are compared. Those are never rich that are always coveting. And many who have come to a bad
end, have owned that their wicked courses began by despising their parents' authority.
Verses 18–20
Four things cannot be fully known. The kingdom of nature is full of marvels. The fourth is a
mystery of iniquity; the cursed arts by which a vile seducer gains the affections of a female; and
the arts which a vile woman uses to conceal her wickedness.
Verses 21–23
Four sorts of persons are very troublesome. Men of low origin and base spirit, who, getting
authority, become tyrants. Foolish and violent men indulging in excesses. A woman of a contentious
spirit and vicious habits. A servant who has obtained undue influence. Let those whom Providence
has advanced from low beginnings, carefully watch against that sin which most easily besets them.
Verses 24–28
Four things that are little, are yet to be admired. There are those who are poor in the world, and
of small account, yet wise for their souls and another world.
Verses 29–33
We may learn from animals to go well; also to keep our temper under all provocations. We
must keep the evil thought in our minds from breaking out into evil speeches. We must not stir up
the passions of others. Let nothing be said or done with violence, but every thing with softness and
calmness. Alas, how often have we done foolishly in rising up against the Lord our King! Let us
humble ourselves before him. And having found peace with Him, let us follow peace with all men.
Chapter 31
Chapter Outline
An exhortation to king Lemuel to take heed (1–9)
of sin, and to do duties.
The description of a virtuous woman. (10–31)Verses 1–9
When children are under the mother's eye, she has an opportunity of fashioning their minds
aright. Those who are grown up, should often call to mind the good teaching they received when
children. The many awful instances of promising characters who have been ruined by vile women,