Read the Bible

The Selfishness of the Unfriendly

Verse1He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound judgment.

Verse2A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in airing his opinions.

Verse3With a wicked man comes contempt as well, and shame is accompanied by disgrace.

Verse4The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.

Verse5Showing partiality to the wicked is not good, nor is depriving the innocent of justice.

Verse6A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating.

Verse7A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul.

Verse8The words of a gossip are like choice morsels that go down into the inmost being.

Verse9Whoever is slothful in his work is brother to him who destroys.

Verse10The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

Verse11A rich man’s wealth is his fortified city; it is like a high wall in his imagination.

Verse12Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.

Verse13He who answers a matter before he hears it— this is folly and disgrace to him.

Verse14The spirit of a man can endure his sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit?

Verse15The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out.

Verse16A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men.

Verse17The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.

Verse18Casting the lot ends quarrels and separates strong opponents.

Verse19An offended brother is harder to win than a fortified city, and disputes are like the bars of a castle.

Verse20From the fruit of his mouth a man’s belly is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied.

Verse21Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Verse22He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.

Verse23The poor man pleads for mercy, but the rich man answers harshly.

Verse24A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.