Dual Panel1God's faithful people are dragged off and killed, and no one even cares. Evil sweeps them away,
2but in death they find peace for obeying God.
3You people are unfaithful! You go to fortunetellers, and you worship idols. Now pay close attention!
4Who are you making fun of? Who are you sneering at? Look how your sins have made fools of you.
5All you think about is sex under those green trees where idols are worshiped. You sacrifice your children on altars built in valleys under rocky slopes.
6You have chosen to worship idols made of stone; you have given them offerings of wine and grain. Should I be pleased?
7You have spread out your beds on the tops of high mountains, where you sacrifice to idols.
8Even in your homes you have placed pagan symbols all around your huge beds. Yes, you have rejected me, sold yourselves to your lovers, and gone to bed with them.
9You smear on olive oil and all kinds of perfume to worship the god Molech. You even seek advice from spirits of the dead.
10Though you tired yourself out by running after idols, you refused to stop. Your desires were so strong that they kept you going.
11Did you forget about me and become unfaithful because you were more afraid of someone else? Have I been silent so long that you no longer fear me?
12You think you're so good, but I'll point out the truth.
13Ask your idols to save you when you are in trouble. Be careful though-- it takes only a faint breath to blow them over. But if you come to me for protection, this land and my holy mountain will always belong to you.
14The LORD says, "Clear the road! Get it ready for my people."
15Our holy God lives forever in the highest heavens, and this is what he says: Though I live high above in the holy place, I am here to help those who are humble and depend only on me.
16My people, I won't stay angry and keep on accusing you. After all, I am your Creator. I don't want you to give up in complete despair.
17Your greed made me furious. That's why I punished you and refused to be found, while you kept returning to your old sinful ways.
18I know what you are like! But I will heal you, lead you, and give you comfort, until those who are mourning
19start singing my praises. No matter where you are, I, the LORD, will heal you and give you peace.
20The wicked are a restless sea tossing up mud.
21But I, the LORD, have promised that none who are evil will live in peace.