Ben Sira 17:15-25

15 The Lord is always aware of what people do; there is no way to hide from him.

17 He gave each nation its own ruler, but Israel is the Lord's own possession.

19 The Lord is always watching what people do; everything they do is as clear as day to him.

20 None of their sins are hidden from him; he is aware of them all.

22 When we give to the poor, the Lord considers it as precious as a valuable ring. Human kindness is as precious to him as life itself.

23 Later he will judge the wicked and punish them; they will get what they deserve.

24 But the Lord will allow those who repent to return to him. He always gives encouragement to those who are losing hope.

25 Come to the Lord, and leave your sin behind. Pray sincerely that he will help you live a better life. ¹

Cross References 1

[a]. [Some manuscripts add verses 16-17a:] From childhood on they tend to be evil; their heart is like stone, and they don't seem to be able to make it more human. +V17+WHe divided the nations of the whole earth.
[b]. [Some manuscripts add verse 18:] Israel is his first-born, whom he disciplines as he brings him up. He gives him the light of his love and never neglects him.
[c]. [Some manuscripts add verse 21:] But the Lord is gracious and knows his creatures; so he has spared them rather than abandon them.