Proverbs 18:12-19

12Haughtiness goes before destruction; humility precedes honor.

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

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

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

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

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

18Flipping a coin can end arguments; it settles disputes between powerful opponents.

19An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city. Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars.