Ecclesiastes 7:15-18

Amplified Bible

¹⁵ I have seen everything during my [fleeting] days of futility; there is a righteous man who perishes in [spite of] his righteousness, and there is a wicked man who ^[a]lives a long life in [spite of] his wickedness. ¹⁶ Do not be excessively righteous [like those given to self-conceit], and do not be overly wise (pretentious)—why should you bring yourself to ruin? ¹⁷ Do not be excessively or willfully wicked and do not be a fool. Why should you die before your time? ¹⁸ It is good that you take hold of one thing (righteousness) and also not let go of the other (wisdom); for the one who fears and worships God [with awe-filled reverence] will come forth with both of them.