Proverbs

¹²Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire is fulfilled, it is a tree of life. ¹³Whoever despises the word and counsel [of God] brings destruction upon himself, but he who [reverently] fears and respects the commandment [of God] is rewarded. ¹⁴The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may avoid the snares of death. ¹⁵Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the transgressor is hard [like the barren, dry soil or the impassable swamp]. ¹⁶Every prudent man deals with knowledge, but a [self-confident] fool exposes and flaunts his folly. ¹⁷A wicked messenger falls into evil, but a faithful ambassador brings healing. ¹⁸Poverty and shame come to him who refuses instruction and correction, but he who heeds reproof is honored.