3:1 My child, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments,
3:2 for they will provide a long and full life, and they will add well-being to you.
3:3 Do not let truth and mercy leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
3:4 Then you will find favor and good understanding, in the sight of God and people.
3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.
3:6 Acknowledge him in all your ways, and he will make your paths straight.
3:7 Do not be wise in your own estimation; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.
3:8 This will bring healing to your body, and refreshment to your inner self.
3:9 Honor the LORD from your wealth and from the first fruits of all your crops;
3:10 then your barns will be filled completely, and your vats will overflow with new wine.
3:11 My child, do not despise discipline from the LORD, and do not loathe his rebuke.
3:12 For the LORD disciplines those he loves, just as a father disciplines the son in whom he delights.
3:13 Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who obtains understanding.
3:14 For her benefit is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than gold.
3:15 She is more precious than rubies, and none of the things you desire can compare with her.
3:16 Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor.
3:17 Her ways are very pleasant, and all her paths are peaceful.
3:18 She is like a tree of life to those who obtain her, and everyone who grasps hold of her will be blessed.
3:19 By wisdom the LORD laid the foundation of the earth; he established the heavens by understanding.
3:20 By his knowledge the primordial sea was broken open, and the clouds drip down dew.
3:21 My child, do not let them escape from your sight; safeguard sound wisdom and discretion.
3:22 So they will give life to you, and grace to adorn your neck.
3:23 Then you will walk on your way with security, and you will not stumble.
3:24 When you lie down you will not be filled with fear; when you lie down your sleep will be pleasant.
3:25 You will not be afraid of sudden disaster, or when destruction overtakes the wicked;
3:26 for the LORD will be the source of your confidence, and he will guard your foot from being caught in a trap.
3:27 Do not withhold good from those who need it, when you have the ability to help.
3:28 Do not say to your neighbor, "Go! Return tomorrow and I will give it," when you have it with you at the time.
3:29 Do not plot evil against your neighbor when he dwells by you unsuspectingly.
3:30 Do not accuse anyone without legitimate cause, if he has not treated you wrongly.
3:31 Do not envy a violent man, and do not choose to imitate any of his ways;
3:32 for one who goes astray is an abomination to the LORD, but he reveals his intimate counsel to the upright.
3:33 The LORD's curse is on the household of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous.
3:34 Although he is scornful to arrogant scoffers, yet he shows favor to the humble.
3:35 The wise inherit honor, but he holds fools up to public contempt.
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