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Chapter 23: What Not to Do

As we continue in the Thirty Sayings of the Wise, we find that many of them are short poems of varying length. Here in chapter 23 we find the next 12 sayings.

The majority of these 12 sayings have to do with restraint. Notice the repetition of the words “do not,” “let not,” “be not.” For any parent, these are very familiar words. Parents often tell their kids what not to do out of love for them, as they are actually trying to protect their child from the consequences of their actions. Any person who wants to live a healthy and productive life needs to know what not to do. After a while, these “Do Nots” become natural.

We also learn that the wise person avoids being easily flattered, trying to get rich, talking too much, meddling in the business of others, neglecting their children, envying selfish people, hanging out with lazy friends, disrespecting parents, and drinking too much.

Notice how many references there are in this chapter to the “heart” (verses 12, 15, 17, 19, 26, and 33) and the “eye” (verses 5, 26, 31, and 33). These are the gateways to a person’s inner life. These sayings are warnings to guard your thoughts and feelings. As you read through these sayings, ask the Lord how you can better discipline your desires.