Son, let Me tell you how I see your country. The people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want. Men commit adultery with their neighbors’ wives, and defile their daughters-in-law, or rape their own sisters. There are hired murderers, loan racketeers, and extortioners everywhere. They never even think of Me or My word. They have become like unthinking animals; they do whatever their instincts tell them, and so they will bring about their own destruction.
Now let Me tell you about your leaders. They are the ones who are creating divisions among you. These evil leaders follow their natural instincts. Listen to the filth that comes from their mouths; their words cut like swords. They don’t even try to hide their evil intentions. Everything they do is evil and is obvious for all to see. Because of the sinful things they say, and the evil that is in their hearts, they will be captured by their pride, their curses, and their lies.
Son, I searched for someone to stand in the gap of your country’s wall; someone who would rebuild the wall of righteousness that used to guard your land, so I wouldn’t have to destroy the land, but I found no one. So now I will pour out My fury, consuming them with the fire of My anger. I will heap on their heads the full penalty for all their sins.
When the people ask why you are groaning, tell them, “I groan because of the terrifying news I have heard. The Lord will shake our land and split it open. He is about to unsheathe His sword to destroy the people, the righteous and the wicked alike. Everyone in the world will know that I am the Lord.” When it comes true, the boldest heart will melt with fear; their strength will disappear. Every spirit will faint; strong knees will become as weak as water. It is coming! It’s on its way! Then everyone will know that I am the Lord.
Lord, every morning I will read with joy about Your unfailing love. For You are my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress. Because Your truth lives in me forever, I can do mighty things. Therefore, I must build others up for You, praying in the power of Your Holy Spirit, snatching them from the flames of judgment. I must show mercy, but with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives. I must defend the faith that You have entrusted to Your holy people. Loving You means doing what You have commanded, and living according to the truth.