14The spirit of a man can endure his sickness,
         But as for a broken spirit who can bear it?

15The mind of the prudent acquires knowledge,
         And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

16A man’s gift makes room for him
         And brings him before great men.

17The first to plead his case seems right,
         Until another comes and examines him.

18The cast lot puts an end to strife
         And decides between the mighty ones.

19A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city,
         And contentions are like the bars of a citadel.

20With the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach will be satisfied;
         He will be satisfied with the product of his lips.

21Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
         And those who love it will eat its fruit.

22He who finds a wife finds a good thing
         And obtains favor from the LORD.

23The poor man utters supplications,
         But the rich man answers roughly.

24A man of too many friends comes to ruin,
         But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

NASB ©1995