GodsWord - Proverbs - 3

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.