Proverbs 30:1-9

Words of Agur

1 The words of Agur, Jakeh's son, from Massa. The man declares: I'm tired, God; I'm tired, God, and I'm exhausted.

2 Actually, I'm too stupid to be human, a man without understanding.

3 I haven't learned wisdom, nor do I have knowledge of the holy one.

4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind by the handful? Who has bound up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is this person's name and the name of this person's child— if you know it?

5 All God's words are tried and true; a shield for those who take refuge in him.

6 Don't add to his words, or he will correct you and show you to be a liar.

7 Two things I ask of you; don't keep them from me before I die:

8 Fraud and lies— keep far from me! Don't give me either poverty or wealth; give me just the food I need.

9 Or I'll be full and deny you, and say, "Who is the LORD?" Or I'll be poor and steal, and dishonor my God's name.

Proverbs 30:1-9 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 17

This chapter begins with a prophecy of Elijah, that there should be want of rain for some years to come, and he is directed to go first to the brook Cherith, where he should be fed by ravens, 1Ki 17:1-7, and afterwards he is sent to a widow at Zarephath, where he, she, and her son, were supported for a considerable time with a handful of meal, and a little oil in a cruse miraculously increased, 1Ki 17:8-16, whose son falling sick and dying, he restored to life, 1Ki 17:17-24.