Verse 2

Can a man benefit God? Even a wise man benefits only himself.

Other Translations

Referenced Verses

  • Luke 17:10 : 10 In the same way, when you have done all that you were commanded, you should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'
  • Gal 6:7-8 : 7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a person sows, that they will also reap. 8 The one who sows to their flesh will reap decay from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit.
  • Deut 10:13 : 13 and to keep the commandments of the LORD and His statutes that I am commanding you today for your own good?
  • Job 21:15 : 15 What is the Almighty, that we should serve him? What would we profit if we entreat him?
  • Job 35:6-8 : 6 If you sin, what do you accomplish against God? Even if your transgressions are many, what do you do to Him? 7 If you are righteous, what do you give to Him, or what does He receive from your hand? 8 Your wickedness affects only a person like yourself, and your righteousness only a child of humanity.
  • Ps 16:2 : 2 I said to the LORD, 'You are my Lord; I have no good apart from You.'
  • Prov 3:13-18 : 13 Blessed is the one who finds wisdom and the one who obtains understanding. 14 For the profit from wisdom is better than the profit from silver, and her gain than fine gold. 15 She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire compares with her. 16 Long life is in her right hand, and in her left hand are riches and honor. 17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. 18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and those who hold her fast are blessed.
  • Prov 4:7-9 : 7 Wisdom is supreme—acquire wisdom. Though it costs you all you have, gain understanding. 8 Prize her, and she will exalt you; she will honor you when you embrace her. 9 She will place a garland of grace on your head; she will present you with a crown of splendor.
  • Prov 9:12 : 12 If you are wise, your wisdom will benefit you; if you mock, you alone will suffer.
  • Eccl 7:11-12 : 11 Wisdom is as good as an inheritance, and it is an advantage for those who see the light of day. 12 For wisdom, like money, is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves the life of its possessor.
  • Matt 5:29 : 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.