11. Now those you have rescuedwill return to Jerusalem,singing on their way.They will be crownedwith great happiness,never again to be burdenedwith sadness and sorrow.
12. I am the Lord, the onewho encourages you.Why are you afraidof mere humans?They dry up and die like grass.
13. I spread out the heavensand laid foundationsfor the earth.But you have forgotten me,your Lord and Creator.All day long you were afraidof those who were angryand hoped to abuse you.Where are they now?
14. Everyone crying out in painwill be quickly set free;they will be rescuedfrom the power of deathand never go hungry.
15. I will help thembecause I am your God,the Lord All-Powerful,who makes the ocean roar.
16. I have told you what to say,and I will keep you safein the palm of my hand.I spread out the heavensand laid foundationsfor the earth.Now I say, “Jerusalem,your people are mine.”
17. Jerusalem, wake up! Stand up!You've drunk too muchfrom the cup filledwith the Lord's anger.You have swallowed every drop,and you can't walk straight.
18. Not one of your many childrenis there to guide youor to offer a helping hand.
19. You have been destroyedby war and by famine;I cannot comfort you.
20. The Lord your God is angry,and on every street corneryour children lie helpless,like deer trapped in nets.
21. You are in trouble and drunk,but not from wine.So pay close attention
22. to the Lord your God,who defends you and says,“I have taken from your handsthe cup filled with my angerthat made you drunk.You will never be forcedto drink it again.
23. Instead I will give itto your brutal enemies,who treated you like dirtand walked all over you.”