Proverbs 18

Proverbs 18: Proverbs of Solomon (Cont.).

An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgement starts quarrels. One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys. The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor. To answer before listening - that is folly and shame. The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel. From the fruit of their mouth a person's stomach is filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied. The tongue has the power of life and death. One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. 

A crushed spirit is unbearable and God wants us to be careful with our words for this reason. Our hearts should be humble, we should listen carefully before we give an answer, and allow love to cover an offense before a dispute can be started. God wants our lips to produce good fruit.