The Message Bible MSG
King James Version KJV
1 It seemed like a dream, too good to be true, when God returned Zion's exiles.
1
When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.
2 We laughed, we sang, we couldn't believe our good fortune. We were the talk of the nations - "God was wonderful to them!"
2
Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.
3 God was wonderful to us; we are one happy people.
3
The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.
4 And now, God, do it again - bring rains to our drought-stricken lives
4
Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the south.
5 So those who planted their crops in despair will shout hurrahs at the harvest,
5
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
6 So those who went off with heavy hearts will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing.
6
He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.
The King James Version is in the public domain.