Proverbs 17:18-28

The Message

¹⁸ It’s stupid to try to get something for nothing,
    or run up huge bills you can never pay.

¹⁹ The person who courts sin marries trouble;
    build a wall, invite a burglar.

²⁰ A bad motive can’t achieve a good end;
    double-talk brings you double trouble.

²¹ Having a fool for a child is misery;
    it’s no fun being the parent of a dolt.

²² A cheerful disposition is good for your health;
    gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.

²³ The wicked take bribes under the table;
    they show nothing but contempt for justice.

²⁴ The perceptive find wisdom in their own front yard;
    fools look for it everywhere but right here.

²⁵ A surly, stupid child is sheer pain to a father,
    a bitter pill for a mother to swallow.

²⁶ It’s wrong to penalize good behavior,
    or make good citizens pay for the crimes of others.

²⁷ The one who knows much says little;
    an understanding person remains calm.

²⁸ Even dunces who keep quiet are thought to be wise;
    as long as they keep their mouths shut, they’re smart.