But the Lord rules forever; he reigns in a just manner.

His victims are crushed and beaten down; they are trapped in his sturdy nets.

From the brightness in front of him came hail and fiery coals.

The Lord laughs in disgust at them, for he knows that their day is coming.

For I am about to stumble, and I am in constant pain.

But it is you, a man like me, my close friend in whom I confided.

They speak as if they rule in heaven, and lay claim to the earth.

He gave a command to the clouds above, and opened the doors in the sky.

They provide water for all the animals in the field; the wild donkeys quench their thirst.

Yes, I find delight in your rules; they give me guidance.

I long for your deliverance, O Lord; I find delight in your law.

Yes indeed, the man who fears the Lord will be blessed in this way.

in order to take revenge on the nations, and punish foreigners.

in order to safeguard discretion, and that your lips may guard knowledge.

My child, keep my words and treasure up my commands in your own keeping.

I can clothe the sky in darkness; I can cover it with sackcloth.”

Cries of anguish will arise in Horonaim, ‘Oh, the ruin and great destruction!’

“Moab will be crushed. Her children will cry out in distress.

Yet in days to come I will reverse Ammon’s ill fortune.” says the Lord.

Then some of the experts in the law said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming!”