Study Desk

A man of great anger will bear the penalty [for his quick temper and lack of self-control]; For if you rescue him [and do not let him learn from the consequences of his action], you will only have to rescue him over and over again.

Many plans are in a man's mind, But it is the LORD'S purpose for him that will stand (be carried out).

Strike a scoffer [for refusing to learn], and the naive may [be warned and] become prudent; Reprimand one who has understanding and a teachable spirit, and he will gain knowledge and insight.

Judgments are prepared for scoffers, And beatings for the backs of [thickheaded] fools.

It is an honor for a man to keep away from strife [by handling situations with thoughtful foresight], But any fool will [start a] quarrel [without regard for the consequences].

Differing weights [one for buying and another for selling] and differing measures, Both of them are detestable and offensive to the LORD.

[The judge tells the creditor], "Take the clothes of one who is surety for a stranger; And hold him in pledge [when he guarantees a loan] for foreigners."

Do not say, "I will repay evil"; Wait [expectantly] for the LORD, and He will rescue and save you.

It is a trap for a man to [speak a vow of consecration and] say rashly, "It is holy!" And [not until] afterward consider [whether he can fulfill it].

To do righteousness and justice Is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice [for wrongs repeatedly committed].

The way of the guilty is [exceedingly] crooked, But as for the pure, his conduct is upright.

The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, And the treacherous in the place of the upright [for they fall into their own traps].

There is precious treasure and oil in the house of the wise [who prepare for the future], But a short-sighted and foolish man swallows it up and wastes it.

The desire of the lazy kills him, For his hands refuse to labor;

A wicked man puts on a bold face, But as for the upright, he considers, directs, and establishes his way [with the confidence of integrity].

The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But deliverance and victory belong to the LORD.

Thorns and snares are in the way of the obstinate [for their lack of honor and their wrong-doing traps them]; He who guards himself [with godly wisdom] will be far from them and avoid the consequences they suffer.

Train up a child in the way he should go [teaching him to seek God's wisdom and will for his abilities and talents], Even when he is old he will not depart from it.

He who is generous will be blessed, For he gives some of his food to the poor.

He who oppresses or exploits the poor to get more for himself Or who gives to the rich [to gain influence and favor], will only come to poverty.