GodsWord - Proverbs - 18

18:1  A loner is out to get what he wants for himself. He opposes all sound reasoning.

18:2  A fool does not find joy in understanding but only in expressing his own opinion.

18:3  When wickedness comes, contempt also comes, and insult comes along with disgrace.

18:4  The words of a person's mouth are like deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is an overflowing stream.

18:5  It is not good to be partial toward a wicked person, thereby depriving an innocent person of justice.

18:6  By talking, a fool gets into an argument, and his mouth invites a beating.

18:7  A fool's mouth is his ruin. His lips are a trap to his soul.

18:8  The words of a gossip are swallowed greedily, and they go down into a person's innermost being.

18:9  Whoever is lazy in his work is related to a vandal.

18:10  The name of the LORD is a strong tower. A righteous person runs to it and is safe.

18:11  A rich person's wealth is his strong city and is like a high wall in his imagination.

18:12  Before destruction a person's heart is arrogant, but humility comes before honor.

18:13  Whoever gives an answer before he listens is stupid and shameful.

18:14  A person's spirit can endure sickness, but who can bear a broken spirit?

18:15  The mind of a person who has understanding acquires knowledge. The ears of wise people seek knowledge.

18:16  A gift opens doors for the one who gives it and brings him into the presence of great people.

18:17  The first to state his case seems right until his neighbor comes to cross-examine him.

18:18  Flipping a coin ends quarrels and settles issues between powerful people.

18:19  An offended brother is more resistant than a strong city, and disputes are like the locked gate of a castle tower.

18:20  A person's speaking ability provides for his stomach. His talking provides him a living.

18:21  The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love to talk will have to eat their own words.

18:22  Whoever finds a wife finds something good and has obtained favor from the LORD.

18:23  A poor person is timid when begging, but a rich person is blunt when replying.

18:24  Friends can destroy one another, but a loving friend can stick closer than family.