New International Reader's Version

Proverbs 18:2-17 New International Reader's Version (NIRV)

2. A foolish person doesn't want to understand. He takes delight in saying only what he thinks.

3. People hate it when evil comes. And they refuse to honor those who bring shame.

4. The words of a person's mouth are like deep water. But the fountain of wisdom is like a flowing stream.

5. It isn't good to favor those who do wrong. And it isn't good to hold back what is fair from those who aren't guilty.

6. What a foolish person says leads to arguing. He is just asking for a beating.

7. The words of a foolish person drag him down. He is trapped by what he says.

8. The words of anyone who talks about others are like tasty bites of food. They go deep down inside you.

9. Anyone who doesn't want to work is like someone who destroys.

10. The name of the Lord is like a strong tower. Godly people run to it and are safe.

11. The wealth of rich people is like a city that makes them feel safe. They think of it as a city with walls that can't be climbed.

12. If a man's heart is proud, he will be destroyed. So don't be proud if you want to be honored.

13. To answer before listening is foolish and shameful.

14. A man's cheerful heart gives him strength when he is sick. You can't keep going if you have a broken spirit.

15. Those whose hearts understand what is right get knowledge. The ears of those who are wise listen for it.

16. A gift opens the way for the one who gives it. It helps him meet important people.

17. The first one to tell his case seems right. Then someone else comes forward and questions him.