17 The fruit of that righteousness(A) will be peace;(B)
    its effect will be quietness and confidence(C) forever.

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15 Those who walk righteously(A)
    and speak what is right,(B)
who reject gain from extortion(C)
    and keep their hands from accepting bribes,(D)
who stop their ears against plots of murder
    and shut their eyes(E) against contemplating evil—
16 they are the ones who will dwell on the heights,(F)
    whose refuge(G) will be the mountain fortress.(H)
Their bread will be supplied,
    and water will not fail(I) them.

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The Conclusion of the Matter

Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs.(A) 10 The Teacher(B) searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true.(C)

11 The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails(D)—given by one shepherd.[a] 12 Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them.

Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.(E)

13 Now all has been heard;
    here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God(F) and keep his commandments,(G)
    for this is the duty of all mankind.(H)
14 For God will bring every deed into judgment,(I)
    including every hidden thing,(J)
    whether it is good or evil.

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Footnotes

  1. Ecclesiastes 12:11 Or Shepherd

Jesus answered, “I am(A) the way(B) and the truth(C) and the life.(D) No one comes to the Father except through me.(E)

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