Proverbs 3:11-30

11My 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,

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

13Happy [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],

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

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

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

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

18She 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.

19The Lord by His wisdom has founded the earth; By His understanding He has established the heavens.

20By His knowledge the deeps were broken up And the clouds drip with dew.

21My son, let them not escape from your sight, But keep sound wisdom and discretion,

22And they will be life to your soul (your inner self) And a gracious adornment to your neck (your outer self).

23Then you will walk on your way [of life] securely And your foot will not stumble.

24When you lie down, you will not be afraid; When you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.

25Do not be afraid of sudden fear Nor of the storm of the wicked when it comes [since you will be blameless];

26For the Lord will be your confidence, firm and strong, And will keep your foot from being caught [in a trap].

27Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due [its rightful recipients], When it is in your power to do it.

28Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come back, And tomorrow I will give it,” When you have it with you.

29Do not devise evil against your neighbor, Who lives securely beside you.

30Do not quarrel with a man without cause, If he has done you no harm.