Proverbs 18:6-16

6 A fool's words get him into fights; yes, his mouth calls out for a beating.

7 A fool's mouth is his ruin; his words are a trap for him.

8 A slanderer's words are tasty morsels; they slide right down into the belly.

9 Whoever is lazy in doing his work is brother to the destroyer.

10 The name of ADONAI is a strong tower; a righteous person runs to it and is raised high [above danger].

11 The wealth of the rich is his fortified city, like a high wall, in his own imagination.

12 Before being ruined, a person's heart is proud; before being honored, a person must be humble.

13 To answer someone before hearing him out is both stupid and embarrassing.

14 A person's spirit can sustain him when ill, but a crushed spirit - who can bear it?

15 The mind of a person with discernment gets knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

16 A person's gift clears his way and gives him access to the great.