4. He summons heaven and earth to judge his people:
5. “Gather around me, my godly peoplewho have made a pledge to me through sacrifices.”
6. The heavens announce his righteousnessbecause God is the judge. Selah
7. “Listen, my people, and I will speak.Listen, Israel, and I will testify against you:I am God, your God!
8. I am not criticizing you for your sacrifices or burnt offerings,which are always in front of me.
9. ⌊But⌋ I will not accept ⌊another⌋ young bull from your householdor a single male goat from your pens.
10. Every creature in the forest,⌊even⌋ the cattle on a thousand hills, is mine.
11. I know every bird in the mountains.Everything that moves in the fields is mine.
12. If I were hungry, I would not tell you,because the world and all that it contains are mine.
13. Do I eat the meat of bulls or drink the blood of goats?
14. Bring ⌊your⌋ thanks to God as a sacrifice,and keep your vows to the Most High.
15. Call on me in times of trouble.I will rescue you, and you will honor me.”
16. But God says to wicked people,“How dare you quote my decreesand mouth my promises!
17. You hate discipline.You toss my words behind you.