9
This is what the LORD of Armies says: Be strong so that the temple might be rebuilt, you people who are presently listening to the words from the mouths of the prophets who spoke when the foundation for the house of the LORD of Armies was laid.
10
Before that time there was no money to hire any person or animal. No one who traveled was safe from the enemy. I turned every person against his neighbor.
11
But now I won't deal with the few remaining people as I did in earlier times, declares the LORD of Armies.
12
Seeds will thrive in peacetime. Vines will produce their grapes. The land will yield its crops. The sky will produce its dew. I will give the few remaining people all these things as an inheritance.
13
Just as you, people of Judah and people of Israel, have been a curse among the nations, so I will now save you, and you will become a blessing. Don't be afraid. Let your hands work hard.