Zephaniah 3:14-20

God will take care of his people

14 Be happy and sing, you people of Zion!

Yes, shout aloud, you people of Israel!

People of Jerusalem, use everything in you

to show how happy you are!

15 The Lord has taken away the punishment that you deserved.

He has sent your enemy's army away.

The Lord, Israel's King, is with you!

You do not need to be afraid of trouble any more.

16 On that day, people will say to Jerusalem,

‘Do not be afraid, people of Zion!

Do not let fear make you weak!

17 The Lord, your God, is with you.

He is strong, like a brave soldier.

He will save you.

He will be very happy because he is pleased with you!

He will give you new life because of his love.

He will sing with joy because you make him happy!’

18 The Lord says,

‘I will bring together those people who were sad

because they could not meet together at the festivals.

I will take away the trouble that you have had,

and you will no longer feel ashamed.

19 Listen to me! At that time, I will punish

all those people who have been cruel to you.

I will rescue those who are helpless.

I will bring back together the people who have gone away.

I will cause people to give them honour

so they will no longer be ashamed.

People everywhere in the world will praise them.

20 At that time, I will bring you back together

and I will lead you home.

Yes, I will cause all the nations of the earth to respect you.

You will have success again, and you will see me do this.’

That is what the Lord says.