³ Fire tests the purity of silver and gold,
    but the Lord tests the heart.

¹⁰ The name of the Lord is a strong fortress;
    the godly run to him and are safe.

²⁴ There are “friends” who destroy each other,
    but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.

¹⁷ If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord—
    and he will repay you!

²¹ You can make many plans,
    but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.

¹² Ears to hear and eyes to see—
    both are gifts from the Lord.

²² Don’t say, “I will get even for this wrong.”
    Wait for the Lord to handle the matter.

²⁴ The Lord directs our steps,
    so why try to understand everything along the way?

²⁷ The Lord’s light penetrates the human spirit,^[a]
    exposing every hidden motive.

³ The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just
    than when we offer him sacrifices.