Ecclesiastes 10:10-12

Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

¹⁰ If the ax is dull and the man does not whet the edge, he must put forth more strength; but wisdom helps him to succeed.

¹¹ If the serpent bites before it is charmed, then it is no use to call a charmer [and the slanderer is no better than the uncharmed snake].

¹² The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious and win him favor, but the lips of a fool consume him.