Proverbs 25:9-19

⁹Discuss the case with your neighbor himself, and don't betray someone else's secret,

¹⁰otherwise whoever hears it will make you ashamed and you'll never lose your bad reputation.

¹¹Advice given at the right time is like golden apples set in silver.

¹²Constructive criticism from the wise to someone who listens is like a gold ring and a necklace of fine gold.

¹³Faithful messengers are as refreshing to their master as cold snow on a hot harvest day.

¹⁴Someone who boasts about a gift they never give is like cloud and wind without rain.

¹⁵If you're patient you can persuade your superior, and soft words can break down opposition.

¹⁶If you find honey, eat just enough, for if you eat too much, you'll be sick.

¹⁷Don't set foot in your neighbors' homes too often, otherwise they'll get fed up with you and hate you.

¹⁸Telling lies in court against a friend is like attacking them with a mace, or a sword, or an arrow.

¹⁹Trusting in unreliable people in times of trouble is like eating with a broken tooth or walking on a bad foot.