Proverbs 18:13-24

Anyone who answers without listening is foolish and confused. The will to live can get you through sickness, but no one can live with a broken spirit. The mind of a person with understanding gets knowledge; the wise person listens to learn more. Taking gifts to important people will help get you in to see them. The person who tells one side of a story seems right, until someone else comes and asks questions. Throwing lots can settle arguments and keep the two sides from fighting. A brother who has been insulted is harder to win back than a walled city, and arguments separate people like the barred gates of a palace. People will be rewarded for what they say; they will be rewarded by how they speak. What you say can mean life or death. Those who speak with care will be rewarded. When a man finds a wife, he finds something good. It shows that the LORD is pleased with him. The poor beg for mercy, but the rich give rude answers. Some friends may ruin you, but a real friend will be more loyal than a brother.