Proverbs 31:6-7

This is a strange passage. Lemuel’s mother knew that a king should not drink alcohol. But she supposed that poor people should drink lots of beer and wine in order to forget their troubles. But she was wrong. Alcohol cannot cure the problems of poor people. Their lives will not be better if they become drunks. In fact, their lives will be worse.

Poor people cannot afford wine and beer. They will become weaker if they drink alcohol. And they might be unable to do their work. These people are poor now. But they will become poorer.

Often rich people give stupid advice to poor people. The rich people are trying to help. But they are not poor. So they do not know the problems of poor people.

We need accurate knowledge to advise well. Our experiences are different from other people’s experiences. So we must study their problems well, before we can advise. Otherwise, we might cause even more problems.

v8 Defend weak people!

Protect poor people!

Speak out on their behalf!

v9 When you are their judge, be fair!

Defend everyone who needs your help!