Study Desk

Descendants of Jacob, is it right for you to claim that the Lord did what he did because he was angry? Doesn't he always bless those who do right?

You lying prophets promise security for anyone who gives you food, but disaster for anyone who refuses to feed you. Here is what the Lord says to you prophets:

You leaders accept bribes for dishonest decisions. You priests and prophets teach and preach, but only for money. Then you say, "The Lord is on our side. No harm will come to us."

Like a shepherd taking care of his sheep, this ruler will lead and care for his people by the power and glorious name of the Lord his God. His people will live securely, and the whole earth will know his true greatness,

Will thousands of sheep or rivers of olive oil make God satisfied with me? Should I sacrifice to the Lord my first-born child as payment for my terrible sins?

I am the Lord , and it makes sense to respect my power to punish. So listen to my message for the city of Jerusalem:

But I, the Lord , will punish you for cheating with weights and with measures.

I feel so empty inside— like someone starving for grapes or figs, after the vines and trees have all been picked clean.

But I trust the Lord God to save me, and I will wait for him to answer my prayer.

I have sinned against the Lord . And so I must endure his anger, until he comes to my defense. But I know that I will see him making things right for me and leading me to the light.

Nineveh, someone is coming to attack and scatter you. Guard your fortresses! Watch the road! Be brave! Prepare for battle!

Everyone who sees you will turn away and shout, "Nineveh is done for! Is anyone willing to mourn or to give her comfort?"

You're fatally wounded. There's no hope for you. But everyone claps when they hear this news, because your constant cruelty has caused them pain.

Our Lord , how long must I beg for your help before you listen? How long before you save us from all this violence?

While standing guard on the watchtower, I waited for the Lord 's answer, before explaining the reason for my complaint.

But you will bring shame on your family and ruin to yourself for what you did to others.

I know your reputation, Lord , and I am amazed at what you have done. Please turn from your anger and be merciful; do for us what you did for our ancestors.

The Lord God hasn't forgotten those survivors in Judah, and he will help them— his people will take your land to use for pasture. And when evening comes, they will rest in houses at Ashkelon.

This is how Moab and Ammon will at last be repaid for their pride— and for sneering at the nation that belongs to me, the Lord All-Powerful.

This is the glorious city that felt secure and said, "I am the only one!" Now it's merely ruins, a home for wild animals. Every passerby simply sneers and makes vulgar signs.