Must I forever see these evil deeds? Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look, I see destruction and violence. I am surrounded by people who love to argue and fight.

“On they come, all bent on violence. Their hordes advance like a desert wind, sweeping captives ahead of them like sand.

They scoff at kings and princes and scorn all their fortresses. They simply pile ramps of earth against their walls and capture them!

Suddenly, your debtors will take action. They will turn on you and take all you have, while you stand trembling and helpless.

Because you have plundered many nations, now all the survivors will plunder you. You committed murder throughout the countryside and filled the towns with violence.

Has not the Lord of Heaven’s Armies promised that the wealth of nations will turn to ashes? They work so hard, but all in vain!

But soon it will be your turn to be disgraced. Come, drink and be exposed! Drink from the cup of the Lord’s judgment, and all your glory will be turned to shame.

But the Lord is in his holy Temple. Let all the earth be silent before him.”

I have heard all about you, Lord. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger, remember your mercy.