3 But the souls of the righteous are in God’s hand,

and no torment will touch them.

2 In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died.

Their departure was considered a disaster,

3 and their travel away from us ruin,

but they’re in peace.

4 Because even if in the sight of men they’re punished,

their hope is full of immortality.

5 Having borne a little chastening, they’ll receive great good;

because God tested them, and found them worthy of himself.

6 He tested them like gold in the furnace,

and he accepted them as a whole burnt offering.

7 In the time of their visitation they’ll shine.

They’ll run back and forth like sparks among stubble.

8 They’ll judge nations and have dominion over peoples.

The master will reign over them forever.

9 Those who trust him will understand truth.

The faithful will live with him in love,

because grace and mercy are with his chosen ones.