Proverbs 18:12-22

12 Pride comes before a disaster, but humility comes before respect.

13 Those who answer before they listen are foolish and disgraceful.

14 The human spirit sustains a sick person, but who can bear a broken spirit?

15 An understanding mind gains knowledge; the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

16 A gift opens the way for access to important people.

17 The first person to testify seems innocent, until the other comes and cross-examines him.

18 The dice settle conflicts and keep strong opponents apart.

19 An offended ally is more formidable than a city; such quarreling is like the bars of a castle.

20 The stomach is satisfied by the fruit of the mouth; one's lips can earn a satisfying income.

21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit.

22 He who finds a wife finds what is good, gaining favor from the LORD.