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https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1023db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 23 Romans 4:16-25 Romans 4 16 For this reason, the promise is by faith, so that it may be according to grace and may be guaranteed to all of Abraham’s descendants—not only to the one who is a descendant by law, but also to the one who has the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all. 17 As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.” [1] Abraham’s Faith Was a Firm Trust in God’s Promise In the presence of God, Abraham believed him who makes the dead alive and calls non-existing things so that they exist. [2] 18 Hoping beyond what he could expect, he believed that he would become the father of many nations, just as he was told: “This is how many your descendants will be.” [3] 19 He did not weaken in faith, even though he considered his own body as good as dead (because he was about one hundred years old), and even though he considered Sarah’s womb to be dead. 20 He did not waver in unbelief with respect to God’s promise, but he grew strong in faith, giving glory to God 21 and being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. 22 This is why “it was credited to him as righteousness.” [4] 23 Now the statement “it was credited to him” was not written for him alone, 24 but also for us to whom it would be credited, namely, to us who believe in the one who raised our Lord Jesus from the dead. 25 He was handed over to death because of our trespasses and was raised to life because of our justification. Footnotes Romans 4:17 Genesis 17:5 Romans 4:17 Or speaks of non-existing things as though they exist Romans 4:18 Genesis 15:5 Romans 4:22 Genesis 15:6 The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1022db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 22 Romans 4:1-15 Romans 4 Abraham, an Example of Justification by Faith 1 What then will we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered according to the flesh? 2 If indeed Abraham had been justified by works, he would have had a reason to boast—but not before God. 3 For what does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness.” [1] 4 Now to a person who works, his pay is not counted as a gift but as something owed. 5 But to the person who does not work but believes in the God who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited to him as righteousness. 6 This is exactly what David says about the blessed state of the person to whom God credits righteousness apart from works: 7 Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven and whose sins are covered. 8 Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him. [2] Abraham Was Justified Before His Circumcision 9 Now then, does this blessing apply only to the circumcised or also to the uncircumcised? To be sure, we maintain that faith was credited to Abraham as righteousness. 10 So then, under what circumstances was it credited to him? Was he circumcised or uncircumcised at that time? He was not circumcised but uncircumcised, 11 and he received the mark of circumcision as the seal of the righteousness by faith that was already his while he was uncircumcised. So Abraham is the father of all the uncircumcised people who believe, so that righteousness would also be credited to them. 12 He is also the father of the circumcised people who are not merely circumcised but also walk in the footsteps of the faith our father Abraham had before he was circumcised. Abraham Received What God Promised by Faith, Not by Law 13 Indeed, the promise that he would be the heir of the world was not given to Abraham or his descendants through the law, but through the righteousness that is by faith. 14 To be sure, if people are heirs by the law, faith is empty and the promise is nullified. 15 For law brings wrath. (Where there is no law, there is no transgression.) Footnotes Romans 4:3 Genesis 15:6 Romans 4:8 Psalm 32:1-2 The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1021db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 21 Romans 3:21-31 Romans 3 A Righteousness Apart From the Law by Faith 21 But now, completely apart from the law, a righteousness from God has been made known. The Law and the Prophets testify to it. 22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all and over all [1] who believe. In fact, there is no difference, 23 because all have sinned and fall short of the glory [2] of God 24 and are justified [3] freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God publicly displayed as the atonement seat [4] through faith in his blood. God did this to demonstrate his justice, since, in his divine restraint, he had left the sins that were committed earlier unpunished. 26 He did this to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so that he would be both just and the one who justifies the person who has faith in Jesus. 27 What happens to boasting then? It has been eliminated. By what principle [5]—by the principle of works? No, but by the principle of faith. 28 For we conclude that a person is justified by faith without the works of the law. 29 Or is he only the God of the Jews? Is he not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, also of the Gentiles, 30 since there is one God who will justify the circumcised person by faith and the uncircumcised person through the very same faith. 31 So are we doing away with the law by this faith? Absolutely not! Instead, we are upholding the law. Footnotes Romans 3:22 Some witnesses to the text omit and over all. Romans 3:23 Or approval Romans 3:24 Or declared righteous Romans 3:25 The atonement seat was the cover of the Ark of the Covenant. It served as the footstool of God’s throne and was the place where the sacrificial blood was sprinkled on the Day of Atonement (see Leviticus 16:2,14,15). Christ is the fulfillment of the function of the atonement seat. Romans 3:27 In this verse, principle translates the Greek term nomos, which is often translated law. The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1020db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 20 Romans 3:1-20 Romans 3 A Jew’s Advantage and God’s Faithfulness 1 What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew? Or what benefit is there to circumcision? 2 Much in every way! Indeed, above all else, they were entrusted with the messages of God. 3 Now what if some did not believe? Their unbelief [1] will not nullify God’s faithfulness, will it? 4 Absolutely not! God must be true, even though everyone is found to be a liar, just as it is written: So that you would be justified whenever you speak, and win the case when you judge. [2] An Absurd Conclusion 5 Now if our unrighteousness demonstrates God’s righteousness, what shall we say? God is not unjust in bringing his wrath on us, is he? (I am speaking from a human point of view.) 6 Absolutely not! If that were so, how could God judge the world? 7 For example, [3] someone might say, “If by my lie the truth of God increases all the more to his glory, why am I still being judged as a sinner?” 8 And why not say (as some slanderously claim we say), “Let us do evil so that good may result.” Their condemnation is deserved. All Are Guilty of Sin 9 What then? Are we any better off? No, not at all! In fact, we have already made the charge that all (both Jews and Greeks) are under sin. 10 Just as it is written: There is no one who is righteous, not even one. 11 There is no one who understands. There is no one who searches for God. 12 They all turned away; together they became useless. There is no one who does what is good; there is not even one. [4] 13 Their throat is an open grave. They kept deceiving with their tongues. The poison of asps is on their lips. [5] 14 Their mouth is filled with cursing and bitterness. [6] 15 Their feet are quick to shed blood. 16 They leave a trail of destruction and suffering wherever they go. 17 The way of peace they did not know. [7] 18 There is no fear of God in front of their eyes. [8] The Law Condemns Everyone 19 Now we know that whatever the law says is addressed to those who are under the law, [9] so that every mouth will be silenced and the whole world will be subject to God’s judgment. 20 For this reason, no one [10] will be declared righteous in his sight by works of the law, for through the law we become aware of sin. Footnotes Romans 3:3 Or some were not faithful? Their unfaithfulness. . . Romans 3:4 Psalm 51:4 Romans 3:7 A few witnesses to the text read And. (“Witnesses to the text” mentioned in footnotes may include Greek manuscripts, lectionaries, translations, and quotations in the church fathers.) Romans 3:12 Psalm 14:1-3; 53:1-3; Ecclesiastes 7:20 Romans 3:13 Psalm 5:9; 140:3 Romans 3:14 Psalm 10:7 Romans 3:17 Isaiah 59:7-8 Romans 3:18 Psalm 36:1 Romans 3:19 Or those in the sphere of the law Romans 3:20 Literally flesh The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1019db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 19 Romans 2:17-29 Romans 2 Paul Addresses the Jew Directly 17 Now if you call yourself a Jew, and you find your comfort in the law, and you boast in God; 18 and if you know his will, and you approve the things that really matter, since you are instructed by the law; 19 and if you are convinced that you yourself are a guide for the blind, a light for those in darkness, 20 an instructor of the ignorant, and a teacher of infants (since you have the essence of knowledge and truth in the law)— 21 now then, you, the one who is teaching someone else, do you fail to teach yourself? You who preach, “Do not steal,” do you steal? 22 You who say, “Do not commit adultery,” do you commit adultery? You who detest idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the law bring shame on God by breaking the law. 24 Yes, as it is written, “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” [1] Does Circumcision Make a Difference? 25 Indeed, circumcision has value if you observe the law. On the other hand, if you are a lawbreaker, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. 26 So, if an uncircumcised person keeps the righteous requirements of the law, won’t his uncircumcision be credited to him as circumcision? 27 The one who is not circumcised physically, but who fulfills the law, will judge you who are a lawbreaker, even though you have the written law and circumcision. 28 In fact, a Jew who is merely one outwardly is not really a Jew, and circumcision that is only outward in the flesh is not really circumcision. 29 Rather, a real Jew is one on the inside, and his circumcision is of the heart—a spiritual circumcision, not one based on carrying out the letter of the law. That person’s praise does not come from people but from God. Footnotes Romans 2:24 Isaiah 52:5 The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1018db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 18 Romans 2:1-16 Romans 2 God Will Judge What Each Person Does 1 Therefore, you are without excuse, every one of you who judges someone else, because by judging the other person you also condemn yourself, since you, who are judging, are doing the very same things. 2 And we know that God’s judgment on those who do such things is based on the truth. 3 Are you thinking that you will escape God’s judgment, you who judge those who do such things and then do the same things yourself? 4 Or do you have so little regard for his rich kindness, his restraint, and his patience, that you ignore the fact that the purpose of God’s kindness is to lead you to repentance? 5 As a result of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath, when God will reveal his righteous judgment. 6 God “will repay each person according to what he has done” [1]— 7 eternal life to those who seek glory, honor, and immortality by persisting in doing what is good, 8 but furious anger to those who out of selfish ambition are disobeying what is true and obeying what is wrong. 9 There will be trouble and distress for the soul of every person who does what is evil—for the Jew first and for the Greek— 10 but glory, honor, and peace for everyone who does what is good—for the Jew first and for the Greek. 11 For God does not show favoritism. 12 Indeed, all people who have sinned without law will also perish without law, and all the people who have sinned in connection with law will be judged by law. 13 For it is not those who hear the law who will be righteous in God’s sight, but those who do the law who will be declared righteous. 14 In fact, whenever Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature what the law requires—even though they do not have the law—they are a law for themselves. 15 They demonstrate the work of the law that is written in their hearts, since their conscience also bears witness as their thoughts go back and forth, at times accusing or at times even defending them. 16 This will happen on the day when, according to my gospel, God will judge people’s secrets through Jesus Christ. Footnotes Romans 2:6 Psalm 62:12; Proverbs 24:12 The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1017db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 17 Romans 1:18-32 Romans 1 God’s Anger on All Who Reject Him 18 Indeed, God’s wrath is being revealed from heaven against all the ungodliness and unrighteousness of people who try to suppress the truth by unrighteousness. 19 This happens because what can be known about God is evident among them, because God made it evident among them. 20 In fact, his invisible characteristics—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, because they are understood from the things he made. As a result, people are without excuse, 21 because, even though they knew God, they did not honor him or give him thanks as God. Instead, their thinking became nonsense, and their senseless heart was darkened. 22 Although they claim to be wise, they have become fools 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human, or like birds, four-footed animals, and crawling things. 24 So, as they followed the sinful desires of their hearts, God handed them over to the impurity of degrading their own bodies among themselves. 25 Such people have traded the truth about God for the lie, worshipping and serving the creation rather than the Creator, who is worthy of praise forever. Amen. 26 For this reason God handed them over to disgraceful passions. Even their females exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. 27 And, in the same way, their males, after abandoning natural sexual relations with females, were consumed by their lust for one another. Males perform indecent acts with males and receive in themselves the penalty that is fitting for their perversion. 28 And since they did not consider it worthwhile to hold on to the true knowledge of God, God handed them over to a corrupted mind to do things that should never be done. 29 They are filled with every kind of unrighteousness, evil, greed, and wickedness. They are full of envy, murder, quarreling, deceit, and malice. They are gossipers, 30 slanderers, God-haters, insolent mockers, arrogant boasters, and loudmouths. They dream up evil things. They disobey their parents. 31 They are senseless, faithless, heartless, and merciless. 32 Even though they know God’s righteous decree that those who do these things are worthy of death, such people not only continue to do them, but also approve of others who continue to commit such sins. The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1016db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 16 Romans 1:1-17 Romans 1 Greeting 1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, 2 which he promised in advance through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures. 3 This gospel is about his Son—who in the flesh [1] was born a descendant of David, 4 who in the spirit [2] of holiness was declared to be God’s powerful Son by his resurrection from the dead—Jesus Christ, our Lord. 5 Through him we received grace and the call to be an apostle on behalf of his name, to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles, 6 including you, who were called by Jesus Christ. 7 To all those loved by God who are in Rome, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul’s Desire to Come to Rome 8 First of all, I thank my God through Jesus Christ concerning all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. 9 To be sure, God, whom I serve with my spirit by proclaiming the gospel of his Son, is my witness to how constantly I make mention of you. In all my prayers, 10 I always ask if perhaps at last a way might be opened, if God wills, for me to come to you. 11 I certainly long to see you, in order that I may deliver some spiritual gift to you, so that you are strengthened— 12 that is, when I am with you, that we will be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, yours and also mine. 13 I do not want you to be unaware of the fact, brothers, [3] that I have often planned to come to you but have been prevented from doing so until now. I wanted to have some fruit among you in the same way as I did among the rest of the Gentiles. 14 I have an obligation both to Greeks and non-Greeks, [4] to the wise and to the foolish. 15 That is why I am eager to proclaim the gospel also to you who are in Rome. The Power of the Gospel 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes—to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed by faith, for faith, [5] just as it is written, “The righteous will live by faith.” [6] Footnotes Romans 1:3 Here flesh is a reference to Christ’s state of humiliation. See 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 Peter 3:18. Romans 1:4 Here spirit is a reference to Christ’s state of exaltation. See 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 Peter 3:18. Romans 1:13 When context indicates it, the Greek word for brothers may refer to all fellow believers, male and female. Romans 1:14 Or barbarians Romans 1:17 Or from faith to faith, or by faith resulting in faith Romans 1:17 Habakkuk 2:4 The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1015db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 15 Proverbs 31 The Sayings of Lemuel 1 The words of Lemuel, a king. An oracle [1] that his mother used, to teach him discipline: 2 What are you doing, [2] my son! What are you doing, son from my womb! What are you doing, son of my vows! 3 Do not give your strength to women. Do not give your ways to those who destroy kings. 4 It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to crave beer. 5 If he does, he will drink and forget what is decreed. He will change the legal rights of all the oppressed. 6 Give beer to someone who is perishing and wine to one whose soul is bitter. 7 He will drink and forget his poverty, and he will no longer remember his trouble. 8 Speak up for those who cannot speak. Speak for the rights of all those who are defenseless. 9 Speak up, judge fairly, and defend the oppressed and needy. The Strong Wife [3] 10 Who can find a wife with strong character? [4] Her value is greater than that of gems. 11 Her husband’s heart trusts her, and he never lacks wealth. [5] 12 She does good for him and not evil     all the days of her life. 13 She obtains wool and flax. She eagerly works it with her hands. 14 She is like merchant ships. She brings her food from far away. 15 She rises while it is still night. She gives food [6] to her household. She gives their share to her female servants. 16 She considers a field and acquires it. From her own income, [7] she plants a vineyard. 17 She wraps strength around her waist like a belt, and she makes her arms strong. 18 She realizes that she makes a good profit. Her lamp does not go out at night. 19 She stretches out her hands for the distaff, and the palms of her hands grasp the spindle. [8] 20 She opens the palm of her hand to the oppressed, and she stretches out her hands to the needy. 21 She does not fear for her household on account of snow, because her entire household is clothed in scarlet clothing. [9] 22 She makes bedspreads for herself. Fine linen and purple cloth are her clothing. 23 Her husband is known at the city gates, where he sits with the elders of the land. 24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and she delivers belts to the merchants. 25 Strength and honor are her clothing, and she laughs at the days to come. 26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and kind instruction is on her tongue. 27 She keeps a close eye on the conduct of her household, and she does not eat bread that she did not work for. 28 Her children rise up and bless her. Her husband rises up and praises her: 29 “Many daughters show strong character, but you have surpassed all of them.” 30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is vapor that vanishes, but a woman who fears the Lord should be praised. 31 Give her credit for the fruit of her hands, and let her accomplishments praise her in the city gates. Footnotes Proverbs 31:1 The word translated an oracle may also be translated of Massa and placed with the preceding line. Proverbs 31:2 The Hebrew has only the single word What. Proverbs 31:10 This closing poem of the book is an alphabetic acrostic, which means successive verses begin with successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet. This gives an impression of covering every aspect of the topic from A to Z. Proverbs 31:10 Literally a woman of strength. The Hebrew term for strength may refer to economic power, political power, military power, or strong character. Here the emphasis is on her economic contribution to the family, which is a reflection of her dedication to her family and her community. Proverbs 31:11 The Hebrew word translated wealth usually refers to loot or spoils of war, not to regular income. Perhaps it highlights her strenuous effort. Proverbs 31:15 The word translated food usually refers to prey torn by animals, not to food for humans. Proverbs 31:16 Literally the fruit of her hands Proverbs 31:19 Distaff and spindle are implements used in spinning thread or yarn. Proverbs 31:21 Or, with the ancient versions, double clothing The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1014db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 14 Proverbs 30 The Oracle of Agur 1 The words of Agur son of Jakeh. An oracle. [1] This man declares: I am weary, God. I am weary, God, and worn out, [2] 2 because I am too unreasoning to be a man. I do not even possess human understanding. 3 I have not learned wisdom. I do not have knowledge of the Holy One. 4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in the palms of his hands? Who has wrapped the water in a garment? Who has set up all the ends of the earth? What is his name and the name of his son? Tell me if you know! 5 Every word of God has been refined. He is a shield to those who take refuge in him. 6 Do not add to his words. If you do, he will correct you, and you will be shown to be a liar. 7 Two things I have asked from you. Do not keep them from me before I die: 8 Keep worthless speech and lies far from me. Do not give me poverty or riches. Give me food in the amount that is right for me. 9 Too much, and I may feel satisfied and deny you and say, “Who is the Lord?” Too little, and I may become poor and steal and profane the name of my God. 10 Do not slander a servant to his master. If you do, he will curse you, and you will be found guilty. 11 There is a type of person who curses his father and does not bless his mother. 12 This person is pure in his own eyes, but he is not washed from his filth. 13 This person—how lofty his eyes, how high his eyelids! 14 This person—his teeth are swords, and his fangs are knives. He uses them to devour oppressed people from the earth and poor people from among humanity. 15 The leech has two daughters: Give! Give! Three things are never satisfied. Four never say, “Enough!”: 16 the grave,     a closed womb,     land that is never satisfied with water,     and fire that never says, “Enough!” 17 An eye that mocks its father and despises the obedience due its mother— ravens of the valley will peck it out, and young vultures will eat it. 18 Three things are too wonderful for me, and four I cannot understand: 19 the way of an eagle in the sky,     the way of a snake on a rock,     the way of a ship on the high seas,     and the way of a man with a virgin. 20 This is the way of a woman who commits adultery: She eats and wipes her mouth, and she says, “I haven’t done anything wrong.” 21 Three things make the earth tremble. There are four things it cannot endure: 22 a servant when he becomes king,     an arrogant fool when he is filled with food, 23 a woman who is hated when she is married,     and a slave girl when she replaces her master’s wife. 24 Four things are small on the earth, yet they are wiser than the wisest people: 25 Ants are a species without strength,     but they store their food in summer. 26 Rock badgers are a species without power,     but they make their home in a cliff. 27 Locusts have no king,     but they all march ahead in ranks. 28 Lizards can be caught in your hands,     but they live in kings’ palaces. 29 Three things strut impressively. Four walk with dignity: 30 a lion, which is the mightiest among the animals,     does not turn away from anything, 31 a strutting rooster, [3]     a male goat,     and a king reviewing his troops. [4] 32 If you have acted like a fool by exalting yourself, or if you have been scheming, put your hand over your mouth, 33 because just as pressing milk produces cheese, [5] and pressing a nose brings forth blood, so pressing one’s anger produces a fight. Footnotes Proverbs 30:1 Or of Massa Proverbs 30:1 The main Hebrew text seems to read the words translated I am weary and worn out as proper names, to Ithiel and Ucal. Proverbs 30:31 The meaning of the Hebrew phrase girt of loins is uncertain. It may refer to a strutting animal, such as a rooster, or to a dandy, decked out in fine clothes. Proverbs 30:31 The meaning of the last phrase is uncertain. Proverbs 30:33 Or churning milk produces butter The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1013db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 13 Proverbs 28 – 29 Proverbs 28 1 The wicked flee even though no one is pursuing them, but the righteous are bold like a lion. 2 A rebellious land has many rulers, but one man with understanding and knowledge provides stability. 3 A poor man who oppresses the poor     is a driving rain that leaves no food. 4 Those who abandon the law [1] praise the wicked, but those who keep the law oppose them. 5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand everything. 6 Better a poor person who walks in his integrity     than a rich person who is hypocritical. [2] 7 The son who keeps the law has understanding, but a companion of gluttons brings shame upon his father. 8 A person who increases his wealth by piling up interest     gathers it for someone who is generous to the needy. 9 A person who turns his ear away from the law—     even his prayer is an abomination. 10 A person who leads the upright along an evil way will fall into his own pit, but people of integrity will inherit good. 11 A wealthy person is wise in his own eyes, but a needy person with understanding will expose him. 12 When the righteous triumph, there is much celebration, [3] but when the wicked rise to power, people hide. 13 A person who conceals his sins will not prosper, but one who confesses and abandons them will receive mercy. 14 Blessed is the person who always is afraid of sin, but one who hardens his heart will fall into calamity. 15 A wicked ruler over a poor people     is a growling lion or a charging bear. 16 When a ruler lacks understanding, there will be much oppression, but one who hates ill-gotten gain prolongs his days. 17 A person haunted by the guilt of bloodshed     will be a fugitive until he goes down to the pit. No one should offer him support. 18 A person who walks with integrity will be saved, but a person whose ways are crooked will fall all at once. 19 A person who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever pursues fantasies will have plenty of poverty. 20 A trustworthy person has many blessings, but a person in a hurry to get rich will not go unpunished. 21 Showing favoritism is not good, but a man may sin for a piece of bread. 22 A tightfisted person is in a hurry to get rich, but he does not know that poverty is coming his way. 23 In the end a person who corrects someone will find more favor     than a person with a flattering tongue. 24 A person who robs his father and his mother and says, “It’s not a sin,” is no better than [4] a vandal. 25 A greedy person stirs up strife, but a person who trusts in the Lord will prosper. 26 A person who trusts in his own ideas is a fool, but a person who walks in wisdom will be kept safe. 27 A person who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but a person who closes his eyes to them will receive many curses. 28 When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding, but when the wicked perish, the righteous increase. Proverbs 29 1 A person who remains stiff-necked [5] after many rebukes     will be broken suddenly, and there will be no cure. 2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when a wicked man rules, the people groan. 3 A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but one who visits prostitutes destroys his wealth. 4 A king brings stability to a land by justice, but one who accepts bribes tears it down. 5 A man who flatters his neighbor     is spreading a net for his steps. [6] 6 An evil man sets a trap with his sin, but a righteous person sings and rejoices. 7 A righteous person acknowledges the rights of the poor, but a wicked person does not understand such knowledge. 8 Scoffers stir up a city, but wise people turn away anger. 9 When a wise person seeks justice from a stubborn fool, the fool rants and laughs, and there is no peace. 10 Bloodthirsty people hate anyone with integrity, but upright people seek to save his life. [7] 11 A fool vents all his emotions, but a wise person calmly restrains them. 12 If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials become wicked. 13 A poor person and an oppressor have this in common: The Lord gives light to the eyes of both. 14 If a king judges poor people with truth, his throne will be established permanently. 15 A rod used for discipline gives wisdom, but an undisciplined child disgraces his mother. 16 When the wicked increase, sin increases, but the righteous will see their downfall. 17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest. He will give delight to your soul. 18 Without prophetic vision, a people is unrestrained, but a people which follows the law is blessed. 19 A servant cannot be disciplined with words. Although he understands, he shows no response. 20 Have you seen a person who is hasty with his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him. 21 If someone pampers his servant from the time he is young, later on he will have grief. 22 A hothead stirs up a fight, and a quick-tempered person commits many sins. 23 A person’s arrogance will humble him, but a humble spirit will attain honor. 24 The partner of a thief hates his own life. He hears the oath, [8] but he does not reveal anything. 25 Being afraid of a man sets a trap, but a person who trusts in the Lord will be secure. 26 Many people seek a ruler’s favor, but a person gets justice from the Lord. 27 An unjust person is disgusting to righteous people, but one whose way is upright is disgusting to the wicked. Footnotes Proverbs 28:4 Or instruction or teaching Proverbs 28:6 Or twisted in his two ways Proverbs 28:12 Or confidence. Literally splendor. Proverbs 28:24 Or a partner to Proverbs 29:1 Or stubborn Proverbs 29:5 Or his own steps Proverbs 29:10 Or and they seek the life of the upright Proverbs 29:24 Or curse. He cannot testify for fear of reprisal or self-incrimination. The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1012db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 12 Proverbs 26:13 – 27:27 Proverbs 26 13 A lazy person says, “There’s a ferocious lion in the street. There’s a lion in the public square!” 14 A door turns on its hinges, and a lazy person turns on his bed. 15 A lazy person buries his hand in a dish, but he is too tired to return it to his mouth. 16 A lazy person considers himself wiser than seven people who answer sensibly. 17 A passerby who meddles in a quarrel that is not his is like a person who grabs a dog by the ears. 18 A person who deceives his neighbor and then says, “I was only joking,” 19 is like a madman who shoots firebrands and deadly arrows. [1] 20 When there is no more wood, a fire goes out, and without gossip, a quarrel dies down. 21 As charcoal is to hot embers and as wood is to fire, so a quarrelsome person is to igniting a fight. 22 Words of a gossip are like food that is easy to swallow. They go down to the depths of one’s heart. [2] 23 Fervent [3] lips and an evil heart are like a glaze [4] covering a clay pot. 24 With his lips a person hides his hatred, but he hides deceit inside. 25 When his voice sounds gracious, do not believe him, because seven abominations are in his heart. 26 His hatred covers itself with deceit, but his evil will be revealed in the assembly. 27 The person who digs a pit will fall into it. The person who rolls away a stone—it will roll back over him. 28 A lying tongue hates those it crushes, and a smooth mouth causes ruin. Proverbs 27 1 Do not boast about tomorrow, because you do not know what a day may produce. 2 Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth— a stranger, not your own lips. 3 A stone is heavy and sand is a burden, but aggravation from a stubborn fool is heavier than both. 4 Cruel wrath and a flood of anger are devastating, but who can stand up against jealousy? 5 Open correction is better than concealed love. 6 Wounds from someone who loves you can be trusted, but the kisses of someone who hates you are too much. [5] 7 A satisfied appetite refuses honey, but to a hungry appetite, everything bitter tastes sweet. 8 A person who wanders from his place     is like a bird that wanders from its nest. 9 Olive oil and incense bring joy to a heart, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his sincere advice. [6] 10 Do not abandon your friend or your father’s friend, and do not go to your brother’s house when disaster strikes you. A neighbor who is near is better than a brother who is far away. 11 Be wise, my son, and bring joy to my heart, so that I may answer anyone who taunts me. 12 A sensible person sees trouble and hides, but naïve people keep going and pay the penalty. 13 Take the garment of someone who guarantees a loan for a stranger. Keep it when someone pledges it on behalf of an immoral woman. 14 When someone blesses his neighbor in a loud voice early in the morning,     it will be regarded as a curse. 15 Constantly dripping water on a rainy day and a nagging wife are alike. 16 Trying to hold her back is like holding back the wind, like grasping oil with your right hand. [7] 17 Iron sharpens iron, and a man sharpens the insight of his friend. 18 A person who tends a fig tree eats its fruit, and a person who takes care of his master will be honored. 19 As water reflects a person’s face, so a person’s heart reflects the person. 20 Death and Destruction [8] are never satisfied, and a person’s eyes are never satisfied. 21 A crucible is for refining silver and a smelter is for gold, and a person is tested by his praise. [9] 22 Even if you grind a stubborn fool     like grain with a mortar and pestle, his stupidity will not leave him. 23 Be certain that you know the condition of your flock very well. Pay attention to your herds, 24 because wealth is not forever, nor does a crown pass from generation to generation. 25 The hay is removed and new growth appears, and grass from the mountains is gathered in. 26 Lambs provide wool for your clothing, and the price of the field can be earned from the goats. 27 What’s more, there will be enough goats’ milk for your food, for your household’s food, and to maintain the life of your servant girls. Footnotes Proverbs 26:19 Elements of verses 18 and 19 were rearranged to get smooth English word order. Proverbs 26:22 Literally the innermost rooms of the belly Proverbs 26:23 The translation follows the Hebrew. The Greek Old Testament reads smooth. Proverbs 26:23 The Hebrew text reads silver dross. Combining two Hebrew words into one word yields the translation glaze. Proverbs 27:6 Or are deceitful Proverbs 27:9 Or is better than your own advice Proverbs 27:16 The verse is difficult. Literally it reads those who hide her hide the wind, and he calls his right hand oil. Proverbs 27:20 Hebrew Sheol and Abaddon Proverbs 27:21 His praise is either the praise he gives or the praise he receives The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1011db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 11 Proverbs 25:1 – 26:12 More Proverbs of Solomon Proverbs 25 1 These also are the proverbs of Solomon, which the men of King Hezekiah of Judah compiled. [1] 2 It brings glory to God to hide a matter, but it brings glory to kings to investigate a matter. 3 As heaven is high and earth is deep, so there is no searching the heart of kings. 4 Remove impurities from silver, and a vessel can be cast by a silversmith. 5 Remove a wicked person from a king’s presence, and his throne will be established with righteousness. 6 Do not honor yourself in a king’s presence. Do not stand in a place reserved for great people, 7 because it is better to be told, “Come up here,” than for you to be humiliated before a ruler     whom your eyes have seen. [2] 8 Do not be in a hurry to go to court. Otherwise, what will you do afterward, when your neighbor humiliates you? 9 Argue your case with your neighbor, but do not reveal someone else’s secret. 10 If you do, the person who hears it will shame you, and your bad reputation will never leave you. 11 A word spoken at the right time     is like golden apples in silver settings. 12 To ears that listen, a wise person’s correction     is like a gold ring or like jewelry made of pure gold. 13 To those who send him, a trustworthy messenger     is like cooling snow on a warm day during harvest. He refreshes his masters’ spirits. 14 A person who brags about a gift that is never given     is like clouds and wind that bring no rain. 15 By patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a soft tongue can break a bone. 16 When you find honey, eat only what you need. Otherwise you will be filled with it and vomit it up. 17 Do not set foot in your neighbor’s house too often. If you do, he will have too much of you and hate you. 18 A person who gives false testimony against his neighbor     is a club, a sword, and a sharp arrow. 19 Confidence in an unfaithful person during a time of crisis     is like a broken tooth or a lame foot. 20 Singing songs to a despondent heart     is like taking off a coat on a cold day     or like vinegar on baking soda. 21 If your enemy is hungry, give him something to eat. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink, 22 because you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will repay you. 23 A north wind gives birth to rain, and a whispering tongue gives birth to angry faces. 24 Better to live on the corner of a roof than in a home shared with a nagging wife. 25 Good news from a distant country is like cold water for a weary soul. 26 A righteous person who is swayed by the wicked is a muddied spring or a polluted fountain. 27 Eating too much honey is not good, and people seeking their own glory is not glorious. [3] 28 A person who lacks self-control is like a broken-down city without a wall. Assorted Fools Proverbs 26 1 Like snow during summer and rain during the harvest, so honor is not appropriate for a fool. 2 Like a migrating bird or a flying swallow, so an undeserved curse does not come to rest. 3 A whip is for horses, a bridle for donkeys, and a rod for the backs of fools. 4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly. If you do, you yourself will become like him. 5 Answer a fool according to his folly. If you do not, he will consider himself wise. 6 It is like cutting off your own feet or drinking violence [4] when a person sends messages in the hand of a fool. 7 The legs of a lame person dangle. So does a proverb in the mouth of fools. 8 Giving honor to a fool is     like tying a stone in a slingshot. 9 A proverb in the mouth of a fool     is like a thorn in a drunkard’s hand. 10 One who hires a fool or someone just passing by     is like an archer who wounds at random. [5] 11 As a dog returns to his vomit, so a fool repeats his stupidity. 12 Have you seen a person who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. Footnotes Proverbs 25:1 Or transcribed Proverbs 25:7 Many translations associate this line with verse 8: What you have seen with your eye do not bring quickly into court. Manuscript evidence supports a connection with verse 7, but sense seems to favor including it with verse 8. Proverbs 25:27 The line is cryptic. Proverbs 26:6 Or poison Proverbs 26:10 The meaning of this verse is uncertain. The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-1010db.mp3 Listen to Bible reading Through My Bible Yr 03 – October 10 Proverbs 24 1 Do not envy evil people, and do not wish to be with them, 2 because their hearts plan violence, and their lips speak trouble. 3 With wisdom a house is built. With understanding it is established. 4 With knowledge its rooms are filled with every kind of riches, both valuable and appealing. 5 A wise person grows strong, and a knowledgeable man becomes more powerful, 6 because advice prepares you for battle, and many advisors bring victory. 7 Wise decisions are out of reach [1] for a stubborn fool. In court [2] he cannot open his mouth. 8 Whoever plans evil will be called a master schemer. 9 A foolish scheme is a sin, and a mocker is disgusting to people. 10 If you fail to act in the day of trouble, your strength is too little. 11 Rescue captives condemned to death, and spare those staggering toward slaughter. 12 If you say, “We did not know about this,” won’t the one who weighs motives notice? Won’t the one who guards your life know about it, and won’t he repay people according to what each one has done? 13 My son, eat honey, because it is good. Flowing honey is sweet on your palate. 14 Know also that wisdom is sweet for your soul. If you find it, then there is a future for you, and your hope will never be cut off. 15 Do not be like the wicked who attack the home of the righteous. Do not destroy his resting place, 16 because a righteous person may fall seven times, but he will get up, while wicked people will stumble into misfortune. 17 Do not be happy when your enemy falls. Do not let your heart celebrate when he stumbles. 18 If you do, the Lord will see it and consider it evil, and he will turn his anger away from him. 19 Do not fret about evildoers. Do not be jealous of wicked people, 20 because an evil person has no future. The lamp of the wicked will be put out. 21 Fear the Lord, my son, and also the king. Do not associate with those who are rebellious, 22 because their disaster will take place suddenly. Who knows what ruin the Lord and the king will cause? More Words of the Wise 23 These sayings also are by the wise: To show partiality when administering justice is not good. 24 If anyone says to a guilty person, “You are innocent,” people will curse him. Nations will denounce him. 25 However, it will be pleasant for those who convict the guilty. A wonderful blessing will come upon them. 26 Someone who gives a straight answer gives a kiss on the lips. 27 Prepare your work outside, and get things ready for yourself in the fields. Afterward, build your house. 28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause. Do not practice deception with your lips. 29 Do not think, “I will do to him what he did to me. I will pay the man back for what he did.” 30 I passed by a lazy man’s field and by a vineyard that belonged to a senseless man. 31 It was overgrown with thistles and covered with weeds. Its stone wall was broken down. 32 When I saw this, I took it to heart. I observed and learned a lesson: 33 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— 34 and poverty will come on you like a prowler, and scarcity will come like a warrior. Footnotes Proverbs 24:7 The translation follows an altered spelling of the Hebrew. The main Hebrew reading seems to be corals. Proverbs 24:7 Literally the city gate The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved.