³ Do not let mercy and truth leave you.
Fasten them around your neck.
Write them on the tablet of your heart.
⁴ Then you will find favor and much success
in the sight of God and humanity.

⁵ Trust the Lord with all your heart,
and do not rely on your own understanding.
⁶ In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths smooth.^[a]
7 Do not consider yourself wise.
Fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
⁸ ⌞Then⌟ your body will be healed,
and your bones will have nourishment.

¹¹ Do not reject the discipline of the Lord, my son,
and do not resent his warning,
¹² because the Lord warns the one he loves,
even as a father warns a son with whom he is pleased.

²¹ My son,
do not lose sight of these things.
Use priceless wisdom and foresight.
²² Then they will mean life for you,
and they will grace your neck.
²³ Then you will go safely on your way,
and you will not hurt your foot.
²⁴ When you lie down, you will not be afraid.
As you lie there, your sleep will be sweet.

²⁵ Do not be afraid of sudden terror
or of the destruction of wicked people when it comes.
²⁶ The Lord will be your confidence.
He will keep your foot from getting caught.