5. Don’t you remember, my people,how King Balak of Moab tried to have you cursedand how Balaam son of Beor blessed you instead?And remember your journey from Acacia Grove to Gilgal,when I, the lord, did everything I couldto teach you about my faithfulness.”
6. What can we bring to the lord?Should we bring him burnt offerings?Should we bow before God Most Highwith offerings of yearling calves?
7. Should we offer him thousands of ramsand ten thousand rivers of olive oil?Should we sacrifice our firstborn childrento pay for our sins?
8. No, O people, the lord has told you what is good,and this is what he requires of you:to do what is right, to love mercy,and to walk humbly with your God.
9. Fear the lord if you are wise!His voice calls to everyone in Jerusalem:“The armies of destruction are coming;the lord is sending them.
10. What shall I say about the homes of the wickedfilled with treasures gained by cheating?What about the disgusting practiceof measuring out grain with dishonest measures?
11. How can I tolerate your merchantswho use dishonest scales and weights?