P31 CHALLENGE: Proverbs 18

Proverbs 18 New Living Translation (NLT)   Unfriendly people care only about themselves;     they lash out at common sense. 2 Fools have no interest in understanding;     they only want to air their own opinions. 3 Doing wrong leads to disgrace,     and scandalous behavior brings contempt. 4 Wise words are like deep waters;     wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook. 5 It is not right to acquit the guilty     or deny justice to the innocent. 6 Fools’ words get them into constant quarrels;     they are asking for a beating. 7 The mouths of fools are their ruin;     they trap themselves with their lips. 8 Rumors are dainty morsels     that sink deep into one’s heart. 9 A lazy person is as bad as     someone who destroys things. 10 The name of the Lord is a strong fortress;     the godly run to him and are safe. 11 The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense;     they imagine it to be a high wall of safety. 12 Haughtiness goes before destruction;     humility precedes honor. 13 Spouting off before listening to the facts     is both shameful and foolish. 14 The human spirit can endure a sick body,     but who can bear a crushed spirit? 15 Intelligent people are always ready to learn.     Their ears are open for knowledge. 16 Giving a gift can open doors;     it gives access to important people! 17 The first to speak in court sounds right—     until the cross-examination begins. 18 Flipping a coin can end arguments;     it settles disputes between powerful opponents. 19 An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city.     Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars. 20 Wise words satisfy like a good meal;     the right words bring satisfaction. 21 The tongue can bring death or life;     those who love to talk will reap the consequences. 22 The man who finds a wife finds a treasure,     and he receives favor from the Lord. 23 The poor plead for mercy;     the rich answer with insults. 24 There are “friends” who destroy each other,     but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.     REFLECTION Lord, thank You for being my Strong Tower that I can run to at all times.  I can come to You for wisdom, understanding, grace, strength, peace, and guidance, and You always give it to me if I just ask for it! May I be reminded that no matter what foes may be coming against me that YOU will always be my safe place.  Thank You for that.  I rejoice that You are my Strong Tower and I will never be disappointed in You!     ----- Missed any days from the P31 Challenge?  All the P31 e-mails are archived here.