New Living Translation NLT
New International Version NIV
21 My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them,
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My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion;
22 for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace.
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they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck.
23 They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble.
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Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble.
24 You can go to bed without fear; you will lie down and sleep soundly.
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When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
25 You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked,
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Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,
26 for the LORD is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.
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for the LORD will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.
27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them.
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Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.
28 If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say, “Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.”
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Do not say to your neighbor, “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”— when you already have it with you.
29 Don’t plot harm against your neighbor, for those who live nearby trust you.
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Do not plot harm against your neighbor, who lives trustfully near you.
30 Don’t pick a fight without reason, when no one has done you harm.
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Do not accuse anyone for no reason— when they have done you no harm.
31 Don’t envy violent people or copy their ways.
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Do not envy the violent or choose any of their ways.
32 Such wicked people are detestable to the LORD, but he offers his friendship to the godly.
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For the LORD detests the perverse but takes the upright into his confidence.
33 The LORD curses the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the upright.
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The LORD’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous.
34 The LORD mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble.
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He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.
35 The wise inherit honor, but fools are put to shame!
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The wise inherit honor, but fools get only shame.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright© 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by
Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.