Proverbs 18

₁It's selfish and stupid

to think only of yourself

and to sneer at people

who have sense.

₂Fools have no desire to learn;

they would much rather

give their own opinion.

₃Wrongdoing leads to shame

and disgrace.

₄Words of wisdom

are a stream that flows

from a deep fountain.

₅It's wrong to favour the guilty

and keep the innocent

from getting justice.

₆Foolish talk will get you

into a lot of trouble.

₇Saying foolish things

is like setting a trap

to destroy yourself.

₈There's nothing so delicious

as the taste of gossip!

It melts in your mouth.

₉Being lazy is no different

from being a troublemaker.

₁₀The LORD is a mighty tower

where his people can run

for safety—

₁₁the rich think their money

is a wall of protection.

₁₂Pride leads to destruction;

humility leads to honour.

₁₃It's stupid and embarrassing

to give an answer

before you listen.

₁₄Being cheerful helps

when we are sick,

but nothing helps

when we give up.

₁₅Everyone with good sense

wants to learn.

₁₆A gift will get you in

to see anyone.

₁₇You may think you have won

your case in court,

until your opponent speaks.

₁₈Drawing straws is one-way

to settle a difficult case.

₁₉Making up with a friend

you have offended

is harder than breaking

through a city wall.

₂₀Make your words good—

you will be glad you did.

₂₁Words can bring death or life!

Talk too much, and you will eat

everything you say.

₂₂A man's greatest treasure

is his wife—

she is a gift from the LORD.

₂₃The poor must beg for help,

but the rich can give

a harsh reply.

₂₄Some friends don't help,

but a true friend is closer

than your own family.