Proverbs 3:1-18 ▼

1 My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments;

2 For length of days and years of life [worth living] And tranquility and prosperity [the wholeness of life’s blessings] they will add to you.

3 Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you [instead let these qualities define you]; Bind them [securely] around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart.

4 So find favor and high esteem In the sight of God and man.

5 Trust in and rely confidently on the LORD with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.

6 In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].

7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD [with reverent awe and obedience] and turn [entirely] away from evil.

8 It will be health to your body [your marrow, your nerves, your sinews, your muscles—all your inner parts] And refreshment (physical well-being) to your bones.

9 Honor the LORD with your wealth And with the first fruits of all your crops (income);

10 Then your barns will be abundantly filled And your vats will overflow with new wine.

11 My son, do not reject or take lightly the discipline of the LORD [learn from your mistakes and the testing that comes from His correction through discipline]; Nor despise His rebuke,

12 For those whom the LORD loves He corrects, Even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.

13 Happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is the man who finds [skillful and godly] wisdom, And the man who gains understanding and insight [learning from God’s word and life’s experiences],

14 For wisdom’s profit is better than the profit of silver, And her gain is better than fine gold.

15 She is more precious than rubies; And nothing you can wish for compares with her [in value].

16 Long life is in her right hand; In her left hand are riches and honor.

17 Her ways are highways of pleasantness and favor, And all her paths are peace.

18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is everyone who holds her tightly.