Morning Prayer

Ecclus. 7:4-14 4 Do not seek from the Lord high office,  or the seat of honor from the king.  5 Do not assert your righteousness before the Lord,  or display your wisdom before the king.  6 Do not seek to become a judge,  or you may be unable to root out injustice;  you may be partial to the powerful,  and so mar your integrity.  7 Commit no offense against the public,  and do not disgrace yourself among the people. 8 Do not commit a sin twice;  not even for one will you go unpunished.  9 Do not say, "He will consider the great number of my gifts,  and when I make an offering to the Most High God, he will accept it."  10 Do not grow weary when you pray;  do not neglect to give alms.  11 Do not ridicule a person who is embittered in spirit,  for there is One who humbles and exalts.  12 Do not devisea lie against your brother,  or do the same to a friend.  13 Refuse to utter any lie,  for it is a habit that results in no good.  14 Do not babble in the assembly of the elders,  and do not repeat yourself when you pray. The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.