28 But when they were at peace,they would turn against you,and you would hand them overto their enemies.Then they would beg for help,and because you are merciful,you rescued themover and over again.
29 You warned them to turn backand discover true lifeby obeying your laws.But they stubbornly refusedand continued to sin.
30 For years, you were patient,and your Spirit warned themwith messages spokenby your prophets.Still they refused to listen,and you handed them overto their enemies.
31 But you are merciful and kind,and so you never forgot themor let them be destroyed.
32 Our God, you are powerful,fearsome, and faithful,always true to your word.So please keep in mindthe terrible sufferingsof our people, kings, leaders,priests, and prophets,from the time Assyria ruleduntil this very day.
33 You have always been fairwhen you punished usfor our sins.
34 Our kings and leaders,our priests and ancestorshave never obeyed your commandsor heeded your warnings.