1. So then, you kings, you rulers the world over, listen to what I say, and learn from it.
2. You govern many lands and are proud that so many people are under your rule,
3. but this authority has been given to you by the Lord Most High. He will examine what you have done and what you plan to do.
4. You rule on behalf of God and his kingdom, and if you do not govern justly, if you do not uphold the law, if you do not live according to God's will,
5. you will suffer sudden and terrible punishment. Judgement is especially severe on those in power.