Proverbs 25:5-15

⁵Slay the ungodly from before the king, and his throne shall prosper in righteousness.

⁶Be not boastful in the presence of the king, and remain not in the places of princes;

⁷for it is better for thee that it should be said, Come up to me, than that one should humble thee in the presence of the prince; speak of that which thine eyes have seen.

⁸Get not suddenly into a quarrel, lest thou repent at last.

⁹Whenever thy friend shall reproach thee, retreat backward, despise him not;

¹⁰lest thy friend continue to reproach thee, so thy quarrel and enmity shall not depart, but shall be to thee like death.

^10aFavour and friendship set a man free, which do thou keep for thyself, lest thou be made liable to reproach; but take heed to thy ways peaceably.

¹¹As a golden apple in a necklace of sardius, so is it to speak a wise word.

¹²In an ear-ring of gold a precious sardius is also set; so is a wise word to an obedient ear.

¹³As a fall of snow in the time of harvest is good against heat, so a faithful messenger refreshes those that send him; for he helps the souls of his employers.

¹⁴As winds and clouds and rains are most evident objects, so is he that boasts of a false gift.

¹⁵In long-suffering is prosperity to kings, and a soft tongue breaks the bones.