9. The mother of seven grew faint; she breathed her last breath.Her sun set while it was still day;she was ashamed and humiliated.The rest of them I will give over to the swordin the presence of their enemies.”This is the Lord’s declaration.
10. Woe is me, my mother,that you gave birth to me, a man who incites dispute and conflictin all the land.I did not lend or borrow,yet everyone curses me.
11. The Lord said:I will certainly set you free and care for you. I will certainly intercede for youin a time of trouble,in your time of distress, with the enemy.
12. Can anyone smash iron,iron from the north, or bronze?
13. I will give up your wealthand your treasures as plunder,without cost, for all your sinsin all your borders.
14. Then I will make you serve your enemies in a land you do not know,for My anger will kindle a firethat will burn against you.
15. You know, Lord;remember me and take note of me. Avenge me against my persecutors. In Your patience, don’t take me away.Know that I suffer disgrace for Your honor.
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.