4 Maccabees 5:23

23 However, our way of life teaches us self-control, so that we can have control over any pleasure or desire. It trains us to be brave, so that we willingly bear any suffering.

4 Maccabees 5:23 In-Context

21 because we are showing equal contempt for the Law itself.

22 “You look down on our way of life as though living this way were unreasonable.

23 However, our way of life teaches us self-control, so that we can have control over any pleasure or desire. It trains us to be brave, so that we willingly bear any suffering.

24 It educates us about justice, so that it is always our custom to treat everyone fairly. It educates us in the godly way of life, so that we worship with due respect the only God who really exists.

25 "So we don't eat forbidden foods. We believe that God gave us the Law. The creator of the cosmic order has shown us compassion by giving us the Law in accordance with nature.