Duties toward God

(Jas 1:2–4, 12–16; Wis 3:1–9)

2 My child, when you come to serve the Lord,

prepare yourself for testing.a

2 Set your heart right and be steadfast,

and do not be impetuous in time of calamity.

3 Cling to him and do not depart,

so that your last days may be prosperous.

4 Accept whatever befalls you,

and in times of humiliation be patient.

5 For gold is tested in the fire,

and those found acceptable, in the furnace of humiliation.b

6 Trust in him, and he will help you;

make your ways straight, and hope in him.

7 You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy;

do not stray, or else you may fall.

8 You who fear the Lord, trust in him,

and your reward will not be lost.