Proverbs 18

^{Proverbs 18:1} He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound judgment.

^{Proverbs 18:2} A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in airing his opinions.

^{Proverbs 18:3} With a wicked man comes contempt as well, and shame is accompanied by disgrace.

^{Proverbs 18:4} The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.

^{Proverbs 18:5} Showing partiality to the wicked is not good, nor is depriving the innocent of justice.

^{Proverbs 18:6} A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating.

^{Proverbs 18:7} A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul.

^{Proverbs 18:8} The words of a gossip are like choice morsels that go down into the inmost being.

^{Proverbs 18:9} Whoever is slothful in his work is brother to him who destroys.

^{Proverbs 18:10} The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

^{Proverbs 18:11} A rich man’s wealth is his fortified city; it is like a high wall in his imagination.

^{Proverbs 18:12} Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.

^{Proverbs 18:13} He who answers a matter before he hears it— this is folly and disgrace to him.

^{Proverbs 18:14} The spirit of a man can endure his sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit?

^{Proverbs 18:15} The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out.

^{Proverbs 18:16} A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men.

^{Proverbs 18:17} The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.

^{Proverbs 18:18} Casting the lot ends quarrels and separates strong opponents.

^{Proverbs 18:19} An offended brother is harder to win than a fortified city, and disputes are like the bars of a castle.

^{Proverbs 18:20} From the fruit of his mouth a man’s belly is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied.

^{Proverbs 18:21} Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

^{Proverbs 18:22} He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.

^{Proverbs 18:23} The poor man pleads for mercy, but the rich man answers harshly.

^{Proverbs 18:24} A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.