Scripture Readings

Thursday, March 21, 2013

Proverbs 3:1-18 (Vespers, 2nd reading)

1
My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands;
2
for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.
3
Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart,
4
and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.
5
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;
6
in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
7
Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil.
8
It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.
9
Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase;
10
so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.
11
My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor detest His correction;
12
for whom the Lord loves He corrects, just as a father the son in whom he delights.
13
Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding;
14
for her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, and her gain than fine gold.
15
She is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare with her.
16
Length of days is in her right hand, in her left hand riches and honor.
17
Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.
18
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her.