PREPARE YOURSELF

“Before you speak, learn; and before you fall ill, take care of your health. Before judgment comes, examine yourself; and at the time of scrutiny you will find forgiveness. Before falling ill, humble yourself; and when you have sinned, repent. Let nothing hinder you from paying a vow promptly, and do not wait until death to be released from it. Before making a vow, prepare yourself; do not be like one who puts the Lord to the test.” (Full context: Sirach 18:19-23)

What a great list!

Before you speak, learn.
Before you fall ill, take care of your health.
Before judgment comes, examine yourself.
Before falling ill, humble yourself.
When you have sinned, repent.
Let nothing hinder you from paying a vow promptly.
Do not wait until death, to be released from it.
Before making a vow, prepare yourself.
Do not be like one who puts the Lord to the test.

But the scripture also says, “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” Jesus