Proverbs 18:1-12

Christian Standard Bible

18 One who isolates himself pursues selfish desires;
he rebels against all sound wisdom.

² A fool does not delight in understanding,
but only wants to show off his opinions.^[a](A)

³ When a wicked person comes, contempt also comes,
and along with dishonor, derision.

⁴ The words of a person’s mouth are deep waters,^(B)
a flowing river, a fountain of wisdom.^[b]

⁵ It is not good to show partiality to the guilty,^(C)
denying an innocent person justice.^(D)

⁶ A fool’s lips lead to strife,
and his mouth provokes a beating.^(E)

⁷ A fool’s mouth is his devastation,
and his lips are a trap for his life.^(F)

⁸ A gossip’s words are like choice food
that goes down to one’s innermost being.^[c](G)

⁹ The one who is lazy in his work
is brother to a vandal.^[d](H)

¹⁰ The name of the Lord is a strong tower;^(I)
the righteous run to it and are protected.^[e](J)

¹¹ The wealth of the rich is his fortified city;
in his imagination it is like a high wall.^(K)

¹² Before his downfall a person’s heart is proud,^(L)
but humility comes before honor.^(M)