¹¹ and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands,^(A) just as we told you,

²⁸ Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work,^(A) doing something useful with their own hands,^(B) that they may have something to share with those in need.^(C)

⁴ Rather, it should be that of your inner self,^(A) the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.^(B)

¹⁴ Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good,^(A) in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.

² for kings and all those in authority,^(A) that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness^(B) and holiness.

¹² We work hard with our own hands.^(A) When we are cursed, we bless;^(B) when we are persecuted,^(C) we endure it;

¹⁵ If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.