Proverbs 17:1-9

17:1 Better is a dry crust of bread where there is quietness

than a house full of feasting with strife.

17:2 A servant who acts wisely will rule

over an heir who behaves shamefully,

and will share the inheritance along with the relatives.

17:3 The crucible is for refining silver and the furnace is for gold,

likewise the Lord tests hearts.

17:4 One who acts wickedly pays attention to evil counsel;

a liar listens to a malicious tongue.

17:5 The one who mocks the poor insults his Creator;

whoever rejoices over disaster will not go unpunished.

17:6 Grandchildren are like a crown to the elderly,

and the glory of children is their parents.

17:7 Excessive speech is not becoming for a fool;

how much less are lies for a ruler!

17:8 A bribe works like a charm for the one who offers it;

in whatever he does he succeeds.

17:9 The one who forgives an offense seeks love,

but whoever repeats a matter separates close friends.