Common English Bible

Sirach 37:1-6 Common English Bible (CEB)

1. Every friend will say,"I too have been a friend,"but there’s a friend who is onein name only.

2. Doesn’t the pain bring a personclose to deathwhen a companion and friendturns into an enemy?

3. Evil inclination,how did you get involvedin covering the land with deceit?

4. Some companions take delightin a friend’s happiness,but they turn against themin a time of distress.

5. Some companions work alongsidea friend for their stomach’s sake,but in the heat of battle,they will shield themselves.

6. Don’t forget friends in your heart,and don’t neglect themwhen it comes to your money.