Daily Devotional

There is no branch of legitimate business for which the Bible does not afford an essential preparation. Its principles of diligence, honesty, thrift, temperance, and purity are the secret of true success. These principles, as set forth in the book of Proverbs, constitute a treasury of practical wisdom. Where can the merchant, the artisan, the director of men in any department of business, find better maxims for himself or for his employees than are found in these words of the wise man:

"In all labor there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury." Proverbs 14:23.

"The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing." "The drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags." Proverbs 13:4; 23:21.

"A talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips." Proverbs 20:19.

"He that hath knowledge spareth his words;" but "every fool will be meddling." Proverbs 17:27; 20:3.

"Go not in the way of evil men;" "can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?" Proverbs 4:14; 6:28.

"He that walketh with wise men shall be wise." Proverbs 13:20.

"A man that hath friends must show himself friendly." Proverbs 18:24.

The whole circle of our obligation to one another is covered by that word of Christ's, "Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them." Matthew 7:12.