[1] A person who isn’t friendly looks out only for themselves. They oppose all good sense by starting fights. [2] Foolish people don’t want to understand. They take delight in saying only what they think. [3] People hate it when evil comes. And they refuse to honor those who bring shame. [4] The words of a person’s mouth are like deep water. But the fountain of wisdom is like a flowing stream. [5] It isn’t good to favor those who do wrong. That would keep justice from those who aren’t guilty. [6] What foolish people say leads to arguing. They are just asking for a beating. [7] The words of foolish people drag them down. They are trapped by what they say. [8] The words of anyone who talks about others are like tasty bites of food. They go deep down inside you. [9] Anyone who doesn’t want to work is like someone who destroys. [10] The name of the LORD is like a strong tower. Godly people run to it and are safe. [11] The wealth of rich people is like a city that makes them feel safe. They think of it as a city with walls that can’t be climbed. [12] If a person’s heart is proud, they will be destroyed. So don’t be proud if you want to be honored. [13] To answer before listening is foolish and shameful. [14] A cheerful spirit gives strength even during sickness. But you can’t keep going if you have a broken spirit. [15] Those whose hearts understand what is right get knowledge. That’s because the ears of those who are wise listen for it. [16] A gift opens the door and helps the giver meet important people. [17] In court, the first one to speak seems right. Then someone else comes forward and questions him. [18] Casting lots will put a stop to arguing. It will keep the strongest enemies apart. [19] A broken friendship is harder to handle than a city with high walls around it. And arguing is like the locked gates of a mighty city. [20] Because of what they say a person can fill their stomach. What their words produce can satisfy them. [21] Your tongue has the power of life and death. Those who love to talk will eat the fruit of their words. [22] The one who finds a wife finds what is good. He receives favor from the LORD. [23] Poor people beg for mercy. But rich people answer in a mean way. [24] A person with unfaithful friends soon comes to ruin. But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
