Proverbs

¹²Haughtiness comes before disaster, but humility before honor. ¹³He who answers a matter before he hears the facts–it is folly and shame to him. [John 7:51.] ¹⁴The strong spirit of a man sustains him in bodily pain or trouble, but a weak and broken spirit who can raise up or bear? ¹⁵The mind of the prudent is ever getting knowledge, and the ear of the wise is ever seeking (inquiring for and craving) knowledge. ¹⁶A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before great men. [Gen. 32:20; I Sam. 25:27; Prov. 17:8; 21:14.] ¹⁷He who states his case first seems right, until his rival comes and cross-examines him. ¹⁸To cast lots puts an end to disputes and decides between powerful contenders.