Two things I ask of You--do not refuse me before I die: Two things I ask of You—Agur approaches God with humble dependence, bringing a complete and carefully ordered petition. The two requests that follow concern integrity and contentment, revealing that a godly life requires both truthful character and freedom from the corrupting pressures of wealth or poverty. Solomon likewise asked God for discernment to lead His people rightly (1 Kings 3:9). Jesus taught His disciples to ask their Father with confidence in His care and provision (Matthew 7:7). Psa 27:4 One thing I have asked of the LORD; this is what I desire:… do not refuse me before I die: Agur pleads with urgency, recognizing that life is brief and that faithful living cannot be postponed. Human mortality should produce wisdom and a desire to use remaining days in obedience to God (Psalm 90:12). The prayer looks beyond temporary comfort and seeks God’s favor for a life marked by truth, humility, and dependence on Him. Psa 27:9 Hide not Your face from me, nor turn away Your servant in anger.… Persons / Places / Events 1. AgurThe author of Proverbs 30, Agur is a relatively obscure figure in the Bible. His name means "collector" or "gatherer," and he is known for his wisdom and humility. Agur's sayings are distinct in their candidness and earnestness, reflecting a deep desire for integrity and truth. 2. God The ultimate recipient of Agur's request. Agur's prayer is directed to God, indicating a personal relationship and trust in God's provision and wisdom. 3. Proverbs A book of the Bible that is part of the wisdom literature. It contains sayings and teachings that provide guidance on how to live a life pleasing to God. Teaching Points The Importance of Prayerful RequestsAgur's approach to God with specific requests highlights the importance of bringing our needs and desires before God in prayer. It encourages believers to be intentional and thoughtful in their prayers. Seeking Balance in Life Agur's request for neither poverty nor riches underscores the value of a balanced life. It teaches that contentment and reliance on God are more valuable than material wealth. Trusting in God's Provision By asking God not to refuse his requests, Agur demonstrates trust in God's wisdom and provision. This teaches believers to rely on God's understanding rather than their own. The Pursuit of Integrity Agur's prayer reflects a desire for a life of integrity and truth. It encourages believers to seek honesty and righteousness in their daily lives. Bible Study Questions 1. What does Agur's request in Proverbs 30:7 reveal about his priorities and values?2. How can Agur's prayer serve as a model for our own prayers today? 3. In what ways does seeking a balanced life, as Agur does, align with other biblical teachings on contentment and reliance on God? 4. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's provision in our daily lives, especially in times of need or abundance? 5. What steps can we take to pursue integrity and truth in our personal and professional lives, following Agur's example? Connections to Other Scriptures James 1:5This verse encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, promising that He gives generously to all without finding fault. Agur's request for two specific things reflects a similar desire for divine wisdom and guidance. Matthew 6:11 In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches His disciples to ask for their daily bread, which parallels Agur's request for needs to be met without excess or poverty. Philippians 4:11-13 Paul speaks about contentment in all circumstances, which aligns with Agur's desire for a balanced life, free from the extremes of wealth and poverty.
People Agur, Ithiel, Jakeh, Massa, UcalPlaces JerusalemTopics Death, Deny, Die, Refuse, Request, Required, WithholdDictionary of Bible Themes Proverbs 30:7-8Library A Homily for Humble FolksA Sermon (No. 2140) delivered on Lord's Day, April 27th, 1890 by C.H. Spurgeon at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington. "Surely I am more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man."--Proverbs 30:2. Sometimes it is necessary for a speaker to refer to himself, and he may feel it needful to do so in a way peculiar to the occasion. When Elihu addressed himself to Job and the three wise men, he commended himself to them saying, "I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth … C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs Temporal Advantages. Parable of the Pharisee and Publican. The Tenth Commandment Light for them that Sit in Darkness; Vehicles of Revelation; Scripture, the Church, Tradition. Of the Name of God "Wash You, Make You Clean, Put Away the Evil of Your Doings from Before Mine Eyes; Cease to do Evil," Thoughts Upon Worldly-Riches. Sect. Ii. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of the Exceeding Mercy of God in Christ, to his Poor Servant, John Bunyan Further Incidents of the Journey to Jerusalem - the Mission and Return of the Seventy - the Home at Bethany - Martha and Mary A Book for Boys and Girls Or, Temporal Things Spritualized. Thoughts Upon Worldly Riches. Sect. I. Councils of Ariminum and Seleucia. A Defence of the Doctrine of Justification, by Faith in Jesus Christ; Concerning the Scriptures. Proverbs Links Proverbs 30:7 NIVProverbs 30:7 NLT Proverbs 30:7 ESV Proverbs 30:7 NASB Proverbs 30:7 KJV Proverbs 30:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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