Wisdom 3:1-9

Common English Bible

Reward and punishment after death

3 The souls of those who do what is right are in God’s hand. They won’t feel the pain of torment. ² To those who don’t know any better, it seems as if they have died. Their departure from this life was considered their misfortune. ³ Their leaving us seemed to be their destruction, but in reality they are at peace. ⁴ It may look to others as if they have been punished, but they have the hope of living forever. ⁵ They were disciplined a little, but they will be rewarded with abundant good things, because God tested them and found that they deserve to be with him. ⁶ He tested them like gold in the furnace; he accepted them like an entirely burned offering. ⁷ Then, when the time comes for judgment, the godly will burst forth and run about like fiery sparks among dry straw. ⁸ The godly will judge nations and hold power over peoples, even as the Lord will rule over them forever. ⁹ Those who trust in the Lord will know the truth. Those who are faithful will always be with him in love. Favor and mercy belong to the holy ones. God watches over God’s chosen ones.