“What sorrow awaits rebellious, polluted Jerusalem, the city of violence and crime! No one can tell it anything; it refuses all correction. It does not trust in the Lord or draw near to its God. It’s leaders are like roaring lions hunting for their victims. Its judges are like ravenous wolves at evening time, who by dawn have left no trace of its prey. Its prophets are arrogant liars seeking their own gain. Its priests defile the Temple by disobeying God’s instructions. But the Lord is still in the city, and He does no wrong. Day by day He hands down justice, and He does not fail. But the wicked know no shame.” (vv. 1-5, NLT)
[The Lord said]”My scattered people who live beyond the rivers of Ethiopia will come to present their offerings. On that day you will no longer need to be ashamed, for your will no longer be revels against Me. I will remove all proud and arrogant people from among you. There will be no more haughtiness on My holy mountain. Those who are left will be the lowly and humble, for it is they who trust in the name of the Lord.” (vv. 10-12, NLT)
“For the Lord will remove his hand of judgment and will disperse the armies o your enemy. And the Lord, Himself, the Kind of Israel, will live among you! As last your troubles will be over, and you will never again fear disaster. On that day the announcement to Jerusalem will be, ‘Cheer up, Zion! Don’t be afraid! For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you wiht joyful songs.” (vv. 15-17, NLT)