4:2 When it is present, men take example at it; and when it is gone, they desire it: it weareth a crown, and triumpheth for ever, having gotten the victory, striving for undefiled rewards.

4:3 But the multiplying brood of the ungodly shall not thrive, nor take deep rooting from bastard slips, nor lay any fast foundation.

4:4 For though they flourish in branches for a time; yet standing not last, they shall be shaken with the wind, and through the force of winds they shall be rooted out.

4:5 The imperfect branches shall be broken off, their fruit unprofitable, not ripe to eat, yea, meet for nothing.

4:6 For children begotten of unlawful beds are witnesses of wickedness against their parents in their trial.

4:7 But though the righteous be prevented with death, yet shall he be in rest.

4:8 For honourable age is not that which standeth in length of time, nor that is measured by number of years.

4:9 But wisdom is the gray hair unto men, and an unspotted life is old age.

4:10 He pleased God, and was beloved of him: so that living among sinners he was translated.

4:11 Yea speedily was he taken away, lest that wickedness should alter his understanding, or deceit beguile his soul.