Sirach 2:1-11

My child, if you are going to serve the Lord,
Be prepared for times when you will be put to the test.
Be sincere and determined.
Keep calm when trouble comes.
Stay with the Lord; never abandon Him,
And you will be prosperous at the end of your days.
Accept whatever happens to you.
Even if you suffer humiliation, be patient.
Gold is tested by fire,
And human character is tested in the furnace of humiliation.
Trust the Lord, and He will help you.
Walk straight in His ways, and put your hope in Him.
All you that fear the Lord, wait for Him to show you His mercy.
Do not turn away from Him, or you will fall.
All you that fear the Lord,
Trust Him, and you will certainly be rewarded.
All you that fear the Lord,
Look forward to His blessings of mercy and eternal happiness.
Think back to the ancient generations and consider this:
Has the Lord ever disappointed anyone who put his hope in Him?
Has the Lord ever ignored anyone who prayed to Him?
The Lord is kind & merciful;
He forgives our sins and keep us safe in time of trouble.