Proverbs 18
1 HE WHO willfully separates and estranges himself [from God and man] seeks his own desire and pretext to break out against all wise and sound judgment.2 A [self-confident] fool has no delight in understanding but only in revealing his personal opinions and himself.3 When the wicked comes in [to the depth of evil], he becomes a contemptuous despiser [of all that is pure and good], and with inner baseness comes outer shame and reproach.4 The words of a [discreet and wise] man’s mouth are like deep waters [plenteous and difficult to fathom], and the fountain of skillful and godly Wisdom is like a gushing stream [sparkling, fresh, pure, and life-giving].5 To respect the person of the wicked and be partial to him, so as to deprive the [consistently] righteous of justice, is not good.6 A [self-confident] fool’s lips bring contention, and his mouth invites a beating.7 A [self-confident] fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to himself.8 The words of a whisperer or talebearer are as dainty morsels; they go down into the innermost parts of the body.9 He who is loose and slack in his work is brother to him who is a destroyer and he who does not use his endeavors to heal himself is brother to him who commits suicide .10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the [consistently] righteous man [upright and in right standing with God] runs into it and is safe, high [above evil] and strong.11 The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and as a high protecting wall in his own imagination and conceit.12 Haughtiness comes before disaster, but humility before honor.13 He who answers a matter before he hears the facts--it is folly and shame to him. 14 The strong spirit of a man sustains him in bodily pain or trouble, but a weak and broken spirit who can raise up or bear?15 The mind of the prudent is ever getting knowledge, and the ear of the wise is ever seeking (inquiring for and craving) knowledge.16 A man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great men. 17 He who states his case first seems right, until his rival comes and cross-examines him.18 To cast lots puts an end to disputes and decides between powerful contenders.19 A brother offended is harder to be won over than a strong city, and [their] contentions separate them like the bars of a castle.20 A man’s [moral] self shall be filled with the fruit of his mouth; and with the consequence of his words he must be satisfied [whether good or evil].21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]. 22 He who finds a [true] wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord. 23 The poor man uses entreaties, but the rich answers roughly.24 The man of many friends [a friend of all the world] will prove himself a bad friend, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18
Chapter 18
1 Unfriendly people care only about themselves;
they lash out at common sense.2 Fools have no interest in understanding;
they only want to air their own opinions.3 Doing wrong leads to disgrace,
and scandalous behavior brings contempt.4 Wise words are like deep waters;
wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.5 It is not right to acquit the guilty
or deny justice to the innocent.6 Fools’ words get them into constant quarrels;
they are asking for a beating.7 The mouths of fools are their ruin;
they trap themselves with their lips.8 Rumors are dainty morsels
that sink deep into one’s heart.9 A lazy person is as bad as
someone who destroys things.10 The name of the LORD is a strong fortress;
the godly run to him and are safe.11 The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense;
they imagine it to be a high wall of safety.12 Haughtiness goes before destruction;
humility precedes honor.13 Spouting off before listening to the facts
is both shameful and foolish.14 The human spirit can endure a sick body,
but who can bear a crushed spirit?15 Intelligent people are always ready to learn.
Their ears are open for knowledge.16 Giving a gift can open doors;
it gives access to important people!17 The first to speak in court sounds right—
until the cross-examination begins.18 Flipping a coint can end arguments;
it settles disputes between powerful opponents.19 An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city.
Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars.20 Wise words satisfy like a good meal;
the right words bring satisfaction.21 The tongue can bring death or life;
those who love to talk will reap the consequences.22 The man who finds a wife finds a treasure,
and he receives favor from the LORD.23 The poor plead for mercy;
the rich answer with insults.24 There are “friends” who destroy each other,
but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.