17 Listen (consent and submit) to the words of the wise, and apply your mind to my knowledge; 18 For it will be pleasant if you keep them in your mind [believing them]; your lips will be accustomed to [confessing] them. 19 So that your trust (belief, reliance, support, and confidence) may be in the Lord, I have made known these things to you today, even to you. 20 Have I not written to you [long ago] excellent things in counsels and knowledge, 21 To make you know the certainty of the words of truth, that you may give a true answer to those who sent you?
22 Rob not the poor [being tempted by their helplessness], neither oppress the afflicted at the gate [where the city court is held], 23 For the Lord will plead their cause and deprive of life those who deprive [the poor or afflicted]. 24 Make no friendships with a man given to anger, and with a wrathful man do not associate, 25 Lest you learn his ways and get yourself into a snare. 26 Be not one of those who strike hands and pledge themselves, or of those who become security for another's debts. 27 If you have nothing with which to pay, why should he take your bed from under you? 28 Remove not the ancient landmark which your fathers have set up. 29 Do you see a man diligent and skillful in his business? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.