12 and gain some wisdom from thosewho have lived a long time.
13 But God is the real sourceof wisdom and strength.
14 No one can rebuildwhat he destroys, or releasethose he has imprisoned.
15 God can hold back the rainor send a flood,
16 just as he rules over liarsand those they lie to.
17 God destroys counsellors,turns judges into fools,
18 and makes slaves of kings.