10:10a If the axe is dull and the blade unsharpened,

If someone does not sharpen his tools,
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If your ax is dull and you don’t sharpen it, (Good News Translation)

10:10b more strength must be exerted,

⌊then⌋ he will have to work harder ⌊to cut something⌋ .
-or-
you have to work harder to use it. (Good News Translation)

10:10c but skill produces success.

But wise people will succeed in achieving something.
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However, if you are wise, you’ll know what to do ⌊in order to solve the problem⌋ .

10:10a-c (combined)

But wisdom will make any job easier. It is very hard to cut with a dull knife. But if you sharpen the knife, the job is easier. (English Easy-to-Read Version)
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If your axe is not sharp, you will need to be very strong to use it. If you are wise, you will make the axe’s edge sharp again. That is how wisdom helps you to do things well. (EEB)
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A dull ax requires great strength. Therefore, be wise and sharpen the blade.

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All Scripture quotations in this publication, unless otherwise indicated, are from The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible.
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