Proverbs 15:1-2
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
15 A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.(A)
2 The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge,
but the mouths of fools pour out folly.(B)
Proverbs 26:18-23
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
18 Like a maniac who shoots deadly firebrands and arrows,(A)
19 so is one who deceives a neighbor
and says, “I am only joking!”(B)
20 For lack of wood the fire goes out,
and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases.(C)
21 As charcoal is to hot embers and wood to fire,
so is a quarrelsome person for kindling strife.(D)
22 The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels;
they go down into the inner parts of the body.(E)
23 Like the glaze[a] covering an earthen vessel
are smooth[b] lips with an evil heart.
Proverbs 12:22
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord,
but those who act faithfully are his delight.(A)
Proverbs 12:25
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
25 Anxiety weighs down the human heart,
but a good word cheers it up.(A)
New Revised Standard Version, Updated Edition. Copyright © 2021 National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.