Proverbs

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. ¹⁹Satisfied desire is sweet to a person; therefore it is hateful and exceedingly offensive to [self-confident] fools to give up evil [upon which they have set their hearts].