Proverbs 27:1-16 ▼

1 Never brag about the day to come, because you don't know what it might bring.

2 Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth; a stranger, and never your own lips.

3 Rocks are heavy, and sand is weighty, but a fool's provocation outweighs them both.

4 Wrath can be fierce and anger overwhelms but who can stand up to jealousy?

5 An open rebuke is better than unspoken love.

6 Wounds from someone who loves are trustworthy, but kisses from an enemy speak volumes.

7 The person who is full spurns honey, but to a hungry person even the bitter seems sweet.

8 Like a bird that strays from its nest is a man who wanders away from his home.

9 Ointments and perfume encourage the heart; in a similar way, a friend's advice is sweet to the soul.

10 Never abandon your friend nor your father's friend, and don't go to your brother's house in times of trouble. A neighbor who is near is better than a brother who lives far away.

11 Be wise, my son, and make me happy, so I can reply to anyone who insults me.

12 Those who are prudent see danger and take refuge, but the naïve continue on and suffer the consequences.

13 Take the coat of anyone who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if he cosigns for an immoral woman.

14 A friend's loud blessing early in the morning will be thought of as a curse.

15 A continual dripping on a rainy day and a contentious wife are alike.

16 Trying to keep her in check is like stopping a wind storm or grabbing oil with your right hand.