WHERE TO GET PRACTICAL GUIDANCE FOR EVERYDAY
LIVING.
This is based on the N.I.V. translation of the
Book of Proverbs written about 3000 years or 40
lifetimes ago.
Proverbs can help you get:
-Wisdom.
-Discipline.
-Understanding.
-Words of insight.
-A prudent life.
-Knowledge to do what's
-Right,
-Just and
-Fair.
-Awesome respect for the Lord which is the
beginning of knowledge.
Proverbs also helps:
-The immature get prudence.
-The young get knowledge and discretion.
-The wise add to their learning.
-The discerning get guidance.
But fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Son, for a good life, listen to father's
instruction
-And follow mother's teaching.
-Don't give in to sinners' enticements, such
as
-"Let's ambush and rob someone.
-Fill our houses with plunder
-Share a common purse with us."
-Don't go along with them.
-They're swift to shed blood.
-They waylay only themselves and destroy
their own lives.
-Which is what happens to all who seek ill
gotten gain.
God's wisdom calls out:
-How long will you immoral ones love immoral
ways?
-How long will mockers delight in mockery?
-How long will fools hate knowledge?
-If you'd responded to my rebuke I'd have
-Poured my heart out to you.
-Made my thoughts known to you.
-But, since you rejected and ignored my
advice, I'll
-Laugh at your disaster
-Mock when calamity, distress and trouble
overwhelms you like whirlwind and storm.
-Not answer when they call.
-Not be found when they look.
-You hated knowledge,
-Didn't choose to fear the Lord,
-Wouldn't accept my advice, therefore
-You'll reap the evil you sowed.
-With the immoral you'll be killed.
-With the complacent fools you'll be
destroyed.
-But listen to me and you'll live in safety.
-Be at ease.
-Fear no harm.
(Chapter 1)
My son, if you:
-Accept my words,
-Store up my commands within you,
-Turn your ear to wisdom,
-Apply your heart to understanding,
-Call for insight,
-Cry aloud for understanding and
-Look for it as for silver.
-Search for it as for hidden treasure.
Then you'll
-Understand the fear of the Lord.
-Find knowledge of God.
For the Lord
-Gives wisdom.
-Gives knowledge and understanding from His
mouth.
-Gives victory for the upright.
-Is a shield to those whose walk is blameless.
-Guards the course of the just.
-Protects the way of the faithful.
Then:
-You'll understand what's right and just.
-Every fair and good path.
-Wisdom will enter your heart.
-Knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
-Discretion will protect you.
-Understanding will guard you.
-Wisdom will
-Save you from the ways of the wicked
-Whose words are perverse.
-Who leave straight paths and walk in dark
ways.
-Who delight in doing wrong.
-Who rejoice in the perverseness of evil.
-Whose paths are crooked.
-Whose ways are devious.
-Save you from the adulteress,
-The wayward wife with seductive words
-Who left the partner of her youth
-Ignoring the covenant she made before
God.
-Whose house leads down to death so
-None who go to her return or
-Attain the paths of life.
-You'll walk in the ways of good men
-Keeping to the paths of the righteous.
-For the upright blameless live and remain in
the land.
-But the wicked and unfaithful will be cut off
-And torn from the land.
(Chapter 2)
Son
-Don't forget my teaching.
-Keep my commands in your heart,
-They'll prolong your life,
-And bring prosperity.
-Don't let love and faithfulness leave you.
-Bind them round your neck.
-Write them on the tablet of your heart.
-Then you'll win favour and a good name
-In the sight of God and man.
-TRUST THE LORD WITH ALL YOUR HEART
-DON'T LEAN ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING.
-ACKNOWLEDGE HIM IN ALL YOUR WAYS
-AND HE WILL MAKE YOUR PATHS STRAIGHT.
-Don't think you're wiser than you are.
-Have reverent respect for the Lord.
-Shun evil
-And your whole body will be healthy.
-Honour the Lord by joyfully and thankfully
giving Him at least the first 10% of your
earnings.
-And He will honour you with "overflowing
barns and vineyards."
-But if the Lord disciplines and rebukes
you,
-Don't despise and resent it because, as a
good father, the Lord disciplines those He
loves.
-You'll be blessed by finding wisdom and
understanding, for it's incomparable:
-More profitable than silver and
-Yields a better return than gold.
-More precious than rubies,
-The way to
-Riches.
-Honour.
-A long life.
-Pleasant peaceful paths.
-The blessings of the tree (source) of
life.
-By wisdom, understanding and knowledge, the
Lord,
-Laid the earth's foundations.
-Set the heavens in place.
-Divided the deeps.
-Let the clouds drop dew.
-Preserve and don't lose sight of sound
judgment and discernment for they'll:
-Be life for you (like a beautiful
necklace).
-Send you on your way in safety so you don't
stumble.
-Enable you to sleep sweetly and rest
unafraid.
-Remove fear of the ruining sudden disaster
that overtakes the wicked.
-Help you make the Lord your confidence
-And keep your foot from being snared.
-When you can, do good to the deserving.
-Don't tell them to come back later when you
can help now.
-Do not
-Put to harm your neighbour living
trustfully nearby.
-Accuse a man for no reason who hasn't
harmed you.
-Envy a violent man or
-Emulate any of his ways for the Lord
-Detests a perverse man but
-Takes the upright into his
confidence.
-Curses the wicked's house but
-Blesses the faithful's house.
-Mocks proud mockers but
-Gives grace to the humble.
-Holds fools up to shame but
-Honours the wise.
(Chapter 3)
Sons, concerning a father's:
-Instruction,
-Teaching,
-Sound learning,
-Words,
-Commands,
-Guidance,
-Listen closely.
-Pay attention and get understanding.
-Don't forsake them.
-Lay hold of them with all your heart.
-Keep them in your heart and live.
-Get wisdom and understanding.
-Don't forget or swerve from them.
-Guard instruction well, it's your life.
-Don't set foot on or walk in the wicked's
path.
-Avoid, turn from and don't travel on it,
but go your way.
-Evil men can't sleep 'til they do evil
and make someone fall. Their bread is
wickedness and their wine violence.
-Don't let my words out of your sight for
-They're life and health to your whole
body.
-Above all guard your heart, the wellspring
of life.
-Put away perversity and corrupt talk.
-Let your eyes look straight ahead.
-Make level paths for your feet and
-Take only firm ways.
-Don't swerve left or right and
-Keep your foot from evil.
Wisdom is supreme, therefore:
-Get wisdom.
-Don't forsake her and she will protect you.
-Love her and she'll watch over you.
-Though it cost all you have, get
understanding.
-Esteem her and she'll exalt you.
-Embrace her and she'll honour you and you'll
-Live long.
-Be guided in the way of wisdom.
-Be led along straight paths with unhampered
steps.
-Run and not stumble.
The path of the faithful is like dawn's first
gleam
-Shining ever brighter 'til full daylight.
-But the wicked's way is like deep darkness.
-They don't know why they stumble.
(Chapter 4)
Son, listen well and pay attention, to
-Maintain discretion.
-Preserve knowledge.
-An adulteress
-Has lips that drip honey,
-Speech smoother than oil,
-But finally she's bitter as gall,
-Razor sharp
-With steps leading straight down to the
grave.
-Thoughtless of her life.
-She's ignorant of her crooked paths.
-Keep to a path far from her.
-Don't go near her door lest
-You give your best strength to others,
-You give your heart to a cruel one.
-Strangers eat your wealth.
-You toil to enrich another's man house.
-At life's end you'll groan, flesh and
body spent, saying:
-I hated discipline.
-My heart spurned correction.
-I wouldn't obey or listen to teachers
and instructors.
-I've come to the brink of utter ruin
before the whole assembly.
-Never have sex with strange women.
-It's no different to flaunting yourself
round the streets like a harlot.
-Keep yourself for your wife alone.
-Rejoice in the wife of your youth,
-A loving doe,
-A graceful deer.
-May her breasts satisfy you always.
-May you be captivated by her love.
-Why be captivated by an adulteress?
-Why embrace another man's wife?
FOR A MAN'S WAYS ARE IN FULL VIEW OF THE
LORD,
AND HE EXAMINES ALL HIS PATHS.
-A wicked man's evil deeds ensnare him.
-Sin's cords hold him fast.
-He'll die for lack of discipline,
-Led astray by his own great folly.
(Chapter 5)
Son, if you foolishly trap yourself by putting
up security for your neighbour then quickly
-Humbly plead with him and
-Free yourself like a bird from a fowler's
snare.
Sluggard, consider the ant and be wise.
-Without commander, overseer or ruler it
stores up provisions.
-How long will you sleep in?
-When will you get up?
-A little sleep,
-A little folding of the hands to rest.
-AND POVERTY WILL COME ON YOU LIKE A
BANDIT.
A scoundrel and villain who goes about with
-Corrupt mouth,
-Winking eye,
-Signalling feet,
-Motioning fingers, who
-Plots evil and deceit in his heart,
-Stirs up dissension,
-Will be overcome with disaster and
destroyed in an instant.
The Lord hates
-Haughty eyes (a proud heart).
-A lying tongue.
-Hands that shed innocent blood.
-A heart that devises wicked schemes.
-Feet that are quick to rush into evil.
-A false witness that pours out lies.
-A man that creates dissension among brothers.
Son, bind your father and mother's commands and
teaching upon your heart forever, they'll
-Guide you when walking.
-Watch over you when sleeping.
-Speak to you when waking.
These commands are a lamp.
This teaching is a light.
-The corrections of discipline are the way
to life
-Keeping you from the smooth tongue and
seductive eyes of the immoral wayward
wife.
-For the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of
bread
-And the adulteress preys on your very
life.
-Scoop fire into your lap and clothes will
burn.
-Likewise sleeping with another man's wife
inevitably brings punishment.
-A thief's not despised if he steals to
satisfy his hunger when starving.
-But if he's caught it may cost him all
his wealth.
-But a man who commits adultery
-Lacks judgment,
-Destroys himself,
-Gets blows and disgrace,
-Has shame that's never wiped away,
-Arouses a jealous husband's fury
-Who'll show no mercy when taking
revenge
-And won't accept compensation of any
kind.
(Chapter 6)
Son, keep my words.
-Store up my commands.
-Guard my teachings.
-Bind them on your fingers.
-Write them on your heart.
-Call wisdom your sister.
-Call understanding your kinsman.
-They'll keep you from the seductive wayward
adulterous wife.
From my window I saw a youth lacking judgment,
-Walking toward her house at twilight.
-Out came a woman to meet him dressed like a
prostitute,
-Loud and defiant.
-Her feet never stay at home.
-Now in the street, now in the squares she
lurks.
-She took hold of him, kissed him and said
with brazen face, "I've
-Looked for and found you,
-Covered my bed with coloured linens and
perfumes.
-Let's enjoy ourselves and drink deep of
love 'til the morning.
-My husband's away on a long journey."
-With persuasive words she led him astray
and seduced him.
-He followed her like an ox to the
slaughter,
-Little knowing it would cost him his
life.
So sons, listen, pay attention.
-Don't let your heart turn to her ways.
-She's brought many victims down and
-Slain a mighty throng.
-Her house is a highway to the grave.
(Chapter 7)
Wisdom and understanding call out to all mankind
-On the heights.
-Where paths meet.
-Beside the city gates saying
-"Simple and foolish gain prudence and
understanding.
-I say worthy, right and true things.
-I detest wickedness.
-My words are just.
-None is crooked or perverse.
-They're right to the discerning,
-Faultless to those with knowledge.
-Choose my instruction instead of silver,
-Knowledge rather than gold.
-Wisdom's more precious than rubies,
-Nothing can compare with her.
-She dwells with prudence possessing
-Knowledge and
-Discretion.
-To fear the Lord is to hate evil, I
(wisdom)
-Hate pride and arrogance,
-Evil behaviour and perverse speech.
-Counsel, sound judgment, understanding and
power are mine.
-By me kings reign, rulers make just laws,
-Princes govern and nobles rule.
-I love those who love me.
-Those seeking me find me.
-With me are riches, honour, enduring wealth
and prosperity.
-My fruit's better than fine gold.
-My yield surpasses choice silver.
-I walk in faithfulness along paths of
justice,
-Bestowing wealth on those who love me.
-The Lord brought me forth as His first work
-Appointing me from eternity
-Before the world began.
-I was given birth before
-Oceans or springs,
-Mountains and hills were settled in
place or
-He made the earth, fields or earth's
dust.
-I was there when He set the heavens in
place,
-Marked out the horizon on the face of
the deep,
-Established the clouds above,
-Fixed securely the fountains of the
deep,
-Gave the sea its boundary.
-Marked out the earth's foundations.
-I WAS THE CRAFTSMAN AT HIS SIDE,
-FILLED DAILY WITH DELIGHT,
-REJOICING ALWAYS IN HIS PRESENCE,
-REJOICING IN HIS WHOLE WORLD, AND
-DELIGHTING IN MANKIND.
So sons, listen to my instruction and be wise,
-There's peace of heart for those who
-Keep my ways.
-Listen to me.
-Watch daily at my doors.
-Wait at my doorway.
-Whoever finds me, finds life
-And receives favour from the Lord.
-But whoever fails to find me harms himself.
-All who hate me love death."
(Chapter 8)
Wisdom built her house,
-Prepared her meat and mixed her wine.
-Set her table.
-Sent out her maids to call
-From the city's highest point,
-"Let those lacking judgment come in here
-Eat my food and drink my wine.
-Leave your immoral ways and you'll live.
-Walk in the way of understanding.
-Correct a mocker and rebuke a wicked man
and you'll be insulted, hated and abused.
-Rebuke and instruct a wise man and he'll
-Love you and be wiser still.
-Teach a faithful man and he'll add to his
learning
-THE FEAR (REVERENT RESPECT) OF THE LORD IS
THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM, AND KNOWLEDGE OF
THE HOLY ONE IS UNDERSTANDING.
-Through me years will be added to your
life.
-If wise, wisdom will reward you
-If a mocker, you alone will suffer."
-The immoral woman is
-Loud, undisciplined, without knowledge
-She sits at the door of her house
-Or on a seat at the city's highest point
-Calling to passers by who lack judgment,
-"Come in here
-Stolen water's sweet
-Food eaten in secret's delicious!"
-Little do they know her guests are in the
depths of the grave.
(Chapter 9)
A wise son brings joy to his father,
-A foolish one grief to his mother.
Ill gotten treasures are valueless
-But faithfulness delivers from death.
The Lord feeds the faithful
-But thwarts the wicked's craving.
Lazy hands make a man poor,
-Diligent ones bring wealth.
A wise son gathers summer crops.
-One who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace.
The faithful has peace of heart
-But violence overwhelms the wicked.
The memory of the faithful will be a blessing
-But the wicked's name will rot.
The wise in heart accepts commands
-But the chattering fool comes to ruin.
The man of integrity walks securely
-But the one taking crooked paths will be
found out.
He who winks maliciously causes grief
-But the chattering fool comes to ruin.
The faithful's mouth is a fountain of life
-But violence overwhelms the wicked's mouth.
Hatred stirs dissension
-But love covers all wrongs.
Wisdom's on the discerning's lips
-But a rod's for the back of he who lacks
judgment.
Wise men store knowledge
-But a fool's mouth invites ruin.
The rich's wealth is their fortified city
-But poverty is the ruin of the poor.
The faithful's wages bring life
-But the wicked's income brings punishment.
Heeding discipline brings life
-But ignoring correction leads others astray.
Concealing hatred means lying lips
-And the slander spreader is a fool.
Many words mean sin's not absent,
-But the wise holds his tongue.
The tongue of the faithful is choice silver
-But the heart of the wicked's of little
value.
Righteous lips nourish many
-But fools die for lack of judgment.
The Lord's blessing brings wealth without
trouble.
The fool finds pleasure in evil conduct.
-But a man of understanding delights in
wisdom.
What the wicked dreads overtakes him,
-What the faithful desires will be granted.
The storm sweeps the wicked away
-But the faithful stands firm forever.
Like the taste of vinegar or smoke in the eyes
-Is a sluggard to those who send him.
Fear of the Lord lengthens life
-But the wicked's life is cut short.
The future of the faithful is joyous.
-The wicked's hope comes to nothing.
The Lord's way is a refuge to the faithful
-But it's the ruin of evildoers.
The righteous will never be uprooted
-But the wicked won't remain in the land,
The mouth of the faithful brings forth wisdom
-But a perverse tongue will be cut out.
The lips of the righteous know what's fitting
-But the mouth of the wicked only what's
perverse.
(Chapter 10)
The Lord abhors dishonest scales
-But delights in accurate weights.
With pride comes disgrace
-With humility wisdom.
The upright's integrity guides them
-But duplicity destroys the unfaithful.
Wealth's worthless on the day of wrath
-But faithfulness delivers from death.
The faithfulness of the blameless makes the way
straight
-But wickedness destroys the wicked.
The faithfulness of the upright delivers them
-But evil desires trap the unfaithful.
The wicked man's hope dies with him.
-What he expected from his power comes to
nothing.
The faithful man's rescued from remorse.
-It comes to the wicked instead.
The mouth of the godless destroys his neighbour
-But the faithful escapes by knowledge.
The city rejoices when the righteous prosper.
-When the wicked perish there are shouts of
joy.
A city's exalted by the upright's blessing
-But the wicked's mouth is destroyed.
A man lacking judgment derides his neighbour
-But a man of understanding holds his tongue.
Gossip betrays a confidence
-But a trustworthy man keeps a secret.
A nation falls for lack of guidance
-But many advisers ensure victory.
It's risky to put up security for another.
-If you don't you are safe.
Kindhearted women gain respect
-But ruthless men gain only wealth.
A kind man benefits himself
-But a cruel man brings trouble on himself.
The wicked earns deceptive wages
-But he who sows faithfully reaps a sure
reward.
The truly faithful man attains life
-But the pursuer of evil goes to his death.
The Lord detests men of perverse heart
-But delights in those whose ways are
blameless.
For sure, the wicked will be punished
-But the faithful will go free.
A gold ring in a pig's snout
-Is like a beautiful woman without discretion.
The faithful's desire ends in good
-But the wicked's hope in wrath.
A man freely gives and gains even more
-Another withholds and comes to poverty.
A generous man will prosper.
-He who refreshes others will be refreshed.
People curse a grain hoarder
-But there's blessing for he who willingly
sells.
Seek goodwill and you'll find it.
-But evil comes to he who seeks it.
Trust in riches and fall
-But the faithful thrives like a greenleaf.
Bring trouble on your family and you'll inherit
wind,
-And the fool will be servant to the wise.
If the faithful receive their due on earth
-How much more the ungodly and sinner.
(Chapter 11)
To love discipline is to love knowledge
-But the stupid hate correction.
The Lord favours a good man
-But condemns the crafty.
The faithful can't be uprooted
-And the wicked can't be established.
A wife's noble character is her husband's crown
-But a disgraceful wife's like a decay in his
bones.
The righteous have just plans
-But the wicked's advice is deceitful.
The wicked's words wait for blood
-But the upright's speech rescues them.
Wicked men are overthrown and disappear
-But the house of the faithful stands firm.
A man's praised for his wisdom
-But men with warped minds are despised.
Better a nobody with a servant
-Than pretending to be somebody and starve.
The faithful man cares for his animal
-But the wicked's kindest acts are cruel.
He who works his land will have abundant food
-But he who chases fantasies lacks judgment.
Wicked men desire evil men's plunder
-But the root of the righteous flourishes.
Sinful talk traps the evil man
-But the righteous escapes trouble.
From the fruit of his lips a man's filled with
good things
-As surely as his hand's work rewards him.
A fool's way seems right to him
-But a wise man heeds advice.
A fool shows annoyance immediately
-But the prudent overlooks insult.
A truthful witness gives honest testimony
-But a false witness lies.
Reckless words pierce like a sword
-But the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Truthful lips endure forever
-But a lying tongue lasts only a moment.
There's deceit in the hearts of evil plotters
-But joy for peace promoters.
The faithful aren't harmed
-But the wicked have much trouble.
The Lord rejects liars
-But delights in the truthful.
The prudent keeps his knowledge to himself
-But the fool's heart blurts folly.
Diligent hands rule
-But laziness brings slave labour.
An anxious heart weighs a man down
-But a kind word cheers him up.
The faithful are cautious in friendship
-But the wicked's way leads them astray.
The lazy are too tired to lift food to their
mouths
-But the diligent prizes his possessions.
The faithful's way brings life and immortality.
(Chapter 12)
A wise son heeds his father's instruction
-But a mocker doesn't heed rebuke.
From the fruit of his lips a man enjoys good
things
-But the unfaithful crave violence.
Guard your lips and guard your life.
-Speak rashly and come to ruin.
Sluggards crave and get nothing
-But the diligent's desires are fully
satisfied.
The faithful hate what's false
-But the wicked bring shame and disgrace.
Faithfulness guards the man of integrity
-But wickedness overthrows the sinner.
One pretends to be rich and has nothing
-Another pretends to be poor and has great
wealth.
A rich man may pay off robbers
-But a poor man isn't even threatened.
The light of the righteous shines brightly
-But the wicked's lamp is snuffed out.
Pride brings quarrels
-But wisdom is in those who take advice.
Dishonest money dwindles away
-But gathering money little by little makes it
grow.
Hope deferred sickens the heart
-But fulfilled longing's a tree of life.
Scorn instruction and you'll pay for it
-But respect a command and be rewarded.
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life
-Turning a man from death's snares.
Good understanding wins favour
-But the unfaithful's way is hard.
The prudent acts out of knowledge
-But the fool exposes his folly.
A wicked messenger falls into trouble
-But a trustworthy envoy brings healing.
Ignore discipline and come to poverty and shame
-Heed correction and be honoured.
Fulfilled longing's sweet to the soul
-But fools detest turning from evil.
Walk with the wise and grow wise.
-Walk with fools and suffer harm.
Misfortune pursues the sinner
-But prosperity rewards the righteous.
A good man leaves an inheritance for his
grandchildren
-But the sinner's wealth is stored for the
faithful.
A poor man's field may produce abundant food
-But injustice destroys it.
To spare the rod is to hate a son
-But loving him means careful discipline.
The faithful eat to their heart's content
-But the wicked's stomach goes hungry.
(Chapter 13)
The wise woman builds her house
-But the foolish one tears hers down with her
own hands.
He whose walk is upright fears the Lord
-But he of devious ways despises Him.
A fool's talk brings a rod to his back
-But the lips of the wise protect them.
No oxen means an empty manger
-But with one comes an abundant harvest.
Truthful witnesses don't deceive
-But false ones pour out lies.
Mockers seek and don't find wisdom
-But knowledge comes easily to the discerning.
Avoid the foolish, you won't find knowledge on
his lips. The prudents' wisdom is to give
thought to their ways.
-But deception is the fool's folly.
Fools mock amending for sin
-But goodwill's found among the upright.
Each heart knows its own bitterness.
-Conversely, no one else can share its joy.
The wicked's house will be destroyed
-But the upright's tent will flourish.
THERE'S A WAY THAT SEEMS RIGHT TO A MAN
-BUT IT LEADS TO DEATH (Ask Adolf Hitler).
Laughing, the heart can ache
-And joy may end in grief.
The faithless will get what they deserve
-And the good man rewarded for his ways.
The fool believes everything
-But the prudent thinks before acting.
The wise fears the Lord and shuns evil
-But the fool's hot headed and reckless.
The quick tempered does foolish things
-And the crafty is hated.
The foolish inherit folly
-But the prudent's crowned with knowledge.
Evil men bow down in the good's presence.
-So do the wicked to the faithful.
Neighbours shun the poor
-But the rich have many "friends."
Despise your neighbour and you sin
-But be kind to the needy and you'll have
peace of heart.
Evil plotters go astray
-But good planners find love and faithfulness.
Hard work brings profit
-But mere talk brings poverty.
The wealth of the wise is their crown
-But fools' folly yields folly.
Truthful witnesses save lives
-False ones are deceitful.
Fear the Lord and have a secure fortress
-It will be your children's refuge.
Fear of the Lord's the fountain of life
-Saving a man from death's snares.
A large population's the king's crown.
-Without subjects a prince is ruined.
The patient have great understanding
-But the quick tempered display folly.
A peaceful heart gives the body life
-But envy rots the bones.
Oppressing the poor shows contempt for your
maker.
-Be kind to them and honour God.
Calamity brings the wicked down.
-BUT EVEN IN DEATH THE FAITHFUL HAVE REFUGE.
Wisdom's in the discerning heart.
-Even among fools she's known.
FAITHFULNESS EXALTS A NATION
-BUT SIN DISGRACES ANY PEOPLE.
A king delights in a wise servant
-But a shameful one incurs his wrath.
(Chapter 14)
Gentle answers deflect wrath
-But harsh words cause anger.
The wise speaks commending knowledge
-But the fool's mouth gushes folly.
The Lord's eyes are everywhere
-Watching both the wicked and the good.
The tongue bringing healing's a tree of life
-But a deceitful one crushes the spirit.
Fools spurn father's guidance
-But heeding correction shows prudence.
The faithful's house contains great treasure
-But the wicked's income brings them trouble.
Lips of the wise spread knowledge
-Not so fools' hearts.
The Lord detests the wicked's sacrifice
-But the upright's prayer pleases Him.
The Lord detests the wicked's way
-But loves the pursuers of faithfulness.
Stern discipline awaits whoever leaves the path
-Whoever hates correction will die.
Death and destruction lie open before the Lord,
-How much more men's hearts.
A mocker resents correction
-He won't consult the wise.
A HAPPY HEART MAKES THE FACE CHEERFUL
-BUT HEARTACHE CRUSHES THE SPIRIT.
The discerning heart seeks knowledge
-But the fool's mouth feeds on folly.
All the oppressed's days are wretched
-But the cheerful heart has a continual feast.
Better a little, fearing the Lord
-Than great wealth with turmoil.
Better eating vegetables where there's love
-Than fattened calves with hatred.
The hot tempered cause dissension
-But the patient calm quarrels.
The sluggard's way is blocked with thorns
-But the upright's path is a highway.
A wise son brings joy to his father
-But the foolish despises his mother.
Folly delights whoever lacks judgment
-But the understanding man keeps a straight
course.
Plans fail for lack of counsel
-But with many advisers they'll succeed.
There's joy in giving an apt reply -
-How good is a timely word.
Life's path leads upward for the wise
-Instead of downward to death.
The Lord destroys the proud man's house
-But keeps the widow's boundaries intact.
The Lord detests the wicked's thoughts
-But those of the pure please Him.
The needy brings trouble to his family
-But he who hates bribes will live.
The heart of the faithful weighs its answers
-But the wicked's mouth gushes evil.
The Lord's far from the wicked
-But He hears the faithful's prayer.
A cheerful look brings joy to the heart.
-And good news gives health to the whole body.
Listening to a life giving rebuke
-Makes you at home among the wise.
He who ignores discipline despises himself
-But whoever heeds correction gains
understanding.
Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom
-And humility comes before honour.
(Chapter 15)
You can make plans
-But the Lord enables their accomplishment.
All your ways seem innocent to you
-But the Lord weighs your motives.
Commit all you do to the Lord
-And your plans will succeed.
THE LORD WORKS OUT EVERYTHING FOR HIS OWN ENDS -
-Even the wicked for a day of disaster.
The Lord detests all the proud of heart.
-Be sure they'll be punished.
Love and faithfulness atones for sin.
-Through fear of the Lord a man avoids evil.
When your way's pleasing to the Lord
-He makes your enemies live at peace with you.
Better a little with faithfulness
-Than much gain with injustice.
You can plan your course
-But the Lord determines your steps.
The king speaks as God's representative
-So he should not betray justice.
Honest scales and balances are from the Lord.
Kings detest wrongdoing.
-A throne's established through faithfulness.
Kings take pleasure in honest lips.
-They value a man who speaks the truth.
A king's wrath is a messenger of death
-But a wise man will appease it.
When a king's face brightens it means life.
-His favour's like a rain cloud in spring.
Better to get wisdom than gold,
-To choose understanding instead of silver.
The upright's highway avoids evil
-Guarding his way means guarding his life.
Pride goes before destruction,
-A haughty spirit before a fall.
Better being lonely in spirit among the
oppressed
-Than sharing plunder with the proud.
Heed instruction and prosper.
-BLESSED IS HE WHO TRUSTS IN THE LORD.
The wise in heart are called discerning.
-Pleasant words promote instruction.
Understanding's a fountain of life to those
having it
-But folly brings punishment to fools.
A wise man's heart guides his mouth
-Which promotes instruction.
Pleasant words, like a honeycomb
-Are sweet to the soul and healing to the
body.
THERE'S A WAY THAT SEEMS RIGHT TO A MAN
-BUT FINALLY IT LEADS TO DEATH.
Hunger motivates a labourer to work.
A scoundrel plots evil,
-His speech is like a scorching fire.
The perverse creates dissension.
-A gossip separates close friends.
The violent entices his neighbour
-And leads him down a wrong path.
He who winks with the eye plots adversity.
-He who purses his lips is bent on evil.
Grey hair's a crown of splendour
-Attained by a faithful life.
Better the patient than the warrior,
-One who controls his temper than
-One who takes a city.
The lot's cast into the lap.
-But every decision's from the Lord.
(Chapter 16)
Better a dry crust with peace and quiet
-Than a house full of feasting and strife.
A wise servant will rule a disgraceful son
-And share the inheritance as one of the
brothers.
The crucible for silver, the furnace for gold
-But the Lord tests the heart.
The evil listens to evil lips,
-A liar heeds a malicious tongue.
Mocking the poor shows
-Contempt for your neighbour,
-Gloating over disaster
-Won't be unpunished.
Grandchildren are a crown to the aged
-And parents are their children's pride.
Eloquent lips don't suit a fool.
-How much worse lying lips to a ruler.
A bribe brings (short term) success.
Promoting forgiveness for an offence
-Promotes love
-But repeating the matter
-Separates close friends.
A rebuke impresses the discerning
-More than a hundred lashes a fool.
An evil man's bent only on rebellion.
-A merciless official will be sent against
him.
Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs
-Than a fool in his folly.
Pay back evil for good
-And evil will never leave your house.
Starting a quarrel's like breaching a dam,
-So drop the matter and avoid a dispute.
Acquitting the guilty and condemning the
innocent
-The Lord detests both.
What's the use of money in a fool's hand,
-Since he has no desire for wisdom.
A friend loves always
-And a brother's born for adversity.
A man lacking judgment seals a pledge and
-Puts up security for his neighbour.
He who loves a quarrel loves sin.
-Building a high gate invites destruction.
The perverse of heart don't prosper.
-He whose tongue's deceitful encounters
trouble.
Having a fool for a son brings grief.
-There's no joy in it for a father.
A cheerful heart's good medicine
-But a crushed spirit affects the whole body.
The wicked accept a secret bribe
-To pervert the course of justice.
The discerning keep wisdom in view
-But a fool's eyes look at everything but
wisdom.
A foolish son grieves his father
-And brings bitterness to his mother.
It's bad to punish the innocent
-And to flog officials for their integrity.
The knowledgeable uses words with restraint
-And the understanding is even tempered.
Even a fool's thought wise and discerning if he
holds his tongue.
(Chapter 17)
The unfriendly pursues selfish ends,
-Defying sound judgment.
A fool has no pleasure in understanding
-But delights in airing his own opinions.
Contempt accompanies wickedness
-And disgrace accompanies shame.
A man's words are deep waters
-But the fountain of wisdom's a bubbling
brook.
It's bad to be partial to the wicked
-And deprive the innocent of justice.
A fool's lips bring him strife
-His mouth invites a beating.
A fool's mouth's his undoing
-His lips are a snare to his soul.
A gossip's words, like choice morsels,
-Go down to a man's inmost parts.
One slack in his work
-Is brother to one who destroys.
THE LORD'S NAME'S A STRONG TOWER
-THAT THE FAITHFUL RUN TO AND ARE SAFE.
Wealth is the fortified city of the rich.
-They imagine its walls unscalable.
A man's heart's proud before his downfall,
-But humility comes before honour.
If you answer before listening
-It's your folly and shame.
Your spirit sustains you in sickness
-But who can bear a crushed spirit.
The discerning's heart acquires knowledge.
-The ears of the wise seek it out.
A gift opens the way for the giver,
-Ushering him into the great's presence.
The first to present his case seems right
-'til another comes forward to question him.
Casting lots settles disputes
-And keeps strong opponents apart.
An offended brother's more unyielding than a
fortified city
-And disputes are like a citadel's barbed
gates.
The wise man's words puts food on his table.
The tongue has the power of life and death,
-Those who love it eat its fruit.
Finding a wife's finding what's good
-And brings favour from the Lord.
The poor plead for mercy
-But the rich answer harshly.
A man of many companions may come to ruin
-BUT THERE'S A FRIEND WHO STICKS CLOSER THAN A
BROTHER.
(Chapter 18)
Better the poor of blameless walk
-Than a fool of perverse lips.
Zeal without knowledge is bad
-As is being hasty and missing the way.
A man's own folly ruins his life
-Yet his heart angrily blames the Lord.
Wealth brings many friends
-But a poor man's friend deserts him.
False witnesses will be punished
-And the liar won't go free.
Many curry a ruler's favour,
-Everyone's a friend of a man who gives gifts.
The poor is shunned by all his relatives -
-How much more do his friends avoid him.
-He pursues them with pleading,
-But they're nowhere to be found.
To get wisdom is to love your soul.
-To cherish understanding is to prosper.
False witnesses will be punished
-And liars will perish.
It's not fitting for a fool to live in luxury -
-How much worse for a slave to rule princes.
A man's wisdom gives him patience.
-To his glory he overlooks an offence.
A king's rage is like a lion's roar,
-But his favour like dew on the grass.
A foolish son is his father's ruin,
-A quarrelsome wife like a constant dripping.
Houses and wealth are inherited from parents,
-But a prudent wife is from the Lord.
Laziness brings deep sleep
-And the shiftless man goes hungry.
Obey instructions and guard your life,
-Be contemptuous of your ways and die.
HE WHO'S KIND TO THE POOR LENDS TO THE LORD
-Who will reward him for it.
Discipline your son, in that there's hope,
-Don't be a willing party to his death.
The hot tempered must pay the penalty.
-Rescue him and you'll have to do it again.
Listen to advice, accept instruction
-And you'll end up being wise.
A man's heart has many plans
-BUT THE LORD'S PURPOSE PREVAILS.
What a man desires is unfailing love.
-Better to be poor than a liar.
THE FEAR OF THE LORD LEADS TO LIFE
-THEN ONE RESTS CONTENT UNTOUCHED BY TROUBLE.
The sluggard buries his hand in the dish
-But is too lazy to put the food in his mouth.
Flog a mocker and the inexperienced will learn
prudence.
-Rebuke a discerning man and he'll gain
knowledge.
A son who robs his father and drives his mother
out
-Brings shame and disgrace.
Stop listening to instruction
-And you'll stray from the words of knowledge.
A corrupt witness mocks at justice.
-The wicked's mouth gulps down evil.
Penalties are prepared for mockers
-And beatings for fools' backs.
(Chapter 19)
Wine's a mocker, beer's a brawler,
-It's unwise to be led astray by them.
A king's wrath's like a lion's roar,
-Anger him and you'll forfeit your life.
It's to a man's honour to avoid strife,
-But everyone's quick to quarrel.
A sluggard doesn't plough in season
-So at harvest he has nothing.
The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters,
-But a man of understanding draws them out.
Many men claim unfailing love
-But who can find a faithful man.
The faithful man leads a blameless life,
-His children are blessed.
The king sitting on his throne to judge,
-Winnows all evil out with his eyes.
WHO CAN SAY, "I'VE KEPT MY HEART PURE;
-I'M CLEAN AND WITHOUT SIN."
The Lord detests differing weights and
measures.
A child's known by his actions,
-Whether his conduct's pure and right.
The Lord's made ears that hear and eyes that
see.
Love sleep and you'll grow poor.
-Stay awake and you'll have spare food.
The buyer repeats, "It's no good."
-Then goes and boasts about his purchase.
There's abundant gold and rubies,
-But lips speaking knowledge are a rare jewel.
Hold a garment for security
-For the one who lends for a wayward woman.
Food gained by fraud tastes sweet,
-Eat it and you'll end up with a mouth full of
gravel.
Seek advice in making plans.
-Obtain guidance if you wage war.
Gossips betray confidences;
-So avoid one who talks too much.
Curse father or mother
-And your lamp will be snuffed out in pitch
darkness.
A quickly gained inheritance at the beginning
-Won't be blessed at the end.
Don't say, "I'll get even with you."
-WAIT FOR THE LORD, HE'LL DELIVER YOU.
The Lord detests dishonest weights and scales.
YOUR STEPS ARE DIRECTED BY THE LORD.
-How then can you understand your own way.
It's a trap to rashly promise a special gift to
the Lord
-And only later count the cost.
A wise king winnows out the wicked,
-Driving the threshing wheel over them.
The Lord's lamp searches a man's spirit, his
inmost being.
Love and faithfulness keep a king safe.
-Love makes his throne secure.
Young men's strength is their glory,
-Grey hair the splendour of the old.
Blows and wounds cleanse evil away.
-Beatings purge the inmost being.
(Chapter 20)
The king's heart's in the Lord's hands
-Like a watercourse He directs it wherever He
pleases.
ALL A MAN'S WAYS SEEM RIGHT TO HIM
-BUT THE LORD WEIGHS THE HEART.
TO DO WHAT'S JUST AND RIGHT
-IS MORE ACCEPTABLE TO THE LORD THAN
SACRIFICE.
The wicked's lamp, haughty eyes and a proud
heart,
-Are sin.
The diligent's plans lead to profit
-As sure as haste leads to poverty.
A fortune made by lying
-Is a fleeting vapour and a deadly snare.
The wicked's violence will drag them away
-For they refuse to do what's right.
The guilty's way is devious,
-But the innocent's conduct is upright.
Better to live on a roof corner
-Than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
The wicked craves evil.
-His neighbour gets no mercy from him.
When a mocker's punished,
-The inexperienced gets knowledge.
The faithful one notes the wicked's house
-And brings him to ruin.
SHUT YOUR EARS TO THE POOR'S CRY
-AND YOU'LL CRY OUT AND NOT BE ANSWERED.
A gift given in secret soothes anger.
-A bribe similarly given pacifies great wrath.
Justice done brings joy to the faithful
-But terror to evildoers.
A man who strays from the path of understanding
-Ends up in the company of the dead.
The pleasure lover will become poor.
-Wine and oil lovers will never be rich.
Wicked become a ransom for the faithful
-And the unfaithful for the upright.
Better living in a desert
-Than with a quarrelsome and ill tempered
wife.
Stores of choice food and oil are in the house
of the wise.
-But a foolish man devours all he has.
THE PURSUER OF FAITHFULNESS AND LOVE
-FINDS LIFE, PROSPERITY AND HONOUR.
The wise attacks the mighty's city
-And destroys the stronghold they trust in.
Guard your mouth and tongue
-And keep yourself from calamity.
The proud, arrogant mocker behaves with
overweening pride.
The sluggard's craving will be the death of him
-Because his hands refuse to work.
All day he craves for more
-But the faithful give without sparing.
The wicked's sacrifice is detestable.
-Even more so when brought with evil intent.
A false witness will perish
-And whoever listens to him will be destroyed
forever.
The wicked put on a bold front
-But the upright gives thought to his ways.
THERE'S NO WISDOM, INSIGHT OR PLAN
-THAT CAN SUCCEED AGAINST THE LORD.
The horses are made ready for the day of battle
-But victory rests with the Lord.
(Chapter 21)
A good name's more desirable than great riches,
-Esteemed better than silver or gold.
RICH AND POOR HAVE THIS IN COMMON
-THE LORD MADE THEM ALL.
The prudent sees danger and takes refuge
-But the inexperienced keep going and suffer
for it.
Humility and fear of the Lord bring wealth,
honour and life.
In the wicked's path lies thorns and snares.
-He who guards his soul stays far from them.
TRAIN A CHILD IN THE WAY HE SHOULD GO
-AND WHEN HE'S OLD HE WON'T TURN FROM IT.
The rich rule the poor.
-The borrower is the lender's servant.
Sow wickedness and reap trouble
-Which will destroy your ability to oppress
others.
The generous will be blessed
-For he shares his food with the poor.
Get rid of the mocker and with him goes strife,
-Quarrels and insults.
He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is
gracious
-Will have the king for his friend.
The Lord's eyes keep watch over knowledge
-But He frustrates the unfaithful's words.
The sluggard has many excuses for not going to
work.
The adulteress's mouth is a deep pit.
-He who's under the Lord's wrath will fall
into it.
FOLLY'S BOUND UP IN A CHILD'S HEART
-But the rod of discipline will drive it far
from him.
Oppressing the poor to increase wealth
-And giving gifts to the rich -
-Both come to poverty.
Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the
wise.
-Apply your heart to what I teach.
It's pleasing to keep them in your heart
-And have all of them ready on your lips.
SO YOU MAY TRUST IN THE LORD
-I teach you to-day sayings of counsel,
-Knowledge, true and reliable words so you
can give sound answers to him who sent
you.
Don't exploit the poor
-Nor crush the needy in court.
-For the Lord will take up their case and
plunder those who plunder them.
Don't make friends or associate with hot
tempered or
-Easily angered men
-Or you may learn their ways and be
ensnared.
Don't make a pledge or security for (others')
debts because if you can't pay you may end up
having your bed snatched from under you.
Don't move ancient boundary stones set up by
your forefathers.
A skilled workman will serve before kings,
-He won't serve before obscure men.
(Chapter 22)
When dining with a ruler, carefully note what's
before you. Restrain yourself if you enjoy
overeating. Otherwise you may eat your way
into an obligation to him.
Don't wear yourself out getting riches. Show
restraint. Like birds flying off, they can be
here one moment and gone the next.
Don't eat a stingy man's food.
-"Eat and drink," he says, but his heart's not
with you.
-He's always thinking of the cost.
-You'll vomit up the little you eat and
waste your compliments.
Don't speak to a fool, he'll scorn your wise
words.
Don't move an ancient boundary stone
-Or encroach on the fields of the fatherless.
-For their defender's strong
-And will take up their case against you.
Apply your heart to instruction,
-Your ears to words of knowledge.
Discipline a child.
-Punishment with a rod won't kill him
-But will save his soul from death.
Son, if your heart's wise
-Mine will be glad.
-My inmost being will rejoice
-When your lips speak what's right.
Don't envy sinners in your heart,
-Always zealously have reverent respect for
the Lord.
There's a sure future hope for you that won't be
cut off.
Listen, be wise, keep your heart on the right
path.
-Don't join with drunkards and gluttons
-For they become poor
-And drowsiness clothes them with rags.
Listen to your father,
-Don't despise your elderly mother,
-Buy truth, don't sell it.
-Get wisdom, discipline and understanding.
-There's great joy for the father of a
righteous man.
-A man delights in a wise son.
-May your father and mother be glad
-And your mother rejoice.
-Son, give me your heart.
-Let your eyes keep to my ways.
-A prostitute's a deep pit,
-A wayward wife a narrow well.
-She lies in wait like a bandit and
-Multiplies the unfaithful among men.
Who has woe, strife, complaints, needless
bruises, bloodshot eyes?
-Those who linger over mixed wine.
-Don't gaze at its redness, sparkling in the
cup, going down smoothly,
-Because in the end
-It bites like a snake
-And poisons like a viper.
-You'll see strange sights,
-Your mind will imagine confusing things
-You'll be like one sleeping on high
seas,
-Lying on top of the rigging.
-You'll say,
-"They hit me but I'm not hurt,
-They beat me but I don't feel it.
-When will I wake up
-So I can find another drink?"
(Chapter 23)
Don't envy or desire the company of the wicked
-For their hearts plot violence
-And they talk about making trouble.
A house is built by wisdom
-And established by understanding.
-Its rooms are filled by thorough knowledge
-With rare and beautiful treasures.
A wise man has great power,
-A man of knowledge increases strength;
-For making war victoriously you need guidance
-And many advisors.
Wisdom's too high for a fool,
-At a meeting for official business he has
nothing to say.
He who plots evil will be known as a schemer.
-FOLLY'S SCHEMES ARE SIN.
-And men detest a mocker.
If you falter in times of trouble,
-Your strength's small.
Rescue those being led to death.
-Hold back those staggering towards slaughter.
-If you "turn a blind eye" to them
-He who weighs the heart will know,
-He who guards your life will know
-And He repays each person for what
they've done.
Eat honey son for it's good and sweet.
-Likewise wisdom's sweet to your soul.
-Find it and you have a future hope
-Which won't be cut off.
Don't lie in wait like an outlaw against a
faithful man's house,
-Or raid it.
-For if he falls seven times he'll rise
again.
-But calamity destroys the wicked.
DON'T GLOAT WHEN YOUR ENEMY FALLS.
-Don't let your heart rejoice when he stumbles
-Or the Lord will see and disapprove
-And turn His wrath away from him.
Don't fret because of evil men
-Or envy the wicked.
-For the evil man has no future hope
-And the wicked's lamp will be snuffed
out.
Fear the Lord and the king.
-Don't join the rebellious
-For the Lord and the king will send sudden
destruction on them.
-Who knows what calamities they can bring?
It's wrong to judge showing partiality.
-Tell the guilty they're innocent,
-And peoples will curse you,
-And nations denounce you
-But it will go well with those who convict
the guilty.
-They'll get a rich blessing.
An honest answer's like a kiss on the lips.
Finish your outdoor work.
-Get your fields ready
-And then build your house.
Don't testify against your neighbour without
cause
-Or speak deceitfully.
DON'T SAY "I'LL DO TO HIM AS HE'S DONE TO ME;
-I'LL PAY HIM BACK FOR WHAT HE DID."
I passed a sluggard's field,
-And the vineyard of a man lacking judgment,
-Thorns and weeds covered the ground,
-The stone wall was ruined.
-I applied my heart to what I saw
-And learned a lesson:
-A little sleep, slumber,
-Folding hands to rest
-And poverty will come on you like a
bandit
-And scarcity like an armed man.
(Chapter 24)
These are more of Solomon's proverbs copied by
the men of Judah's king, Hezekiah.
God's glory is to conceal a matter,
-A king's glory is to seek it out.
As the heaven's high and the earth's deep,
-So kings' hearts are unsearchable.
Remove silver's dross
-And out comes material for the silversmith.
-Remove the wicked from the king's presence
-And his throne's established.
Don't exalt yourself in the king's presence
-Nor claim a place amongst great men.
-Better for him to say "Come up here,"
-Than to humiliate you before a nobleman.
What you've seen
-Don't hastily bring to court.
-For what if your neighbour shames you?
If you argue your case with a neighbour
-Don't betray another man's confidence
-Or he who hears may shame you
-And you'll never lose your bad
reputation.
A word aptly spoken
-Is like gold apples in silver settings.
Like gold earrings or ornament
-Is a wise man's rebuke to a listening ear.
Like cool snow at harvest
-Is a trustworthy messenger to his sender.
-He refreshes his master's spirit.
Like clouds and wind without rain
-Is a man boasting of gifts he doesn't give.
A ruler can be persuaded by patience
-And a gentle tongue can break a bone.
Eat just enough honey.
-Too much and you'll vomit.
Keep out of your neighbour's house
-Otherwise he might grow to hate you.
Like club, sword or sharp arrow
-Is the man who gives false testimony against
his neighbour.
Like a bad tooth or lame foot
-Is reliance on the unfaithful in times of
trouble.
Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day
-Is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.
IF YOUR ENEMY'S HUNGRY GIVE HIM FOOD
-IF THIRSTY GIVE HIM WATER
-YOU'LL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD
-AND THE LORD WILL REWARD YOU.
As a north wind brings rain
-A sly tongue brings angry looks.
Better living on a rooftop corner
-Than in a house with a quarrelsome wife.
Like cold water to a weary soul
-Is good news from a distant land.
Like muddied spring or polluted well
-Is a faithful man who succumbs to the wicked.
It's bad to eat too much honey
-And dishonourable to seek one's own honour.
Like a city with broken down walls
-Is a man lacking self control.
(Chapter 25)
Like summer snow or harvest rain
-Honour doesn't befit a fool.
Like a fluttering sparrow
-An unreserved curse doesn't come to rest.
Whip for horse, halter for donkey
-And a rod for fools' backs.
Answer a fool according to his folly
-Or he will be wise in his own eyes
-And you'll avoid being as foolish as he is.
Like cutting off one's feet
-Is sending a message by a fool's hand.
Like a lame man's limp legs
-Is a proverb in a fool's mouth.
Like tying a stone in a sling
-Is the giving of honour to a fool.
Like a thornbush in a drunkard's hand
-Is a proverb in a fool's mouth.
Like an archer who randomly wounds
-Is he who hires a fool or any passer by.
As a dog returns to its vomit
-So a fool repeats his folly.
There's more hope for a fool
-Than for a man wise in his own eyes.
The sluggard always has plenty of excuses to
avoid work.
A sluggard is as firmly attached to his bed
-As a door is to its hinges.
-He puts his hand in the meal dish
-And is too lazy to put it to his mouth.
-He's wiser in his own eyes
-Than seven men who answer discreetly.
Like seizing a dog by its ears
-Is a passer by who meddles in another's
quarrel.
Like a mad man shooting deadly arrows
-Is one who deceives his neighbour
-And says "I was only joking!"
Without gossip a quarrel dies down,
-Just like a fire without wood.
As wood's needed for a fire
-So is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.
Words of gossip are like choice morsels
-That go down to a man's inmost parts.
Like a glaze coating over earthenware
-Are fervent lips with an evil heart.
The malicious disguises his lips
-But his heart harbours deceit.
-Don't believe his charming speech
-For seven abominations fill his heart.
-His malice may be concealed by deception
-But his wickedness will be exposed in the
assembly.
Dig a pit and you'll fall into it.
-Roll a stone and it will fall back on you.
A lying tongue hates those it hurts
-And a flattering tongue works ruin.
(Chapter 26)
Don't boast about to-morrow,
-You mightn't be here then.
Let another praise you
-Don't do it yourself.
Stone and sand are heavy
-But a fool's provocation is heavier.
Anger's cruel and fury's overwhelming
-But who can stand before jealousy?
Life giving rebuke's
-Better than hidden love.
Wounds from a friend can be trusted
-But an enemy multiplies kisses.
He who's full loathes honey
-But to the hungry even the bitter tastes
sweet.
A man who strays from his home
-Is like a bird that strays from its nest.
Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart
-And your friend's pleasantness springs from
-His earnest counsel.
Don't forsake your friend and your father's
friend,
-Don't go to your brother's house when
disaster strikes.
-Better a nearby neighbour
-Than a distant brother.
Be wise, son, bring joy to my heart
-So I can answer anyone treating me with
contempt.
The prudent see and avoid danger
-But the inexperienced keep on and suffer for
it.
Hold a garment for security
-For the one who lends for a wayward woman.
Loudly bless your neighbour early in the morning
-And he'll take it as a curse.
A quarrelsome wife's like
-A constant dripping on a rainy day.
-You've as much chance of restraining her
-As restraining the wind
-Or grasping oil in your hand.
One man sharpens another
-Like iron sharpens iron.
Tend a fig tree and you'll eat its fruit.
-Look after your master and you'll be
honoured.
AS WATER REFLECTS A FACE
-So your heart reflects the real you.
Death and destruction are never satisfied
-Nor are men's eyes.
Crucible for silver, furnace for gold
-But you're tested by how you handle praise.
Though you grind a fool in a mortar
-You won't remove his folly from him.
Know your flock's condition, cheerfully tend
them,
-For riches won't endure forever
-And a crown isn't secure for all
generations.
-When hay's removed and new growth appears
-And grass from the hills is gathered in,
-Lambs will provide clothing
-And goats the price of a field.
-You'll have plenty of goats' milk to
feed your family and servant girls.
(Chapter 27)
The wicked flees a nonexistent pursuer,
-But the righteous is as bold as a lion.
A rebellious country has many rulers
-But a man of understanding and knowledge
maintains order.
A ruler who oppresses the poor
-Is like driving rain that destroys crops.
Those forsaking the law praise the wicked
-But those who keep it resist them.
The evil don't understand justice
-But those seeking the Lord understand it
fully.
Better a poor man with blameless walk
-Than a rich one whose ways are perverse.
A discerning son keeps the law
-But a companion of gluttons disgraces his
father.
Increase wealth by exorbitant interest
-And you'll amass it for another
-Who'll be kind to the poor.
Turn a deaf ear to the law
-And even your prayers will be detestable.
Lead the upright along an evil path
-And you'll fall into your own trap.
-But the blameless will receive a good
inheritance.
A rich man's wise in his own eyes
-But a poor discerning man sees through him.
There's elation when the righteous triumph
-But when wicked rise to power men hide.
HE WHO CONCEALS HIS SINS DOESN'T PROSPER
-BUT WHOEVER CONFESSES AND RENOUNCES THEM
-FINDS MERCY.
BLESSED THE MAN WHO ALWAYS HAS
-REVERENT RESPECT FOR THE LORD.
-But he who hardens his heart has trouble.
Like roaring lion or charging bear
-Is a wicked man ruling a helpless people,
-A tyrannical ruler lacks judgment,
-But the hater of ill gotten gain will
enjoy long life.
A man tormented by murder's guilt
-Will be a fugitive 'til death.
-Let no one support him.
He whose walk's blameless is kept safe
-But he whose ways are perverse will fall
suddenly.
Work your land and you'll have abundant food,
-But chase fantasies and you'll have your fill
of poverty.
The faithful will be richly blessed
-But those eager to get rich won't go
unpunished.
Showing partiality's wrong
-Yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.
A stingy man's eager to get rich
-Being unaware that poverty awaits him.
Rebuking a man will gain you more favour
-Than using a flattering tongue.
Rob your father and mother and say "It's not
wrong"
-And you'll be a partner of him who destroys.
The greedy stir up dissension.
-BUT HE WHO TRUSTS THE LORD WILL PROSPER.
Trust yourself and you're a fool
-But walk in wisdom and you'll be kept safe.
Give to the poor and you'll lack nothing.
-Close your eyes to them and you'll get
-Many curses.
When the wicked get power people hide
-But when they perish, the faithful thrive.
(Chapter 28)
A stubborn man
-After many rebukes
-Will suddenly be destroyed without remedy.
When the faithful thrive
-The people rejoice.
-When the wicked rule
-The people groan.
Love wisdom and you'll bring joy to your father
-But a prostitute's companion squanders his
wealth.
By justice a king gives a country stability
-But one greedy for bribes tears it down.
Flatter your neighbour
-And you spread a net for his feet.
An evil man's snared by his own sin
-But the faithful can sing and be glad.
The faithful care about justice for the poor,
-The wicked don't.
Mockers disturb a city
-But the wise turn anger away.
If the wise man goes to court with a fool
-The fool rages and scoffs and there's no
peace.
The bloodthirsty hate a man of integrity
-And seek to kill the upright.
A fool fully vents his anger
-The wise controls himself.
If a ruler listens to lies
-All his officials become wicked.
The poor and the oppressor have in common
-That the Lord gives them both sight.
If a king judges the poor with fairness
-His throne will be secure always.
The rod of correction imparts wisdom
-But a child left to himself disgraces his
mother.
When the wicked thrive, so does sin.
-But the faithful will see their downfall.
Discipline your son and he'll give you peace
-Delighting your soul.
WITHOUT PROPHETIC VISION PEOPLE ARE UNRESTRAINED
-BUT LAWKEEPERS HAVE PEACE OF HEART.
Mere words won't correct a servant.
-Though understanding, he won't respond.
There's more hope for a fool than
-A man who speaks hastily.
Pamper your servant from his youth
-And he'll bring grief finally.
The angry create dissension,
-The hot headed commit many sins.
Pride brings a man low
-But a man of lowly spirit gains honour.
A thief's accomplice is his own enemy.
-Put under oath he dare not testify.
Fear of man is a snare
-But whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.
Many seek an audience with a ruler
-But justice comes from the Lord.
The faithful detest the dishonest.
-The wicked detest the upright.
(Chapter 29)
The sayings of Agur.
-I'm the most ignorant of men,
-Not having understanding,
-Not having learned wisdom,
-Not having knowledge of the Holy One.
-Who's ascended to heaven and descended?
-Who's gathered the winds in His hands?
-Who's wrapped the waters in His cloak?
-Who's established earth's ends?
-What's His name and His Son's name?
Every word of God is flawless.
-He shields those who take refuge in Him.
-Don't add to His words
-Or He'll rebuke you
-And prove you a liar.
I ask two things of you O Lord,
-Don't refuse me before I die.
-Keep falsehood and lies far from me,
-Make me neither rich nor poor.
-Give me only my daily bread,
-Otherwise riches may cause me to disown
you.
-Or I may become poor, steal and
dishonour your name.
Don't slander a servant to his master
-Or he'll curse you and you'll pay for it.
Those who curse their fathers
-And don't bless their mothers
-Are pure in their own eyes
-And yet aren't cleansed of their filth,
their
-Eyes are haughty,
-Glances are disdainful,
-Teeth are swords,
-Jaws are set with knives
-To devour the poor and needy.
The leech has two daughters,
-Give, give they cry.
Three things are never satisfied, four that
never say "enough!"
-The grave.
-The barren womb.
-Land, which is never satisfied with water.
-Fire, which never says "enough!"
The eye that mocks a father
-And scorns obedience to a mother
-Will be pecked out by ravens and eaten by
vultures.
Three things are too amazing for me, four I
don't understand the way of
-An eagle in the sky,
-A snake on a rock,
-A ship on the high seas,
-A man with a maiden.
An adulteress eats, wipes her mouth
-And says, "I've done nothing wrong."
Three things make the earth tremble,
-Under four it can't bear up.
-A servant who becomes king.
-A fool who is full of food.
-An unloved married woman.
-A maidservant who displaces her mistress.
Four things are small but very wise.
-Ants with little strength who store food in
summer.
-Rock badgers with little power
-Yet make their homes in the crags.
-Locusts who, without a king, advance together
in ranks.
-Lizards which can be caught by hand
-Yet are found in king's palaces.
Three things have stately stride,
-Four more with stately bearing.
-A mighty lion who retreats before nothing.
-A strutting rooster.
-A he goat.
-A king surrounded by his army.
If you've played the fool exalting yourself
-Or planned evil,
-Clap your hand over your mouth.
-For as churning milk produces butter
-And twisting the nose produces blood,
-So stirring up anger produces strife.
(Chapter 30)
King Lemuel's sayings, as taught by his mother,
-Son of her womb and vows.
-Don't spend your strength on women,
-Your vigour on those who ruin kings.
-It's not for kings to drink wine
-Or crave beer
-Lest they forget what the law decrees
-And deprive the oppressed of their
rights.
-Give beer to the perishing,
-Wine to those in anguish.
-Let them drink and forget their poverty
and misery.
Speak up for those who can't speak for
themselves
-And for the rights of all the destitute.
-Judge fairly,
-Defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Who can find a wife of noble character?
-She's worth far more than rubies.
-Her husband has full confidence in her and
lacks nothing of value.
-All her life she brings him good, not harm.
-She selects wool and flax
-Working it with eager hands.
-She's like the merchant ships
-Bringing her food from afar.
-She arises before dawn
-Providing food for family and servant
girls.
-She considers and buys a field
-Out of her earnings, planting a vineyard.
-She works vigorously
-With arms strong for her tasks.
-She sees her trading's profitable
-And her lamp doesn't go out at night.
-She spins thread with distaff and spindle.
-She opens her arms to the poor and needy.
-Snow brings no fear for her family,
-They're all warmly clothed.
-She makes coverings for her bed
-And is clothed in fine linen and purple.
-Her husband's respected at the city gate,
-Seated among the land's elders.
-She makes and sells linen garments,
-Supplying merchants with sashes.
-She's clothed with strength and dignity
-And is free of anxiety and worry about the
future.
-She speaks with wisdom,
-And faithful instruction's on her tongue.
-She watches over her husband's affairs
-And is not idle.
-Her children rise and call her blessed,
-Her husband also, and he praises her.
-Many women do noble things
-But you surpass them all.
-Charm's deceptive and beauty fleeting
-But a woman who reverently respects the
Lord is to be praised.
-Give her the reward she's earned.
-Let her works bring praise at the city
gate.
(Chapter 31)
HERE ARE SOME MAIN POINTS FROM PROVERBS.
1. You have two options in life, to either
Know, understand and obey God's instructions
in the Bible. Which will result in a good
life and ultimately heaven.
Or
Don't know, understand and disobey God's
word. Which will result in a troubled life
and ultimately hell.
(All Proverbs)
2. To-day's world, like a ship without charts,
anchor or motive power, is adrift on a sea
of moral and ethical relativism. Shipwreck
is inevitable.
What's needed are the absolutes of God's
word. Proverbs gives moral and ethical
absolutes for application to daily living.
3. Trust the Lord with all your heart,
-Don't lean on your own understanding.
-Acknowledge Him in all your ways
-And He will make all your ways straight.
(Chapter 3)
4. Don't let God's words out of your sight.
They're life and health to your body. Above
all guard your heart (the real you), the
wellspring of life.
You'll walk confidently in full sunshine
unlike the wicked who stumble around in the
dark.
(Chapter 4)
5. Proverbs speaks clearly to the prevailing
problem of sexual immorality, upholding the
sanctity of marriage.
(Chapters 5, 6, 7, 9)
6. Correction and discipline are the way to
life not the rampant individualism of our
age.
(Chapter 6)
7. God's wisdom - and values are eternal.
Therefore the only logical course to set in
life is to live by them. Unless you can
create and run the universe better than God,
it's illogical for you to run life your way.
(Chapter 8)
8. The reverent respect for the Lord is the
beginning of wisdom and knowledge of Him is
understanding.
(Chapter 9)
9. The discipline of children is emphasised in
Proverbs. Parental love demands it. Lack of
it produces insecure children unprepared
for the disciplines adult life will
impose.
(Chapters 13, 22)
10. A cheerful face tells the world your heart
is beating in tune with God's.
(Chapter 15)
11. Your way may seem right to you but unless it
is also God's way it will end in disaster
and ultimately hell.
(Chapter 16)
12. Ultimately in this universe that is God's
creation, His will will be done. Therefore
the only logical thing you can do is to
ensure your will is in line with His. His
will for your life is based on His
unconditional love for you. You won't
improve on it. Go your way instead of His
and you're in a conflict with God. You won't
win.
(Chapters 19, 21)
13. Proverbs recognises that no one is sinless.
It's the starting point for a real
relationship with God. Recognise it, turn
from sin, ask God's forgiveness and by faith
in the Lord, Jesus Christ, you're adopted
into God's family.
(Chapters 20, 27)
14. Religious activity (church going etc.) is no
substitute for doing what's just and right.
It may seem right to you but the Lord weighs
the heart.
(Chapter 21)
15. Over indulgence in alcohol can have mind
boggling results. It's not recommended in
God's word.
(Chapters 23, 31)
16. Believers in the Lord, Jesus Christ have the
responsibility of introducing others to Him.
Unbelievers are like the blind walking
toward a cliff edge.
17. Show your heart's in tune with God's by
loving your enemies. It removes any control
they may have over you, e.g. anger,
resentment etc.
(Chapters 24, 25)
18. You may stubbornly resist God's will for a
time and think you're getting away with it.
Continue and you'll finally suddenly be
destroyed without remedy.
19. We live in a time when people are morally
and ethically unsrestrained. So make God,
His word and His will known to them.
(Chapter 29)
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