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.
16
The righteous who have died will condemn the ungodly who are living, and youth that is quickly perfected will condemn the prolonged old age of the unrighteous.
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.