Sirach 6:1-7

1 Don't become an enemy instead of a friend. If you get a bad name, you will also inherit shame and reproach, as is the case with the deceitful sinner.
2 Don't be enamored of your own intelligence lest your strength be taken captive like a bull.
3 You will devour your leaves, destroy your fruit, and leave yourself like a withered tree.
4 If you have a bad soul, it will destroy you; it will make you a joke to your enemies.

Friendship

5 Pleasant speech gains more friends for itself, and a sweet-speaking tongue will multiply pleasant exchanges.
6 Let those who are at peace with you be many, but let only one in a thousand be your advisor.
7 If you make friends, test them thoroughly and don't trust them quickly.

Footnotes 1

Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible