Proverbs 18

1 Unfriendly people care only about themselves; they lash out at common sense. 2 Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions. 3 Doing wrong leads to disgrace, and scandalous behavior brings contempt. 4 Wise words are like deep waters; wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook. 5 It is not right to acquit the guilty or deny justice to the innocent. 6 Fools’ words get them into constant quarrels; they are asking for a beating. 7 The mouths of fools are their ruin; they trap themselves with their lips. 8 Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart. 9 A lazy person is as bad as someone who destroys things. 10 The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe. 11 The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense; they imagine it to be a high wall of safety. 12 Haughtiness goes before destruction; humility precedes honor. 13 Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish. 14 The human spirit can endure a sick body, but who can bear a crushed spirit? 15 Intelligent people are always ready to learn. Their ears are open for knowledge. 16 Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people! 17 The first to speak in court sounds right— until the cross-examination begins. 18 Flipping a coin can end arguments; it settles disputes between powerful opponents. 19 An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city. Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars. 20 Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction. 21 The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. 22 The man who finds a wife finds a treasure, and he receives favor from the Lord . 23 The poor plead for mercy; the rich answer with insults. 24 There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.

Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.