35 He will not accept any payment; no amount of gifts will satisfy his anger.
The Good News Bible (GNB)
The Good News Bible (GNB), also known as the Good News Translation (GNT) in the United States, is an English translation of the Bible that prioritizes readability and accessibility for a diverse audience. First published in 1966 by the American Bible Society, the GNB was originally designed as a translation for people with limited English proficiency, including non-native speakers and those with lower literacy levels. Its straightforward and contemporary language makes it particularly effective for use in educational settings, churches, and personal study.
One of the hallmark features of the Good News Bible is its dynamic equivalence translation philosophy, which focuses on conveying the thought and meaning of the original texts rather than adhering strictly to a word-for-word approach. This allows the translators to use idiomatic expressions and familiar language that resonate with modern readers. The GNB aims to present the Bible in a way that is relatable and engaging, making it easier for readers to connect with the biblical stories and teachings without getting bogged down by archaic language or complex theological terminology.
In addition to its clear language, the Good News Bible includes helpful illustrations, maps, and notes that enhance the reader’s understanding of the text. The translation is structured to facilitate comprehension, often breaking up longer passages into shorter paragraphs and sections. This visual organization aids readers in navigating the biblical narrative and understanding the context of various stories and teachings. The GNB also includes helpful footnotes that provide additional information and insights into specific verses, making it a valuable resource for study and reflection.
Despite its strengths, the Good News Bible has faced criticism from some scholars and traditionalists who prefer more literal translations. Critics argue that the dynamic equivalence approach can lead to a loss of nuance and depth present in the original languages. Additionally, some readers express concern that the GNB’s simplified language may not adequately convey the richness of the biblical text. However, the Good News Bible remains a widely used and appreciated translation, particularly for its commitment to making the scriptures accessible to all, allowing readers from various backgrounds to engage with and understand the timeless messages of the Bible.