9
Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase;
10
So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine.
11
My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor detest His correction;
12
For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights.
13
Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding;
14
For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, And her gain than fine gold.
15
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.
19
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.
23
Then you will walk safely in your way, And your foot will not stumble.
24
When you lie down, you will not be afraid; Yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet.
25
Do not be afraid of sudden terror, Nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes;
26
For the Lord will be your confidence, And will keep your foot from being caught.
27
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so.
28
Do not say to your neighbor, "Go, and come back, And tomorrow I will give it," When you have it with you.
29
Do not devise evil against your neighbor, For he dwells by you for safety's sake.