Proverbs 3:13–35

¹³Joyful is the person who finds wisdom,

the one who gains understanding.

¹⁴For wisdom is more profitable than silver,

and her wages are better than gold.

¹⁵Wisdom is more precious than rubies;

nothing you desire can compare with her.

¹⁶She offers you long life in her right hand,

and riches and honor in her left.

¹⁷She will guide you down delightful paths;

all her ways are satisfying.

¹⁸Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her;

happy are those who hold her tightly.

¹⁹By wisdom the Lord founded the earth;

by understanding he created the heavens.

²⁰By his knowledge the deep fountains of the earth burst forth,

and the dew settles beneath the night sky.

²¹My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment.

Hang on to them,

²²for they will refresh your soul.

They are like jewels on a necklace.

²³They keep you safe on your way,

and your feet will not stumble.

²⁴You can go to bed without fear;

you will lie down and sleep soundly.

²⁵You need not be afraid of sudden disaster

or the destruction that comes upon the wicked,

²⁶for the Lord is your security.

He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.

²⁷Do not withhold good from those who deserve it

when it’s in your power to help them.

²⁸If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say,

“Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.”

²⁹Don’t plot harm against your neighbor,

for those who live nearby trust you.

³⁰Don’t pick a fight without reason,

when no one has done you harm.

³¹Don’t envy violent people

or copy their ways.

³²Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord,

but he offers his friendship to the godly.

³³The Lord curses the house of the wicked,

but he blesses the home of the upright.

³⁴The Lord mocks the mockers

but is gracious to the humble.

³⁵The wise inherit honor,

but fools are put to shame!