1You are righteous, O LORD, when I contend with you; yet I will speak of justice with you. Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all who act treacherously thrive?2You have planted them; they have taken root; they go on and produce fruit. You are near in their mouth, but far from their kidneys.3But you, O LORD, know me; you see me and test my heart with you. Drag them away like a flock for slaughter, and consecrate them for a day of slaughter.4How long will the land mourn, and all the vegetation of the field wither, because of the distress of those who dwell in it? Beasts and birds are swept away, for they say, 'He will not see our end.'