Proverbs 17:14-28

¹⁴The beginning of a quarrel is like the first leak in a water dam, so drop it before a major argument bursts out.

¹⁵The Lord hates it when the wicked are acquitted and the innocent condemned.

¹⁶Is there any point in stupid people trying to buy wisdom when they don't want to learn?

¹⁷A true friend is always there to love you, and family provides help when troubles come.

¹⁸It's not a wise idea to make a pledge and guarantee a neighbor's debt.

¹⁹People who love sin like to argue; those who build high gates invite destruction.

²⁰People with warped minds don't succeed; those who tell lies get into trouble.

²¹A stupid son brings grief to his father; the father of a child who does stupid things has no joy.

²²A cheerful attitude is like good medicine, but discouragement makes you sick.

²³The wicked take hidden bribes to pervert the course of justice.

²⁴Sensible people focus on wisdom, but the eyes of stupid people are always wandering.

²⁵A stupid son brings grief to his father and sadness to his mother who gave birth to him.

²⁶It's not right to impose a fine on someone who's innocent or to flog good leaders for their honesty.

²⁷If you're wise, you'll be careful what you say; and if you're sensible, you'll keep your temper.

²⁸Even stupid people who keep quiet are considered wise; if they don't say anything they appear intelligent.