Proverbs 18:7-17

7 The mouth of a foolish man is his destruction, and his lips are a net for his soul.

8 The words of one who says evil of his neighbour secretly are like sweet food, and go down into the inner parts of the stomach.

9 He who does not give his mind to his work is brother to him who makes destruction.

10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the upright man running into it is safe.

11 The property of a man of wealth is his strong town, and it is as a high wall in the thoughts of his heart.

12 Before destruction the heart of man is full of pride, and before honour goes a gentle spirit.

13 To give an answer before hearing is a foolish thing and a cause of shame.

14 The spirit of a man will be his support when he is ill; but how may a broken spirit be lifted up?

15 The heart of the man of good sense gets knowledge; the ear of the wise is searching for knowledge.

16 A man's offering makes room for him, letting him come before great men.

17 The man who first puts his cause before the judge seems to be in the right; but then his neighbour comes and puts his cause in its true light.