Month: September 2023

The Sayings of Agar

“The. sayings of Agur son of Jakeh contain this message.

I am weary, O God; I am weary and worn out, O God. I am too stupid to be human and. lack common sense. I have not mastered human wisdom, nor do I know the Holy One.

Who but God got up to heaven and comes back down? Who holds the wind in His fists? Who wraps up the oceans in His cloak? Who has created the whole wide world? What is His name – and His son’s name. Tell me if you know!

Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to Him for protection. Do not add to His words, or He may rebuke you and expose you as a liar.

O God, I beg two favors from you; let me have them before I die. First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs.” (vv. 1-8)

“When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability.” (v.2)

“Evil people don’t understand justice, but those who follow the Lord understand completely. Better to be poor and honest Than dishonest and rich.

Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents.” (vv. 2-7)

“Those who lead good people along an evil path will fall into their own trap, but the honest will inherit good things.

Rich people may think they are wise, but a poor person with discernment can see right through them.

When the godly succeed, everyone is glad. When the wicked takes charge, people go into hiding.

People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.

Blessed are those who fear to do wrong, but the stubborn are head for serious trouble.

A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a roaring lion or an attacking bear. A rule with no understanding will press his people, but one who hates corruption will have a long life.” (vv. 10-16,)

“Don’t brag about tomorrow, since you don’t know what the day will bring.

Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth – a stranger, not your own lips. (vv. 1-2)

“The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.” (v9)

“A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” (v. 12)

“A face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person.

Just as Death and Destruction are never satisfied, so human desire is never satisfied.” (vv. 19-20)

More Proverbs of Solomon

“These are more proverbs of Solomon, collected by the adviser of King Hezekiah of Judah.

It is God’s privilege to conceal things and the kings privilege to discover them.

No one can comprehend the height of heaven, the depth of the earth, or all that goes on in the king’s mind!: (vv. 1-3)

“When arguing with your neighbor, don’t betray another person’s secret. Others may accuse you of gossip, and you will never regain your good reputation.: (vv. 9-10)

“If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads, and the Lord will reward you.” (21-22)

“A person who plans evil will get a reputation as a troublemaker. The schemes of a fool are sinful; everyone detests a mocker.

If you fall under pressure, your strength is too small.

Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to die; same them as they stagger to their death.

Don’t excuse your self by saying, ‘Look, we didn’t know.’For God understands all hearts, and He sees you. He who guards your soul knows you knew. He will repay all people as their actions deserve.” (vv. 8-12)

“Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle. ” (v 4-5)

“Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge.

Don’t fail to discipline your children. They won’t die if you spank them. Physical discipline may well save them from death. ” (v.13-14)

“Don’t envy sinners, but always continue to fear the Lord. You will be rewarded for this; you hope will not be disappointed. “(v.17-18)

“People may be right in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their heart.

The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just, than when we offer Him sacrifices.

Haughty eyes , a proud heart, and evil actions are all sin.

Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.” (vv 2-5)

“Whoever pursues righteousness and unfailing love will find life, righteousness, and honor.

The wise conquer the city of the strong and level the fortress in which they trust.

Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.” (vv. 21-23)

“Better to be poor and honest than dishonest and a fool.

Enthusiasm without knowledge is no good, haste makes mistakes.

People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the Lord.

Wealth makes many “friends”; poverty drives them all away.” (vv.1-4)

“Discipline your children while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives.

Hot-tempered people must pay the penalty. If you rescue them once, you will have to do it again.

Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life.

You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.” (vv. 18-21)