21The shepherds of my people have lost their senses.

They no longer seek wisdom from the Lord.

Therefore, they fail completely,

and their flocks are scattered.

22Listen! Hear the terrifying roar of great armies

as they roll down from the north.

The towns of Judah will be destroyed

and become a haunt for jackals.

Jeremiah’s Prayer

23I know, Lord, that our lives are not our own.

We are not able to plan our own course.

24So correct me, Lord, but please be gentle.

Do not correct me in anger, for I would die.

25Pour out your wrath on the nations that refuse to acknowledge you—

on the peoples that do not call upon your name.

For they have devoured your people Israel^c;

they have devoured and consumed them,

making the land a desolate wilderness.