Wisdom of Sirach 18
1He that lives for ever Hath created all things in general.
2The Lord only is righteous, and there is none other but he,
3Who governs the world with the palm of his hand, and all things obey his will: for he is the King of all, by his power dividing holy things among them from profane.
4To whom has he given power to declare his works? and who shall find out his noble acts?
5Who shall number the strength of his majesty? and who shall also tell out his mercies?
6As for the wondrous works of the Lord, there may nothing be taken from them, neither may any thing be put to them, neither can the ground of them be found out.
7When a man has done, then he begins; and when he leaves off, then he shall be doubtful.
8What is man, and whereto serves he? what is his good, and what is his evil?
9The number of a man's days at the most are an hundred years.
10As a drop of water to the sea, and a gravelstone in comparison of the sand; so are a thousand years to the days of eternity.
11Therefore is God patient with them, and pours forth his mercy upon them.
12He saw and perceived their end to be evil; therefore he multiplied his compassion.
13The mercy of man is toward his neighbor; but the mercy of the Lord is upon all flesh: he reproves, and nurtures, and teaches and brings again, as a shepherd his flock.
14He has mercy on them that receive discipline, and that diligently seek after his judgments.
15My son, blemish not your good deeds, neither use uncomfortable words when you give any thing.
16Shall not the dew asswage the heat? so is a word better than a gift.
17Behold, is not a word better than a gift? but both are with a gracious man.
18A fool will upbraid churlishly, and a gift of the envious consumes the eyes.
19Learn before you speak, and use physick or ever you be sick.
20Before judgment examine yourself, and in the day of visitation you shall find mercy.
21Humble yourself before you be sick, and in the time of sins show repentance.
22Let nothing hinder you to pay your vow in due time, and defer not until death to be justified.
23Before you pray, prepare yourself; and be not as one that tempts the Lord.
24Think upon the wrath that shall be at the end, and the time of vengeance, when he shall turn away his face.
25When you have enough, remember the time of hunger: and when you are rich, think upon poverty and need.
26From the morning until the evening the time is changed, and all things are soon done before the Lord.
27A wise man will fear in every thing, and in the day of sinning he will beware of offense: but a fool will not observe time.
28Every man of understanding knows wisdom, and will give praise to him that found her.
29They that were of understanding in sayings became also wise themselves, and poured forth exquisite parables.
30Go not after your lusts, but refrain yourself from your appetites.
31If you give your soul the desires that please her, she will make you a laughing stock to your enemies that malign you.
32Take not pleasure in much good cheer, neither be tied to the expense thereof.
33Be not made a beggar by banqueting upon borrowing, when you have nothing in your purse: for you shall lie in wait for your own life, and be talked on.
Commentaries for Wisdom of Sirach 18:0