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Proverbs 18

1 Unfriendly people care only about themselves;
  they lash out at common sense.

2 Fools have no interest in understanding;
  they only want to air their own opinions.

3 Doing wrong leads to disgrace,
  and scandalous behavior brings contempt.

4 Wise words are like deep waters;
  wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.

5 It is not right to acquit the guilty
  or deny justice to the innocent.

6 Fools' words get them into constant quarrels;
  they are asking for a beating.

7 The mouths of fools are their ruin;
  they trap themselves with their lips.

8 Rumors are dainty morsels
  that sink deep into one's heart.

9 A lazy person is as bad as
  someone who destroys things.

10 The name of the LORD is a strong fortress;
  the godly run to him and are safe.

11 The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense;
  they imagine it to be a high wall of safety.

12 Haughtiness goes before destruction;
  humility precedes honor.

13 Spouting off before listening to the facts
  is both shameful and foolish.

14 The human spirit can endure a sick body,
  but who can bear a crushed spirit?

15 Intelligent people are always ready to learn.
  Their ears are open for knowledge.

16 Giving a gift can open doors;
  it gives access to important people!

17 The first to speak in court sounds right—
  until the cross-examination begins.

18 Flipping a coin can end arguments;
  it settles disputes between powerful opponents.

19 An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city.
  Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars.

20 Wise words satisfy like a good meal;
  the right words bring satisfaction.

21 The tongue can bring death or life;
  those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

22 The man who finds a wife finds a treasure,
  and he receives favor from the LORD.

23 The poor plead for mercy;
  the rich answer with insults.

24 There are "friends" who destroy each other,
  but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.

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