Proverbs 25:11-28

¶Like apples of gold in settings of silver, Is a word spoken at the proper time. Like an earring of gold and a jewelry piece of fine gold, Is a wise person who offers rebukes to a listening ear. Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest Is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the soul of his masters. Like clouds and wind without rain Is a person who boasts of his gifts falsely. Through patience a ruler may be persuaded, And a gentle tongue breaks bone. Have you found honey? Eat only what you need, So that you do not have it in excess and vomit it. Let your foot rarely be in your neighbor’s house, Or he will become weary of you and hate you. Like a club, a sword, and a sharp arrow Is a person who gives false testimony against his neighbor. Like a bad tooth and an unsteady foot Is confidence in a treacherous person in time of trouble. Like one who takes off a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar on soda, Is one who sings songs to a troubled heart. If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; For you will heap burning coals on his head, And the Lord will reward you. The north wind brings rain, And a gossiping tongue brings an angry face. It is better to live on a corner of the roof, Than in a house shared with a contentious woman. Like cold water to a weary soul, So is good news from a distant land. Like a trampled spring and a polluted well, So is a righteous person who gives way before the wicked. It is not good to eat much honey, Nor is it glory to search out one’s own glory. Like a city that is broken into and without walls Sois a person who has no self-control over his spirit.