Seek not of the Lord a preeminence, nor of the king the seat of honour. 5Justify not thyself before God, for he knoweth the heart: and desire not to appear wise before the king. 6Seek not to be made a judge, unless thou have strength enough to extirpate iniquities: lest thou fear the person of the powerful, and lay a stumblingblock for thy integrity. 7Offend not against the multitude of a city, neither cast thyself in upon the people, 8Nor bind sin to sin: for even in one thou shalt not be unpunished. 9Be not fainthearted in thy mind: 10Neglect not to pray, and to give alms. 11Say not: God will have respect to the multitude of my gifts, and when I offer to the most high God, he will accept my offerings. 12Laugh no man to scorn in the bitterness of his soul: for there is one that humbleth and exalteth, God who seeth all. 13Devise not a lie against thy brother: neither do the like against thy friend. 14Be not willing to make any manner of lie: for the custom thereof is not good.