1. A SOFT answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger. [Prov. 25:15.]
2. The tongue of the wise utters knowledge rightly, but the mouth of the [self-confident] fool pours out folly.
3. The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch upon the evil and the good. [Job 34:21; Prov. 5:21; Jer. 16:17; 32:19; Heb. 4:13.]
4. A gentle tongue [with its healing power] is a tree of life, but willful contrariness in it breaks down the spirit.
5. A fool despises his father's instruction and correction, but he who regards reproof acquires prudence.
6. In the house of the [uncompromisingly] righteous is great [priceless] treasure, but with the income of the wicked is trouble and vexation.
7. The lips of the wise disperse knowledge [sifting it as chaff from the grain]; not so the minds and hearts of the self-confident and foolish.
8. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination, hateful and exceedingly offensive to the Lord, but the prayer of the upright is His delight! [Isa. 1:11; Jer. 6:20; Amos 5:22.]