Proverbs 18:12-19

12Before ruin a person’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.

13One who answers before listening— that is his folly and his shame.

14One’s spirit sustains him through illness, but who can bear a crushed spirit?

15A discerning heart gains knowledge, the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

16A man’s gift makes room for him, and leads him before great men.

17The first to state his case seems just, until another comes and cross-examines him.

18Casting lots ends quarrels and decides between mighty opponents.

19An offended brother is more formidable than a fortified city, and quarrels are like the bars of a fortress.