Zechariah 8:9-17

New International Version

⁹ This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Now hear these words, ‘Let your hands be strong^(A) so that the temple may be built.’ This is also what the prophets^(B) said who were present when the foundation^(C) was laid for the house of the Lord Almighty. ¹⁰ Before that time there were no wages^(D) for people or hire for animals. No one could go about their business safely^(E) because of their enemies, since I had turned everyone against their neighbor. ¹¹ But now I will not deal with the remnant of this people as I did in the past,”^(F) declares the Lord Almighty.

¹² “The seed will grow well, the vine will yield its fruit,^(G) the ground will produce its crops,^(H) and the heavens will drop their dew.^(I) I will give all these things as an inheritance^(J) to the remnant of this people.^{(K) 13} Just as you, Judah and Israel, have been a curse^[a](L) among the nations, so I will save^(M) you, and you will be a blessing.^[b](N) Do not be afraid,^(O) but let your hands be strong.^(P)”

¹⁴ This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Just as I had determined to bring disaster^(Q) on you and showed no pity when your ancestors angered me,” says the Lord Almighty, ¹⁵ “so now I have determined to do good^(R) again to Jerusalem and Judah.^(S) Do not be afraid. ¹⁶ These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth^(T) to each other, and render true and sound judgment^(U) in your courts;^{(V) 17} do not plot evil^(W) against each other, and do not love to swear falsely.^(X) I hate all this,” declares the Lord.