Proverbs 18:13-17

English Standard Version

¹³ If one gives an answer ^(A)before he hears,
    it is his folly and shame.
¹⁴ A man's spirit will endure sickness,
    but ^(B)a crushed spirit who can bear?
¹⁵ An intelligent heart acquires knowledge,
    and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
¹⁶ A man's ^(C)gift makes room for him
    and brings him before the great.
¹⁷ The one who states his case first seems right,
    until the other comes and examines him.