Proverbs 18

1A person who isn’t friendly looks out only for themselves. They oppose all good sense by starting fights.

2Foolish people don’t want to understand. They take delight in saying only what they think.

3People hate it when evil comes. And they refuse to honor those who bring shame.

4The words of a person’s mouth are like deep water. But the fountain of wisdom is like a flowing stream.

5It isn’t good to favor those who do wrong. That would keep justice from those who aren’t guilty.

6What foolish people say leads to arguing. They are just asking for a beating.

7The words of foolish people drag them down. They are trapped by what they say.

8The words of anyone who talks about others are like tasty bites of food. They go deep down inside you.

9Anyone who doesn’t want to work is like someone who destroys.

10The name of the LORD is like a strong tower. Godly people run to it and are safe.

11The wealth of rich people is like a city that makes them feel safe. They think of it as a city with walls that can’t be climbed.

12If a person’s heart is proud, they will be destroyed. So don’t be proud if you want to be honored.

13To answer before listening is foolish and shameful.

14A cheerful spirit gives strength even during sickness. But you can’t keep going if you have a broken spirit.

15Those whose hearts understand what is right get knowledge. That’s because the ears of those who are wise listen for it.

16A gift opens the door and helps the giver meet important people.

17In court, the first one to speak seems right. Then someone else comes forward and questions him.

18Casting lots will put a stop to arguing. It will keep the strongest enemies apart.

19A broken friendship is harder to handle than a city with high walls around it. And arguing is like the locked gates of a mighty city.

20Because of what they say a person can fill their stomach. What their words produce can satisfy them.

21Your tongue has the power of life and death. Those who love to talk will eat the fruit of their words.

22The one who finds a wife finds what is good. He receives favor from the LORD .

23Poor people beg for mercy. But rich people answer in a mean way. 24A person with unfaithful friends soon comes to ruin. But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.