1
But righteous people are protected by God and will never suffer torment.
2
It is a foolish mistake to think that righteous people die and that their death is a terrible evil.
3
They leave us, but it is not a disaster. In fact, the righteous are at peace.
4
It might appear that they have suffered punishment, but they have the confident hope of immortality.
5
Their sufferings were minor compared with the blessings they will receive. God has tested them, like gold in a furnace, and found them worthy to be with him. He has accepted them, just as he accepts the sacrifices which his worshipers burn on the altar.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.