Ecclesiastes 7:11-22

11Wisdom is even better when you have money. Both are a benefit as you go through life.

12Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life.

13Accept the way God does things, for who can straighten what he has made crooked?

14Enjoy prosperity while you can, but when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. Remember that nothing is certain in this life.

15I have seen everything in this meaningless life, including the death of good young people and the long life of wicked people.

16So don’t be too good or too wise! Why destroy yourself?

17On the other hand, don’t be too wicked either. Don’t be a fool! Why die before your time?

18Pay attention to these instructions, for anyone who fears God will avoid both extremes.

19One wise person is stronger than ten leading citizens of a town!

20Not a single person on earth is always good and never sins.

21Don’t eavesdrop on others—you may hear your servant curse you.

22For you know how often you yourself have cursed others.