Old Testament

New Testament

Sirach 30:7-22 Common English Bible (CEB)

7. A parent who spoils children nowwill end up tending to their wounds,and will experience heartacheat every outcry.

8. A horse that is unbrokenturns out stubborn,and a child, when given free rein,turns out reckless.

9. Indulge children,and they will terrorize you;play with them,and they will grieve you.

10. Don’t laugh together with them,so that you don’t suffer togetherand in the endgrind your teeth in regret.

11. Don’t give them free rein in their youth.

12. Bruise their sideswhile they are still young,or else they will become stubbornand disobey you.

13. Educate your children, and work on them,so that you don’t end up offendedby their shameful behavior.

14. It is better to be poor,but healthy and strong,than a rich personwhose body is afflicted.

15. Being healthy and fitis better than any gold,and a strong spiritis better than untold riches.

16. No wealth is better than a healthy body,and no gladness is better than happiness in one’s heart.

17. Death is better than a bitter life,and eternal rest isbetter than chronic illness.

18. Good things that are poured outon a closed mouthare the same as food offeringsplaced on a grave.

19. Of what use is an offering of fruitto an idol?It can’t eat or smell.The person whom the Lord punishesis like this,

20. looking with the eyes and groaninglike a eunuch who embracesa young woman and groans.

21. Don’t let grief take you over,and don’t distress yourself on purpose.

22. A joyful heart means lifefor a human being,and a person’s rejoicingprovides long life.

Read complete chapter Sirach 30