When one takes a longer view of things, it is less possible that one will be deceived by appearances. There are godless people who have prospered for a short while. But they are like papyrus plants and reeds that have sprung up where there is no water. Just as these plants will soon wither and die, a godless person’s prosperity will soon disappear. Long-term prosperity is only possible through obedience to God.
11 “Can papyrus grow where there is no marsh? Can reeds flourish where there is no water?