Ecclesiastes 7:10-12

International Standard Version

¹⁰ Never ask “Why does the past^[a] seem so much better than now?”^[b]
    because this question does not come from wisdom.
¹¹ Wise use of possessions is good;
    it brings benefit to the living.^[c]
12 Indeed, wisdom gives protection,^[d] just like money does,
    but it’s better to know that wisdom gives life,
        to those who have mastered^[e] it.