New Living Translation

Proverbs 18:1-17 New Living Translation (NLT)

1. Unfriendly people care only about themselves;they lash out at common sense.

2. Fools have no interest in understanding;they only want to air their own opinions.

3. Doing wrong leads to disgrace,and scandalous behavior brings contempt.

4. Wise words are like deep waters;wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.

5. It is not right to acquit the guiltyor deny justice to the innocent.

6. Fools’ words get them into constant quarrels;they are asking for a beating.

7. The mouths of fools are their ruin;they trap themselves with their lips.

8. Rumors are dainty morselsthat sink deep into one’s heart.

9. A lazy person is as bad assomeone who destroys things.

10. The name of the lord is a strong fortress;the godly run to him and are safe.

11. The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense;they imagine it to be a high wall of safety.

12. Haughtiness goes before destruction;humility precedes honor.

13. Spouting off before listening to the factsis both shameful and foolish.

14. The human spirit can endure a sick body,but who can bear a crushed spirit?

15. Intelligent people are always ready to learn.Their ears are open for knowledge.

16. Giving a gift can open doors;it gives access to important people!

17. The first to speak in court sounds right—until the cross-examination begins.