⁵ The next section was repaired by the men of Tekoa,^(A) but their nobles would not put their shoulders to the work under their supervisors.^[a]

²⁷ Next to them, the men of Tekoa^(A) repaired another section, from the great projecting tower^(B) to the wall of Ophel.

² So Joab sent someone to Tekoa^(A) and had a wise woman^(B) brought from there. He said to her, “Pretend you are in mourning. Dress in mourning clothes, and don’t use any cosmetic lotions.^(C) Act like a woman who has spent many days grieving for the dead.

¹⁷ Command those who are rich^(A) in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth,^(B) which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God,^(C) who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.^{(D) 18} Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds,^(E) and to be generous and willing to share.^(F)

²⁶ Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called.^(A) Not many of you were wise^(B) by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth.