The Message Bible MSG
New Living Translation NLT
1 It seemed like a dream, too good to be true, when God returned Zion's exiles.
1
When the LORD brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a 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
We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the LORD has done for them.”
3 God was wonderful to us; we are one happy people.
3
Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us! What joy!
4 And now, God, do it again - bring rains to our drought-stricken lives
4
Restore our fortunes, LORD, as streams renew the desert.
5 So those who planted their crops in despair will shout hurrahs at the harvest,
5
Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy.
6 So those who went off with heavy hearts will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing.
6
They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.
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.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright© 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by
Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.