The Message

Ecclesiastes 10:1-10 The Message (MSG)

1. Dead flies in perfume make it stink,And a little foolishness decomposes much wisdom.

2. Wise thinking leads to right living;Stupid thinking leads to wrong living.

3. Fools on the road have no sense of direction.The way they walk tells the story: “There goes the fool again!”

4. If a ruler loses his temper against you, don’t panic;A calm disposition quiets intemperate rage.

5-7. Here’s a piece of bad business I’ve seen on this earth,An error that can be blamed on whoever is in charge:Immaturity is given a place of prominence,While maturity is made to take a backseat.I’ve seen unproven upstarts riding in style,While experienced veterans are put out to pasture.

8. Caution: The trap you set might catch you.Warning: Your accomplice in crime might double-cross you.

9. Safety first: Quarrying stones is dangerous.Be alert: Felling trees is hazardous.

10. Remember: The duller the ax the harder the work;Use your head: The more brains, the less muscle.