Lectionary · Ordinary X

Proverbs 18

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Proverbs 18:1-24
MSG
1

Loners who care only for themselves spit on the common good.

2

Fools care nothing for thoughtful discourse; all they do is run off at the mouth.

3

When wickedness arrives, shame's not far behind; contempt for life is contemptible.

4

Many words rush along like rivers in flood, but deep wisdom flows up from artesian springs.

5

It's not right to go easy on the guilty, or come down hard on the innocent.

6

The words of a fool start fights; do him a favor and gag him.

7

Fools are undone by their big mouths; their souls are crushed by their words.

8

Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you really want junk like that in your belly?

9

Slack habits and sloppy work are as bad as vandalism.

10

GOD's name is a place of protection--good people can run there and be safe.

11

The rich think their wealth protects them; they imagine themselves safe behind it.

12

Pride first, then the crash, but humility is precursor to honor.

13

Answering before listening is both stupid and rude.

14

A healthy spirit conquers adversity, but what can you do when the spirit is crushed?

15

Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights.

16

A gift gets attention; it buys the attention of eminent people.

17

The first speech in a court case is always convincing--until the cross-examination starts!

18

You may have to draw straws when faced with a tough decision.

19

Do a favor and win a friend forever; nothing can untie that bond.

20

Words satisfy the mind as much as fruit does the stomach; good talk is as gratifying as a good harvest.

21

Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit--you choose.

22

Find a good spouse, you find a good life--and even more: the favor of GOD!

23

The poor speak in soft supplications; the rich bark out answers.

24

Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family.