I have also learned why people work so hard to succeed: it is because they envy the things their neighbors have. But it is useless. It is like chasing the wind.

The disciples saw this and became angry. "Why all this waste?" they asked.

"This perfume could have been sold for a large amount and the money given to the poor!"

One of Jesus' disciples, Judas Iscariot---the one who was going to betray him---said,

"Why wasn't this perfume sold for three hundred silver coins and the money given to the poor?"

So when you make a promise to God, keep it as quickly as possible. He has no use for a fool. Do what you promise to do.

Don't let your own words lead you into sin, so that you have to tell God's priest that you didn't mean it. Why make God angry with you? Why let him destroy what you have worked for?

Don't be surprised when you see that the government oppresses the poor and denies them justice and their rights. Every official is protected by someone higher, and both are protected by still higher officials.

But you dishonor me when you say that my altar is worthless and when you offer on it food that you despise.

You say, 'How tired we are of all this!' and you turn up your nose at me. As your offering to me you bring a stolen animal or one that is lame or sick. Do you think I will accept that from you?