3 For your dominion was given you from the Lord,

and your sovereignty from the Most High,

who will search out your works and inquire into your plans.

4 Because as servants of his kingdom you did not rule rightly,

nor keep the law,

nor walk according to the purpose of God,

5 he will come upon you terribly and swiftly,

because severe judgment falls on those in high places.

6 For the lowliest man may be pardoned in mercy,

but mighty men will be mightily tested.

7 For the Lord of all will not stand in awe of any one,

nor show deference to greatness;

because he himself made both small and great,

and he takes thought for all alike.

8 But a strict inquiry is in store for the mighty.