Will he make many petitions to you, or will he speak soft words to you?
Can you put a rope into his nose, or pierce his jaw through with a hook?
Will he make a covenant with you, that you should take him for a servant forever?
His mouth was smooth as butter, but his heart was war. His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords.
Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice, and keep my covenant, then you shall be my own possession from among all peoples; for all the earth is mine;
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.
By patience a ruler is persuaded. A soft tongue breaks the bone.
who tell the seers, *Don't see!* and to the prophets, *Don't prophesy to us right things. Tell us pleasant things. Prophesy deceits.
The silver is mine, and the gold is mine,' says the LORD of Armies.