3:1 My son, do not forget my teachings, and keep my commands in mind,
3:2 because they will bring you long life, good years, and peace.
3:3 Do not let mercy and truth leave you. Fasten them around your neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart.
3:4 Then you will find favor and much success in the sight of God and humanity.
3:5 Trust the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.
3:6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths smooth.
3:7 Do not consider yourself wise. Fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.
3:8 [Then] your body will be healed, and your bones will have nourishment.
3:9 Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the first and best part of all your income.
3:10 Then your barns will be full, and your vats will overflow with fresh wine.
3:11 Do not reject the discipline of the LORD, my son, and do not resent his warning,
3:12 because the LORD warns the one he loves, even as a father warns a son with whom he is pleased.
3:13 Blessed is the one who finds wisdom and the one who obtains understanding.
3:14 The profit [gained] from [wisdom]is greater than the profit [gained] from silver. Its yield is better than fine gold.
3:15 [Wisdom] is more precious than jewels, and all your desires cannot equal it.
3:16 Long life is in [wisdom's] right hand. In [wisdom's] left hand are riches and honor.
3:17 [Wisdom's] ways are pleasant ways, and all its paths lead to peace.
3:18 [Wisdom] is a tree of life for those who take firm hold of it. Those who cling to it are blessed.
3:19 By Wisdom the LORD laid the foundation of the earth. By understanding he established the heavens.
3:20 By his knowledge the deep waters were divided, and the skies dropped dew.
3:21 My son, do not lose sight of these things. Use priceless wisdom and foresight.
3:22 Then they will mean life for you, and they will grace your neck.
3:23 Then you will go safely on your way, and you will not hurt your foot.
3:24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid. As you lie there, your sleep will be sweet.
3:25 Do not be afraid of sudden terror or of the destruction of wicked people when it comes.
3:26 The LORD will be your confidence. He will keep your foot from getting caught.
3:27 Do not hold back anything good from those who are entitled to it when you have the power to do so.
3:28 When you have the good thing with you, do not tell your neighbor, "Go away! Come back tomorrow. I'll give you something then."
3:29 Do not plan to do something wrong to your neighbor while he is sitting there with you and suspecting nothing.
3:30 Do not quarrel with a person for no reason if he has not harmed you.
3:31 Do not envy a violent person. Do not choose any of his ways.
3:32 The devious person is disgusting to the LORD. The LORD's intimate advice is with decent people.
3:33 The LORD curses the house of wicked people, but he blesses the home of righteous people.
3:34 When he mocks the mockers, he is gracious to humble people.
3:35 Wise people will inherit honor, but fools will bear disgrace.
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