Proverbs

¹⁷He who heeds instruction and correction is [not only himself] in the way of life [but also] is a way of life for others. And he who neglects or refuses reproof [not only himself] goes astray [but also] causes to err and is a path toward ruin for others. ¹⁸He who hides hatred is of lying lips, and he who utters slander is a [self-confident] fool. [Prov. 26:24-26.] ¹⁹In a multitude of words transgression is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is prudent. ²⁰The tongues of those who are upright and in right standing with God are as choice silver; the minds of those who are wicked and out of harmony with God are of little value. ²¹The lips of the [uncompromisingly] righteous feed and guide many, but fools die for want of understanding and heart. ²²The blessing of the Lord–it makes [truly] rich, and He adds no sorrow with it [neither does toiling increase it]. ²³It is as sport to a [self-confident] fool to do wickedness, but to have skillful and godly Wisdom is pleasure and relaxation to a man of understanding.