10 Don’t leave your friends or your parents’ friends
    and run home to your family when things get rough;
Better a nearby friend
    than a distant family.

11 Become wise, dear child, and make me happy;
    then nothing the world throws my way will upset me.

12 A prudent person sees trouble coming and ducks;
    a simpleton walks in blindly and is clobbered.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

Message REMIX 2.0, Hardcover
Message REMIX 2.0, Hardcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $23.99
Save: $6.00 (20%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
Message Slimline Bible--soft leather-look, brown
Message Slimline Bible--soft leather-look, brown
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $32.99
Save: $7.00 (18%)
3.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible, Softcover
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible, Softcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $21.99
Save: $8.00 (27%)
The Message for Graduates - eBook
The Message for Graduates - eBook
Retail: $12.99
Our Price: $8.99
Save: $4.00 (31%)