^7-8 Don’t be conceited, sure of your own wisdom. Instead, trust and reverence the Lord, and turn your back on evil; when you do that, then you will be given renewed health and vitality.

^13-15 The man who knows right from wrong^[a] and has good judgment and common sense is happier than the man who is immensely rich! For such wisdom is far more valuable than precious jewels. Nothing else compares with it. ^16-17 Wisdom gives: a long, good life, riches, honor, pleasure, peace. ¹⁸ Wisdom is a tree of life to those who eat her fruit; happy is the man who keeps on eating it.

¹⁰ My son, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have a long, good life.

²⁰ Listen, son of mine, to what I say. Listen carefully. ²¹ Keep these thoughts ever in mind; let them penetrate deep within your heart, ²² for they will mean real life for you and radiant health.

¹¹ “I, Wisdom, will make the hours of your day more profitable and the years of your life more fruitful.”

²⁷ Reverence for God adds hours to each day;^[a] so how can the wicked expect a long, good life?

³⁰ A relaxed attitude lengthens a man’s life; jealousy rots it away.

³⁰ Pleasant sights and good reports give happiness and health.

¹⁷ The path of the godly leads away from evil; he who follows that path is safe.

²⁴ Kind words are like honey—enjoyable and healthful.