² Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, but righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation) delivers from death.

¹⁶ The earnings of the righteous (the upright, in right standing with God) lead to life, but the profit of the wicked leads to further sin.^(A)

¹⁷ He who heeds instruction and correction is [not only himself] in the way of life [but also] is a way of life for others. And he who neglects or refuses reproof [not only himself] goes astray [but also] causes to err and is a path toward ruin for others.

²⁷ The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord prolongs one’s days, but the years of the wicked shall be made short.