7
But the righteous, though they die early, will be at rest.
8
For old age is not honored for length of time, or measured by number of years;
9
but understanding is gray hair for anyone, and a blameless life is ripe old age.
10
There were some who pleased God and were loved by him, and while living among sinners were taken up.
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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;
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for their souls were pleasing to the Lord, therefore he took them quickly from the midst of wickedness.
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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.
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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.
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For they will see the end of the wise, and will not understand what the Lord purposed for them, and for what he kept them safe.