1. Our enemies are doomed! They have robbed and betrayed, although no one has robbed them or betrayed them. But their time to rob and betray will end, and they themselves will become victims of robbery and treachery.
2. Lord, have mercy on us. We have put our hope in you. Protect us day by day and save us in times of trouble.
3. When you fight for us, nations run away from the noise of battle.
4. Their belongings are pounced upon and taken as loot.
5. How great the Lord is! He rules over everything. He will fill Jerusalem with justice and integrity
6. and give stability to the nation. He always protects his people and gives them wisdom and knowledge. Their greatest treasure is their reverence for the Lord.
7. The brave are calling for help. The ambassadors who tried to bring about peace are crying bitterly.
8. The highways are so dangerous that no one travels on them. Treaties are broken and agreements are violated. No one is respected any more.
9. The land lies idle and deserted. The forests of Lebanon have withered, the fertile valley of Sharon is like a desert, and in Bashan and on Mount Carmel the leaves are falling from the trees.
10. The Lord says to the nations, “Now I will act. I will show how powerful I am.
11. You make worthless plans and everything you do is useless. My spirit is like a fire that will destroy you.
12. You will crumble like rocks burnt to make lime, like thorns burnt to ashes.
13. Let everyone near and far hear what I have done and acknowledge my power.”
14. The sinful people of Zion are trembling with fright. They say, “God's judgement is like a fire that burns for ever. Can any of us survive a fire like that?”
15. You can survive if you say and do what is right. Don't use your power to cheat the poor and don't accept bribes. Don't join with those who plan to commit murder or to do other evil things.