1 Whoever isolates himself pursues selfish ends; he resists all sound advice. ISV — Proverbs 18:1
2 A fool finds no satisfaction in trying to understand, for he would rather express his own opinion. ISV — Proverbs 18:2
3 When an evil person comes, contempt also comes, along with dishonor and disgrace. ISV — Proverbs 18:3
4 The words a man says are as deep waters— a fountain of wisdom is an overflowing stream. ISV — Proverbs 18:4
5 It’s not good to be partial towards an evil person, thereby depriving the righteous of justice. ISV — Proverbs 18:5
6 A fool’s words a18:6 Lit. lips bring strife, and his mouth invites fighting. ISV — Proverbs 18:6
7 A fool’s mouth is his unraveling, and his lips entrap himself. ISV — Proverbs 18:7
8 The words of a gossip are like choice morsels as they descend to the innermost parts of the body. ISV — Proverbs 18:8
9 Whoever is lazy regarding his work is also a brother to the master of destruction. ISV — Proverbs 18:9
10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower; a righteous person rushes to it and is lifted up above the danger. b18:10 The Heb. lacks above the danger ISV — Proverbs 18:10
11 The wealth of a rich person is his fortified city; in his own imagination, it is like a high wall. ISV — Proverbs 18:11
12 Before a man’s downfall, his mind c18:12 Lit. heart is arrogant, but humility precedes honor. ISV — Proverbs 18:12
13 Whoever answers before listening is both foolish and shameful. ISV — Proverbs 18:13
14 A man’s spirit can sustain him during his illness, but who can bear a crushed spirit? ISV — Proverbs 18:14
15 The mind d18:15 Lit. heart of a discerning person gains knowledge, while the ears of wise people seek out knowledge. ISV — Proverbs 18:15
16 A person’s gift opens doors for him, bringing him access to important people. ISV — Proverbs 18:16
17 The first to put forth his case seems right, until someone else steps forward and cross-examines him. ISV — Proverbs 18:17
18 Casting dice settles a dispute, deciding between strong contenders. ISV — Proverbs 18:18
19 An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified city, and his disputes are like the bars of a fortress. ISV — Proverbs 18:19
20 The positive words that a man speaks e18:20 Lit. words from a man’s mouth fill his stomach; he will be satisfied with what his lips produce. ISV — Proverbs 18:20
21 The power of the tongue is life and death— those who love to talk f18:21 Lit. love it will eat what it produces. ISV — Proverbs 18:21
22 Whoever finds a wife finds what is good, and receives favor from the LORD. ISV — Proverbs 18:22
23 The poor person pleads for mercy, but the wealthy man responds harshly. ISV — Proverbs 18:23
24 A man with many friends can still be ruined, but a true friend sticks closer than a brother. ISV — Proverbs 18:24