Proverbs 3:1-20

Good News Translation

Advice to the Young

3 My child, don't forget what I teach you. Always remember what I tell you to do. ² My teaching will give you a long and prosperous life. ³ Never let go of loyalty and faithfulness. Tie them around your neck; write them on your heart. ^4 (A)If you do this, both God and people will be pleased with you.

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. ⁶ Remember the Lord in everything you do, and he will show you the right way. ^7 (B)Never let yourself think that you are wiser than you are; simply obey the Lord and refuse to do wrong. ⁸ If you do, it will be like good medicine, healing your wounds and easing your pains. ⁹ Honor the Lord by making him an offering from the best of all that your land produces. ¹⁰ If you do, your barns will be filled with grain, and you will have too much wine to store it all.

^11 (C)My child, when the Lord corrects you, pay close attention and take it as a warning. ^12 (D)The Lord corrects those he loves, as parents correct a child of whom they are proud. ¹³ Happy is anyone who becomes wise—who comes to have understanding. ¹⁴ There is more profit in it than there is in silver; it is worth more to you than gold. ¹⁵ Wisdom is more valuable than jewels; nothing you could want can compare with it. ¹⁶ Wisdom offers you long life, as well as wealth and honor. ¹⁷ Wisdom can make your life pleasant and lead you safely through it. ¹⁸ Those who become wise are happy; wisdom will give them life.