1. I wish that my eyeswere fountains of tears,so I could cry day and nightfor my peoplewho were killed.
2. I wish I could go into the desertand find a hiding placefrom all who are treacherousand unfaithful to God.
3. The Lord replied:Lies come from the mouthsof my people,like arrows from a bow.With each dishonest deedtheir power increases,and not one of them will admitthat I am God.
4. Jeremiah, all your friendsand relativestell lies about you,so don't trust them.
5. They wear themselves out,always looking for a new wayto cheat their friends.
6. Everyone takes advantageof everyone else,and no one will admitthat I am God.
7. And so I will purifythe hearts of my peoplejust as gold is purifiedin a furnace.I have no other choice.