Proverbs 18:7-16

Christian Standard Bible

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

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

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

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

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

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

¹³ The one who gives an answer before he listens—
this is foolishness and disgrace for him.^(I)

¹⁴ A person’s spirit can endure sickness,
but who can survive a broken spirit?^(J)

¹⁵ The mind of the discerning acquires knowledge,
and the ear of the wise seeks it.^(K)

¹⁶ A person’s gift opens doors^[d] for him
and brings him before the great.^(L)