in 6:6–7. Although there is no signal that a new voice speaks in verse 8, it is most likely the case. The speaker in verse 8 is perhaps the one who issued the imperative of verse 6. This insistent speaker acknowledges the point: Yes, the people is grass. But then this speaker refutes the conclusion just drawn from the assessment of transitoriness: “But!” “But the word of our God stands forever.” The offer of comfort is not based on the suitability or qualification of the people but upon the resolve