Excerpts from Eugene Peterson’s recent translation of the Bible.

From one of the best-known sections of Proverbs.

~~~

Speak up for the people who have no voice,

for the rights of all the down-and-outers.

Speak out for justice!

Stand up for the poor and destitute!

~~~

[A good wife]

is quick to assist anyone in need,

reaches out to the poor.

always faces tomorrow with a smile.

When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say,

and she always says it kindly.

Her children respect and bless her;

her husband joins in with words of praise:

‘Many women have done wonderful things,

but you’ve outclassed them all!’

Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.

The woman to be admired and praised

is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.

—

Shalom!

Rowland Croucher