The Lord Reveals Some Startling News

5 “Look at the nations and pay attention!

You will be shocked and amazed!

For I will do something in your lifetime

that you will not believe even though you are forewarned.

6  Look, I am about to empower the Babylonians,

that ruthless and greedy nation.

They sweep across the surface of the earth,

seizing dwelling places that do not belong to them.

7  They are frightening and terrifying;

they decide for themselves what is right.

8  Their horses are faster than leopards

and more alert than wolves in the desert.

Their horses gallop,

their horses come a great distance;

like a vulture they swoop down quickly to devour their prey.

9  All of them intend to do violence;

every face is determined.

They take prisoners as easily as one scoops up sand.

10  They mock kings

and laugh at rulers.

They laugh at every fortified city;

they build siege ramps and capture them.

11  They sweep by like the wind and pass on.

But the one who considers himself a god will be held guilty.”