3:1 My son, always remember what I have taught you; keep my instructions dear to your heart.
3:2 If you do, they will be your guide to a long, healthy, prosperous life.
3:3 Stay focused; do not lose sight of mercy and truth; engrave them on a pendant, and hang it around your neck; meditate on them so they are written upon your heart.
3:4 In this way, you will win the favor of God and others, and they will think well of you.
3:5 Place your trust in the Eternal; rely on Him completely; never depend upon your own ideas and inventions.
3:6 Give Him the credit for everything you accomplish, and He will smooth out and straighten the road that lies ahead.
3:7 And don’t think you can decide on your own what is right and what is wrong. Respect the Eternal; turn and run from evil.
3:8 If you depend on Him, your body and mind will be free from the strain of a sinful life, will experience healing and health, and will be strengthened at their core.
3:9 Pay tribute to the Eternal in all of your affairs. Honor Him with the best of what you make.
3:10 That way you will prosper to the fullest and have plenty of food to eat and wine to drink.
3:11 My son, do not ignore the Eternal’s instruction or lose heart when He steps in to correct you;
3:12 Because the Eternal proves His love by caring enough to discipline you, just as a father does his child, his pride and joy.
3:13 How fortunate are those who discover Lady Wisdom and those who understand her ways!
3:14 For her worth is greater than the most expensive prize you could win. Her profit is greater than the finest thing you could buy.
3:15 No gem is more precious than she is— your most extravagant desire doesn’t come close to her.
3:16 She holds the secret of a long life in one hand and riches and fame in her other hand.
3:17 Her ways are pleasant; all of her pathways are peaceful.
3:18 She is like a tree that produces a satisfied life for anyone who can wrap their arms around her; happiness waits for any who hold her tightly.
3:19 It was by wisdom that the Eternal fashioned the earth and by understanding that He designed the heavens.
3:20 Through His knowledge, the deep was divided into seas and sky, and the clouds understood when to let down the morning dew.
3:21 My son, never lose sight of God’s wisdom and knowledge: make decisions out of true wisdom, guard your good sense,
3:22 And they will be life to your soul and fine jewelry around your neck.
3:23 Then each one of your steps will land securely on your life’s journey, and you will not trip or fall.
3:24 Your mind will be clear, free from fear; when you lie down to rest, you will be refreshed by sweet sleep.
3:25 Stay calm; there is no need to be afraid of a sudden disaster or to worry when calamity strikes the wicked,
3:26 For the Eternal is always there to protect you. He will safeguard your each and every step.
3:27 Do not withhold what is good from those who deserve it; if it is within your power to give it, do it.
3:28 Do not send your neighbor away, saying, “Get back with me tomorrow. I can give it to you then,” when what he needs is already in your hand.
3:29 Make no plans that could result in injury to your neighbor; after all, he should be more secure because he lives near you.
3:30 Avoid fighting with anyone without good reason, especially when no one has hurt you; you have nothing to fight about.
3:31 Do not envy someone who profits at the expense of others or copy any of his tyrannical ways,
3:32 For crooked people are detestable to the Eternal, but those with integrity receive His counsel.
3:33 His curse lingers over the wicked and their families, but He forever favors residence of those who do what is right.
3:34 God treats the arrogant as they treat others, mocking the mockers, scorning the scornful, but He pours out His grace on the humble.
3:35 In the end, the wise will receive honor, but fools will face humiliation.
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