Proverbs 18
1 Whoever isolates himself pursues his own desires; he rages against all sound judgment.
2 A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in revealing his own thoughts.
3 When wickedness comes, contempt comes with it; disgrace brings dishonor.
4 A person's words are deep waters; the source of wisdom is a flowing stream.
5 It is wrong to favor the guilty and deny justice to the innocent.
6 A fool's lips start arguments; his mouth invites a beating.
7 A fool's mouth is his ruin; his lips are a trap for his life.
8 A gossip's words are like tasty morsels; they sink deep into the belly.
9 Whoever is careless in his work is a brother to the one who destroys.
10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
11 A rich person's wealth is his strong city; in his imagination, it is like a high wall.
12 Before a fall, a person's heart grows proud; humility comes before honor.
13 To answer before listening is foolish and shameful.
14 A person's spirit can sustain him through illness, but who can bear a crushed spirit?
15 The discerning heart acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it.
16 A gift opens the way for the giver and brings him before the great.
17 The first to present his case seems right, until his opponent comes and questions him.
18 Casting lots puts an end to disputes and separates powerful opponents.
19 An offended brother is harder to reach than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a palace.
20 A person is satisfied by the fruit of his mouth; he is filled by the harvest of his lips.
21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit.
22 Whoever finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.
23 The poor plead, but the rich answer harshly.
24 A person with many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
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