Proverbs 18:17-24

The Message

¹⁷ The first speech in a court case is always convincing—
    until the cross-examination starts!

¹⁸ You may have to draw straws
    when faced with a tough decision.

¹⁹ Do a favor and win a friend forever;
    nothing can untie that bond.

²⁰ Words satisfy the mind as much as fruit does the stomach;
    good talk is as gratifying as a good harvest.

²¹ Words kill, words give life;
    they’re either poison or fruit—you choose.

²² Find a good spouse, you find a good life—
    and even more: the favor of God!

²³ The poor speak in soft supplications;
    the rich bark out answers.

²⁴ Friends come and friends go,
    but a true friend sticks by you like family.