Sirach 5

Each verse number opens that verse. Sirach has the history and the issues with this book.

1. 1
   Set thy heart upon thy goods; and say not, I have enough for my life.
2. 2
   Follow not thine own mind and thy strength, to walk in the ways of thy heart:
3. 3
   And say not, Who shall controul me for my works? for the Lord will surely revenge thy pride.
4. 4
   Say not, I have sinned, and what harm hath happened unto me? for the Lord is longsuffering, he will in no wise let thee go.
5. 5
   Concerning propitiation, be not without fear to add sin unto sin:
6. 6
   And say not His mercy is great; he will be pacified for the multitude of my sins: for mercy and wrath come from him, and his indignation resteth upon sinners.
7. 7
   Make no tarrying to turn to the Lord, and put not off from day to day: for suddenly shall the wrath of the Lord come forth, and in thy security thou shalt be destroyed, and perish in the day of vengeance.
8. 8
   Set not thine heart upon goods unjustly gotten, for they shall not profit thee in the day of calamity.
9. 9
   Winnow not with every wind, and go not into every way: for so doth the sinner that hath a double tongue.
10. 10
    Be stedfast in thy understanding; and let thy word be the same.
11. 11
    Be swift to hear; and let thy life be sincere; and with patience give answer.
12. 12
    If thou hast understanding, answer thy neighbour; if not, lay thy hand upon thy mouth.
13. 13
    Honour and shame is in talk: and the tongue of man is his fall.
14. 14
    Be not called a whisperer, and lie not in wait with thy tongue: for a foul shame is upon the thief, and an evil condemnation upon the double tongue.
15. 15
    Be not ignorant of any thing in a great matter or a small.