Seeing, therefore, that we are the portion of
the Holy One, let us do all those things which
pertain to holiness, avoiding all evil-speaking,
all abominable and impure embraces, together
with all drunkenness, seeking after change,^ all
abominable lusts, detestable adultery, and exe-
crable pride. " For God," saith [the Scripture],
" resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the
humble." + Let us cleave, then, to those to
whom grace has been given by God. Let us
clothe ourselves with concord and humility, ever
exercising self-control, standing far off from all
whispering and evil-speaking, being justified by
our works, and not our words. For [the Scrip-
ture] saith, " He that speaketh much, shall also
hear much in answer. And does he that is ready
in speech deem himself righteous? Blessed is
he that is born of woman, who liveth but a short
time : be not given to much speaking." 5 Let
our praise be in God, and not of ourselves ; for
God hateth those that commend themselves.
Let testimony to our good deeds be borne by
others, as it was in the case of our righteous fore-
fathers. Boldness, and arrogance, and audacity
belong to those that are accursed of God ; but
moderation, humility, and meekness to such as
are blessed by Him.