Sirach 15:14

Verse 14. Counsel. Many explain this of Adam, before his fall, when he stood not in need of asking continually for God’s assistance. Saint Augustine correp. ii. n. 35.—But if we examine the context, it shews that man, in his present state, is declared inexcusable if he yield to sin, as he has still free-will, which may avoid it, with the grace of God, ( Calmet.) which is always ready to support us. Greek subjoins, (verse 16.) “if thou wilt, thou shall keep the commandments, even to execute faithfully the good pleasure. (17.) He.” and so forth Bible.