Jeremiah 20:7–13

⁷Thou hast persuaded me, O Jehovah, and I am persuaded; Thou hast hardened me, and dost prevail, I have been for a laughter all the day, Every one is mocking at me, ⁸Because from the time I speak I cry out, ‘Violence and destruction,’ I cry, For the word of Jehovah hath been to me For reproach and for derision all the day. ⁹And I said, ‘I do not mention Him, Nor do I speak any more in His name,’ And it hath been in my heart As a burning fire shut up in my bones, And I have been weary of containing, And I am not able. ¹⁰For I have heard the evil report of many, Fear is round about: ‘Declare, and we declare it,’ All mine allies are watching for my halting, ‘Perhaps he is enticed, and we prevail over him, And we take our vengeance out of him.’ ¹¹And Jehovah is with me, as a terrible mighty one, Therefore my persecutors stumble and prevail not, They have been exceedingly ashamed, For they have not acted wisely, Confusion age-during is not forgotten. ¹²And, O Jehovah of Hosts, trier of the righteous, Beholder of reins and heart, I do see Thy vengeance out of them, For unto Thee I have revealed my cause. ¹³Sing ye to Jehovah, praise Jehovah, For He hath delivered the soul of the needy From the hand of evil doers.