A Song of Joy (ZEP 3:14-20)

[3:14] Sing and shout for joy, people of Israel! Rejoice with all your heart, Jerusalem!

[3:15] The Lord has stopped your punishment; he has removed all your enemies. The Lord, the king of Israel, is with you; there is no reason now to be afraid.

[3:16] The time is coming when they will say to Jerusalem, “Do not be afraid, city of Zion! Do not let your hands hang limp!

[3:17] The Lord your God is with you; his power gives you victory. The Lord will take delight in you, and in his love he will give you new life. He will sing and be joyful over you,

[3:18] as joyful as people at a festival.” The Lord says, “I have ended the threat of doom and taken away your disgrace.

[3:19] The time is coming! I will punish your oppressors; I will rescue all the lame and bring the exiles home. I will turn their shame to honor, and all the world will praise them.

[3:20] The time is coming! I will bring your scattered people home; I will make you famous throughout the world and make you prosperous once again.” The Lord has spoken.