Proverbs 18

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