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Old Testament Reading - Responsible authority

¹Listen therefore, O kings, and understand;
learn, O judges of the ends of the earth.
²Give ear, you that rule over multitudes,
and boast of many nations.
³For your dominion was given you from the Lord,
and your sovereignty from the Most High;
he will search out your works and inquire into your plans.
⁴Because as servants of his kingdom you did not rule rightly,
or keep the law,
or walk according to the purpose of God,
⁵he will come upon you terribly and swiftly,
because severe judgement falls on those in high places.
⁶For the lowliest may be pardoned in mercy,
but the mighty will be mightily tested.
⁷For the Lord of all will not stand in awe of anyone,
or show deference to greatness;
because he himself made both small and great,
and he takes thought for all alike.
⁸But a strict inquiry is in store for the mighty.
⁹To you then, O monarchs, my words are directed,
so that you may learn wisdom and not transgress.
¹⁰For they will be made holy who observe holy things in holiness,
and those who have been taught them will find a defence.
¹¹Therefore set your desire on my words;
long for them, and you will be instructed.