1. These are the words of King Lemuel. This is the message his mother taught him:
2. “My son, I gave birth to you.You are the son I prayed for.
3. Don’t waste your strength on women.Don’t waste your time on those who ruin kings.
4. “Kings should not drink wine, Lemuel.Rulers should not desire beer.
5. If they drink, they might forget the law.They might keep the needy from getting their rights.
6. Give beer to people who are dying.And give wine to those who are sad.
7. Let them drink and forget their need.Then they won’t remember their misery anymore.
8. “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.Defend the rights of all those who have nothing.