Proverbs 31:1-9 - The Oracle Of King Lemuel
1 The words of King Lemuel a pronouncement with which his mother encouraged him.
2 No, my son! No, my son whom I conceived! No, my son to whom I gave birth! 3 Never devote all your energy to sex, or dedicate your life to destroying kings. 4 It is not for kings, Lemuel Not for kings to drink wine or for rulers to desire liquor. 5 Otherwise, they may drink and forget what has been ordained, perverting justice for all the oppressed. 6 Give liquor to someone who is perishing, and wine to someone who is deeply depressed. 7 Let him drink, forget his poverty, and remember his troubles no more. 8 Speak for those who cannot speak; seek justice for all those on the verge of destruction. 9 Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the afflicted and oppressed.