Proverbs 3

Chapter 3

Trusting in the LORD

1 My child,t never forget the things I have taught you.
Store my commands in your heart.2 If you do this, you will live many years,
and your life will be satisfying.3 Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!
Tie them around your neck as a reminder.
Write them deep within your heart.4 Then you will find favor with both God and people,
and you will earn a good reputation.5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.6 Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.7 Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.
Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil.8 Then you will have healing for your body
and strength for your bones.9 Honor the LORD with your wealth
and with the best part of everything you produce.10 Then he will fill your barns with grain,
and your vats will overflow with good wine.11 My child, don’t reject the LORD’s discipline,
and don’t be upset when he corrects you.12 For the LORD corrects those he loves,
just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.t13 Joyful is the person who finds wisdom,
the one who gains understanding.14 For wisdom is more profitable than silver,
and her wages are better than gold.15 Wisdom is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.16 She offers you long life in her right hand,
and riches and honor in her left.17 She will guide you down delightful paths;
all her ways are satisfying.18 Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her;
happy are those who hold her tightly.19 By wisdom the LORD founded the earth;
by understanding he created the heavens.20 By his knowledge the deep fountains of the earth burst forth,
and the dew settles beneath the night sky.21 My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment.
Hang on to them,22 for they will refresh your soul.
They are like jewels on a necklace.23 They keep you safe on your way,
and your feet will not stumble.24 You can go to bed without fear;
you will lie down and sleep soundly.25 You need not be afraid of sudden disaster
or the destruction that comes upon the wicked,26 for the LORD is your security.
He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it
when it’s in your power to help them.28 If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say,
“Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.”29 Don’t plot harm against your neighbor,
for those who live nearby trust you.30 Don’t pick a fight without reason,
when no one has done you harm.31 Don’t envy violent people
or copy their ways.32 Such wicked people are detestable to the LORD,
but he offers his friendship to the godly.33 The LORD curses the house of the wicked,
but he blesses the home of the upright.34 The LORD mocks the mockers
but is gracious to the humble.t35 The wise inherit honor,
but fools are put to shame!

PROVERBS 3

Trust God

1 My child, remember
my teachings and instructions
and obey them completely.

2 They will help you live
a long and prosperous life.

3 Let love and loyalty
always show like a necklace,
and write them in your mind.

4  t God and people will like you
and hold you in high esteem.

5 With all your heart
you must trust the [Lord]
and not your own judgment.

6 Always let him lead you,
and he will clear the road
for you to follow.

7  t Don't ever think that you
are wise enough,
but respect the [Lord]
and stay away from evil.

8 This will make you healthy,
and you will feel strong.

9 Honor the [Lord] by giving him
your money and the first part
of all your crops.

10 Then you will have
more grain and grapes
than you will ever need.

11  t t My child, don't turn away
or become bitter
when the [Lord] corrects you.

12  t The [Lord] corrects
everyone he loves,
just as parents correct
a child they dearly love.

The Value of Wisdom

13 God blesses everyone
who has wisdom
and common sense.

14 Wisdom is worth more
than silver;
it makes you much richer
than gold.

15 Wisdom is more valuable
than precious jewels;
nothing you want
compares with her.

16 In her right hand
Wisdom holds a long life,
and in her left hand
are wealth and honor.

17 Wisdom makes life pleasant
and leads us safely along.

18 Wisdom is a life-giving tree,
the source of happiness
for all who hold on to her.

19 By his wisdom and knowledge
the [Lord] created
heaven and earth.

20 By his understanding
he let the ocean break loose
and clouds release the rain.

21 My child, use common sense
and sound judgment!
Always keep them in mind.

22 They will help you to live
a long and beautiful life.

23 You will walk safely
and never stumble;

24 you will rest without a worry
and sleep soundly.

25 So don't be afraid
of sudden disasters
or storms that strike
those who are evil.

26 You can be sure that the [Lord]
will protect you from harm.

27  t Do all you can for everyone
who deserves your help.

28 Don't tell your neighbor
to come back tomorrow,
if you can help today.

29 Don't try to be mean
to neighbors who trust you.

30 Don't argue just to be arguing,
when you haven't been hurt.

31 Don't be jealous
of cruel people
or follow their example.

32 The [Lord] doesn't like
anyone who is dishonest,
but he lets good people
be his friends.

33 He places a curse on the home
of everyone who is evil,
but he blesses the home
of every good person.

34  t The [Lord] sneers at those
who sneer at him,
but he is kind to everyone
who is humble.

35 You will be praised
if you are wise,
but you will be disgraced
if you are a stubborn fool.