3
Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart,
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And so find favor and high esteem In the sight of God and man.
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Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;
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In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
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Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil.
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It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.
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Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase;
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So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine.
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My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor detest His correction;
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For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights.
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Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding;
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For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, And her gain than fine gold.
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She is more precious than rubies, And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her.
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Length of days is in her right hand, In her left hand riches and honor.
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Her ways are ways of pleasantness, And all her paths are peace.
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She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy are all who retain her.
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The Lord by wisdom founded the earth; By understanding He established the heavens;
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By His knowledge the depths were broken up, And clouds drop down the dew.
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My son, let them not depart from your eyes-- Keep sound wisdom and discretion;
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So they will be life to your soul And grace to your neck.
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Then you will walk safely in your way, And your foot will not stumble.