1. In the fourth year that Jehoiakim son of Josiah was king of Judah, Baruch wrote down what I had dictated to him. Then I told him
2. that the LORD, the God of Israel, had said, "Baruch,
3. you are saying, 'I give up! The LORD has added sorrow to my troubles. I am worn out from groaning, and I can't find any rest!'
4. "But I, the LORD, am tearing down what I have built and pulling up what I have planted. I will do this to the entire earth.
5. Are you looking for special treatment for yourself ? Don't do it. I am bringing disaster on all people, but you will at least escape with your life, wherever you go. I, the LORD, have spoken."