18 Whoever (A)isolates himself seeks his own desire;
    he breaks out against all sound judgment.
A fool takes no pleasure in understanding,
    but only (B)in expressing his opinion.
When wickedness comes, contempt comes also,
    and with dishonor comes disgrace.
The words of a man's mouth are (C)deep waters;
    the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.
It is not good to (D)be partial to[a] the wicked
    or to (E)deprive the righteous of justice.
A fool's lips walk into a fight,
    and his mouth invites (F)a beating.
(G)A fool's mouth is his ruin,
    and his lips are a snare to his soul.
(H)The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels;
    they go down into (I)the inner parts of the body.
Whoever is slack in his work
    is a (J)brother to him who destroys.
10 (K)The name of the Lord is (L)a strong tower;
    the righteous man runs into it and (M)is safe.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 18:5 Hebrew to lift the face of

Bible Gateway Recommends

ESV MacArthur Study Bible, 2nd Edition--soft leather-look, brown
ESV MacArthur Study Bible, 2nd Edition--soft leather-look, brown
Retail: $79.99
Our Price: $46.99
Save: $33.00 (41%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
John, ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal
John, ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal
Retail: $6.99
Our Price: $4.79
Save: $2.20 (31%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
ESV Student Study Bible, Trutone, Chestnut
ESV Student Study Bible, Trutone, Chestnut
Retail: $44.99
Our Price: $28.99
Save: $16.00 (36%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars