Proverbs 18:1

¹⁵Therefore watch carefully how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise, ¹⁶redeeming the time, because the days are evil. ¹⁷Therefore, don’t be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

¹My son, if you will receive my words, and store up my commandments within you, ²so as to turn your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; ³yes, if you call out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding; ⁴if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; ⁵then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. ^6[+] For the LORD gives wisdom. Out of his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.

³It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife, but every fool will be quarreling.

²¹My son, fear the LORD and the king. Don’t join those who are rebellious,

¹⁷I didn’t sit in the assembly of those who make merry and rejoice. I sat alone because of your hand, for you have filled me with indignation.

¹⁹These are those who cause divisions and are sensual, not having the Spirit.

³⁵Early in the morning, while it was still dark, he rose up and went out, and departed into a deserted place, and prayed there.

¹⁰The heart knows its own bitterness and joy; he will not share these with a stranger.

¹⁶For how would people know that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Isn’t it that you go with us, so that we are separated, I and your people, from all the people who are on the surface of the earth?”

¹⁷Like one who grabs a dog’s ears is one who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own.