28 What sorrow awaits the proud city of Samaria— brought down by wine. 2 For the Lord will send a mighty army against it. and smash it to the ground. 3 The proud city of Samaria— will be trampled beneath its enemies’ feet. 4 It sits at the head of a fertile valley, as an early fig is quickly picked and eaten. 5 Then at last the LORD of Heaven’s Armies of the remnant of his people. 6 He will give a longing for justice to their warriors who stand at the gates. 7 Now, however, Israel is led by drunks and stagger as they render decisions. 8 Their tables are covered with vomit; filth is everywhere. 9 “Who does the LORD think we are?” they ask. just recently weaned? 10 He tells us everything over and over— and a little there!” 11 So now God will have to speak to his people through foreign oppressors who speak a strange language! 12 God has told his people, But they would not listen. 13 So the LORD will spell out his message for them again, They will be injured, trapped, and captured. 14 Therefore, listen to this message from the LORD, you scoffing rulers in Jerusalem. 15 You boast, “We have struck a bargain to cheat death for we have built a strong refuge made of lies and deception.” 16 Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: Whoever believes need never be shaken. 17 I will test you with the measuring line of justice a flood will sweep it away. 18 I will cancel the bargain you made to cheat death, you will be trampled into the ground. 19 Again and again that flood will come, This message will bring terror to your people. 20 The bed you have made is too short to lie on. The blankets are too narrow to cover you. 21 The LORD will come as he did against the Philistines at Mount Perazim he will come to do an unusual deed: 22 For the Lord, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, or your punishment will be even greater. 23 Listen to me; listen, and pay close attention. 24 Does a farmer always plow and never sow? Is he forever cultivating the soil and never planting? 25 Does he not finally plant his seeds— and each in its proper place? 26 The farmer knows just what to do, for God has given him understanding. 27 A heavy sledge is never used to thresh black cumin; instead, it is beaten lightly with a flail. 28 Grain for bread is easily crushed, but he doesn’t pulverize it. 29 The LORD of Heaven’s Armies is a wonderful teacher, and he gives the farmer great wisdom.