Ben Sira 33:20-30

20 To son or wife, to brother or friend, do not give power over yourself, as long as you live; and do not give your property to another, in case you change your mind and must ask for it.
21 While you are still alive and have breath in you, do not let anyone take your place.
22 For it is better that your children should ask from you than that you should look to the hand of your children.
23 Excel in all that you do; bring no stain upon your honor.
24 At the time when you end the days of your life, in the hour of death, distribute your inheritance.
25 Fodder and a stick and burdens for a donkey; bread and discipline and work for a slave.
26 Set your slave to work, and you will find rest; leave his hands idle, and he will seek liberty.
27 Yoke and thong will bow the neck, and for a wicked slave there are racks and tortures.
28 Put him to work, in order that he may not be idle,
29 for idleness teaches much evil.
30 Set him to work, as is fitting for him, and if he does not obey, make his fetters heavy. Do not be overbearing toward anyone, and do nothing unjust.
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.