Sirach - Chapter 18

Passage

He that lives for ever created all things together. God only shall be justified, and he remains an invincible king for ever. Who is able to declare his works? For who shall search out his glorious acts? And who shall show forth the power of his majesty? or who shall be able to declare his mercy? Nothing may be taken away, nor added, neither is it possible to find out the glorious works of God. When a man has done, then shall he begin: and when he leaves off, he shall be at a loss. What is man, and what is his grace? and what is his good, or what is his evil? The number of the days of men at the most are a hundred years, as a drop of water of the sea are they esteemed: and as a pebble of the sand, so are a few years compared to eternity. Therefore God is patient in them, and pours forth his mercy upon them. He has seen the presumption of their heart that it is wicked, and has known their end that it is evil. Therefore has he filled up his mercy in their favor, and has shown them the way of justice. The compassion of man is toward his neighbor: but the mercy of God is upon all flesh. He has mercy, and teaches, and corrects, as a shepherd does his flock. He has mercy on him that receives the discipline of mercy, and that makes haste in his judgments. My son, in your good deeds, make no complaint, and when you give any thing, add not grief by an evil word. Shall not the dew assuage the heat? so also the good word is better than the gift. Lo, is not a word better than a gift? but both are with a justified man. A fool will upbraid bitterly: and a gift of one ill taught consumes the eyes. Before judgment prepare you justice, and learn before you speak. Before sickness take a medicine, and before judgment examine yourself, and you shall find mercy in the sight of God. Humble yourself before you are sick, and in the time of sickness show your conversation. Let nothing hinder you from praying always, and be not afraid to be justified even to death: for the reward of God continues for ever. Before prayer prepare your soul: and be not as a man that tempts God. Remember the wrath that shall be at the last day, and the time of repaying when he shall turn away his face. Remember poverty in the time of abundance, and the necessities of poverty in the day of riches. From the morning until the evening the time shall be changed, and all these are swift in the eyes of God. A wise man will fear in every thing, and in the days of sins will beware of sloth. Every man of understanding knows wisdom, and will give praise to him that finds her. They that were of good understanding in words, have also done wisely themselves: and have understood truth and justice, and have poured forth proverbs and judgments. Go not after your lusts, but turn away from your own will. If you give to your soul her desires, she will make you a joy to your enemies. Take no pleasure in riotous assemblies, be they ever so small: for their concertation is continual. Make not yourself poor by borrowing to contribute to feasts when you have nothing in your purse: for you shall be an enemy to your own life.