Ecclesiastes 10:10-12

Modern English Version

¹⁰ If an iron piece is blunt
    and there is no one to sharpen it,
then he must prevail with more strength;
    but wisdom is a benefit to succeed.

¹¹ If a serpent bites before it is charmed,
    there is no advantage to the charmer.

¹² The words of a wise man’s mouth bring favor,
    but the speech of a fool consumes him;