New International Version NIV
The Message Bible MSG
1 When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed.
1
It seemed like a dream, too good to be true, when God returned Zion's exiles.
2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.”
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We laughed, we sang, we couldn't believe our good fortune. We were the talk of the nations - "God was wonderful to them!"
3 The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
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God was wonderful to us; we are one happy people.
4 Restore our fortunes,LORD, like streams in the Negev.
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And now, God, do it again - bring rains to our drought-stricken lives
5 Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.
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So those who planted their crops in despair will shout hurrahs at the harvest,
6 Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.
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So those who went off with heavy hearts will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.
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.