Proverbs 16:16-24

16How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver.

17The highway of the upright turns away and departs from evil; He who guards his way protects his life (soul).

18Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.

19It is better to be humble in spirit with the lowly Than to divide the spoil with the proud (haughty, arrogant).

20He who pays attention to the word [of God] will find good, And blessed (happy, prosperous, to be admired) is he who trusts [confidently] in the Lord.

21The wise in heart will be called understanding, And sweet speech increases persuasiveness and learning [in both speaker and listener].

22Understanding (spiritual insight) is a [refreshing and boundless] wellspring of life to those who have it, But to give instruction and correction to fools is foolishness.

23The heart of the wise instructs his mouth [in wisdom] And adds persuasiveness to his lips.

24Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweet and delightful to the soul and healing to the body.