13 “Your words against me have been harsh,” says Yahweh. “But you all say, ‘What have we said among ourselves against you?’ 14 You’ve all said, ‘It’s a waste of time serving God. What did we gain by keeping his requirements, or by being sorrowful in front of army-commander Yahweh? 15 It seems that arrogant people are happier. Evil people not only prosper, but they even challenge God yet nothing happens to them.’ ”

16 Then those who still respected Yahweh spoke with one another. Yahweh paid attention and listened, and while he watched, a book of remembrance was written about those who respected Yahweh and honoured his name. 17 “They’ll be mine,” says army-commander Yahweh. “On the day when I assemble my treasured possession, I won’t punish those people, just like a father doesn’t punish his son who obeys him. 18 Then once again you’ll all be able to see the difference between righteous people and wicked people—between those who serve God and those who don’t.