10
But judging them little by little you gave them an opportunity to repent, though you were not unaware that their origin was evil and their wickedness inborn, and that their way of thinking would never change.
11
For they were an accursed race from the beginning, and it was not through fear of anyone that you left them unpunished for their sins.
12
For who will say, "What have you done?" or will resist your judgment? Who will accuse you for the destruction of nations that you made? Or who will come before you to plead as an advocate for the unrighteous?
13
For neither is there any god besides you, whose care is for all people, to whom you should prove that you have not judged unjustly;
14
nor can any king or monarch confront you about those whom you have punished.
15
You are righteous and you rule all things righteously, deeming it alien to your power to condemn anyone who does not deserve to be punished.
16
For your strength is the source of righteousness, and your sovereignty over all causes you to spare all.
17
For you show your strength when people doubt the completeness of your power, and you rebuke any insolence among those who know it.
18
Although you are sovereign in strength, you judge with mildness, and with great forbearance you govern us; for you have power to act whenever you choose.
19
Through such works you have taught your people that the righteous must be kind, and you have filled your children with good hope, because you give repentance for sins.
20
For if you punished with such great care and indulgence the enemies of your servants and those deserving of death, granting them time and opportunity to give up their wickedness,