Proverbs 18
New International Version - Proverbs 18 << | >> 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031 18:1 An unfriendly man pursues selfish ends; he defies all sound judgment. 18:2 A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions. 18:3 When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame comes disgrace. 18:4 The words of a man's mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. 18:5 It is not good to be partial to the wicked or to deprive the innocent of justice. 18:6 A fool's lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. 18:7 A fool's mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul. 18:8 The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts. 18:9 One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys. 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. 18:11 The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it an unscalable wall. 18:12 Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor. 18:13 He who answers before listening- that is his folly and his shame. 18:14 A man's spirit sustains him in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? 18:15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out. 18:16 A gift opens the way for the giver and ushers him into the presence of the great. 18:17 The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him. 18:18 Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart. 18:19 An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified city, and disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel. 18:20 From the fruit of his mouth a man's stomach is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied. 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. 18:22 He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord. 18:23 A poor man pleads for mercy, but a rich man answers harshly. 18:24 A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.