The wisdom of Solomon
“You are merciful to all men, because You have power to do all things. You overlook the sins of men to the end that they might repent. For all things that exist are dear to You, and You hate nothing that You have created. Why else would You have made it? And how can anything continue in existence, had it not been Your will? How could it have endured unless You had called it into existence? You spare all things because they are Yours, our Lord and Master who loves all that lives, for Your Incorruptible Spirit is in them all. For this reason You correct offenders little by little, admonishing them and reminding them of their sins, that they may leave their evil ways and put their trust O Lord in You. – – For Your strength is the source of justice, and it is because You are Master of all that You spare all. You show Your strength when men doubt the perfection of Your power; it is when they know it but remain insolent that You punish them. But with the strength at Your command You judge in mercy and rule us in great forbearance, for Your sovereignty is over all. The power is Yours whensoever You have the will.”
The Wisdom of Solomon, 11:23 – 12:2 & 12:16-18
