SIRACH 2:1-9 ~ If you seek to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for an ordeal

1 My child, if you aspire to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for an ordeal.

2 Be sincere of heart, be steadfast, and do not be alarmed when disaster comes.

3 Cling to him and do not leave him, so that you may be honoured at the end of your days.

4 Whatever happens to you, accept it, and in the uncertainties of your humble state, be patient,

5 since gold is tested in the fire, and the chosen in the furnace of humiliation.

6 Trust him and he will uphold you, follow a straight path and hope in him.

7 You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy; do not turn aside, for fear you fall.

8 You who fear the Lord, trust him, and you will not be robbed of your reward.

9 You who fear the Lord, hope for those good gifts of his, everlasting joy and mercy.