12. For you are aware of our many rebellious deeds,and our sins testify against us;indeed, we are aware of our rebellious deeds;we know our sins all too well.
13. We have rebelled and tried to deceive the Lord;we turned back from following our God.We stir up oppression and rebellion;we tell lies we concocted in our minds.
14. Justice is driven back;godliness stands far off.Indeed, honesty stumbles in the city squareand morality is not even able to enter.
15. Honesty has disappeared;the one who tries to avoid evil is robbed.The Lord watches and is displeased,for there is no justice.
16. He sees there is no advocate;he is shocked that no one intervenes.So he takes matters into his own hands;his desire for justice drives him on.
17. He wears his desire for justice like body armor,and his desire to deliver is like a helmet on his head.He puts on the garments of vengeanceand wears zeal like a robe.
18. He repays them for what they have done,dispensing angry judgment to his adversariesand punishing his enemies.He repays the coastlands.
19. In the west, people respect the Lord’s reputation;in the east they recognize his splendor.For he comes like a rushing streamdriven on by wind sent from the Lord.