Proverbs 18:12-22

12 Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but humility goes before honor.
13 If one gives answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.
14 A man's spirit will endure sickness; but a broken spirit who can bear?
15 An intelligent mind acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks 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 the other comes and examines him.
18 The lot puts an end to disputes and decides between powerful contenders.
19 A brother helped is like a strong city, but quarreling is like the bars of a castle.
20 From the fruit of his mouth a man is satisfied; he is satisfied by the yield of his lips.
21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
22 He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.