1 Hear therefore, O ye kings, and understand; learn, ye that be judges of the ends of the earth. |
2 Give ear, ye that rule the people, and glory in the multitude of nations. |
3 For power is given you of the Lord, and sovereignty from the Highest, who shall try your works, and search out your counsels. |
4 Because, being ministers of his kingdom, ye have not judged aright, nor kept the law, nor walked after the counsel of God; |
5 Horribly and speedily shall he come upon you: for a sharp judgment shall be to them that be in high places. |
6 For mercy will soon pardon the meanest: but mighty men shall be mightily tormented. |
7 For he which is Lord over all shall fear no man's person, neither shall he stand in awe of any man's greatness: for he hath made the small and great, and careth for all alike. |
8 But a sore trial shall come upon the mighty. |
9 Unto you therefore, O kings, do I speak, that ye may learn wisdom, and not fall away. |
10 For they that keep holiness holily shall be judged holy: and they that have learned such things shall find what to answer. |
11 Wherefore set your affection upon my words; desire them, and ye shall be instructed. |
