We now come to the "thirty sayings of the wise". We are to pay attention and to apply our heart. Now in the Bible heart does not mean just our emotions but includes our whole being.
The reason these sayings are given is so that we may trust the Lord. Worldly wisdom will leads us away from God, godly wisdom will lead us towards God.
Note that the focus of the sayings is on honesty and truth. Just consider how contrary this is to much of the world's so called wisdom.
We must not exploit the poor. Again, consider how much the poor are exploited. Loan sharks are one example, slavery is another. When evil is triumphing it is often the poor who suffer most. But there is a day of judgement, of God's judgement.
We are to avoid hot-tempered people, they will only lead us into trouble.
We should beware of putting up security for another. It is better to pay off their debt properly.
We are to respect ancient boundaries. Our society has been, and still is, in the midst of removing ancient boundaries, such as the redefinition of marriage. We do this at our peril.
Those who are skilled will be rewarded and valued by leaders.
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