1
  
  
  
    This is the message that the prophet Habakkuk received in a vision. 
  
    
  
  2
  
  
  
    How long, O  Lord , must I call for help? 
 But you do not listen! 
 “Violence is everywhere!” I cry, 
 but you do not come to save. 
  
  
  
  3
  
  
  
    Must I forever see these evil deeds? 
 Why must I watch all this misery? 
 Wherever I look, 
 I see destruction and violence. 
 I am surrounded by people 
 who love to argue and fight. 
  
  
  
  4
  
  
  
    The law has become paralyzed, 
 and there is no justice in the courts. 
 The wicked far outnumber the righteous, 
 so that justice has become perverted.