NETtext - Proverbs - 3

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.