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and about your inheritance because of which I lament, and about Israel, on whose account I am sad, and about the seed of Jacob because of which I am disturbed?
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Therefore, I will pray before you for myself and for them, because I see the defects of we who live on earth,
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but I have heard of the swiftness of the judgment that is to come.
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Therefore, hear my voice and consider my words, and I will speak before you."
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The beginning of the words of Ezra's prayer before he was taken up. He said: Lord, you live in eternity. The highest heavens are yours, and your upper chambers are in the air.
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Your authority is beyond estimation, and your glory is beyond our power to comprehend. The armies of angels wait on in fear,
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and at your command they are changed into wind and fire. Your word is true, and what you say lasts forever.
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Your command is powerful, and your precept is fearsome. Your gaze dries up the deeps, and your threat makes mountains melt. Your truth is acknowledged.
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Hear your servant's voice and listen to my request, the request of one whom you formed, and listen to my words.
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But me! I will speak as long as I live, and while I still have understanding, I will respond.
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Don't pay attention to your people's sins but to those who have served you in truth.