16. Your words were found, and I devoured them.Your words are my joy and my heart’s delight,because I am called by your name, O Lord God of Armies.
17. I didn’t keep company with those who laugh and have fun.I sat alone because your hand was on me.You filled me with outrage.
18. Why is my pain unendingand my wound incurable, refusing to heal?Will you disappoint me like a streamthat dries up in summertime?
19. This is what the Lord says:If you will return, I will take you back.If you will speak what is worthwhile and not what is worthless,you will stand in my presence.The people will return to you, but you will not return to them.
20. I will make you like a solid bronze wall in front of these people.They will fight you, but they will not defeat you.I am with you, and I will save you and rescue you,declares the Lord.
21. I will rescue you from the power of wicked peopleand free you from the power of tyrants.