Proverbs 18

English NRSV 1989 - Only for website

← Chapter 17 Jump to: Chapter 19 →

1The one who lives alone is self-indulgent, showing contempt for all who have sound judgment.

2A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing personal opinion.

3When wickedness comes, contempt comes also; and with dishonor comes disgrace.

4The words of the mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a gushing stream.

5It is not right to be partial to the guilty, or to subvert the innocent in judgment.

6A fool's lips bring strife, and a fool's mouth invites a flogging.

7The mouths of fools are their ruin, and their lips a snare to themselves.

8The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body.

9One who is slack in work is close kin to a vandal.

10The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe.

11The wealth of the rich is their strong city; in their imagination it is like a high wall.

12Before destruction one's heart is haughty, but humility goes before honor.

13If one gives answer before hearing, it is folly and shame.

14The human spirit will endure sickness; but a broken spirit-- who can bear?

15An intelligent mind acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

16A gift opens doors; it gives access to the great.

17The one who first states a case seems right, until the other comes and cross-examines.

18Casting the lot puts an end to disputes and decides between powerful contenders.

19An ally offended is stronger than a city; such quarreling is like the bars of a castle.

20From the fruit of the mouth one's stomach is satisfied; the yield of the lips brings satisfaction.

21Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.

22He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD.

23The poor use entreaties, but the rich answer roughly.

24Some friends play at friendship but a true friend sticks closer than one's nearest kin.

← Chapter 17 Jump to: Chapter 19 →

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