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.