21
But you judged your own people very strictly, even though you had made covenants with their ancestors and had solemnly promised to give them good things.
22
Yes, you punish us, but you punish our enemies ten thousand times more, so that when we judge others, we may remember your goodness, and when we are being judged, we may look for mercy.
23
And so you tormented those who were foolish enough to live wickedly - you tormented them with the horrible things they worshiped.
24
They had wandered far away from the truth and worshiped the most disgusting and horrible animals. They were deceived as easily as little children.
25
And so you punished them for their stupidity, and your judgment made them look like fools.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.