19
and that was why our fathers were handed over to the sword, and to be plundered, and so they suffered a great catastrophe before our enemies.
20
But we know no other god but him, and therefore we hope that he will not disdain us or any of our nation.
21
For if we are captured all Judea will be captured and our sanctuary will be plundered; and he will exact of us the penalty for its desecration.
22
And the slaughter of our brethren and the captivity of the land and the desolation of our inheritance -- all this he will bring upon our heads among the Gentiles, wherever we serve as slaves; and we shall be an offense and a reproach in the eyes of those who acquire us.
23
For our slavery will not bring us into favor, but the Lord our God will turn it to dishonor.
24
"Now therefore, brethren, let us set an example to our brethren, for their lives depend upon us, and the sanctuary and the temple and the altar rest upon us.
25
In spite of everything let us give thanks to the Lord our God, who is putting us to the test as he did our forefathers.
26
Remember what he did with Abraham, and how he tested Isaac, and what happened to Jacob in Mesopotamia in Syria, while he was keeping the sheep of Laban, his mother's brother.
27
For he has not tried us with fire, as he did them, to search their hearts, nor has he taken revenge upon us; but the Lord scourges those who draw near to him, in order to admonish them."
28
Then Uzziah said to her, "All that you have said has been spoken out of a true heart, and there is no one who can deny your words.
29
Today is not the first time your wisdom has been shown, but from the beginning of your life all the people have recognized your understanding, for your heart's disposition is right.