ISV(i)
16 A person’s gift opens doors for him, bringing him access to important people.
17 The first to put forth his case seems right, until someone else steps forward and cross-examines him.
18 Casting dice settles a dispute, deciding between strong contenders.
19 An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified city, and his disputes are like the bars of a fortress.
20 The positive words that a man speaks fill his stomach; he will be satisfied with what his lips produce.
21 The power of the tongue is life and death— those who love to talk will eat what it produces.
22 Whoever finds a wife finds what is good, and receives favor from the LORD.
23 The poor person pleads for mercy, but the wealthy man responds harshly.
24 A man with many friends can still be ruined, but a true friend sticks closer than a brother.