Ecclesiasticus, 17
18. The almsgiving of a man is like a seal upon him, which will guard the grace of a man like the pupil of an eye.
18. The almsgiving of a man is like a seal upon him, which will guard the grace of a man like the pupil of an eye.
Ecclesiastical chapter 17 talks about the creation of man and his relationship with God. The author highlights the importance of obedience to divine commandments to achieve wisdom and happiness. Moreover, the text points out that God is fair and will judge each person according to their works. Below are five verses related to the topics covered in Ecclesiastical 17, in order of proximity to the chapter:
Proverbs 19:21: "Many are the plans in the heart of man, but the purpose of the Lord prevails." This verse highlights God's sovereignty over all things, including the lives of human beings. Thus, the text relates to the idea that God is the creator and maintainer of the universe, as mentioned in ecclesiastical 17.
Psalm 139:13-14: "For you formed my interior; You have weaved me in the womb of my mother. Thanks to you, since as a haunted way you have formed me; your works are admirable, and my soul knows it a lot good." This psalm speaks of the creation of the human being by God in an admirably and wonderful way, which relates to the text of Ecclesiastical 17 when speaking of the creation of man for God.
Romans 2:6-7: "God will return to each one according to His procedure. To those who, with perseverance in doing good, seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life." This verse highlights God's righteousness to repay each person according to their works, which relates to the idea that God will judge each person according to their actions, as mentioned in Ecclesiastical 17.
James 1:5: "And if any of you have a lack of wisdom, ask it to God, who gives them liberally and nothing operates to them; and will be granted to him." This verse speaks of the importance of wisdom, which is a recurring theme in ecclesiastical. The author points out that wisdom can be obtained through prayer to God, who gives it to all those who ask it with sincerity.
Colossians 3:23-24: "And whatever you do, do it with all your heart, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that you will receive inheritance as a reward. It is to Christ, the Lord, who is serving. " This verse highlights the importance of doing all things with sincerity and devotion, as if it were for God. This relates to the text of Ecclesiastical 17 by highlighting the importance of obedience to divine commandments to achieve wisdom and happiness.
“Quando te encontrares diante de Deus, na oração considera-te banhado na luz da verdade, fala-lhe se puderes, deixa simplesmente que te veja e não tenhas preocupação alguma”. São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
