Proverbs 11:9-19

9 With their words, the godless destroy their friends, but knowledge will rescue the righteous.

10 The whole city celebrates when the godly succeed; they shout for joy when the wicked die.

11 Upright citizens are good for a city and make it prosper, but the talk of the wicked tears it apart.

12 It is foolish to belittle one’s neighbor; a sensible person keeps quiet.

13 A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence.

14 Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.

15 There’s danger in putting up security for a stranger’s debt; it’s safer not to guarantee another person’s debt.

16 A gracious woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth.

17 Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you.

18 Evil people get rich for the moment, but the reward of the godly will last.

19 Godly people find life; evil people find death.