14
For in the case of the other nations the Lord waits patiently to punish them until they have reached the full measure of their sins; but he does not deal in this way with us,
12
Now I urge those who read this book not to be depressed by such calamities, but to recognize that these punishments were designed not to destroy but to discipline our people.
13
In fact, not to let the impious alone for long, but to punish them immediately, is a sign of great kindness.
14
For in the case of the other nations the Lord waits patiently to punish them until they have reached the full measure of their sins; but he does not deal in this way with us,
15
in order that he may not take vengeance on us afterward when our sins have reached their height.
16
Therefore he never withdraws his mercy from us. Though he disciplines us with calamities, he does not forsake his own people.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the 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.