10
Like a drop of water from the sea or a grain of sand, so are a few years in the span of eternity.
11
Therefore, the Lord was patient with them, and he poured out his mercy upon them.
12
He saw and knew that their end was terrible; therefore, his willingness to be reconciled increased.
13
Neighbors display mercy toward each other, but the mercy of the Lord is for all beings: he corrects, instructs, teaches, and turns them back, as a shepherd does his flock.
14
He shows mercy to those who accept discipline and to those who passionately pursue his judgments.
Speech and self-control
15 My child, let the good you do be without blemish, and don't give harsh words along with your gifts.
16
Doesn't dew put an end to scorching heat? So a word is better than a gift.
17
Look! Doesn't a word exceed a good gift? And both come from a person who is gracious.
18
A fool reproaches ungraciously, and a gift from a begrudging giver becomes an eyesore.
19
Learn before you speak, and attend to yourself before you get sick.
20
Examine yourself before judgment, and you will be reconciled when you are examined.