« | Proverbs 25 | » |
1 There are also these proverbs of Solomon, collected by scribes of Hezekiah, king of Judah.
2 God delights in concealing things; scientists delight in discovering things.
3 Like the horizons for breadth and the ocean for depth, the understanding of a good leader is broad and deep.
4 Remove impurities from the silver and the silversmith can craft a fine chalice;
5 Remove the wicked from leadership and authority will be credible and God-honoring.
6 Don't work yourself into the spotlight; don't push your way into the place of prominence.
7 It's better to be promoted to a place of honor than face humiliation by being demoted.
8 Don't jump to conclusions--there may be a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw.
9 In the heat of an argument, don't betray confidences;
10 Word is sure to get around, and no one will trust you.
11 The right word at the right time is like a custom-made piece of jewelry,
12 And a wise friend's timely reprimand is like a gold ring slipped on your finger.
13 Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat--refreshing!
14 Like billowing clouds that bring no rain is the person who talks big but never produces.
15 Patient persistence pierces through indifference; gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses.
16 When you're given a box of candy, don't gulp it all down; eat too much chocolate and you'll make yourself sick;
17 And when you find a friend, don't outwear your welcome; show up at all hours and he'll soon get fed up.
18 Anyone who tells lies against the neighbors in court or on the street is a loose cannon.
19 Trusting a double-crosser when you're in trouble is like biting down on an abscessed tooth.
20 Singing light songs to the heavyhearted is like pouring salt in their wounds.
21 If you see your enemy hungry, go buy him lunch; if he's thirsty, bring him a drink.
22 Your generosity will surprise him with goodness, and GOD will look after you.
23 A north wind brings stormy weather, and a gossipy tongue stormy looks.
24 Better to live alone in a tumbledown shack than share a mansion with a nagging spouse.
25 Like a cool drink of water when you're worn out and weary is a letter from a long-lost friend.
26 A good person who gives in to a bad person is a muddied spring, a polluted well.
27 It's not smart to stuff yourself with sweets, nor is glory piled on glory good for you.
28 A person without self-control is like a house with its doors and windows knocked out.
The Message (MSG)
The Message (MSG) is a contemporary, paraphrased translation of the Bible, crafted to bring the scriptures to life in modern, conversational English. Developed by pastor and scholar Eugene H. Peterson, The Message was published in segments starting in 1993, with the complete Bible released in 2002. Peterson’s aim was to make the Bible accessible and engaging for today’s readers, breaking down the barriers posed by traditional, formal language. His work sought to capture the original tone, rhythm, and intent of the biblical texts, presenting them in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.
One of the defining characteristics of The Message is its use of dynamic equivalence, focusing on conveying the thoughts and meanings behind the original texts rather than adhering to a word-for-word translation. This approach allows for the use of idiomatic expressions and modern phrasing, making the scriptures feel more relatable and immediate. Peterson, who had a deep understanding of both the biblical languages and modern culture, aimed to bridge the gap between the ancient world of the Bible and the everyday experiences of today’s readers.
The Message has been praised for its readability and ability to convey the emotional and narrative elements of the Bible in a fresh, vivid manner. Its accessible language makes it particularly appealing to those who might find traditional translations difficult to understand or intimidating. Many readers appreciate The Message for its ability to make familiar passages feel new and impactful, often shedding light on the scriptures in ways that resonate on a personal level. It is frequently used in personal devotions, group studies, and church services where clarity and relatability are paramount.
Despite its popularity, The Message has faced criticism from some scholars and traditionalists who argue that its paraphrased nature can lead to oversimplification and loss of nuance. Critics contend that in striving for contemporary relevance, The Message sometimes departs too far from the original texts, potentially altering the intended meanings. However, supporters of The Message appreciate its ability to engage modern readers and spark interest in the Bible, seeing it as a valuable tool for evangelism and discipleship. Overall, The Message stands out as a bold and innovative translation that has made a significant impact on how many people experience and understand the Bible.