1 Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool.
2 Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way.
3 When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the LORD.
4 Wealth brings many new friends, but a poor man is deserted by his friend.
5 A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will not escape.
6 Many seek the favor of a generous man, and everyone is a friend to a man who gives gifts.
7 All a poor man’s brothers hate him; how much more do his friends go far from him! He pursues them with words, but does not have them.
8 Whoever gets sense loves his own soul; he who keeps understanding will discover good.
9 A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will perish.
10 It is not fitting for a fool to live in luxury, much less for a slave to rule over princes.
Comment: These proverbs hit close to home discussing issues which are causing problems in our modern societies. I will just list the 10 subjects that they highlight. 1. Deception by fools 2. Following whims of fancy 3. Blaming God for your own foolhardy behaviour 4. Cupboard love 5. Truth will out! 6. ‘Buying’ relationships 7. Complex relationships brought about by poverty 8. Thinking about eternal issues 9. Don’t be fooled – judgement will come! 10. Leadership in Society and Government.
And discussing these issues the weight of the suggested answers seems to hang on one’s attitudes to wisdom and foolishness – in spiritual words Accepting Jesus (Wisdom) or choosing a broken relationship with God (Foolishness).
Prayer: I would and I will choose Your Way, my God. Please keep me true to my chosen decision!
As I read it! 