who would take his rod away from me so that his terror would not make me afraid.

Remove your hand far from me and stop making me afraid with your terror.

Do not long for the cover of night to drag people away from their homes.

In you, O Lord, I have taken shelter! Never let me be humiliated!

With all my heart I seek you. Do not allow me to stray from your commands!

I hold fast to your rules. O Lord, do not let me be ashamed!

Sustain me as you promised, so that I will live. Do not disappoint me!

Guarantee the welfare of your servant! Do not let the arrogant oppress me!

My child, if sinners try to entice you, do not consent!

Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will guard you.

Do not let them depart from your sight, guard them within your heart;

Permit no sleep to your eyes or slumber to your eyelids.

Listen to my instruction so that you may be wise, and do not neglect it.

Do not be one who strikes hands in pledge or who puts up security for debts.

Do not crave that ruler’s delicacies, for that food is deceptive.

Do not wear yourself out to become rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself.

You came near on the day I called to you; you said, “Do not fear!”

But you, son of man, do not fear them, and do not fear their words – even though briers and thorns surround you and you live among scorpions – do not fear their words and do not be terrified of the looks they give you, for they are a rebellious house!

Now, do not be upset and do not be angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me ahead of you to preserve life!

O my soul, do not come into their council, do not be united to their assembly, my heart, for in their anger they have killed men, and for pleasure they have hamstrung oxen.