Sayings of the Wise

17Listen to the words of the wise;

apply your heart to my instruction.

18For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart

and always ready on your lips.

19I am teaching you today—yes, you—

so you will trust in the Lord.

20I have written thirty sayings* for you,

filled with advice and knowledge.

21In this way, you may know the truth

and take an accurate report to those who sent you.

22Don’t rob the poor just because you can,

or exploit the needy in court.

23For the Lord is their defender.

He will ruin anyone who ruins them.