4. He calls to the heavens above and to the earth, that He may judge His people:
5. Gather together to Me My saints [those who have found grace in My sight], those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.
6. And the heavens declare His righteousness (rightness and justice), for God, He is judge. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
7. Hear, O My people, and I will speak; O Israel, I will testify to you and against you: I am God, your God.
8. I do not reprove you for your sacrifices; your burnt offerings are continually before Me.
9. I will accept no bull from your house nor he-goat out of your folds.
10. For every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills or upon the mountains where thousands are.
11. I know and am acquainted with all the birds of the mountains, and the wild animals of the field are Mine and are with Me, in My mind.
12. If I were hungry, I would not tell you, for the world and its fullness are Mine. [I Cor. 10:26.]
13. Shall I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats?
14. Offer to God the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High,
15. And call on Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall honor and glorify Me.
16. But to the wicked, God says: What right have you to recite My statutes or take My covenant or pledge on your lips,