PROVERBS.
Chapter 18.
A loner is out to get what he wants for himself. He opposes all sound reasoning. 
A fool does not find joy in understanding but only in expressing his own opinion. 
When wickedness comes, contempt also comes, and insult comes along with disgrace. 
The words of a person’s mouth are like deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is an overflowing stream. 
It is not good to be partial toward a wicked person, thereby depriving an innocent person of justice. 
By talking, a fool gets into an argument, and his mouth invites a beating. 
A fool’s mouth is his ruin. His lips are a trap to his soul. 
The words of a gossip are swallowed greedily, and they go down into a person’s innermost being. 
Whoever is lazy in his work is related to a vandal. 
The name of the Lord is a strong tower. A righteous person runs to it and is safe. 
A rich person’s wealth is his strong city and is like a high wall in his imagination. 
Before destruction a person’s heart is arrogant, but humility comes before honor. 
Whoever gives an answer before he listens is stupid and shameful. 
A person’s spirit can endure sickness, but who can bear a broken spirit? 
The mind of a person who has understanding acquires knowledge. The ears of wise people seek knowledge. 
A gift opens doors for the one who gives it and brings him into the presence of great people. 
The first to state his case seems right ⌞until⌟ his neighbor comes to cross-examine him. 
Flipping a coin ends quarrels and settles ⌞issues⌟ between powerful people. 
An offended brother is more ⌞resistant⌟ than a strong city, and disputes are like the locked gate of a castle tower. 
A person’s speaking ability provides for his stomach. His talking provides him a living. 
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love to talk will have to eat their own words. 
Whoever finds a wife finds something good and has obtained favor from the Lord. 
A poor person is timid when begging, but a rich person is blunt when replying. 
Friends can destroy one another, but a loving friend can stick closer than family.