⁹ Evil words destroy; godly skill rebuilds.^[a]

⁶ The wicked accuse; the godly defend.

²⁷ Idle hands are the devil’s workshop; idle lips are his mouthpiece.^[a]

²⁸ An evil man sows strife; gossip separates the best of friends.

⁵ Mocking the poor is mocking the God who made them. He will punish those who rejoice at others’ misfortunes.

⁹ Love forgets mistakes; nagging about them parts the best of friends.

^6-7 A fool gets into constant fights. His mouth is his undoing! His words endanger him.

⁸ What dainty morsels rumors are. They are eaten with great relish!

19 Better to be poor and honest than rich^[a] and dishonest.

¹⁹ Don’t tell your secrets to a gossip unless you want them broadcast to the world.

¹⁰ Throw out the mocker, and you will be rid of tension, fighting, and quarrels.