[9:11] The Lord says, “Because of my covenant with you that was sealed by the blood of sacrifices, I will set your people free— free from the waterless pit of exile.
[9:12] Return, you exiles who now have hope; return to your place of safety. Now I tell you that I will repay you twice over with blessing for all you have suffered.
[9:13] I will use Judah like a soldier's bow and Israel like the arrows. I will use the men of Zion like a sword, to fight the men of Greece.”
[9:14] The Lord will appear above his people; he will shoot his arrows like lightning. The Sovereign Lord will sound the trumpet; he will march in the storms from the south.
[9:15] The Lord Almighty will protect his people, and they will destroy their enemies. They will shout in battle like drunk men and will shed the blood of their enemies; it will flow like the blood of a sacrifice poured on the altar from a bowl.
[9:16] When that day comes, the Lord will save his people, as a shepherd saves his flock from danger. They will shine in his land like the jewels of a crown.
[9:17] How good and beautiful the land will be! The young people will grow strong on its grain and wine.