Who is this man Agur?
From: The New Bible Commentary we read: "We know nothing of Agur, Jakeh, Ithiel, or Ucal (1) ... But this mystery sets the right tone for the mystery Agur wishes to confess (2–4). We have noted that often Proverbs can seem to be teaching rather over-confident generalizations about how life works and how God works, whereas both are more mysterious than the generalizations suggest."
So while we do not know who this man is ... we can deduce that he is quite observant as he watches the ways of this world. Do you agree with his observations? What would you add to his lists?
I am most intrigued by Agur's prayer in verses 7 - 8. He asks for only 2 things ... keep him from falsehood ... and place him somewhere between wealth and poverty.
We have read so much in this book about honesty ... speaking the truth ... no false testimony. This is an appropriate prayer for us as well. Lord, keep us from falsehood and lying lips. Today ... may my speech be only truth.
We have read much about wealth and its dangers ... about poverty and its destruction. Lord, guard our hearts as well from the arrogance that comes with wealth. And may we not know the desperate condition of poverty either. Give us eyes to see those who are struggling there ... and be willing to help where we can.
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