In these collections of proverbs we find advice for [[100]]every condition of our life. Our relation to God is shown; how He loves the good and just:—
“The way of the wicked is an abomination of the Lord; but he loveth him who pursues righteousness” (xv. 9).
“The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination of the Lord, but the prayer of the righteous is his pleasure” (xv. 8).
“The Lord is far from the wicked, but he heareth the prayer of the righteous” (xv. 29).
“To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice” (xxi. 3).
He protects the poor, the weak, the widow, and the orphan:—
“He who oppresseth the poor, blasphemeth his Maker; and he who is gracious to the needy, honoureth him” (xiv. 31).
“He who is gracious to the poor, lendeth to the Lord, and he will repay him his reward” (xix. 17).
“Do not rob the poor because he is poor; and do not crush the poor in the gate, for the Lord will plead their cause, and will take the soul of those who rob them” (xxii. 23).
“The Lord will pull down the house of the proud, and will establish the border of the widow” (xv. 25).
“The rich and the poor meet; the Maker of them all is the Lord” (xxii. 2).
He punishes the evil-doer and rewards the righteous:—
“Do not say, I will repay evil; hope in the Lord, and he will help thee” (xx. 22).
“He who closeth his ear because of the crying of the [[101]]poor, he also will call and will not be answered” (xxi. 13).
“He who keepeth a command, keepeth his soul; he who despiseth his ways shall die” (xix. 16).
“When the Lord is pleased with the ways of man, he will cause even his enemies to make peace with him” (xvi. 7).
“The Lord will not let the soul of the righteous be hungry, but the desire of the wicked will he thrust back” (x. 3).
He knows the heart of man:—
“There is a test for silver, and a refining pot for gold; but God trieth the hearts” (xvii. 3).
He directs all events:—
“Man’s heart planneth his way, but the Lord directeth his step” (xvi. 9).
“The horse is prepared for the day of war, but the victory is the Lord’s” (xxi. 31).