Sirach 7:4-6

Common English Bible

⁴ Don’t seek political power from the Lord
    or a seat of honor from the king.
⁵ Don’t justify yourself
in the Lord’s presence,
    and don’t make a show of your wisdom
    with a king.
⁶ Don’t aspire to become a judge;
        you might not be strong enough
        to get rid of injustice.
    Perhaps you will be too cautious
    in the presence of a powerful person
        and bring a scandal on your good name.