Today’s scripture reading finds us in the middle of a wealth of wisdom recorded by Solomon in the Book of Proverbs  Here are a few of my favorite proverbs from this section:

• “The fear of the Lord if the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Prov. 9:10)
• “A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son grief to his mother.” (Prov. 10:1)
• “Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.” (Prov. 10:4)
• “The Lord abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight.” (Prov. 11:1)
• “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.” (Prov 12:22)
• “A gentle answer turns away wrath but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Prov. 15:1)
• “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” (Prov. 16:3)
• “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end leads to death.” (Prov. 16:25)
• “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” (Prov. 18:22)
• “Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death.” (Prov. 19:18)
• “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” (Prov. 20:1)