The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, But he blesses the home of him who does right. Surely he scoffs at the scoffers, But to the modest he ever shows favor. The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry, But he disappoints the desire of the wicked. The Lord is a stronghold to him who lives rightly, But he brings destruction to those who do wrong. The name of the Lord is a strong tower, To which the righteous runs and is safe. Every word of God is true; He is a shield to those who trust him. Say not, "I will be revenged for a wrong"; Wait for the Lord, he will save you. For the Lord gives wisdom, From his mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright, He is a shield to those who live clean lives, That he may guard the course of justice, And protect the way of his faithful ones. Reverence for the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, But the foolish despise wisdom and discipline. Reverence comes through wise instruction, And before honor goes modesty. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, Depend not on your own understanding; In all you do make him your friend, And he will direct your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes. Revere the Lord, and avoid sin. Then you will have health of body And your bones will be refreshed. Honor the Lord with your wealth, With the best of all you receive, Then your barns will be filled with grain, And your vats overflow with wine. A greedy man stirs up strife, But he who trusts in the Lord will prosper. Intrust what you do to the Lord, Then your plans will succeed. THE WAY TO BE WELL AND HAPPY Many a man tells of his own kindness. But a trustworthy man who can find? A child is known by his acts, Whether his work is pure and right. Worry in a man's mind makes it sad, But a kind word makes it happy. A man's spirit upholds him in sickness, But who can raise up a broken spirit? A calm mind is the life of the body, But jealousy rots the bones. A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, But by inward sorrow the spirit is broken. A joyful heart is good medicine, But a broken spirit dries up the bones. THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING WILLING TO LEARN The lips of the wise speak knowledge, But the fool does not understand. A fool's way seems right in his sight, But a wise man listens to advice. A fool despises his father's correction, But he who regards reproof acts wisely.