Do not say, “It was God who made me sin.” God does not cause what he hates.
Do not say, “He made me do wrong,” for he has nothing to do with a sinner.
The Lord hates all evil and those who fear him hate it as well.
When he created man in the beginning, he left him free to make his own decisions.
If you wish, you can keep the commandments and it is in your power to remain faithful.
He has set fire and water before you; you stretch out your hand to whichever you prefer.
Life and death are set before man: whichever a man prefers will be given him.
How magnificent is the wisdom of the Lord! He is powerful and all-seeing.
His eyes are on those who fear him. He knows all the works of man.
He has commanded no one to be godless and has given no one permission to sin.
Sirach 15:11-20