But let justice and fairness flow like a river that never runs dry.
Doing what is right and fair pleases the LORD more than an offering.
How I wish that you had obeyed my commands! Your success and good fortune would then have overflowed like a flooding river.
(SEE 22:1)
The LORD God said: You leaders of Israel have robbed and cheated my people long enough! I want you to stop sinning and start doing what is right and fair. You must never again force my people off their own land. I, the LORD, have spoken.
I'd rather for you to be faithful and to know me than to offer sacrifices.
No more of your noisy songs! I won't listen when you play your harps.
You people are doomed! You twist the truth and stomp on justice.
The LORD God has told us what is right and what he demands: "See that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern, and humbly obey your God."