Proverbs 18:16-24

16A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great. 17In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines. 18Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart. 19A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel. 20From the fruit of their mouth a person’s stomach is filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied. 21The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. 22He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord. 23The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly. 24One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.