13 They ignored and refused to obey his teachings. His laws would have helped them live right, yet my children simply refused to obey.
14 Come and see how the eternal God has punished my children by leading them away as captives!
15 God brought a cruel and foreign nation here, and it had no pity on anyone, whether young or old.
16 That nation stole my sons and daughters, and now I am a lonely widow.
17 As for you, my children Israel, I can do nothing to help you.
18 God punished you in these terrible ways, and now only God can rescue you from your enemies.
19 Go on with your life, my children—I am alone.