¹⁴ Like water^(A) spilled on the ground, which cannot be recovered, so we must die.^(B) But that is not what God desires; rather, he devises ways so that a banished person^(C) does not remain banished from him.

²³ Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign Lord. Rather, am I not pleased^(A) when they turn from their ways and live?^(B)

³⁰ “Therefore, you Israelites, I will judge each of you according to your own ways, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent!^(A) Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall.^{(B) 31} Rid^(C) yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart^(D) and a new spirit. Why^(E) will you die, people of Israel?^{(F) 32} For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent^(G) and live!^(H)

⁹ The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise,^(A) as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient^(B) with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.^(C)