11
They were caught up so that evil might not change their understanding or guile deceive their souls.
12
For the fascination of wickedness obscures what is good, and roving desire perverts the innocent mind.
13
Being perfected in a short time, they fulfilled long years;
14
for their souls were pleasing to the Lord, therefore he took them quickly from the midst of wickedness.
15
Yet the peoples saw and did not understand, or take such a thing to heart, that God's grace and mercy are with his elect, and that he watches over his holy ones.
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.