Ben Sira 2:1-7

1 My child, when you come to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for testing.

2 Set your heart right and be steadfast, and do not be impetuous in time of calamity.

3 Cling to him and do not depart, so that your last days may be prosperous.

4 Accept whatever befalls you, and in times of humiliation be patient.

5 For gold is tested in the fire, and those found acceptable, in the furnace of humiliation.

6 Trust in him, and he will help you; make your ways straight, and hope in him.

7 You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy; do not stray, or else you may fall.

Footnotes

• [a]. Or [trials]
• [b]. Other ancient authorities add [in sickness and poverty put your trust in him]