Proverbs 18:7-16

A fool’s mouth is his ruin, And his lips are the snare of his soul. The words of a whisperer (gossip) are like dainty morsels [to be greedily eaten]; They go down into the innermost chambers of the body [to be remembered and mused upon]. He who is careless in his work Is a brother to him who destroys. The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous runs to it and is safe and set on high [far above evil]. The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, And like a high wall [of protection] in his own imagination and conceit. Before disaster the heart of a man is haughty and filled with self-importance, But humility comes before honor. He who answers before he hears [the facts]— It is folly and shame to him. [John 7:51] The spirit of a man sustains him in sickness, But as for a broken spirit, who can bear it? The mind of the prudent [always] acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise [always] seeks knowledge. A man’s gift [given in love or courtesy] makes room for him And brings him before great men. [Gen 32:20; 1 Sam 25:27; Prov 17:8; 21:14]