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Proverbs 18 (CEV)

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¹ It's selfish and stupid to think only of yourself and to sneer at people who have sense. ² Fools have no desire to learn; they would much rather give their own opinion. ³ Wrongdoing leads to shame and disgrace. ⁴ Words of wisdom are a stream that flows from a deep fountain. ⁵ It's wrong to favor the guilty and keep the innocent from getting justice. ⁶ Foolish talk will get you into a lot of trouble. ⁷ Saying foolish things is like setting a trap to destroy yourself. ⁸ There's nothing so delicious as the taste of gossip! It melts in your mouth. ⁹ Being lazy is no different from being a troublemaker. ¹⁰ The LORD is a mighty tower where his people can run for safety-- ¹¹ the rich think their money is a wall of protection. ¹² Pride leads to destruction; humility leads to honor. ¹³ It's stupid and embarrassing to give an answer before you listen. ¹⁴ Being cheerful helps when we are sick, but nothing helps when we give up. ¹⁵ Everyone with good sense wants to learn. ¹⁶ A gift will get you in to see anyone. ¹⁷ You may think you have won your case in court, until your opponent speaks. ¹⁸ Drawing straws is one way to settle a difficult case. ¹⁹ Making up with a friend you have offended is harder than breaking through a city wall. ²⁰ Make your words good-- you will be glad you did. ²¹ Words can bring death or life! Talk too much, and you will eat everything you say. ²² A man's greatest treasure is his wife-- she is a gift from the LORD. ²³ The poor must beg for help, but the rich can give a harsh reply. ²⁴ Some friends don't help, but a true friend is closer than your own family.