11 An evil person seeks only rebellion, and so a cruel messenger will be sent against him. 12 It is better for a person to meet a mother bear being robbed of her cubs than to encounter a fool in his folly. 13 As for the one who repays evil for good, evil will not leave his house. 14 Starting a quarrel is like letting out water; abandon strife before it breaks out! 15 The one who acquits the guilty and the one who condemns the innocent—both of them are an abomination to the Lord.

13 and to esteem them most highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, admonish the undisciplined, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient toward all. 15 See that no one pays back evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good for one another and for all. 16 Always rejoice, 17 constantly pray,