⁵ Should you then seek great^(A) things for yourself? Do not seek them.^(B) For I will bring disaster^(C) on all people,^(D) declares the Lord, but wherever you go I will let you escape^(E) with your life.’”^(F)

¹⁷ In every province and in every city to which the edict of the king came, there was joy^(A) and gladness among the Jews, with feasting and celebrating. And many people of other nationalities became Jews because fear^(B) of the Jews had seized them.^(C)

⁸ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

²⁷ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.^(A) I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled^(B) and do not be afraid.