5. “Look at the nations and pay attention!You will be shocked and amazed!For I will do something in your lifetimethat you will not believe even though you are forewarned.
6. Look, I am about to empower the Babylonians,that ruthless and greedy nation.They sweep across the surface of the earth,seizing dwelling places that do not belong to them.
7. They are frightening and terrifying;they decide for themselves what is right.
8. Their horses are faster than leopardsand more alert than wolves in the desert.Their horses gallop,their horses come a great distance;like a vulture they swoop down quickly to devour their prey.
9. All of them intend to do violence;every face is determined.They take prisoners as easily as one scoops up sand.
10. They mock kingsand laugh at rulers.They laugh at every fortified city;they build siege ramps and capture them.
11. They sweep by like the wind and pass on.But the one who considers himself a god will be held guilty.”
12. Lord, you have been active from ancient times;my sovereign God, you are immortal.Lord, you have made them your instrument of judgment.Protector, you have appointed them as your instrument of punishment.
13. You are too just to tolerate evil;you are unable to condone wrongdoing.So why do you put up with such treacherous people?Why do you say nothing when the wicked devour those more righteous than they are?