NET Bible
"You should not turn aside after empty things that can’t profit and can’t deliver, since they are empty."
— 1 Samuel 12:21, NET Bible
“And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.”
“and turn ye not aside; for then would ye go after vain things which cannot profit nor deliver, for they are vain. ”
“Don't turn aside; for [then you would go] after vain things which can't profit nor deliver, for they are vain.”
“And turn not aside after vain things, which shall never profit you, nor deliver you, because they are vain.”
“And do not go from the right way turning to those false gods in which there is no profit and no salvation, for they are false.”
“And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.”
So Samuel called to the LORD, and the LORD made it thunder and rain that day. All the people were very afraid of both the LORD and Samuel.
All the people said to Samuel,“Pray to the LORD your God on behalf of us– your servants– so we won’t die, for we have added to all our sins by asking for a king.”
Then Samuel said to the people,“Don’t be afraid. You have indeed sinned. However, don’t turn aside from the LORD. Serve the LORD with all your heart.
You should not turn aside after empty things that can’t profit and can’t deliver, since they are empty.
The LORD will not abandon his people because he wants to uphold his great reputation. The LORD was pleased to make you his own people.
As far as I am concerned, far be it from me to sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you! I will instruct you in the way that is good and upright.
However, fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. Just look at the great things he has done for you!