3. The Lord says, “My people, what have I done to you? How have I been a burden to you? Answer me.
4. I brought you out of Egypt; I rescued you from slavery; I sent Moses, Aaron, and Miriam to lead you.
5. My people, remember what King Balak of Moab planned to do to you and how Balaam son of Beor answered him. Remember the things that happened on the way from the camp at Acacia to Gilgal. Remember these things and you will realize what I did in order to save you.”
6. What shall I bring to the Lord, the God of heaven, when I come to worship him? Shall I bring the best calves to burn as offerings to him?
7. Will the Lord be pleased if I bring him thousands of sheep or endless streams of olive oil? Shall I offer him my firstborn child to pay for my sins?
8. No, the Lord has told us what is good. What he requires of us is this: to do what is just, to show constant love, and to live in humble fellowship with our God.
9. It is wise to fear the Lord. He calls to the city, “Listen, you people who assemble in the city!
10. In the houses of evil people are treasures which they got dishonestly. They use false measures, a thing that I hate.
11. How can I forgive those who use false scales and weights?
12. Your rich people exploit the poor, and all of you are liars.
13. So I have already begun your ruin and destruction because of your sins.