Proverbs 25:13-23

13 A reliable messenger is refreshing to the one who sends him, like cold water in the heat of harvest time.

14 People who promise things that they never give are like clouds and wind that bring no rain.

15 Patient persuasion can break down the strongest resistance and can even convince rulers.

16 Never eat more honey than you need; too much may make you vomit.

17 Don't visit your neighbors too often; they may get tired of you and come to hate you.

18 A false accusation is as deadly as a sword, a club, or a sharp arrow.

19 Depending on an unreliable person in a crisis is like trying to chew with a loose tooth or walk with a crippled foot.

20 Singing to a person who is depressed is like taking off a person's clothes on a cold day or like rubbing salt in a wound.

21 If your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them a drink. ¹

22 You will make them burn with shame, and the Lord will reward you.

23 Gossip brings anger just as surely as the north wind brings rain.

Cross References

• 1. 25.21, 22Romans 12.20.