1 These are the words of King Lemuel, 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 womenor your time on those who ruin kings.
4 “Kings should not drink wine, Lemuel,and rulers should not desire beer.
5 If they drink, they might forget the lawand keep the needy from getting their rights.
6 Give beer to people who are dyingand wine to those who are sad.