Proverbs 11:12-20

¹²People who run down their neighbors have no sense; someone who's sensible keeps quiet.

¹³A gossip goes around telling secrets, but trustworthy people keep confidences.

¹⁴A nation falls without good guidance, but they are saved through much wise counsel.

¹⁵You'll get into trouble if you guarantee a stranger's loans—you're far safer if you refuse to make such pledges.

¹⁶A gracious woman holds on to her honor just as ruthless men hold on to their wealth.

¹⁷If you're kind, you'll be rewarded; but if you're cruel, you'll hurt yourself.

¹⁸The wicked earn wages that cheat them, but those who sow goodness reap a genuine reward.

¹⁹Do what's right, and you will live; chase after evil and you will die.

²⁰The Lord hates perverted minds, but is happy with those who live moral lives.