Definition: Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important verse from Proverbs 23:4. It's a bit cryptic at first, but it’s packed with meaning about how we should live our lives. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse is saying: Don’t waste your time and energy trying to be rich or successful. It’s urging us to focus on things that truly matter – living a virtuous life. Let’s unpack it a little further: “Labour not to be rich” : This means don't chase wealth, possessions, or status. Don't put your happiness and fulfillment in the pursuit of money or material things. It’s about doing something rather than wanting something. “Cease from thine own wisdom” : This is the core of the message. Wisdom isn't just knowing a lot – it’s being wise, understanding good and bad, and making the right choices. But the verse suggests that excessive wisdom, or focusing on knowledge for its own sake, can be a distraction from what truly matters: living a righteous life, serving God, and caring for others. Think of it this way: It’s like having a really sharp sword – useful for defense, but also dangerous if you don’t use it wisely. Too much focus on knowledge without compassion or good will can lead to problems. In short, the verse is a call to prioritize virtue and righteousness over material wealth. It encourages us to be practical, focused on doing good, and avoid being consumed by intellectual pursuits that might distract us from those goals. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in more detail? Give some examples of things to avoid focusing on for the sake of knowledge?