Proverbs 3:19-34 (Vespers, 2nd reading)
- 19
- The Lord by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding He established the heavens;
- 20
- by His knowledge the depths were broken up, and clouds drop down the dew.
- 21
- My son, let them not depart from your eyes – keep sound wisdom and discretion;
- 22
- So they will be life to your soul and grace to your neck.
- 23
- Then you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble.
- 24
- When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet.
- 25
- Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes;
- 26
- For the Lord will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught.
- 27
- Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do so.
- 28
- Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,” when you have it with you.
- 29
- Do not devise evil against your neighbor, for he dwells by you for safety’s sake.
- 30
- Do not strive with a man without cause, if he has done you no harm.
- 31
- Do not envy the oppressor, and choose none of his ways;
- 32
- for the perverse person is an abomination to the Lord, but His secret counsel is with the upright.
- 33
- The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the home of the just.
- 34
- Surely He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble.