17 Listen to the words of the wise;apply your heart to my instruction.
18 For it is good to keep these sayings in your heartand always ready on your lips.
19 I am teaching you today—yes, you—so you will trust in the lord.
20 I have written thirty sayings for you,filled with advice and knowledge.
21 In this way, you may know the truthand take an accurate report to those who sent you.
22 Don’t rob the poor just because you can,or exploit the needy in court.
23 For the lord is their defender.He will ruin anyone who ruins them.