For you have been a stronghold for the poor person, a stronghold for the needy in his distress, a refuge from storms and a shade from heat. When the breath of the violent is like a storm against a wall,
For I will pour water on the thirsty land and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your descendants and my blessing on your offspring.
For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
Sword, awake against my shepherd, against the man who is my associate – this is the declaration of the Lord of Armies. Strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered; I will turn my hand against the little ones.
Wild animals – jackals and ostriches #– #will honour me, because I provide water in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people.
And most certainly, the mystery of godliness is great: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
And I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the mason’s level.’ Hail will sweep away the false refuge, and water will flood your hiding place.
Indeed, God is my salvation; I will trust him and not be afraid, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my song. He has become my salvation.’
‘Look, the days are coming’ – this is the Lord’s declaration – ‘when I will fulfil the good promise that I have spoken concerning the house of Israel and the house of Judah.
The Lord’s anointed, the breath of our life, , was captured in their traps. We had said about him, ‘We will live under his protection among the nations.’