16. Your words were found, and I ate them. Your words became a delight to meand the joy of my heart,for I am called by Your name, Yahweh God of Hosts.
17. I never sat with the band of revelers,and I did not celebrate with them.Because Your hand was on me, I sat alone, for You filled me with indignation.
18. Why has my pain become unending,my wound incurable, refusing to be healed?You truly have become like a mirage to me —water that is not reliable.
19. Therefore, this is what the Lord says:If you return, I will restore you;you will stand in My presence.And if you speak noble words,rather than worthless ones,you will be My spokesman. It is they who must return to you;you must not return to them.
20. Then I will make you a fortified wall of bronzeto this people.They will fight against youbut will not overcome you,for I am with youto save you and deliver you. This is the Lord’s declaration.
21. I will deliver you from the power of evil peopleand redeem you from the control of the ruthless.