5. They will return to the land of Egypt,and Assyria will be their king,because they have refused to return to me.
6. The sword will strike wildly in their cities;it will consume the bars of their gatesand will take everything because of their schemes.
7. My people are bent on turning away from me;and though they cry out to the Most High,he will not raise them up.
8. How can I give you up, Ephraim?How can I hand you over, Israel?How can I make you like Admah?How can I treat you like Zeboiim?My heart winces within me;my compassion grows warm and tender.
9. I won’t act on the heat of my anger;I won’t return to destroy Ephraim;for I am God and not a human being,the holy one in your midst;I won’t come in harsh judgment.