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.