5 Don’t justify yourselfin the Lord’s presence,and don’t make a show of your wisdomwith a king.
6 Don’t aspire to become a judge;you might not be strong enoughto get rid of injustice.Perhaps you will be too cautiousin the presence of a powerful personand bring a scandal on your good name.
7 Don’t sin against a city’s inhabitants,and don’t bring yourself downin their estimation.
8 Don’t repeat a sin,for you won’t be innocenteven of committing it the first time.
9 Don’t say,"He will look at the heap of my gifts,and when I make an offeringto the Most High, he will accept it."
10 Don’t be timid in your prayer,and don’t neglect caring for those in need.
11 Don’t mock a personwho is bitter in spirit;for there’s one who humblesand who exalts.