“Listen carefully and open your heart. Drink in the wise revelation that I impart. You’ll become winsome and wise when you treasure the beauty of my words. And always be prepared to share them at the appropriate time. For I’m releasing these words to you this day, yes, even to you, so that your living hope will be found in God alone, for he is the only one who is always true.”

[31] You can do your best to prepare for the battle, but ultimate victory comes from the Lord God.

“Would you like to meet a very important person? Take a generous gift. It will do wonders to gain entrance into his presence.”

“Wise instruction is like a costly gem. It turns the impossible into success.”

“The Lord works everything together to accomplish his purpose. Even the wicked are included in his plans— he sets them aside for the day of disaster. When the Lord is pleased with the decisions you’ve made, he activates grace to turn enemies into friends. It is better to have little with a heart that loves justice than to be rich and not have God on your side. Within your heart you can make plans for your future, but the Lord chooses the steps you take to get there. A king speaks the revelation of truth, so he must be extraordinarily careful in the decrees that he makes. The Lord expects you to be fair in every business deal, for he is the one who sets the standards for righteousness. Kings and leaders love to hear godly counsel, and they love those who tell them the truth. Repenting from evil places you on the highway of holiness. Protect purity and you protect your life. One skilled in business discovers prosperity, but the one who trusts in God is blessed beyond belief! Before every person there is a path that seems like the right one to take, but it leads straight to hell! Old age with wisdom will crown you with dignity and honor, for it takes a lifetime of righteousness to acquire it. Do you want to be a mighty warrior? It’s better to be known as one who is patient and slow to anger. Do you want to conquer a city? Rule over your temper before you attempt to rule a city. We may toss the coin and roll the dice, but God’s will is greater than luck.”