Ben Sira 18:20-30

20 Before judgment comes, examine yourself; and at the time of scrutiny you will find forgiveness.
21 Before falling ill, humble yourself; and when you have sinned, repent.
22 Let nothing hinder you from paying a vow promptly, and do not wait until death to be released from it.
23 Before making a vow, prepare yourself; do not be like one who puts the Lord to the test.
24 Think of his wrath on the day of death, and of the moment of vengeance when he turns away his face.
25 In the time of plenty think of the time of hunger; in days of wealth think of poverty and need.
26 From morning to evening conditions change; all things move swiftly before the Lord.
27 One who is wise is cautious in everything; when sin is all around, one guards against wrongdoing.
28 Every intelligent person knows wisdom, and praises the one who finds her.
29 Those who are skilled in words become wise themselves, and pour forth apt proverbs.
30 Do not follow your base desires, but restrain your appetites.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Other ancient authorities add [Better is confidence in the one Lord than clinging with a dead heart to a dead one.]
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.