Sirach 18:21-23

Good News Translation

²¹ Humble yourself before you are punished with sickness. When you have sinned, show repentance. ²² If you make a promise to the Lord, keep it as soon as you can. Don't wait until you are about to die to set things straight. ²³ But before you make such a promise, be prepared to keep it. Don't try to test the Lord's patience.