They attack like warriors; they climb the walls like soldiers. They all keep marching straight ahead and do not change direction

or get in each other's way. They swarm through defenses, and nothing can stop them.

He will rule his people with justice and integrity.

The LORD has chosen Cyrus to be king. He has appointed him to conquer nations; he sends him to strip kings of their power; the LORD will open the gates of cities for him. To Cyrus the LORD says,

"I am the LORD; there is no other god. I will give you the strength you need, although you do not know me.

"There is something else. You remember what Joab did to me by killing the two commanders of Israel's armies, Abner son of Ner and Amasa son of Jether. You remember how he murdered them in time of peace as revenge for deaths they had caused in time of war. He killed innocent men, and now I bear the responsibility for what he did, and I suffer the consequences.

He dethrones kings and makes them prisoners;

He disgraces those in power and puts an end to the strength of rulers.

He is the God who makes me strong, who makes my pathway safe.

The LORD is king. He is clothed with majesty and strength. The earth is set firmly in place and cannot be moved.

He turned pale and was so frightened that his knees began to shake.

So put on God's armor now! Then when the evil day comes, you will be able to resist the enemy's attacks; and after fighting to the end, you will still hold your ground.

So stand ready, with truth as a belt tight around your waist, with righteousness as your breastplate,

War will bring death in the streets; terrors will strike in the homes. Young men and young women will die; neither babies nor old people will be spared.