1 This is the message that the prophet Habakkuk received in a vision.
2 How long, O lord, must I call for help?But you do not listen!“Violence is everywhere!” I cry,but you do not come to save.
3 Must I forever see these evil deeds?Why must I watch all this misery?Wherever I look,I see destruction and violence.I am surrounded by peoplewho love to argue and fight.
4 The law has become paralyzed,and there is no justice in the courts.The wicked far outnumber the righteous,so that justice has become perverted.
5 The lord replied, “Look around at the nations;look and be amazed!For I am doing something in your own day,something you wouldn’t believeeven if someone told you about it.
6 I am raising up the Babylonians,a cruel and violent people.They will march across the worldand conquer other lands.
7 They are notorious for their crueltyand do whatever they like.