Proverbs 18:9-21

English Standard Version

⁹ Whoever is slack in his work
    is a ^(A)brother to him who destroys.
^10 (B)The name of the Lord is ^(C)a strong tower;
    the righteous man runs into it and ^(D)is safe.
^11 (E)A rich man's wealth is his strong city,
    and like a high wall in his imagination.
^12 (F)Before destruction a man's heart is haughty,
    but ^(G)humility comes before honor.
¹³ If one gives an answer ^(H)before he hears,
    it is his folly and shame.
¹⁴ A man's spirit will endure sickness,
    but ^(I)a crushed spirit who can bear?
¹⁵ An intelligent heart acquires knowledge,
    and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
¹⁶ A man's ^(J)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.
^18 (K)The lot puts an end to quarrels
    and decides between powerful contenders.
¹⁹ A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city,
    and quarreling is like the bars of a castle.
^20 (L)From the fruit of a man's mouth his stomach is satisfied;
    he is satisfied by the yield of his lips.
^21 (M)Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
    and those who love it will eat its fruits.