Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves who everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. —2 Corinthians 4:1-2
Blessed Are Those Who Find Wisdom
13 Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,
14 for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed.
19 By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations,
by understanding he set the heavens in place;
20 by his knowledge the watery depths were divided,
and the clouds let drop the dew.
Fools Rage
Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end. —Proverbs 29:11
Tears and Joy
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” —Psalm 126:5
Open Rebuke and Hidden Love
“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” —Proverbs 27:5-6
Desired Haven
Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He brought them out of their distress.
He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.
They were glad when it grew calm, and He guided them to their desired haven.
—Psalm 107:28-30
Better a Dry Crust
“Better a dry crust with peace and quiet, than a house full of feasting, with strife.” —Proverbs 17:1