What does the Bible say about trusting strangers?

Proverbs 20:16 advises us to take the garment of someone who is surety for a stranger, which indicates a clear warning about trust. The essence of this proverb is to be wise in our dealings and to recognize that trusting someone we do not know can lead to suffering. Proverbs 11:15 reinforces this by stating, 'He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it.' This reflects a larger biblical principle: we should not engage with those who lack integrity or whose interests are contrary to God's word, as it may lead to our own compromise and loss.