12 The Lord says to his people, "I comfort you because of who I am. Why are you afraid of mere men? They are only human beings. They are like grass that dries up.
13 How can you forget me? I made you. I spread out the heavens. I laid the foundations of the earth. Why are you terrified every day? Is it because those who are angry with you are crushing you? Is it because they are trying to destroy you? Their anger can't harm you anymore.
14 You prisoners who are so afraid will soon be set free. You will not die in your prison cells. You will not go without food.
15 I am the Lord your God. I stir up the ocean. I make its waves roar. My name is The Lord Who Rules Over All.
16 I have put my words in your mouth. I have kept you safe in the palm of my hand. I set the heavens in place. I laid the foundations of the earth. I say to Zion, 'You are my people.' "
17 Wake up, Jerusalem! Wake up! Get up! The Lord has handed you the cup of his burning anger. And you have drunk from it. That cup makes men unsteady on their feet. And you have drunk from it to the very last drop.
18 None of the children who were born to you are left to guide you. None of the children you brought up are left to lead you by the hand.