Proverbs 25:5-15

5 Remove the wicked from leadership and authority will be credible and God-honoring.

6 Don't work yourself into the spotlight; don't push your way into the place of prominence.

7 It's better to be promoted to a place of honor than face humiliation by being demoted.

8 Don't jump to conclusions - there may be a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw.

9 In the heat of an argument, don't betray confidences;

10 Word is sure to get around, and no one will trust you.

11 The right word at the right time is like a custom-made piece of jewelry,

12 And a wise friend's timely reprimand is like a gold ring slipped on your finger.

13 Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat - refreshing!

14 Like billowing clouds that bring no rain is the person who talks big but never produces.

15 Patient persistence pierces through indifference; gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses. A Person Without Self-Control