Good News Bible Anglicised

Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) 9:9-14 Good News Bible Anglicised (GNBDC)

9. Don't sit down to eat with another man's wife or join her for a drink. You may give in to the temptation of her charms and be destroyed by your passion.

10. Never abandon an old friend; you will never find a new one who can take their place. Friendship is like wine; it gets better as it grows older.

11. Don't be jealous of a sinner's success; you don't know what kind of disaster is in store for him.

12. Don't take pleasure in the things that make ungodly people happy; remember that they will be held guilty as long as they live.

13. If you keep away from someone who has the power to put you to death, you will not have to fear for your life; but if you must go near him, be very careful, or he may kill you. Be conscious that you are walking among hidden traps, that you are an easy target.

14. Get to know the people round you as well as you can, and take advice only from those who are qualified to give it.