Proverbs 18:17

Proverbs 18 gathers wisdom on speech, friendship, and conduct, observing that a fool delights only in airing his own opinions while a wise man's words are like deep waters. It warns that reckless words wound like weapons and that an offended brother is harder to win than a strong city. The chapter closes noting that a good spirit sustains in sickness, that finding a wife is a gift from the Lord, and that true friendship can surpass even family ties.