3 My son, do not forget my ^[a]teaching,
But let your heart keep my commandments;
² 
For length of days and years of life [worth living]
And tranquility and prosperity [the wholeness of life’s blessings] they will add to you.
³ 
Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you [instead let these qualities define you];
Bind them [securely] around your neck,
Write them on the tablet of your heart.^(A)
4 
So find favor and high esteem
In the sight of God and man.^(B)
5 
Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart
And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.
^6 
[b]In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him,
And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].
⁷ 
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord [with reverent awe and obedience] and turn [entirely] away from evil.^(C)
8 
It will be health to your body [your marrow, your nerves, your sinews, your muscles—all your inner parts]
And refreshment (physical well-being) to your bones.

¹¹ 
My son, do not reject or take lightly the discipline of the Lord [learn from your mistakes and the testing that comes from His correction through discipline];
Nor despise His rebuke,^(A)
12 
For those whom the Lord loves He corrects,
Even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.