[1] Here are more of Solomon's proverbs. They were copied by the officials of King Hezekiah of Judah. [2] God is praised for being mysterious; rulers are praised for explaining mysteries. [3] Who can fully understand the thoughts of a ruler? They reach beyond the sky and go deep in the earth. [4] Silver must be purified before it can be used to make something of value. [5] Evil people must be removed before anyone can rule with justice. [6] Don't try to seem important in the court of a ruler. [7] It's better for the ruler to give you a high position than for you to be embarrassed in front of royal officials. Be sure you are right [8] before you sue someone, or you might lose your case and be embarrassed. [9] When you and someone else can't get along, don't gossip about it. [10] Others will find out, and your reputation will then be ruined. [11] The right word at the right time is like precious gold set in silver. [12] Listening to good advice is worth much more than jewelry made of gold. [13] A messenger you can trust is just as refreshing as cool water in summer. [14] Broken promises are worse than rain clouds that don't bring rain. [15] Patience and gentle talk can convince a ruler and overcome any problem. [16] Eating too much honey can make you sick. [17] Don't visit friends too often, or they will get tired of it and start hating you. [18] Telling lies about friends is like attacking them with clubs and swords and sharp arrows. [19] A friend you can't trust in times of trouble is like having a toothache or a sore foot. [20] Singing to someone in deep sorrow is like pouring vinegar in an open cut. [21] If your enemies are hungry, give them something to eat. And if they are thirsty, give them something to drink. [22] This will be the same as piling burning coals on their heads. And the LORD will reward you. [23] As surely as rain blows in from the north, anger is caused by cruel words. [24] It's better to stay outside on the roof of your house than to live inside with a nagging wife. [25] Good news from far away refreshes like cold water when you are thirsty. [26] When a good person gives in to the wicked, it's like dumping garbage in a stream of clear water. [27] Don't eat too much honey or always want praise. [28] Losing self-control leaves you as helpless as a city without a wall.
