From 337294ff97cc9513a86a783b74cd529a1877e0f3 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Ryderjj89 Date: Sun, 28 Sep 2025 23:08:50 -0400 Subject: [PATCH] Fixed NLT sub-headings --- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_01.md | 10 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_02.md | 13 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_03.md | 44 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_04.md | 22 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_05.md | 1 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_06.md | 6 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_07.md | 1 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_08.md | 1 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_09.md | 17 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_10.md | 35 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_11.md | 11 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_12.md | 6 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_13.md | 1 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_14.md | 17 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_15.md | 1 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_16.md | 2 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_17.md | 9 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_18.md | 9 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_19.md | 9 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_20.md | 1 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_21.md | 13 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_22.md | 6 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_23.md | 1 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_24.md | 15 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_25.md | 16 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_26.md | 11 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_27.md | 37 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_28.md | 6 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_29.md | 15 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_30.md | 8 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_31.md | 10 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_32.md | 17 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_33.md | 5 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_34.md | 1 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_35.md | 10 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_36.md | 12 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_37.md | 7 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_38.md | 15 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_39.md | 6 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_40.md | 2 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_41.md | 8 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_42.md | 3 + NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_43.md | 5 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_44.md | 5 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_45.md | 6 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_46.md | 9 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_47.md | 8 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_48.md | 21 +- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_49.md | 148 ++++-- NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_50.md | 11 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_01.md | 1 + NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_02.md | 11 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_03.md | 7 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_04.md | 7 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_05.md | 5 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_06.md | 11 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_07.md | 6 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_08.md | 11 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_09.md | 11 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_10.md | 6 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_11.md | 1 + NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_12.md | 11 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_13.md | 5 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_14.md | 10 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_15.md | 114 +++-- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_16.md | 1 + NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_17.md | 5 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_18.md | 6 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_19.md | 1 + NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_20.md | 6 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_21.md | 6 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_22.md | 11 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_23.md | 7 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_24.md | 1 + NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_25.md | 20 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_26.md | 1 + NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_27.md | 11 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_28.md | 15 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_29.md | 1 + NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_30.md | 17 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_31.md | 9 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_32.md | 5 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_33.md | 1 + NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_34.md | 23 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_35.md | 17 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_36.md | 6 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_37.md | 16 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_38.md | 16 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_39.md | 26 +- NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_40.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_01.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_02.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_03.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_04.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_05.md | 5 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_06.md | 18 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_07.md | 14 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_08.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_09.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_10.md | 14 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_11.md | 3 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_12.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_13.md | 6 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_14.md | 6 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_15.md | 3 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_16.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_17.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_18.md | 1 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_19.md | 9 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_20.md | 3 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_21.md | 3 + NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_22.md | 5 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_23.md | 27 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_24.md | 5 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_25.md | 16 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_26.md | 6 +- NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_27.md | 1 + NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_01.md | 1 + NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_02.md | 25 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_03.md | 12 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_04.md | 14 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_05.md | 7 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_06.md | 17 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_07.md | 1 + NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_08.md | 6 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_09.md | 5 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_10.md | 5 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_11.md | 5 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_12.md | 17 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_13.md | 9 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_14.md | 5 +- NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_15.md | 14 +- 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1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_07.md | 1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_08.md | 1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_09.md | 6 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_10.md | 5 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_11.md | 5 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_12.md | 1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_13.md | 1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_14.md | 7 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_15.md | 11 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_16.md | 16 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_17.md | 6 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_18.md | 10 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_19.md | 6 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_20.md | 1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_21.md | 21 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_22.md | 6 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_23.md | 6 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_24.md | 1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_25.md | 1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_26.md | 1 + NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_27.md | 16 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_28.md | 46 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_29.md | 6 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_30.md | 6 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_31.md | 16 +- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_32.md | 258 +++++++--- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_33.md | 181 +++++-- NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_34.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_01.md | 5 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_02.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_03.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_04.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_05.md | 7 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_06.md | 13 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_07.md | 5 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_08.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_09.md | 4 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_10.md | 18 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_11.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_12.md | 21 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_13.md | 27 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_14.md | 6 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_15.md | 14 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_16.md | 8 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_17.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_18.md | 15 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_19.md | 35 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_20.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_21.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_22.md | 6 +- NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_23.md | 1 + NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_24.md | 7 +- 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| 12 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_08.md | 19 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_09.md | 20 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_10.md | 16 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_11.md | 15 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_12.md | 9 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_13.md | 13 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_14.md | 6 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_15.md | 30 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_16.md | 1 + NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_17.md | 11 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_18.md | 12 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_19.md | 126 +++-- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_20.md | 9 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_21.md | 6 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_22.md | 5 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_23.md | 18 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_24.md | 17 +- NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_25.md | 16 +- NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md | 52 +- NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md | 52 +- NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md | 21 +- NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md | 14 +- NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md | 13 +- NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md | 46 +- NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md | 26 +- NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md | 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Chronicles/Chapter_28.md | 6 +- NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md | 18 +- NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_30.md | 5 +- NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_31.md | 1 + NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_32.md | 19 +- NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_33.md | 6 +- NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_34.md | 11 +- NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_35.md | 7 +- NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_36.md | 26 +- NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_01.md | 1 + NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_02.md | 5 + NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_03.md | 9 +- NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_04.md | 13 +- NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_05.md | 6 +- NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_06.md | 12 +- NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_07.md | 6 +- NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_08.md | 11 +- NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_09.md | 2 + NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_10.md | 8 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_01.md | 5 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_02.md | 10 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_03.md | 1 + NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_04.md | 1 + NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_05.md | 4 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_06.md | 9 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_07.md | 12 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_08.md | 6 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_09.md | 6 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_10.md | 11 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_11.md | 6 + NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_12.md | 37 +- NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_13.md | 7 +- NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_01.md | 6 +- NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_02.md | 6 +- NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_03.md | 1 + NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_04.md | 4 +- NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_05.md | 7 +- NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_06.md | 5 + NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_07.md | 6 + NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_08.md | 4 +- NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_09.md | 8 +- NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_10.md | 1 + NLT/18_Job/Chapter_01.md | 9 +- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_02.md | 6 +- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_03.md | 108 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_04.md | 77 ++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_05.md | 100 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_06.md | 113 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_07.md | 87 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_08.md | 84 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_09.md | 130 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_10.md | 98 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_11.md | 82 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_12.md | 98 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_13.md | 117 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_14.md | 106 ++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_15.md | 143 ++++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_16.md | 88 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_17.md | 70 ++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_18.md | 83 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_19.md | 116 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_20.md | 115 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_21.md | 144 ++++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_22.md | 122 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_23.md | 64 ++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_24.md | 128 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_25.md | 20 +- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_26.md | 47 +- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_27.md | 87 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_28.md | 118 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_29.md | 98 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_30.md | 130 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_31.md | 170 +++++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_32.md | 77 ++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_33.md | 137 ++++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_34.md | 162 +++++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_35.md | 55 ++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_36.md | 144 ++++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_37.md | 98 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_38.md | 164 +++++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_39.md | 126 +++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_40.md | 88 +++- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_41.md | 137 ++++-- NLT/18_Job/Chapter_42.md | 23 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_01.md | 35 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_02.md | 47 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_03.md | 31 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_04.md | 25 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_05.md | 54 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_06.md | 24 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_07.md | 75 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_08.md | 24 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_09.md | 79 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_10.md | 86 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_100.md | 23 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_101.md | 41 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_102.md | 121 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_103.md | 93 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_104.md | 132 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_105.md | 161 ++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_106.md | 192 ++++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_107.md | 175 +++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_108.md | 60 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_109.md | 139 ++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_11.md | 35 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_110.md | 39 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_111.md | 40 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_112.md | 42 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_113.md | 29 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_114.md | 32 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_115.md | 82 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_116.md | 62 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_117.md | 6 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_118.md | 73 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_119.md | 702 ++++++++++++++++++++------- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_12.md | 39 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_120.md | 29 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_121.md | 29 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_122.md | 36 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_123.md | 20 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_124.md | 33 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_125.md | 18 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_126.md | 25 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_127.md | 27 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_128.md | 29 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_129.md | 33 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_13.md | 28 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_130.md | 39 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_131.md | 20 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_132.md | 75 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_133.md | 22 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_134.md | 2 + NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_135.md | 77 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_136.md | 46 ++ NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_137.md | 46 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_138.md | 36 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_139.md | 95 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_14.md | 31 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_140.md | 61 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_141.md | 48 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_142.md | 43 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_143.md | 73 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_144.md | 83 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_145.md | 88 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_146.md | 31 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_147.md | 84 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_148.md | 63 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_149.md | 32 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_15.md | 25 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_150.md | 22 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_16.md | 47 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_17.md | 81 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_18.md | 211 +++++--- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_19.md | 74 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_20.md | 31 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_21.md | 59 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_22.md | 135 ++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_23.md | 37 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_24.md | 42 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_25.md | 86 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_26.md | 41 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_27.md | 78 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_28.md | 60 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_29.md | 14 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_30.md | 51 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_31.md | 125 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_32.md | 53 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_33.md | 89 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_34.md | 76 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_35.md | 129 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_36.md | 51 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_37.md | 173 +++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_38.md | 92 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_39.md | 86 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_40.md | 97 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_41.md | 57 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_42.md | 75 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_43.md | 38 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_44.md | 120 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_45.md | 84 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_46.md | 54 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_47.md | 33 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_48.md | 79 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_49.md | 81 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_50.md | 116 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_51.md | 83 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_52.md | 51 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_53.md | 42 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_54.md | 32 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_55.md | 113 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_56.md | 65 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_57.md | 62 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_58.md | 40 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_59.md | 92 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_60.md | 56 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_61.md | 37 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_62.md | 69 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_63.md | 55 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_64.md | 54 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_65.md | 83 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_66.md | 91 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_67.md | 32 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_68.md | 157 ++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_69.md | 172 +++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_70.md | 26 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_71.md | 123 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_72.md | 105 ++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_73.md | 119 +++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_74.md | 91 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_75.md | 50 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_76.md | 44 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_77.md | 97 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_78.md | 316 ++++++++---- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_79.md | 77 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_80.md | 88 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_81.md | 72 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_82.md | 36 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_83.md | 74 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_84.md | 50 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_85.md | 52 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_86.md | 83 +++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_87.md | 24 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_88.md | 73 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_89.md | 200 ++++++-- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_90.md | 78 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_91.md | 74 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_92.md | 63 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_93.md | 21 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_94.md | 77 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_95.md | 43 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_96.md | 48 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_97.md | 57 ++- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_98.md | 41 +- NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_99.md | 46 +- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_01.md | 137 ++++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_02.md | 84 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_03.md | 132 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_04.md | 108 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_05.md | 83 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_06.md | 150 ++++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_07.md | 100 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_08.md | 143 ++++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_09.md | 79 ++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_10.md | 124 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_11.md | 117 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_12.md | 112 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_13.md | 92 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_14.md | 136 ++++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_15.md | 128 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_16.md | 109 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_17.md | 96 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_18.md | 92 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_19.md | 107 ++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_20.md | 104 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_21.md | 109 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_22.md | 105 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_23.md | 138 ++++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_24.md | 141 ++++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_25.md | 108 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_26.md | 112 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_27.md | 104 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_28.md | 111 +++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_29.md | 92 +++- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_30.md | 155 ++++-- NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_31.md | 114 +++-- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_01.md | 18 +- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_02.md | 11 +- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_03.md | 38 +- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_04.md | 18 +- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_05.md | 6 +- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_06.md | 1 + NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_07.md | 68 ++- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_08.md | 16 +- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_09.md | 13 +- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_10.md | 93 +++- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_11.md | 18 +- NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_12.md | 6 +- NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_01.md | 90 +++- NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_02.md | 103 ++-- NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_03.md | 71 ++- NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_04.md | 110 +++-- NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_05.md | 128 +++-- NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_06.md | 79 ++- NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_07.md | 72 ++- NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_08.md | 98 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_01.md | 208 +++++--- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_02.md | 143 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_03.md | 138 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_04.md | 40 +- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_05.md | 215 +++++--- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_06.md | 35 +- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_07.md | 22 +- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_08.md | 51 +- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_09.md | 132 +++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_10.md | 182 +++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_11.md | 86 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_12.md | 28 +- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_13.md | 138 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_14.md | 171 +++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_15.md | 60 ++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_16.md | 92 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_17.md | 91 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_18.md | 51 +- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_19.md | 95 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_20.md | 1 + NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_21.md | 107 ++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_22.md | 113 +++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_23.md | 93 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_24.md | 141 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_25.md | 91 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_26.md | 118 +++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_27.md | 68 ++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_28.md | 198 ++++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_29.md | 152 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_30.md | 224 ++++++--- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_31.md | 62 ++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_32.md | 107 ++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_33.md | 145 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_34.md | 113 +++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_35.md | 71 ++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_36.md | 7 +- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_37.md | 122 +++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_38.md | 86 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_39.md | 2 + NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_40.md | 199 +++++--- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_41.md | 197 ++++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_42.md | 164 +++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_43.md | 171 +++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_44.md | 204 +++++--- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_45.md | 184 +++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_46.md | 90 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_47.md | 102 ++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_48.md | 138 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_49.md | 185 +++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_50.md | 86 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_51.md | 168 +++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_52.md | 68 ++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_53.md | 88 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_54.md | 111 +++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_55.md | 91 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_56.md | 92 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_57.md | 154 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_58.md | 113 +++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_59.md | 148 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_60.md | 149 ++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_61.md | 79 ++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_62.md | 70 ++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_63.md | 133 +++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_64.md | 85 +++- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_65.md | 186 +++++-- NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_66.md | 153 ++++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_01.md | 65 ++- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_02.md | 245 +++++++--- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_03.md | 115 +++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_04.md | 216 ++++++--- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_05.md | 201 ++++++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_06.md | 208 +++++--- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_07.md | 10 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_08.md | 127 +++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_09.md | 136 ++++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_10.md | 164 +++++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_11.md | 33 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_12.md | 103 ++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_13.md | 89 +++- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_14.md | 129 +++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_15.md | 140 ++++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_16.md | 31 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_17.md | 121 +++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_18.md | 73 ++- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_19.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_20.md | 88 +++- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_21.md | 27 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_22.md | 128 +++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_23.md | 146 ++++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_24.md | 2 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_25.md | 37 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_26.md | 4 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_27.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_28.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_29.md | 5 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_30.md | 129 +++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_31.md | 173 +++++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_32.md | 13 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_33.md | 12 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_34.md | 6 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_35.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_36.md | 11 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_37.md | 6 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_38.md | 14 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_39.md | 6 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_40.md | 12 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_41.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_42.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_43.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_44.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_45.md | 1 + NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_46.md | 162 +++++-- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_47.md | 44 +- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_48.md | 204 +++++--- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_49.md | 252 +++++++--- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_50.md | 328 +++++++++---- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_51.md | 395 +++++++++++---- NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_52.md | 13 +- NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_01.md | 225 ++++++--- NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_02.md | 236 ++++++--- NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_03.md | 237 ++++++--- NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_04.md | 166 +++++-- NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_05.md | 88 +++- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_01.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_02.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_03.md | 6 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_04.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_05.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_06.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_07.md | 198 ++++++-- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_08.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_09.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_10.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_11.md | 5 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_12.md | 5 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_13.md | 5 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_14.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_15.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_16.md | 5 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_17.md | 72 ++- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_18.md | 1 + NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_19.md | 113 +++-- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_20.md | 10 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_21.md | 111 +++-- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_22.md | 5 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_23.md | 23 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_24.md | 95 +++- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_25.md | 15 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_26.md | 19 +- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_27.md | 117 +++-- NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_28.md | 150 ++++-- 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| 18 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_05.md | 18 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_06.md | 6 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_07.md | 21 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_08.md | 26 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_09.md | 14 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_10.md | 18 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_11.md | 5 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_12.md | 14 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_13.md | 26 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_14.md | 11 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_15.md | 22 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_16.md | 16 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_17.md | 11 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_18.md | 11 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_19.md | 19 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_20.md | 11 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_21.md | 14 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_22.md | 13 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_23.md | 10 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_24.md | 2 + NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_25.md | 8 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_26.md | 5 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_27.md | 13 +- NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_28.md | 31 +- NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_01.md | 11 +- NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_02.md | 6 +- NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_03.md | 26 +- NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_04.md | 8 +- NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_05.md | 6 +- 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Corinthians/Chapter_15.md | 11 +- NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_16.md | 11 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md | 11 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md | 11 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md | 6 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md | 1 + NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md | 6 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md | 18 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md | 6 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md | 5 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md | 1 + NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md | 1 + NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md | 6 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md | 6 +- NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md | 6 +- NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_01.md | 11 +- NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_02.md | 6 +- NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_03.md | 11 +- NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_04.md | 19 +- NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_05.md | 6 +- NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_06.md | 6 +- NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_01.md | 11 +- NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_02.md | 11 +- NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_03.md | 6 +- NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_04.md | 10 +- NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_05.md | 14 +- NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_06.md | 16 +- NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_01.md | 21 +- NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_02.md | 39 +- NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_03.md | 5 +- NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_04.md | 16 +- NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_01.md | 52 +- NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_02.md | 6 +- NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_03.md | 6 +- NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_04.md | 13 +- NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md | 8 +- NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md | 6 +- NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md | 1 + NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_04.md | 6 +- NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_05.md | 11 +- NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md | 8 +- NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md | 6 +- NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md | 11 +- NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_01.md | 17 +- NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_02.md | 3 + NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_03.md | 14 +- NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_04.md | 6 +- NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_05.md | 1 + NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_06.md | 13 +- NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_01.md | 7 +- NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_02.md | 25 +- NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_03.md | 6 +- NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_04.md | 11 +- NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_01.md | 7 +- NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_02.md | 1 + NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_03.md | 8 +- NLT/57_Philemon/Chapter_01.md | 19 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_01.md | 28 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_02.md | 7 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_03.md | 20 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_04.md | 7 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_05.md | 6 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_06.md | 6 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_07.md | 6 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_08.md | 27 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_09.md | 6 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_10.md | 18 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_11.md | 3 + NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_12.md | 10 +- NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_13.md | 20 +- NLT/59_James/Chapter_01.md | 11 +- NLT/59_James/Chapter_02.md | 6 +- NLT/59_James/Chapter_03.md | 8 +- NLT/59_James/Chapter_04.md | 10 +- NLT/59_James/Chapter_05.md | 16 +- NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_01.md | 17 +- NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_02.md | 50 +- NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_03.md | 29 +- NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_04.md | 6 +- NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_05.md | 7 +- NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_01.md | 11 +- NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_02.md | 1 + NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_03.md | 7 +- NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_01.md | 6 +- NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_02.md | 42 +- NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_03.md | 6 +- NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_04.md | 8 +- NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_05.md | 6 +- NLT/63_2 John/Chapter_01.md | 15 +- NLT/64_3 John/Chapter_01.md | 15 +- NLT/65_Jude/Chapter_01.md | 17 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_01.md | 24 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_02.md | 16 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_03.md | 18 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_04.md | 14 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_05.md | 26 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_06.md | 1 + NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_07.md | 35 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_08.md | 6 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_09.md | 5 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_10.md | 1 + NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_11.md | 35 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_12.md | 29 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_13.md | 18 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_14.md | 10 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_15.md | 17 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_16.md | 16 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_17.md | 1 + NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_18.md | 136 ++++-- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_19.md | 39 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_20.md | 11 +- NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_21.md | 1 + NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_22.md | 6 +- 1189 files changed, 37045 insertions(+), 12025 deletions(-) diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_01.md index 1a561c87..a060bc4d 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_01.md @@ -9,11 +9,13 @@ The Account of Creation 5. God called the light "day" and the darkness "night." And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day. + 6. Then God said, "Let there be a space between the waters, to separate the waters of the heavens from the waters of the earth." 7. And that is what happened. God made this space to separate the waters of the earth from the waters of the heavens. 8. God called the space "sky." And evening passed and morning came, marking the second day. + 9. Then God said, "Let the waters beneath the sky flow together into one place, so dry ground may appear." And that is what happened. 10. God called the dry ground "land" and the waters "seas." And God saw that it was good. 11. Then God said, "Let the land sprout with vegetation--every sort of seed-bearing plant, and trees that grow seed-bearing fruit. These seeds will then produce the kinds of plants and trees from which they came." And that is what happened. @@ -41,8 +43,11 @@ And evening passed and morning came, marking the second day. 26. Then God said, "Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground." 27. So God created human beings in his own image. - In the image of God he created them; - male and female he created them. + +In the image of God he created them; + +male and female he created them. + 28. Then God blessed them and said, "Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground." @@ -53,3 +58,4 @@ And evening passed and morning came, marking the second day. And evening passed and morning came, marking the sixth day. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_02.md index 9e911ac0..afca4119 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_02.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ 2. On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work. 3. And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation. -4. This is the account of the creation of the heavens and the earth.The Man and Woman in Eden +4. This is the account of the creation of the heavens and the earth. + +The Man and Woman in Eden When the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 5. neither wild plants nor grains were growing on the earth. For the LORD God had not yet sent rain to water the earth, and there were no people to cultivate the soil. 6. Instead, springs came up from the ground and watered all the land. @@ -30,13 +32,18 @@ When the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 22. Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib, and he brought her to the man. 23. "At last!" the man exclaimed. + "This one is bone from my bone, - and flesh from my flesh! + +and flesh from my flesh! She will be called 'woman,' - because she was taken from 'man.'" + +because she was taken from 'man.'" + 24. This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. 25. Now the man and his wife were both naked, but they felt no shame. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_03.md index d972c902..6dc83733 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_03.md @@ -24,38 +24,59 @@ The Man and Woman Sin 13. Then the LORD God asked the woman, "What have you done?" "The serpent deceived me," she replied. "That's why I ate it." + 14. Then the LORD God said to the serpent, "Because you have done this, you are cursed - more than all animals, domestic and wild. + +more than all animals, domestic and wild. + You will crawl on your belly, - groveling in the dust as long as you live. + +groveling in the dust as long as you live. + 15. And I will cause hostility between you and the woman, - and between your offspring and her offspring. + +and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head, - and you will strike his heel." + +and you will strike his heel." + 16. Then he said to the woman, "I will sharpen the pain of your pregnancy, - and in pain you will give birth. + +and in pain you will give birth. + And you will desire to control your husband, but he will rule over you." 17. And to the man he said, "Since you listened to your wife and ate from the tree - whose fruit I commanded you not to eat, + +whose fruit I commanded you not to eat, the ground is cursed because of you. - All your life you will struggle to scratch a living from it. + +All your life you will struggle to scratch a living from it. + 18. It will grow thorns and thistles for you, - though you will eat of its grains. + +though you will eat of its grains. + 19. By the sweat of your brow - will you have food to eat + +will you have food to eat until you return to the ground - from which you were made. + +from which you were made. + For you were made from dust, - and to dust you will return."Paradise Lost: God's Judgment + +and to dust you will return." +Paradise Lost: God's Judgment + 20. Then the man--Adam--named his wife Eve, because she would be the mother of all who live. 21. And the LORD God made clothing from animal skins for Adam and his wife. @@ -65,3 +86,4 @@ For you were made from dust, 24. After sending them out, the LORD God stationed mighty cherubim to the east of the Garden of Eden. And he placed a flaming sword that flashed back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_04.md index 58acda0e..1842a7a6 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_04.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ Cain and Abel # Chapter 4 1. Now Adam had sexual relations with his wife, Eve, and she became pregnant. When she gave birth to Cain, she said, "With the LORD's help, I have produced a man!" 2. Later she gave birth to his brother and named him Abel. + When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. + 3. When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the LORD. 4. Abel also brought a gift--the best portions of the firstborn lambs from his flock. The LORD accepted Abel and his gift, 5. but he did not accept Cain and his gift. This made Cain very angry, and he looked dejected. @@ -16,6 +18,7 @@ When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. 9. Afterward the LORD asked Cain, "Where is your brother? Where is Abel?" "I don't know," Cain responded. "Am I my brother's guardian?" + 10. But the LORD said, "What have you done? Listen! Your brother's blood cries out to me from the ground! 11. Now you are cursed and banished from the ground, which has swallowed your brother's blood. 12. No longer will the ground yield good crops for you, no matter how hard you work! From now on you will be a homeless wanderer on the earth." @@ -24,7 +27,10 @@ When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. 14. You have banished me from the land and from your presence; you have made me a homeless wanderer. Anyone who finds me will kill me!" 15. The LORD replied, "No, for I will give a sevenfold punishment to anyone who kills you." Then the LORD put a mark on Cain to warn anyone who might try to kill him. -16. So Cain left the LORD's presence and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden.The Descendants of Cain +16. So Cain left the LORD's presence and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden. + +The Descendants of Cain + 17. Cain had sexual relations with his wife, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Enoch. Then Cain founded a city, which he named Enoch, after his son. 18. Enoch had a son named Irad. Irad became the father of Mehujael. Mehujael became the father of Methushael. Methushael became the father of Lamech. @@ -35,14 +41,22 @@ When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. 22. Lamech's other wife, Zillah, gave birth to a son named Tubal-cain. He became an expert in forging tools of bronze and iron. Tubal-cain had a sister named Naamah. 23. One day Lamech said to his wives, "Adah and Zillah, hear my voice; - listen to me, you wives of Lamech. + +listen to me, you wives of Lamech. + I have killed a man who attacked me, - a young man who wounded me. + +a young man who wounded me. + 24. If someone who kills Cain is punished seven times, - then the one who kills me will be punished seventy-seven times!"The Birth of Seth + +then the one who kills me will be punished seventy-seven times!" +The Birth of Seth + 25. Adam had sexual relations with his wife again, and she gave birth to another son. She named him Seth, for she said, "God has granted me another son in place of Abel, whom Cain killed." 26. When Seth grew up, he had a son and named him Enosh. At that time people first began to worship the LORD by name. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_05.md index 25ee2c8b..cf942778 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_05.md @@ -45,3 +45,4 @@ The Descendants of Adam 32. After Noah was 500 years old, he became the father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_06.md index b08f9b7a..f7ae14fd 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_06.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ A World Gone Wrong 5. The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. 6. So the LORD was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart. 7. And the LORD said, "I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing--all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them." -8. But Noah found favor with the LORD.The Story of Noah +8. But Noah found favor with the LORD. + +The Story of Noah + 9. This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God. 10. Noah was the father of three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. @@ -32,3 +35,4 @@ A World Gone Wrong 22. So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_07.md index d14a7511..cf429694 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_07.md @@ -32,3 +32,4 @@ The Flood Covers the Earth 24. And the floodwaters covered the earth for 150 days. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_08.md index 8d1b00ec..8df3fe3e 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_08.md @@ -30,3 +30,4 @@ The Flood Recedes 22. As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_09.md index 5c0e7489..0243712e 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_09.md @@ -20,7 +20,9 @@ God Confirms His Covenant 14. When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will appear in the clouds, 15. and I will remember my covenant with you and with all living creatures. Never again will the floodwaters destroy all life. 16. When I see the rainbow in the clouds, I will remember the eternal covenant between God and every living creature on earth." -17. Then God said to Noah, "Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth."Noah's Sons +17. Then God said to Noah, "Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth." +Noah's Sons + 18. The sons of Noah who came out of the boat with their father were Shem, Ham, and Japheth. (Ham is the father of Canaan.) 19. From these three sons of Noah came all the people who now populate the earth. @@ -33,17 +35,24 @@ God Confirms His Covenant 24. When Noah woke up from his stupor, he learned what Ham, his youngest son, had done. 25. Then he cursed Canaan, the son of Ham: "May Canaan be cursed! - May he be the lowest of servants to his relatives." + +May he be the lowest of servants to his relatives." + 26. Then Noah said, "May the LORD, the God of Shem, be blessed, - and may Canaan be his servant! + +and may Canaan be his servant! + 27. May God expand the territory of Japheth! May Japheth share the prosperity of Shem, - and may Canaan be his servant." + +and may Canaan be his servant." + 28. Noah lived another 350 years after the great flood. 29. He lived 950 years, and then he died. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_10.md index 503122c7..7b2a0ec7 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_10.md @@ -1,52 +1,55 @@ # Chapter 10 -1. This is the account of the families of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, the three sons of Noah. Many children were born to them after the great flood.Descendants of Japheth + +1. This is the account of the families of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, the three sons of Noah. Many children were born to them after the great flood. + + +Descendants of Japheth + 2. The descendants of Japheth were Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Tubal, Meshech, and Tiras. - 3. The descendants of Gomer were Ashkenaz, Riphath, and Togarmah. - 4. The descendants of Javan were Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim, and Rodanim. -5. Their descendants became the seafaring peoples that spread out to various lands, each identified by its own language, clan, and national identity.Descendants of Ham +5. Their descendants became the seafaring peoples that spread out to various lands, each identified by its own language, clan, and national identity. + + +Descendants of Ham + 6. The descendants of Ham were Cush, Mizraim, Put, and Canaan. - 7. The descendants of Cush were Seba, Havilah, Sabtah, Raamah, and Sabteca. The descendants of Raamah were Sheba and Dedan. - 8. Cush was also the ancestor of Nimrod, who was the first heroic warrior on earth. 9. Since he was the greatest hunter in the world, his name became proverbial. People would say, "This man is like Nimrod, the greatest hunter in the world." 10. He built his kingdom in the land of Babylonia, with the cities of Babylon, Erech, Akkad, and Calneh. 11. From there he expanded his territory to Assyria, building the cities of Nineveh, Rehoboth-ir, Calah, 12. and Resen (the great city located between Nineveh and Calah). - 13. Mizraim was the ancestor of the Ludites, Anamites, Lehabites, Naphtuhites, 14. Pathrusites, Casluhites, and the Caphtorites, from whom the Philistines came. - 15. Canaan's oldest son was Sidon, the ancestor of the Sidonians. Canaan was also the ancestor of the Hittites, 16. Jebusites, Amorites, Girgashites, 17. Hivites, Arkites, Sinites, 18. Arvadites, Zemarites, and Hamathites. The Canaanite clans eventually spread out, 19. and the territory of Canaan extended from Sidon in the north to Gerar and Gaza in the south, and east as far as Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, near Lasha. +20. These were the descendants of Ham, identified by clan, language, territory, and national identity. -20. These were the descendants of Ham, identified by clan, language, territory, and national identity.Descendants of Shem + +Descendants of Shem + 21. Sons were also born to Shem, the older brother of Japheth. Shem was the ancestor of all the descendants of Eber. - 22. The descendants of Shem were Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, and Aram. - 23. The descendants of Aram were Uz, Hul, Gether, and Mash. - 24. Arphaxad was the father of Shelah, and Shelah was the father of Eber. - 25. Eber had two sons. The first was named Peleg (which means "division"), for during his lifetime the people of the world were divided into different language groups. His brother's name was Joktan. - 26. Joktan was the ancestor of Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, 27. Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah, 28. Obal, Abimael, Sheba, 29. Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab. All these were descendants of Joktan. 30. The territory they occupied extended from Mesha all the way to Sephar in the eastern mountains. +31. These were the descendants of Shem, identified by clan, language, territory, and national identity. + + +Conclusion -31. These were the descendants of Shem, identified by clan, language, territory, and national identity.Conclusion 32. These are the clans that descended from Noah's sons, arranged by nation according to their lines of descent. All the nations of the earth descended from these clans after the great flood. - diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_11.md index fcb55ef5..2ba6a71c 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_11.md @@ -12,7 +12,10 @@ The Tower of Babel 7. Come, let's go down and confuse the people with different languages. Then they won't be able to understand each other." 8. In that way, the LORD scattered them all over the world, and they stopped building the city. -9. That is why the city was called Babel, because that is where the LORD confused the people with different languages. In this way he scattered them all over the world.The Line of Descent from Shem to Abram +9. That is why the city was called Babel, because that is where the LORD confused the people with different languages. In this way he scattered them all over the world. + +The Line of Descent from Shem to Abram + 10. This is the account of Shem's family. Two years after the great flood, when Shem was 100 years old, he became the father of Arphaxad. @@ -39,7 +42,10 @@ Two years after the great flood, when Shem was 100 years old, he became the fath 24. When Nahor was 29 years old, he became the father of Terah. 25. After the birth of Terah, Nahor lived another 119 years and had other sons and daughters. -26. After Terah was 70 years old, he became the father of Abram, Nahor, and Haran.The Family of Terah +26. After Terah was 70 years old, he became the father of Abram, Nahor, and Haran. + +The Family of Terah + 27. This is the account of Terah's family. Terah was the father of Abram, Nahor, and Haran; and Haran was the father of Lot. 28. But Haran died in Ur of the Chaldeans, the land of his birth, while his father, Terah, was still living. @@ -50,3 +56,4 @@ Two years after the great flood, when Shem was 100 years old, he became the fath 32. Terah lived for 205 years and died while still in Haran. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_12.md index 3b5bf305..6bfc35f1 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_12.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ The Call of Abram 7. Then the LORD appeared to Abram and said, "I will give this land to your descendants." And Abram built an altar there and dedicated it to the LORD, who had appeared to him. 8. After that, Abram traveled south and set up camp in the hill country, with Bethel to the west and Ai to the east. There he built another altar and dedicated it to the LORD, and he worshiped the LORD. -9. Then Abram continued traveling south by stages toward the Negev.Abram and Sarai in Egypt +9. Then Abram continued traveling south by stages toward the Negev. + +Abram and Sarai in Egypt + 10. At that time a severe famine struck the land of Canaan, forcing Abram to go down to Egypt, where he lived as a foreigner. 11. As he was approaching the border of Egypt, Abram said to his wife, Sarai, "Look, you are a very beautiful woman. @@ -28,3 +31,4 @@ The Call of Abram 20. Pharaoh ordered some of his men to escort them, and he sent Abram out of the country, along with his wife and all his possessions. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_13.md index 6b60d343..719856f8 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_13.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ Abram and Lot Separate 18. So Abram moved his camp to Hebron and settled near the oak grove belonging to Mamre. There he built another altar to the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_14.md index f1f398a5..180d5c6a 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_14.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Abram Rescues Lot # Chapter 14 -1. About this time war broke out in the region. King Amraphel of Babylonia, King Arioch of Ellasar, King Kedorlaomer of Elam, and King Tidal of Goiim +1. +About this time war broke out in the region. King Amraphel of Babylonia, King Arioch of Ellasar, King Kedorlaomer of Elam, and King Tidal of Goiim 2. fought against King Bera of Sodom, King Birsha of Gomorrah, King Shinab of Admah, King Shemeber of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (also called Zoar). 3. This second group of kings joined forces in Siddim Valley (that is, the valley of the Dead Sea). @@ -21,19 +22,26 @@ Abram Rescues Lot 14. When Abram heard that his nephew Lot had been captured, he mobilized the 318 trained men who had been born into his household. Then he pursued Kedorlaomer's army until he caught up with them at Dan. 15. There he divided his men and attacked during the night. Kedorlaomer's army fled, but Abram chased them as far as Hobah, north of Damascus. -16. Abram recovered all the goods that had been taken, and he brought back his nephew Lot with his possessions and all the women and other captives.Melchizedek Blesses Abram +16. Abram recovered all the goods that had been taken, and he brought back his nephew Lot with his possessions and all the women and other captives. + +Melchizedek Blesses Abram + 17. After Abram returned from his victory over Kedorlaomer and all his allies, the king of Sodom went out to meet him in the valley of Shaveh (that is, the King's Valley). 18. And Melchizedek, the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High, brought Abram some bread and wine. 19. Melchizedek blessed Abram with this blessing: "Blessed be Abram by God Most High, - Creator of heaven and earth. + +Creator of heaven and earth. + 20. And blessed be God Most High, - who has defeated your enemies for you." + +who has defeated your enemies for you." Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of all the goods he had recovered. + 21. The king of Sodom said to Abram, "Give back my people who were captured. But you may keep for yourself all the goods you have recovered." 22. Abram replied to the king of Sodom, "I solemnly swear to the LORD, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, @@ -41,3 +49,4 @@ Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of all the goods he had recovered. 24. I will accept only what my young warriors have already eaten, and I request that you give a fair share of the goods to my allies--Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_15.md index 785479d9..0c394d55 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_15.md @@ -32,3 +32,4 @@ The LORD's Covenant Promise to Abram 21. Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_16.md index ef722220..006513fa 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_16.md @@ -14,6 +14,7 @@ The Birth of Ishmael 8. The angel said to her, "Hagar, Sarai's servant, where have you come from, and where are you going?" "I'm running away from my mistress, Sarai," she replied. + 9. The angel of the LORD said to her, "Return to your mistress, and submit to her authority." 10. Then he added, "I will give you more descendants than you can count." @@ -27,3 +28,4 @@ The Birth of Ishmael 16. Abram was eighty-six years old when Ishmael was born. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_17.md index f8425444..2be35ad6 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_17.md @@ -10,14 +10,18 @@ Abram Is Named Abraham 6. I will make you extremely fruitful. Your descendants will become many nations, and kings will be among them! 7. "I will confirm my covenant with you and your descendants after you, from generation to generation. This is the everlasting covenant: I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you. -8. And I will give the entire land of Canaan, where you now live as a foreigner, to you and your descendants. It will be their possession forever, and I will be their God."The Mark of the Covenant +8. And I will give the entire land of Canaan, where you now live as a foreigner, to you and your descendants. It will be their possession forever, and I will be their God." +The Mark of the Covenant + 9. Then God said to Abraham, "Your responsibility is to obey the terms of the covenant. You and all your descendants have this continual responsibility. 10. This is the covenant that you and your descendants must keep: Each male among you must be circumcised. 11. You must cut off the flesh of your foreskin as a sign of the covenant between me and you. 12. From generation to generation, every male child must be circumcised on the eighth day after his birth. This applies not only to members of your family but also to the servants born in your household and the foreign-born servants whom you have purchased. 13. All must be circumcised. Your bodies will bear the mark of my everlasting covenant. -14. Any male who fails to be circumcised will be cut off from the covenant family for breaking the covenant."Sarai Is Named Sarah +14. Any male who fails to be circumcised will be cut off from the covenant family for breaking the covenant." +Sarai Is Named Sarah + 15. Then God said to Abraham, "Regarding Sarai, your wife--her name will no longer be Sarai. From now on her name will be Sarah. 16. And I will bless her and give you a son from her! Yes, I will bless her richly, and she will become the mother of many nations. Kings of nations will be among her descendants." @@ -37,3 +41,4 @@ Abram Is Named Abraham 27. along with all the other men and boys of the household, whether they were born there or bought as servants. All were circumcised with him. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_18.md index 653d17f1..5038a893 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_18.md @@ -9,15 +9,19 @@ A Son Is Promised to Sarah 5. And since you've honored your servant with this visit, let me prepare some food to refresh you before you continue on your journey." "All right," they said. "Do as you have said." + 6. So Abraham ran back to the tent and said to Sarah, "Hurry! Get three large measures of your best flour, knead it into dough, and bake some bread." 7. Then Abraham ran out to the herd and chose a tender calf and gave it to his servant, who quickly prepared it. 8. When the food was ready, Abraham took some yogurt and milk and the roasted meat, and he served it to the men. As they ate, Abraham waited on them in the shade of the trees. 9. "Where is Sarah, your wife?" the visitors asked. + "She's inside the tent," Abraham replied. + 10. Then one of them said, "I will return to you about this time next year, and your wife, Sarah, will have a son!" Sarah was listening to this conversation from the tent. + 11. Abraham and Sarah were both very old by this time, and Sarah was long past the age of having children. 12. So she laughed silently to herself and said, "How could a worn-out woman like me enjoy such pleasure, especially when my master--my husband--is also so old?" @@ -25,7 +29,9 @@ Sarah was listening to this conversation from the tent. 14. Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return about this time next year, and Sarah will have a son." 15. Sarah was afraid, so she denied it, saying, "I didn't laugh." -But the LORD said, "No, you did laugh."Abraham Intercedes for Sodom +But the LORD said, "No, you did laugh." +Abraham Intercedes for Sodom + 16. Then the men got up from their meal and looked out toward Sodom. As they left, Abraham went with them to send them on their way. @@ -62,3 +68,4 @@ And the LORD replied, "Then I will not destroy it for the sake of the ten." 33. When the LORD had finished his conversation with Abraham, he went on his way, and Abraham returned to his tent. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_19.md index 2df14b6d..58a82054 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_19.md @@ -5,6 +5,7 @@ Sodom and Gomorrah Destroyed 2. "My lords," he said, "come to my home to wash your feet, and be my guests for the night. You may then get up early in the morning and be on your way again." "Oh no," they replied. "We'll just spend the night out here in the city square." + 3. But Lot insisted, so at last they went home with him. Lot prepared a feast for them, complete with fresh bread made without yeast, and they ate. 4. But before they retired for the night, all the men of Sodom, young and old, came from all over the city and surrounded the house. 5. They shouted to Lot, "Where are the men who came to spend the night with you? Bring them out to us so we can have sex with them!" @@ -21,7 +22,7 @@ Sodom and Gomorrah Destroyed 12. Meanwhile, the angels questioned Lot. "Do you have any other relatives here in the city?" they asked. "Get them out of this place--your sons-in-law, sons, daughters, or anyone else. 13. For we are about to destroy this city completely. The outcry against this place is so great it has reached the LORD, and he has sent us to destroy it." -14. So Lot rushed out to tell his daughters' fiancés, "Quick, get out of the city! The LORD is about to destroy it." But the young men thought he was only joking. +14. So Lot rushed out to tell his daughters' fianc�s, "Quick, get out of the city! The LORD is about to destroy it." But the young men thought he was only joking. 15. At dawn the next morning the angels became insistent. "Hurry," they said to Lot. "Take your wife and your two daughters who are here. Get out right now, or you will be swept away in the destruction of the city!" @@ -43,7 +44,10 @@ Sodom and Gomorrah Destroyed 27. Abraham got up early that morning and hurried out to the place where he had stood in the LORD's presence. 28. He looked out across the plain toward Sodom and Gomorrah and watched as columns of smoke rose from the cities like smoke from a furnace. -29. But God had listened to Abraham's request and kept Lot safe, removing him from the disaster that engulfed the cities on the plain.Lot and His Daughters +29. But God had listened to Abraham's request and kept Lot safe, removing him from the disaster that engulfed the cities on the plain. + +Lot and His Daughters + 30. Afterward Lot left Zoar because he was afraid of the people there, and he went to live in a cave in the mountains with his two daughters. 31. One day the older daughter said to her sister, "There are no men left anywhere in this entire area, so we can't get married like everyone else. And our father will soon be too old to have children. @@ -59,3 +63,4 @@ Sodom and Gomorrah Destroyed 38. When the younger daughter gave birth to a son, she named him Ben-ammi. He became the ancestor of the nation now known as the Ammonites. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_20.md index c22efaac..e4b7d3e7 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_20.md @@ -28,3 +28,4 @@ Abraham Deceives Abimelech 18. For the LORD had caused all the women to be infertile because of what happened with Abraham's wife, Sarah. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_21.md index d2cd39c7..629de323 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_21.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ The Birth of Isaac 5. Abraham was 100 years old when Isaac was born. 6. And Sarah declared, "God has brought me laughter. All who hear about this will laugh with me. -7. Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse a baby? Yet I have given Abraham a son in his old age!"Hagar and Ishmael Are Sent Away +7. Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse a baby? Yet I have given Abraham a son in his old age!" +Hagar and Ishmael Are Sent Away + 8. When Isaac grew up and was about to be weaned, Abraham prepared a huge feast to celebrate the occasion. 9. But Sarah saw Ishmael--the son of Abraham and her Egyptian servant Hagar--making fun of her son, Isaac. @@ -29,9 +31,13 @@ The Birth of Isaac 19. Then God opened Hagar's eyes, and she saw a well full of water. She quickly filled her water container and gave the boy a drink. 20. And God was with the boy as he grew up in the wilderness. He became a skillful archer, -21. and he settled in the wilderness of Paran. His mother arranged for him to marry a woman from the land of Egypt.Abraham's Covenant with Abimelech +21. and he settled in the wilderness of Paran. His mother arranged for him to marry a woman from the land of Egypt. -22. About this time, Abimelech came with Phicol, his army commander, to visit Abraham. "God is obviously with you, helping you in everything you do," Abimelech said. +Abraham's Covenant with Abimelech + + +22. +About this time, Abimelech came with Phicol, his army commander, to visit Abraham. "God is obviously with you, helping you in everything you do," Abimelech said. 23. "Swear to me in God's name that you will never deceive me, my children, or any of my descendants. I have been loyal to you, so now swear that you will be loyal to me and to this country where you are living as a foreigner." 24. Abraham replied, "Yes, I swear to it!" @@ -51,3 +57,4 @@ The Birth of Isaac 34. And Abraham lived as a foreigner in Philistine country for a long time. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_22.md index ff52e745..42c1ddda 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_22.md @@ -2,8 +2,10 @@ Abraham's Faith Tested # Chapter 22 1. Some time later, God tested Abraham's faith. "Abraham!" God called. + "Yes," he replied. "Here I am." + 2. "Take your son, your only son--yes, Isaac, whom you love so much--and go to the land of Moriah. Go and sacrifice him as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you." 3. The next morning Abraham got up early. He saddled his donkey and took two of his servants with him, along with his son, Isaac. Then he chopped wood for a fire for a burnt offering and set out for the place God had told him about. @@ -13,8 +15,10 @@ Abraham's Faith Tested 6. So Abraham placed the wood for the burnt offering on Isaac's shoulders, while he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them walked on together, 7. Isaac turned to Abraham and said, "Father?" "Yes, my son?" Abraham replied. + "We have the fire and the wood," the boy said, "but where is the sheep for the burnt offering?" + 8. "God will provide a sheep for the burnt offering, my son," Abraham answered. And they both walked on together. 9. When they arrived at the place where God had told him to go, Abraham built an altar and arranged the wood on it. Then he tied his son, Isaac, and laid him on the altar on top of the wood. @@ -22,6 +26,7 @@ Abraham's Faith Tested 11. At that moment the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven, "Abraham! Abraham!" "Yes," Abraham replied. "Here I am!" + 12. "Don't lay a hand on the boy!" the angel said. "Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son." 13. Then Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a thicket. So he took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering in place of his son. @@ -41,3 +46,4 @@ Abraham's Faith Tested 24. Nahor had four other children from his concubine Reumah. Their names were Tebah, Gaham, Tahash, and Maacah. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_23.md index 5ee91a82..8d4f5e46 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_23.md @@ -31,3 +31,4 @@ The Burial of Sarah 20. So the field and the cave were transferred from the Hittites to Abraham for use as a permanent burial place. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_24.md index 8b8fa081..2f110a91 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_24.md @@ -48,6 +48,7 @@ A Wife for Isaac 33. Then food was served. But Abraham's servant said, "I don't want to eat until I have told you why I have come." "All right," Laban said, "tell us." + 34. "I am Abraham's servant," he explained. 35. "And the LORD has greatly blessed my master; he has become a wealthy man. The LORD has given him flocks of sheep and goats, herds of cattle, a fortune in silver and gold, and many male and female servants and camels and donkeys. @@ -77,22 +78,29 @@ A Wife for Isaac 52. When Abraham's servant heard their answer, he bowed down to the ground and worshiped the LORD. 53. Then he brought out silver and gold jewelry and clothing and presented them to Rebekah. He also gave expensive presents to her brother and mother. 54. Then they ate their meal, and the servant and the men with him stayed there overnight. + But early the next morning, Abraham's servant said, "Send me back to my master." + 55. "But we want Rebekah to stay with us at least ten days," her brother and mother said. "Then she can go." 56. But he said, "Don't delay me. The LORD has made my mission successful; now send me back so I can return to my master." 57. "Well," they said, "we'll call Rebekah and ask her what she thinks." 58. So they called Rebekah. "Are you willing to go with this man?" they asked her. + And she replied, "Yes, I will go." + 59. So they said good-bye to Rebekah and sent her away with Abraham's servant and his men. The woman who had been Rebekah's childhood nurse went along with her. 60. They gave her this blessing as she parted: "Our sister, may you become - the mother of many millions! + +the mother of many millions! May your descendants be strong - and conquer the cities of their enemies." + +and conquer the cities of their enemies." + 61. Then Rebekah and her servant girls mounted the camels and followed the man. So Abraham's servant took Rebekah and went on his way. @@ -100,9 +108,12 @@ May your descendants be strong 63. One evening as he was walking and meditating in the fields, he looked up and saw the camels coming. 64. When Rebekah looked up and saw Isaac, she quickly dismounted from her camel. 65. "Who is that man walking through the fields to meet us?" she asked the servant. + And he replied, "It is my master." So Rebekah covered her face with her veil. + 66. Then the servant told Isaac everything he had done. 67. And Isaac brought Rebekah into his mother Sarah's tent, and she became his wife. He loved her deeply, and she was a special comfort to him after the death of his mother. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_25.md index f2174a4d..9d808e3a 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_25.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ The Death of Abraham 8. and he died at a ripe old age, having lived a long and satisfying life. He breathed his last and joined his ancestors in death. 9. His sons Isaac and Ishmael buried him in the cave of Machpelah, near Mamre, in the field of Ephron son of Zohar the Hittite. 10. This was the field Abraham had purchased from the Hittites and where he had buried his wife Sarah. -11. After Abraham's death, God blessed his son Isaac, who settled near Beer-lahai-roi in the Negev.Ishmael's Descendants +11. After Abraham's death, God blessed his son Isaac, who settled near Beer-lahai-roi in the Negev. + +Ishmael's Descendants + 12. This is the account of the family of Ishmael, the son of Abraham through Hagar, Sarah's Egyptian servant. 13. Here is a list, by their names and clans, of Ishmael's descendants: The oldest was Nebaioth, followed by Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, @@ -21,7 +24,10 @@ The Death of Abraham 15. Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah. 16. These twelve sons of Ishmael became the founders of twelve tribes named after them, listed according to the places they settled and camped. 17. Ishmael lived for 137 years. Then he breathed his last and joined his ancestors in death. -18. Ishmael's descendants occupied the region from Havilah to Shur, which is east of Egypt in the direction of Asshur. There they lived in open hostility toward all their relatives.The Births of Esau and Jacob +18. Ishmael's descendants occupied the region from Havilah to Shur, which is east of Egypt in the direction of Asshur. There they lived in open hostility toward all their relatives. + +The Births of Esau and Jacob + 19. This is the account of the family of Isaac, the son of Abraham. 20. When Isaac was forty years old, he married Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan-aram and the sister of Laban the Aramean. @@ -33,7 +39,10 @@ The Death of Abraham 24. And when the time came to give birth, Rebekah discovered that she did indeed have twins! 25. The first one was very red at birth and covered with thick hair like a fur coat. So they named him Esau. -26. Then the other twin was born with his hand grasping Esau's heel. So they named him Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when the twins were born.Esau Sells His Birthright +26. Then the other twin was born with his hand grasping Esau's heel. So they named him Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when the twins were born. + +Esau Sells His Birthright + 27. As the boys grew up, Esau became a skillful hunter. He was an outdoorsman, but Jacob had a quiet temperament, preferring to stay at home. 28. Isaac loved Esau because he enjoyed eating the wild game Esau brought home, but Rebekah loved Jacob. @@ -50,3 +59,4 @@ The Death of Abraham 34. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and lentil stew. Esau ate the meal, then got up and left. He showed contempt for his rights as the firstborn. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_26.md index 69ad2224..d62b7490 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_26.md @@ -15,9 +15,12 @@ Isaac Deceives Abimelech 9. Immediately, Abimelech called for Isaac and exclaimed, "She is obviously your wife! Why did you say, 'She is my sister'?" "Because I was afraid someone would kill me to get her from me," Isaac replied. + 10. "How could you do this to us?" Abimelech exclaimed. "One of my people might easily have taken your wife and slept with her, and you would have made us guilty of great sin." -11. Then Abimelech issued a public proclamation: "Anyone who touches this man or his wife will be put to death!"Conflict over Water Rights +11. Then Abimelech issued a public proclamation: "Anyone who touches this man or his wife will be put to death!" +Conflict over Water Rights + 12. When Isaac planted his crops that year, he harvested a hundred times more grain than he planted, for the LORD blessed him. 13. He became a very rich man, and his wealth continued to grow. @@ -36,7 +39,10 @@ Isaac Deceives Abimelech 23. From there Isaac moved to Beersheba, 24. where the LORD appeared to him on the night of his arrival. "I am the God of your father, Abraham," he said. "Do not be afraid, for I am with you and will bless you. I will multiply your descendants, and they will become a great nation. I will do this because of my promise to Abraham, my servant." -25. Then Isaac built an altar there and worshiped the LORD. He set up his camp at that place, and his servants dug another well.Isaac's Covenant with Abimelech +25. Then Isaac built an altar there and worshiped the LORD. He set up his camp at that place, and his servants dug another well. + +Isaac's Covenant with Abimelech + 26. One day King Abimelech came from Gerar with his adviser, Ahuzzath, and also Phicol, his army commander. 27. "Why have you come here?" Isaac asked. "You obviously hate me, since you kicked me off your land." @@ -54,3 +60,4 @@ Isaac Deceives Abimelech 35. But Esau's wives made life miserable for Isaac and Rebekah. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_27.md index 20d00dd4..254af3ae 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_27.md @@ -4,6 +4,7 @@ Jacob Steals Esau's Blessing 1. One day when Isaac was old and turning blind, he called for Esau, his older son, and said, "My son." "Yes, Father?" Esau replied. + 2. "I am an old man now," Isaac said, "and I don't know when I may die. 3. Take your bow and a quiver full of arrows, and go out into the open country to hunt some wild game for me. 4. Prepare my favorite dish, and bring it here for me to eat. Then I will pronounce the blessing that belongs to you, my firstborn son, before I die." @@ -37,24 +38,35 @@ Jacob Steals Esau's Blessing 22. So Jacob went closer to his father, and Isaac touched him. "The voice is Jacob's, but the hands are Esau's," Isaac said. 23. But he did not recognize Jacob, because Jacob's hands felt hairy just like Esau's. So Isaac prepared to bless Jacob. 24. "But are you really my son Esau?" he asked. + "Yes, I am," Jacob replied. + 25. Then Isaac said, "Now, my son, bring me the wild game. Let me eat it, and then I will give you my blessing." So Jacob took the food to his father, and Isaac ate it. He also drank the wine that Jacob served him. 26. Then Isaac said to Jacob, "Please come a little closer and kiss me, my son." 27. So Jacob went over and kissed him. And when Isaac caught the smell of his clothes, he was finally convinced, and he blessed his son. He said, "Ah! The smell of my son is like the smell of the outdoors, which the LORD has blessed! 28. "From the dew of heaven - and the richness of the earth, + +and the richness of the earth, may God always give you abundant harvests of grain - and bountiful new wine. + +and bountiful new wine. + 29. May many nations become your servants, - and may they bow down to you. + +and may they bow down to you. + May you be the master over your brothers, - and may your mother's sons bow down to you. + +and may your mother's sons bow down to you. + All who curse you will be cursed, - and all who bless you will be blessed." + +and all who bless you will be blessed." + 30. As soon as Isaac had finished blessing Jacob, and almost before Jacob had left his father, Esau returned from his hunt. 31. Esau prepared a delicious meal and brought it to his father. Then he said, "Sit up, my father, and eat my wild game so you can give me your blessing." @@ -62,6 +74,7 @@ All who curse you will be cursed, 32. But Isaac asked him, "Who are you?" Esau replied, "It's your son, your firstborn son, Esau." + 33. Isaac began to tremble uncontrollably and said, "Then who just served me wild game? I have already eaten it, and I blessed him just before you came. And yes, that blessing must stand!" 34. When Esau heard his father's words, he let out a loud and bitter cry. "Oh my father, what about me? Bless me, too!" he begged. @@ -76,12 +89,19 @@ Esau replied, "It's your son, your firstborn son, Esau." 39. Finally, his father, Isaac, said to him, "You will live away from the richness of the earth, - and away from the dew of the heaven above. + +and away from the dew of the heaven above. + 40. You will live by your sword, - and you will serve your brother. + +and you will serve your brother. + But when you decide to break free, - you will shake his yoke from your neck."Jacob Flees to Paddan-Aram + +you will shake his yoke from your neck." +Jacob Flees to Paddan-Aram + 41. From that time on, Esau hated Jacob because their father had given Jacob the blessing. And Esau began to scheme: "I will soon be mourning my father's death. Then I will kill my brother, Jacob." @@ -93,3 +113,4 @@ But when you decide to break free, 46. Then Rebekah said to Isaac, "I'm sick and tired of these local Hittite women! I would rather die than see Jacob marry one of them." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_28.md index fd640da9..45658dec 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_28.md @@ -9,7 +9,10 @@ 6. Esau knew that his father, Isaac, had blessed Jacob and sent him to Paddan-aram to find a wife, and that he had warned Jacob, "You must not marry a Canaanite woman." 7. He also knew that Jacob had obeyed his parents and gone to Paddan-aram. 8. It was now very clear to Esau that his father did not like the local Canaanite women. -9. So Esau visited his uncle Ishmael's family and married one of Ishmael's daughters, in addition to the wives he already had. His new wife's name was Mahalath. She was the sister of Nebaioth and the daughter of Ishmael, Abraham's son.Jacob's Dream at Bethel +9. So Esau visited his uncle Ishmael's family and married one of Ishmael's daughters, in addition to the wives he already had. His new wife's name was Mahalath. She was the sister of Nebaioth and the daughter of Ishmael, Abraham's son. + +Jacob's Dream at Bethel + 10. Meanwhile, Jacob left Beersheba and traveled toward Haran. 11. At sundown he arrived at a good place to set up camp and stopped there for the night. Jacob found a stone to rest his head against and lay down to sleep. @@ -30,3 +33,4 @@ 22. And this memorial pillar I have set up will become a place for worshiping God, and I will present to God a tenth of everything he gives me." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_29.md index ce2e0b29..8752aab7 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_29.md @@ -8,12 +8,17 @@ Jacob Arrives at Paddan-Aram 4. Jacob went over to the shepherds and asked, "Where are you from, my friends?" "We are from Haran," they answered. + 5. "Do you know a man there named Laban, the grandson of Nahor?" he asked. + "Yes, we do," they replied. + 6. "Is he doing well?" Jacob asked. + "Yes, he's well," they answered. "Look, here comes his daughter Rachel with the flock now." + 7. Jacob said, "Look, it's still broad daylight--too early to round up the animals. Why don't you water the sheep and goats so they can get back out to pasture?" 8. "We can't water the animals until all the flocks have arrived," they replied. "Then the shepherds move the stone from the mouth of the well, and we water all the sheep and goats." @@ -24,8 +29,10 @@ Jacob Arrives at Paddan-Aram 12. He explained to Rachel that he was her cousin on her father's side--the son of her aunt Rebekah. So Rachel quickly ran and told her father, Laban. 13. As soon as Laban heard that his nephew Jacob had arrived, he ran out to meet him. He embraced and kissed him and brought him home. When Jacob had told him his story, -14. Laban exclaimed, "You really are my own flesh and blood!"Jacob Marries Leah and Rachel +14. Laban exclaimed, "You really are my own flesh and blood!" +Jacob Marries Leah and Rachel After Jacob had stayed with Laban for about a month, + 15. Laban said to him, "You shouldn't work for me without pay just because we are relatives. Tell me how much your wages should be." 16. Now Laban had two daughters. The older daughter was named Leah, and the younger one was Rachel. @@ -48,7 +55,10 @@ After Jacob had stayed with Laban for about a month, 28. So Jacob agreed to work seven more years. A week after Jacob had married Leah, Laban gave him Rachel, too. 29. (Laban gave Rachel a servant, Bilhah, to be her maid.) -30. So Jacob slept with Rachel, too, and he loved her much more than Leah. He then stayed and worked for Laban the additional seven years.Jacob's Many Children +30. So Jacob slept with Rachel, too, and he loved her much more than Leah. He then stayed and worked for Laban the additional seven years. + +Jacob's Many Children + 31. When the LORD saw that Leah was unloved, he enabled her to have children, but Rachel could not conceive. 32. So Leah became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She named him Reuben, for she said, "The LORD has noticed my misery, and now my husband will love me." @@ -60,3 +70,4 @@ After Jacob had stayed with Laban for about a month, 35. Once again Leah became pregnant and gave birth to another son. She named him Judah, for she said, "Now I will praise the LORD!" And then she stopped having children. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_30.md index cc4b63d6..bd1ff283 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_30.md @@ -21,6 +21,7 @@ 15. But Leah angrily replied, "Wasn't it enough that you stole my husband? Now will you steal my son's mandrakes, too?" Rachel answered, "I will let Jacob sleep with you tonight if you give me some of the mandrakes." + 16. So that evening, as Jacob was coming home from the fields, Leah went out to meet him. "You must come and sleep with me tonight!" she said. "I have paid for you with some mandrakes that my son found." So that night he slept with Leah. 17. And God answered Leah's prayers. She became pregnant again and gave birth to a fifth son for Jacob. 18. She named him Issachar, for she said, "God has rewarded me for giving my servant to my husband as a wife." @@ -30,7 +31,9 @@ Rachel answered, "I will let Jacob sleep with you tonight if you give me some of 22. Then God remembered Rachel's plight and answered her prayers by enabling her to have children. 23. She became pregnant and gave birth to a son. "God has removed my disgrace," she said. -24. And she named him Joseph, for she said, "May the LORD add yet another son to my family."Jacob's Wealth Increases +24. And she named him Joseph, for she said, "May the LORD add yet another son to my family." +Jacob's Wealth Increases + 25. Soon after Rachel had given birth to Joseph, Jacob said to Laban, "Please release me so I can go home to my own country. 26. Let me take my wives and children, for I have earned them by serving you, and let me be on my way. You certainly know how hard I have worked for you." @@ -42,7 +45,9 @@ Rachel answered, "I will let Jacob sleep with you tonight if you give me some of 30. You had little indeed before I came, but your wealth has increased enormously. The LORD has blessed you through everything I've done. But now, what about me? When can I start providing for my own family?" 31. "What wages do you want?" Laban asked again. + Jacob replied, "Don't give me anything. Just do this one thing, and I'll continue to tend and watch over your flocks. + 32. Let me inspect your flocks today and remove all the sheep and goats that are speckled or spotted, along with all the black sheep. Give these to me as my wages. 33. In the future, when you check on the animals you have given me as my wages, you'll see that I have been honest. If you find in my flock any goats without speckles or spots, or any sheep that are not black, you will know that I have stolen them from you." @@ -60,3 +65,4 @@ Jacob replied, "Don't give me anything. Just do this one thing, and I'll continu 43. As a result, Jacob became very wealthy, with large flocks of sheep and goats, female and male servants, and many camels and donkeys. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_31.md index 76af120d..00c6445f 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_31.md @@ -27,7 +27,10 @@ Jacob Flees from Laban 18. and he drove all his livestock in front of him. He packed all the belongings he had acquired in Paddan-aram and set out for the land of Canaan, where his father, Isaac, lived. 19. At the time they left, Laban was some distance away, shearing his sheep. Rachel stole her father's household idols and took them with her. 20. Jacob outwitted Laban the Aramean, for they set out secretly and never told Laban they were leaving. -21. So Jacob took all his possessions with him and crossed the Euphrates River, heading for the hill country of Gilead.Laban Pursues Jacob +21. So Jacob took all his possessions with him and crossed the Euphrates River, heading for the hill country of Gilead. + +Laban Pursues Jacob + 22. Three days later, Laban was told that Jacob had fled. 23. So he gathered a group of his relatives and set out in hot pursuit. He caught up with Jacob seven days later in the hill country of Gilead. @@ -55,7 +58,9 @@ Jacob Flees from Laban 40. "I worked for you through the scorching heat of the day and through cold and sleepless nights. 41. Yes, for twenty years I slaved in your house! I worked for fourteen years earning your two daughters, and then six more years for your flock. And you changed my wages ten times! -42. In fact, if the God of my father had not been on my side--the God of Abraham and the fearsome God of Isaac--you would have sent me away empty-handed. But God has seen your abuse and my hard work. That is why he appeared to you last night and rebuked you!"Jacob's Treaty with Laban +42. In fact, if the God of my father had not been on my side--the God of Abraham and the fearsome God of Isaac--you would have sent me away empty-handed. But God has seen your abuse and my hard work. That is why he appeared to you last night and rebuked you!" +Jacob's Treaty with Laban + 43. Then Laban replied to Jacob, "These women are my daughters, these children are my grandchildren, and these flocks are my flocks--in fact, everything you see is mine. But what can I do now about my daughters and their children? 44. So come, let's make a covenant, you and I, and it will be a witness to our commitment." @@ -77,3 +82,4 @@ So Jacob took an oath before the fearsome God of his father, Isaac, to respect t 55. Laban got up early the next morning, and he kissed his grandchildren and his daughters and blessed them. Then he left and returned home. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_32.md index fb39dc0c..0af8150e 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_32.md @@ -1,6 +1,9 @@ # Chapter 32 1. As Jacob started on his way again, angels of God came to meet him. -2. When Jacob saw them, he exclaimed, "This is God's camp!" So he named the place Mahanaim.Jacob Sends Gifts to Esau +2. When Jacob saw them, he exclaimed, "This is God's camp!" So he named the place Mahanaim. + +Jacob Sends Gifts to Esau + 3. Then Jacob sent messengers ahead to his brother, Esau, who was living in the region of Seir in the land of Edom. 4. He told them, "Give this message to my master Esau: 'Humble greetings from your servant Jacob. Until now I have been living with Uncle Laban, @@ -26,7 +29,11 @@ 19. Jacob gave the same instructions to the second and third herdsmen and to all who followed behind the herds: "You must say the same thing to Esau when you meet him. 20. And be sure to say, 'Look, your servant Jacob is right behind us.'" Jacob thought, "I will try to appease him by sending gifts ahead of me. When I see him in person, perhaps he will be friendly to me." -21. So the gifts were sent on ahead, while Jacob himself spent that night in the camp.Jacob Wrestles with God + +21. So the gifts were sent on ahead, while Jacob himself spent that night in the camp. + +Jacob Wrestles with God + 22. During the night Jacob got up and took his two wives, his two servant wives, and his eleven sons and crossed the Jabbok River with them. 23. After taking them to the other side, he sent over all his possessions. @@ -36,16 +43,22 @@ Jacob thought, "I will try to appease him by sending gifts ahead of me. When I s 26. Then the man said, "Let me go, for the dawn is breaking!" But Jacob said, "I will not let you go unless you bless me." + 27. "What is your name?" the man asked. + He replied, "Jacob." + 28. "Your name will no longer be Jacob," the man told him. "From now on you will be called Israel, because you have fought with God and with men and have won." 29. "Please tell me your name," Jacob said. + "Why do you want to know my name?" the man replied. Then he blessed Jacob there. + 30. Jacob named the place Peniel (which means "face of God"), for he said, "I have seen God face to face, yet my life has been spared." 31. The sun was rising as Jacob left Peniel, and he was limping because of the injury to his hip. 32. (Even today the people of Israel don't eat the tendon near the hip socket because of what happened that night when the man strained the tendon of Jacob's hip.) + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_33.md index c2d8d920..5c1914c4 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_33.md @@ -8,12 +8,15 @@ Jacob and Esau Make Peace 5. Then Esau looked at the women and children and asked, "Who are these people with you?" "These are the children God has graciously given to me, your servant," Jacob replied. + 6. Then the servant wives came forward with their children and bowed before him. 7. Next came Leah with her children, and they bowed before him. Finally, Joseph and Rachel came forward and bowed before him. 8. "And what were all the flocks and herds I met as I came?" Esau asked. + Jacob replied, "They are a gift, my lord, to ensure your friendship." + 9. "My brother, I have plenty," Esau answered. "Keep what you have for yourself." 10. But Jacob insisted, "No, if I have found favor with you, please accept this gift from me. And what a relief to see your friendly smile. It is like seeing the face of God! @@ -27,6 +30,7 @@ Jacob replied, "They are a gift, my lord, to ensure your friendship." 15. "All right," Esau said, "but at least let me assign some of my men to guide and protect you." Jacob responded, "That's not necessary. It's enough that you've received me warmly, my lord!" + 16. So Esau turned around and started back to Seir that same day. 17. Jacob, on the other hand, traveled on to Succoth. There he built himself a house and made shelters for his livestock. That is why the place was named Succoth (which means "shelters"). @@ -35,3 +39,4 @@ Jacob responded, "That's not necessary. It's enough that you've received me warm 20. And there he built an altar and named it El-Elohe-Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_34.md index a8b7343d..7bab3335 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_34.md @@ -44,3 +44,4 @@ Revenge against Shechem 31. "But why should we let him treat our sister like a prostitute?" they retorted angrily. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_35.md index e61fd7c5..1bad16a1 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_35.md @@ -22,7 +22,10 @@ Jacob's Return to Bethel 13. Then God went up from the place where he had spoken to Jacob. 14. Jacob set up a stone pillar to mark the place where God had spoken to him. Then he poured wine over it as an offering to God and anointed the pillar with olive oil. -15. And Jacob named the place Bethel (which means "house of God"), because God had spoken to him there.The Deaths of Rachel and Isaac +15. And Jacob named the place Bethel (which means "house of God"), because God had spoken to him there. + +The Deaths of Rachel and Isaac + 16. Leaving Bethel, Jacob and his clan moved on toward Ephrath. But Rachel went into labor while they were still some distance away. Her labor pains were intense. 17. After a very hard delivery, the midwife finally exclaimed, "Don't be afraid--you have another son!" @@ -32,8 +35,10 @@ Jacob's Return to Bethel 21. Then Jacob traveled on and camped beyond Migdal-eder. 22. While he was living there, Reuben had intercourse with Bilhah, his father's concubine, and Jacob soon heard about it. + These are the names of the twelve sons of Jacob: + 23. The sons of Leah were Reuben (Jacob's oldest son), Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun. 24. The sons of Rachel were Joseph and Benjamin. @@ -41,10 +46,13 @@ These are the names of the twelve sons of Jacob: 25. The sons of Bilhah, Rachel's servant, were Dan and Naphtali. 26. The sons of Zilpah, Leah's servant, were Gad and Asher. + These are the names of the sons who were born to Jacob at Paddan-aram. + 27. So Jacob returned to his father, Isaac, in Mamre, which is near Kiriath-arba (now called Hebron), where Abraham and Isaac had both lived as foreigners. 28. Isaac lived for 180 years. 29. Then he breathed his last and died at a ripe old age, joining his ancestors in death. And his sons, Esau and Jacob, buried him. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_36.md index b847d392..2f7ad968 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_36.md @@ -24,13 +24,17 @@ Descendants of Esau 15. These are the descendants of Esau who became the leaders of various clans: The descendants of Esau's oldest son, Eliphaz, became the leaders of the clans of Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz, + 16. Korah, Gatam, and Amalek. These are the clan leaders in the land of Edom who descended from Eliphaz. All these were descendants of Esau's wife Adah. 17. The descendants of Esau's son Reuel became the leaders of the clans of Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. These are the clan leaders in the land of Edom who descended from Reuel. All these were descendants of Esau's wife Basemath. 18. The descendants of Esau and his wife Oholibamah became the leaders of the clans of Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. These are the clan leaders who descended from Esau's wife Oholibamah, the daughter of Anah. -19. These are the clans descended from Esau (also known as Edom), identified by their clan leaders.Original Peoples of Edom +19. These are the clans descended from Esau (also known as Edom), identified by their clan leaders. + +Original Peoples of Edom + 20. These are the names of the tribes that descended from Seir the Horite. They lived in the land of Edom: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, 21. Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. These were the Horite clan leaders, the descendants of Seir, who lived in the land of Edom. @@ -50,7 +54,10 @@ The descendants of Esau's oldest son, Eliphaz, became the leaders of the clans o 28. The descendants of Dishan were Uz and Aran. 29. So these were the leaders of the Horite clans: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, -30. Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. The Horite clans are named after their clan leaders, who lived in the land of Seir.Rulers of Edom +30. Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. The Horite clans are named after their clan leaders, who lived in the land of Seir. + +Rulers of Edom + 31. These are the kings who ruled in the land of Edom before any king ruled over the Israelites: @@ -76,3 +83,4 @@ The descendants of Esau's oldest son, Eliphaz, became the leaders of the clans o 43. Magdiel, and Iram. These are the leaders of the clans of Edom, listed according to their settlements in the land they occupied. They all descended from Esau, the ancestor of the Edomites. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_37.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_37.md index f33bab23..a46deb8e 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_37.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_37.md @@ -23,13 +23,17 @@ Joseph's Dreams 13. When they had been gone for some time, Jacob said to Joseph, "Your brothers are pasturing the sheep at Shechem. Get ready, and I will send you to them." "I'm ready to go," Joseph replied. + 14. "Go and see how your brothers and the flocks are getting along," Jacob said. "Then come back and bring me a report." So Jacob sent him on his way, and Joseph traveled to Shechem from their home in the valley of Hebron. 15. When he arrived there, a man from the area noticed him wandering around the countryside. "What are you looking for?" he asked. 16. "I'm looking for my brothers," Joseph replied. "Do you know where they are pasturing their sheep?" -17. "Yes," the man told him. "They have moved on from here, but I heard them say, 'Let's go on to Dothan.'" So Joseph followed his brothers to Dothan and found them there.Joseph Sold into Slavery +17. "Yes," the man told him. "They have moved on from here, but I heard them say, 'Let's go on to Dothan.'" So Joseph followed his brothers to Dothan and found them there. + +Joseph Sold into Slavery + 18. When Joseph's brothers saw him coming, they recognized him in the distance. As he approached, they made plans to kill him. 19. "Here comes the dreamer!" they said. @@ -59,3 +63,4 @@ Joseph's Dreams 36. Meanwhile, the Midianite traders arrived in Egypt, where they sold Joseph to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. Potiphar was captain of the palace guard. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_38.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_38.md index 66a2bd94..b502f95b 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_38.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_38.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Judah and Tamar # Chapter 38 -1. About this time, Judah left home and moved to Adullam, where he stayed with a man named Hirah. +1. +About this time, Judah left home and moved to Adullam, where he stayed with a man named Hirah. 2. There he saw a Canaanite woman, the daughter of Shua, and he married her. When he slept with her, 3. she became pregnant and gave birth to a son, and he named the boy Er. 4. Then she became pregnant again and gave birth to another son, and she named him Onan. @@ -22,26 +23,35 @@ Judah and Tamar 14. Tamar was aware that Shelah had grown up, but no arrangements had been made for her to come and marry him. So she changed out of her widow's clothing and covered herself with a veil to disguise herself. Then she sat beside the road at the entrance to the village of Enaim, which is on the road to Timnah. 15. Judah noticed her and thought she was a prostitute, since she had covered her face. 16. So he stopped and propositioned her. "Let me have sex with you," he said, not realizing that she was his own daughter-in-law. + "How much will you pay to have sex with me?" Tamar asked. + 17. "I'll send you a young goat from my flock," Judah promised. + "But what will you give me to guarantee that you will send the goat?" she asked. + 18. "What kind of guarantee do you want?" he replied. + She answered, "Leave me your identification seal and its cord and the walking stick you are carrying." So Judah gave them to her. Then he had intercourse with her, and she became pregnant. + 19. Afterward she went back home, took off her veil, and put on her widow's clothing as usual. 20. Later Judah asked his friend Hirah the Adullamite to take the young goat to the woman and to pick up the things he had given her as his guarantee. But Hirah couldn't find her. 21. So he asked the men who lived there, "Where can I find the shrine prostitute who was sitting beside the road at the entrance to Enaim?" "We've never had a shrine prostitute here," they replied. + 22. So Hirah returned to Judah and told him, "I couldn't find her anywhere, and the men of the village claim they've never had a shrine prostitute there." 23. "Then let her keep the things I gave her," Judah said. "I sent the young goat as we agreed, but you couldn't find her. We'd be the laughingstock of the village if we went back again to look for her." -24. About three months later, Judah was told, "Tamar, your daughter-in-law, has acted like a prostitute. And now, because of this, she's pregnant." +24. +About three months later, Judah was told, "Tamar, your daughter-in-law, has acted like a prostitute. And now, because of this, she's pregnant." "Bring her out, and let her be burned!" Judah demanded. + 25. But as they were taking her out to kill her, she sent this message to her father-in-law: "The man who owns these things made me pregnant. Look closely. Whose seal and cord and walking stick are these?" 26. Judah recognized them immediately and said, "She is more righteous than I am, because I didn't arrange for her to marry my son Shelah." And Judah never slept with Tamar again. @@ -52,3 +62,4 @@ She answered, "Leave me your identification seal and its cord and the walking st 30. Then the baby with the scarlet string on his wrist was born, and he was named Zerah. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_39.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_39.md index 141fbe68..a365bfe1 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_39.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_39.md @@ -9,6 +9,7 @@ Joseph in Potiphar's House 5. From the day Joseph was put in charge of his master's household and property, the LORD began to bless Potiphar's household for Joseph's sake. All his household affairs ran smoothly, and his crops and livestock flourished. 6. So Potiphar gave Joseph complete administrative responsibility over everything he owned. With Joseph there, he didn't worry about a thing--except what kind of food to eat! Joseph was a very handsome and well-built young man, + 7. and Potiphar's wife soon began to look at him lustfully. "Come and sleep with me," she demanded. 8. But Joseph refused. "Look," he told her, "my master trusts me with everything in his entire household. @@ -24,7 +25,9 @@ Joseph was a very handsome and well-built young man, 16. She kept the cloak with her until her husband came home. 17. Then she told him her story. "That Hebrew slave you've brought into our house tried to come in and fool around with me," she said. -18. "But when I screamed, he ran outside, leaving his cloak with me!"Joseph Put in Prison +18. "But when I screamed, he ran outside, leaving his cloak with me!" +Joseph Put in Prison + 19. Potiphar was furious when he heard his wife's story about how Joseph had treated her. 20. So he took Joseph and threw him into the prison where the king's prisoners were held, and there he remained. @@ -33,3 +36,4 @@ Joseph was a very handsome and well-built young man, 23. The warden had no more worries, because Joseph took care of everything. The LORD was with him and caused everything he did to succeed. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_40.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_40.md index 133a917c..df3df601 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_40.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_40.md @@ -13,6 +13,7 @@ Joseph Interprets Two Dreams 8. And they replied, "We both had dreams last night, but no one can tell us what they mean." "Interpreting dreams is God's business," Joseph replied. "Go ahead and tell me your dreams." + 9. So the chief cup-bearer told Joseph his dream first. "In my dream," he said, "I saw a grapevine in front of me. 10. The vine had three branches that began to bud and blossom, and soon it produced clusters of ripe grapes. 11. I was holding Pharaoh's wine cup in my hand, so I took a cluster of grapes and squeezed the juice into the cup. Then I placed the cup in Pharaoh's hand." @@ -34,3 +35,4 @@ Joseph Interprets Two Dreams 23. Pharaoh's chief cup-bearer, however, forgot all about Joseph, never giving him another thought. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_41.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_41.md index d33b41a9..bf7d96cc 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_41.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_41.md @@ -45,8 +45,11 @@ Pharaoh's Dreams 33. "Therefore, Pharaoh should find an intelligent and wise man and put him in charge of the entire land of Egypt. 34. Then Pharaoh should appoint supervisors over the land and let them collect one-fifth of all the crops during the seven good years. -35. Have them gather all the food produced in the good years that are just ahead and bring it to Pharaoh's storehouses. Store it away, and guard it so there will be food in the cities. -36. That way there will be enough to eat when the seven years of famine come to the land of Egypt. Otherwise this famine will destroy the land."Joseph Made Ruler of Egypt +35. Have them gather all the food produced in the good years that are just ahead and bring it to Pharaoh's storehouses. +Store it away, and guard it so there will be food in the cities. +36. That way there will be enough to eat when the seven years of famine come to the land of Egypt. Otherwise this famine will destroy the land." +Joseph Made Ruler of Egypt + 37. Joseph's suggestions were well received by Pharaoh and his officials. 38. So Pharaoh asked his officials, "Can we find anyone else like this man so obviously filled with the spirit of God?" @@ -76,3 +79,4 @@ Pharaoh's Dreams 57. And people from all around came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph because the famine was severe throughout the world. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_42.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_42.md index 209e87df..851b1ae2 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_42.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_42.md @@ -10,8 +10,10 @@ Joseph's Brothers Go to Egypt 6. Since Joseph was governor of all Egypt and in charge of selling grain to all the people, it was to him that his brothers came. When they arrived, they bowed before him with their faces to the ground. 7. Joseph recognized his brothers instantly, but he pretended to be a stranger and spoke harshly to them. "Where are you from?" he demanded. + "From the land of Canaan," they replied. "We have come to buy food." + 8. Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they didn't recognize him. 9. And he remembered the dreams he'd had about them many years before. He said to them, "You are spies! You have come to see how vulnerable our land has become." @@ -60,3 +62,4 @@ Joseph's Brothers Go to Egypt 38. But Jacob replied, "My son will not go down with you. His brother Joseph is dead, and he is all I have left. If anything should happen to him on your journey, you would send this grieving, white-haired man to his grave." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_43.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_43.md index fb1f908b..0be37c23 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_43.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_43.md @@ -25,7 +25,9 @@ The Brothers Return to Egypt 16. When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the manager of his household, "These men will eat with me this noon. Take them inside the palace. Then go slaughter an animal, and prepare a big feast." 17. So the man did as Joseph told him and took them into Joseph's palace. -18. The brothers were terrified when they saw that they were being taken into Joseph's house. "It's because of the money someone put in our sacks last time we were here," they said. "He plans to pretend that we stole it. Then he will seize us, make us slaves, and take our donkeys."A Feast at Joseph's Palace +18. The brothers were terrified when they saw that they were being taken into Joseph's house. "It's because of the money someone put in our sacks last time we were here," they said. "He plans to pretend that we stole it. Then he will seize us, make us slaves, and take our donkeys." +A Feast at Joseph's Palace + 19. The brothers approached the manager of Joseph's household and spoke to him at the entrance to the palace. 20. "Sir," they said, "we came to Egypt once before to buy food. @@ -51,3 +53,4 @@ The Brothers Return to Egypt 34. And Joseph filled their plates with food from his own table, giving Benjamin five times as much as he gave the others. So they feasted and drank freely with him. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_44.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_44.md index 062178b5..897fc5ab 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_44.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_44.md @@ -25,7 +25,9 @@ Joseph's Silver Cup 16. Judah answered, "Oh, my lord, what can we say to you? How can we explain this? How can we prove our innocence? God is punishing us for our sins. My lord, we have all returned to be your slaves--all of us, not just our brother who had your cup in his sack." -17. "No," Joseph said. "I would never do such a thing! Only the man who stole the cup will be my slave. The rest of you may go back to your father in peace."Judah Speaks for His Brothers +17. "No," Joseph said. "I would never do such a thing! Only the man who stole the cup will be my slave. The rest of you may go back to your father in peace." +Judah Speaks for His Brothers + 18. Then Judah stepped forward and said, "Please, my lord, let your servant say just one word to you. Please, do not be angry with me, even though you are as powerful as Pharaoh himself. @@ -52,3 +54,4 @@ Joseph's Silver Cup 34. For how can I return to my father if the boy is not with me? I couldn't bear to see the anguish this would cause my father!" + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_45.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_45.md index d095ec4b..c5d63b85 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_45.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_45.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ Joseph Reveals His Identity 12. Then Joseph added, "Look! You can see for yourselves, and so can my brother Benjamin, that I really am Joseph! 13. Go tell my father of my honored position here in Egypt. Describe for him everything you have seen, and then bring my father here quickly." 14. Weeping with joy, he embraced Benjamin, and Benjamin did the same. -15. Then Joseph kissed each of his brothers and wept over them, and after that they began talking freely with him.Pharaoh Invites Jacob to Egypt +15. Then Joseph kissed each of his brothers and wept over them, and after that they began talking freely with him. + +Pharaoh Invites Jacob to Egypt + 16. The news soon reached Pharaoh's palace: "Joseph's brothers have arrived!" Pharaoh and his officials were all delighted to hear this. @@ -41,3 +44,4 @@ Joseph Reveals His Identity 28. Then Jacob exclaimed, "It must be true! My son Joseph is alive! I must go and see him before I die." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_46.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_46.md index 658891df..92632be0 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_46.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_46.md @@ -3,8 +3,10 @@ Jacob's Journey to Egypt # Chapter 46 1. So Jacob set out for Egypt with all his possessions. And when he came to Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father, Isaac. 2. During the night God spoke to him in a vision. "Jacob! Jacob!" he called. + "Here I am," Jacob replied. + 3. "I am God, the God of your father," the voice said. "Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make your family into a great nation. 4. I will go with you down to Egypt, and I will bring you back again. You will die in Egypt, but Joseph will be with you to close your eyes." @@ -14,6 +16,7 @@ Jacob's Journey to Egypt 8. These are the names of the descendants of Israel--the sons of Jacob--who went to Egypt: Reuben was Jacob's oldest son. + 9. The sons of Reuben were Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi. 10. The sons of Simeon were Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar, and Shaul. (Shaul's mother was a Canaanite woman.) @@ -49,7 +52,10 @@ Reuben was Jacob's oldest son. 25. These were the sons of Bilhah, the servant given to Rachel by her father, Laban. The number of Jacob's descendants through Bilhah was seven. 26. The total number of Jacob's direct descendants who went with him to Egypt, not counting his sons' wives, was sixty-six. -27. In addition, Joseph had two sons who were born in Egypt. So altogether, there were seventy members of Jacob's family in the land of Egypt.Jacob's Family Arrives in Goshen +27. In addition, Joseph had two sons who were born in Egypt. So altogether, there were seventy members of Jacob's family in the land of Egypt. + +Jacob's Family Arrives in Goshen + 28. As they neared their destination, Jacob sent Judah ahead to meet Joseph and get directions to the region of Goshen. And when they finally arrived there, 29. Joseph prepared his chariot and traveled to Goshen to meet his father, Jacob. When Joseph arrived, he embraced his father and wept, holding him for a long time. @@ -62,3 +68,4 @@ Reuben was Jacob's oldest son. 34. you must tell him, 'We, your servants, have raised livestock all our lives, as our ancestors have always done.' When you tell him this, he will let you live here in the region of Goshen, for the Egyptians despise shepherds." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_47.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_47.md index 4f3a736f..5f449a34 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_47.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_47.md @@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ Jacob Blesses Pharaoh 2. Joseph took five of his brothers with him and presented them to Pharaoh. 3. And Pharaoh asked the brothers, "What is your occupation?" They replied, "We, your servants, are shepherds, just like our ancestors. + 4. We have come to live here in Egypt for a while, for there is no pasture for our flocks in Canaan. The famine is very severe there. So please, we request permission to live in the region of Goshen." 5. Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Now that your father and brothers have joined you here, @@ -19,7 +20,10 @@ They replied, "We, your servants, are shepherds, just like our ancestors. 10. Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh again before leaving his court. 11. So Joseph assigned the best land of Egypt--the region of Rameses--to his father and his brothers, and he settled them there, just as Pharaoh had commanded. -12. And Joseph provided food for his father and his brothers in amounts appropriate to the number of their dependents, including the smallest children.Joseph's Leadership in the Famine +12. And Joseph provided food for his father and his brothers in amounts appropriate to the number of their dependents, including the smallest children. + +Joseph's Leadership in the Famine + 13. Meanwhile, the famine became so severe that all the food was used up, and people were starving throughout the lands of Egypt and Canaan. 14. By selling grain to the people, Joseph eventually collected all the money in Egypt and Canaan, and he put the money in Pharaoh's treasury. @@ -48,6 +52,8 @@ They replied, "We, your servants, are shepherds, just like our ancestors. 30. When I die, please take my body out of Egypt and bury me with my ancestors." So Joseph promised, "I will do as you ask." + 31. "Swear that you will do it," Jacob insisted. So Joseph gave his oath, and Jacob bowed humbly at the head of his bed. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_48.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_48.md index 735ed4d9..abee7412 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_48.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_48.md @@ -18,6 +18,7 @@ Jacob Blesses Manasseh and Ephraim 9. "Yes," Joseph told him, "these are the sons God has given me here in Egypt." And Jacob said, "Bring them closer to me, so I can bless them." + 10. Jacob was half blind because of his age and could hardly see. So Joseph brought the boys close to him, and Jacob kissed and embraced them. 11. Then Jacob said to Joseph, "I never thought I would see your face again, but now God has let me see your children, too!" @@ -26,16 +27,25 @@ And Jacob said, "Bring them closer to me, so I can bless them." 14. But Jacob crossed his arms as he reached out to lay his hands on the boys' heads. He put his right hand on the head of Ephraim, though he was the younger boy, and his left hand on the head of Manasseh, though he was the firstborn. 15. Then he blessed Joseph and said, "May the God before whom my grandfather Abraham - and my father, Isaac, walked-- + +and my father, Isaac, walked-- the God who has been my shepherd - all my life, to this very day, + +all my life, to this very day, + 16. the Angel who has redeemed me from all harm-- - may he bless these boys. + +may he bless these boys. + May they preserve my name - and the names of Abraham and Isaac. + +and the names of Abraham and Isaac. + And may their descendants multiply greatly - throughout the earth." + +throughout the earth." + 17. But Joseph was upset when he saw that his father placed his right hand on Ephraim's head. So Joseph lifted it to move it from Ephraim's head to Manasseh's head. 18. "No, my father," he said. "This one is the firstborn. Put your right hand on his head." @@ -48,3 +58,4 @@ And may their descendants multiply greatly 22. And beyond what I have given your brothers, I am giving you an extra portion of the land that I took from the Amorites with my sword and bow." + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_49.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_49.md index dda121cd..e4d8ff1e 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_49.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_49.md @@ -4,112 +4,181 @@ Jacob's Last Words to His Sons 1. Then Jacob called together all his sons and said, "Gather around me, and I will tell you what will happen to each of you in the days to come. 2. "Come and listen, you sons of Jacob; - listen to Israel, your father. + +listen to Israel, your father. + 3. "Reuben, you are my firstborn, my strength, - the child of my vigorous youth. - You are first in rank and first in power. + +the child of my vigorous youth. + +You are first in rank and first in power. + 4. But you are as unruly as a flood, - and you will be first no longer. + +and you will be first no longer. + For you went to bed with my wife; - you defiled my marriage couch. + +you defiled my marriage couch. + 5. "Simeon and Levi are two of a kind; - their weapons are instruments of violence. + +their weapons are instruments of violence. + 6. May I never join in their meetings; - may I never be a party to their plans. + +may I never be a party to their plans. + For in their anger they murdered men, - and they crippled oxen just for sport. + +and they crippled oxen just for sport. + 7. A curse on their anger, for it is fierce; - a curse on their wrath, for it is cruel. + +a curse on their wrath, for it is cruel. + I will scatter them among the descendants of Jacob; - I will disperse them throughout Israel. + +I will disperse them throughout Israel. + 8. "Judah, your brothers will praise you. - You will grasp your enemies by the neck. - All your relatives will bow before you. + +You will grasp your enemies by the neck. + +All your relatives will bow before you. + 9. Judah, my son, is a young lion - that has finished eating its prey. + +that has finished eating its prey. + Like a lion he crouches and lies down; like a lioness--who dares to rouse him? 10. The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from his descendants, until the coming of the one to whom it belongs, - the one whom all nations will honor. + +the one whom all nations will honor. + 11. He ties his foal to a grapevine, - the colt of his donkey to a choice vine. + +the colt of his donkey to a choice vine. + He washes his clothes in wine, - his robes in the blood of grapes. + +his robes in the blood of grapes. + 12. His eyes are darker than wine, - and his teeth are whiter than milk. + +and his teeth are whiter than milk. + 13. "Zebulun will settle by the seashore - and will be a harbor for ships; - his borders will extend to Sidon. + +and will be a harbor for ships; + +his borders will extend to Sidon. + 14. "Issachar is a sturdy donkey, resting between two saddlepacks. 15. When he sees how good the countryside is - and how pleasant the land, + +and how pleasant the land, he will bend his shoulder to the load - and submit himself to hard labor. + +and submit himself to hard labor. + 16. "Dan will govern his people, - like any other tribe in Israel. + +like any other tribe in Israel. + 17. Dan will be a snake beside the road, - a poisonous viper along the path + +a poisonous viper along the path that bites the horse's hooves - so its rider is thrown off. + +so its rider is thrown off. + 18. I trust in you for salvation, O LORD! 19. "Gad will be attacked by marauding bands, - but he will attack them when they retreat. + +but he will attack them when they retreat. + 20. "Asher will dine on rich foods - and produce food fit for kings. + +and produce food fit for kings. + 21. "Naphtali is a doe set free - that bears beautiful fawns. + +that bears beautiful fawns. + 22. "Joseph is the foal of a wild donkey, - the foal of a wild donkey at a spring-- + +the foal of a wild donkey at a spring-- one of the wild donkeys on the ridge. 23. Archers attacked him savagely; - they shot at him and harassed him. + +they shot at him and harassed him. + 24. But his bow remained taut, - and his arms were strengthened + +and his arms were strengthened by the hands of the Mighty One of Jacob, - by the Shepherd, the Rock of Israel. + +by the Shepherd, the Rock of Israel. + 25. May the God of your father help you; - may the Almighty bless you + +may the Almighty bless you with the blessings of the heavens above, - and blessings of the watery depths below, - and blessings of the breasts and womb. + +and blessings of the watery depths below, + +and blessings of the breasts and womb. + 26. May my fatherly blessings on you surpass the blessings of my ancestors, - reaching to the heights of the eternal hills. + +reaching to the heights of the eternal hills. + May these blessings rest on the head of Joseph, - who is a prince among his brothers. + +who is a prince among his brothers. + 27. "Benjamin is a ravenous wolf, - devouring his enemies in the morning - and dividing his plunder in the evening." + +devouring his enemies in the morning + +and dividing his plunder in the evening." + + +28. These are the twelve tribes of Israel, and this is what their father said as he told his sons good-bye. He blessed each one with an appropriate message. + +Jacob's Death and Burial -28. These are the twelve tribes of Israel, and this is what their father said as he told his sons good-bye. He blessed each one with an appropriate message.Jacob's Death and Burial 29. Then Jacob instructed them, "Soon I will die and join my ancestors. Bury me with my father and grandfather in the cave in the field of Ephron the Hittite. 30. This is the cave in the field of Machpelah, near Mamre in Canaan, that Abraham bought from Ephron the Hittite as a permanent burial site. @@ -119,3 +188,4 @@ May these blessings rest on the head of Joseph, 33. When Jacob had finished this charge to his sons, he drew his feet into the bed, breathed his last, and joined his ancestors in death. + diff --git a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_50.md b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_50.md index dbd56737..9fdf46d9 100644 --- a/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_50.md +++ b/NLT/01_Genesis/Chapter_50.md @@ -15,7 +15,10 @@ 11. The local residents, the Canaanites, watched them mourning at the threshing floor of Atad. Then they renamed that place (which is near the Jordan) Abel-mizraim, for they said, "This is a place of deep mourning for these Egyptians." 12. So Jacob's sons did as he had commanded them. -13. They carried his body to the land of Canaan and buried him in the cave in the field of Machpelah, near Mamre. This is the cave that Abraham had bought as a permanent burial site from Ephron the Hittite.Joseph Reassures His Brothers +13. They carried his body to the land of Canaan and buried him in the cave in the field of Machpelah, near Mamre. This is the cave that Abraham had bought as a permanent burial site from Ephron the Hittite. + +Joseph Reassures His Brothers + 14. After burying Jacob, Joseph returned to Egypt with his brothers and all who had accompanied him to his father's burial. 15. But now that their father was dead, Joseph's brothers became fearful. "Now Joseph will show his anger and pay us back for all the wrong we did to him," they said. @@ -26,7 +29,10 @@ 19. But Joseph replied, "Don't be afraid of me. Am I God, that I can punish you? 20. You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. -21. No, don't be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children." So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them.The Death of Joseph +21. No, don't be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children." So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them. + +The Death of Joseph + 22. So Joseph and his brothers and their families continued to live in Egypt. Joseph lived to the age of 110. 23. He lived to see three generations of descendants of his son Ephraim, and he lived to see the birth of the children of Manasseh's son Makir, whom he claimed as his own. @@ -37,3 +43,4 @@ 26. So Joseph died at the age of 110. The Egyptians embalmed him, and his body was placed in a coffin in Egypt. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_01.md index a2189de9..063ee56a 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_01.md @@ -33,3 +33,4 @@ The Israelites in Egypt 22. Then Pharaoh gave this order to all his people: "Throw every newborn Hebrew boy into the Nile River. But you may let the girls live." + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_02.md index 41e5f353..dc23d20c 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ The Birth of Moses # Chapter 2 -1. About this time, a man and woman from the tribe of Levi got married. +1. +About this time, a man and woman from the tribe of Levi got married. 2. The woman became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She saw that he was a special baby and kept him hidden for three months. 3. But when she could no longer hide him, she got a basket made of papyrus reeds and waterproofed it with tar and pitch. She put the baby in the basket and laid it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River. 4. The baby's sister then stood at a distance, watching to see what would happen to him. @@ -15,7 +16,9 @@ The Birth of Moses 9. "Take this baby and nurse him for me," the princess told the baby's mother. "I will pay you for your help." So the woman took her baby home and nursed him. -10. Later, when the boy was older, his mother brought him back to Pharaoh's daughter, who adopted him as her own son. The princess named him Moses, for she explained, "I lifted him out of the water."Moses Escapes to Midian +10. Later, when the boy was older, his mother brought him back to Pharaoh's daughter, who adopted him as her own son. The princess named him Moses, for she explained, "I lifted him out of the water." +Moses Escapes to Midian + 11. Many years later, when Moses had grown up, he went out to visit his own people, the Hebrews, and he saw how hard they were forced to work. During his visit, he saw an Egyptian beating one of his fellow Hebrews. 12. After looking in all directions to make sure no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand. @@ -24,8 +27,11 @@ The Birth of Moses 14. The man replied, "Who appointed you to be our prince and judge? Are you going to kill me as you killed that Egyptian yesterday?" Then Moses was afraid, thinking, "Everyone knows what I did." + 15. And sure enough, Pharaoh heard what had happened, and he tried to kill Moses. But Moses fled from Pharaoh and went to live in the land of Midian. + When Moses arrived in Midian, he sat down beside a well. + 16. Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters who came as usual to draw water and fill the water troughs for their father's flocks. 17. But some other shepherds came and chased them away. So Moses jumped up and rescued the girls from the shepherds. Then he drew water for their flocks. @@ -43,3 +49,4 @@ When Moses arrived in Midian, he sat down beside a well. 25. He looked down on the people of Israel and knew it was time to act. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_03.md index 88f2babd..3c29312c 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_03.md @@ -8,6 +8,7 @@ Moses and the Burning Bush 4. When the LORD saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, "Moses! Moses!" "Here I am!" Moses replied. + 5. "Do not come any closer," the LORD warned. "Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground. 6. I am the God of your father--the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." When Moses heard this, he covered his face because he was afraid to look at God. @@ -24,8 +25,11 @@ Moses and the Burning Bush 14. God replied to Moses, "I am who i am. Say this to the people of Israel: I am has sent me to you." 15. God also said to Moses, "Say this to the people of Israel: Yahweh, the God of your ancestors--the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob--has sent me to you. + This is my eternal name, - my name to remember for all generations. + +my name to remember for all generations. + 16. "Now go and call together all the elders of Israel. Tell them, 'Yahweh, the God of your ancestors--the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob--has appeared to me. He told me, "I have been watching closely, and I see how the Egyptians are treating you. 17. I have promised to rescue you from your oppression in Egypt. I will lead you to a land flowing with milk and honey--the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live."' @@ -38,3 +42,4 @@ This is my eternal name, 22. Every Israelite woman will ask for articles of silver and gold and fine clothing from her Egyptian neighbors and from the foreign women in their houses. You will dress your sons and daughters with these, stripping the Egyptians of their wealth." + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_04.md index 620e535d..328ac433 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_04.md @@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ Signs of the LORD's Power 2. Then the LORD asked him, "What is that in your hand?" "A shepherd's staff," Moses replied. + 3. "Throw it down on the ground," the LORD told him. So Moses threw down the staff, and it turned into a snake! Moses jumped back. 4. Then the LORD told him, "Reach out and grab its tail." So Moses reached out and grabbed it, and it turned back into a shepherd's staff in his hand. @@ -28,11 +29,14 @@ Signs of the LORD's Power 14. Then the LORD became angry with Moses. "All right," he said. "What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he speaks well. And look! He is on his way to meet you now. He will be delighted to see you. 15. Talk to him, and put the words in his mouth. I will be with both of you as you speak, and I will instruct you both in what to do. 16. Aaron will be your spokesman to the people. He will be your mouthpiece, and you will stand in the place of God for him, telling him what to say. -17. And take your shepherd's staff with you, and use it to perform the miraculous signs I have shown you."Moses Returns to Egypt +17. And take your shepherd's staff with you, and use it to perform the miraculous signs I have shown you." +Moses Returns to Egypt + 18. So Moses went back home to Jethro, his father-in-law. "Please let me return to my relatives in Egypt," Moses said. "I don't even know if they are still alive." "Go in peace," Jethro replied. + 19. Before Moses left Midian, the LORD said to him, "Return to Egypt, for all those who wanted to kill you have died." 20. So Moses took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey, and headed back to the land of Egypt. In his hand he carried the staff of God. @@ -53,3 +57,4 @@ Signs of the LORD's Power 31. Then the people of Israel were convinced that the LORD had sent Moses and Aaron. When they heard that the LORD was concerned about them and had seen their misery, they bowed down and worshiped. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_05.md index 0ab884ea..562049e0 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_05.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ Moses and Aaron Speak to Pharaoh 3. But Aaron and Moses persisted. "The God of the Hebrews has met with us," they declared. "So let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness so we can offer sacrifices to the LORD our God. If we don't, he will kill us with a plague or with the sword." 4. Pharaoh replied, "Moses and Aaron, why are you distracting the people from their tasks? Get back to work! -5. Look, there are many of your people in the land, and you are stopping them from their work."Making Bricks without Straw +5. Look, there are many of your people in the land, and you are stopping them from their work." +Making Bricks without Straw + 6. That same day Pharaoh sent this order to the Egyptian slave drivers and the Israelite foremen: 7. "Do not supply any more straw for making bricks. Make the people get it themselves! @@ -36,3 +38,4 @@ Moses and Aaron Speak to Pharaoh 23. Ever since I came to Pharaoh as your spokesman, he has been even more brutal to your people. And you have done nothing to rescue them!" + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_06.md index 2d737581..e6a14c2d 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_06.md @@ -19,11 +19,15 @@ Promises of Deliverance 12. "But LORD!" Moses objected. "My own people won't listen to me anymore. How can I expect Pharaoh to listen? I'm such a clumsy speaker!" -13. But the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron and gave them orders for the Israelites and for Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. The LORD commanded Moses and Aaron to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt.The Ancestors of Moses and Aaron +13. But the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron and gave them orders for the Israelites and for Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. The LORD commanded Moses and Aaron to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt. + +The Ancestors of Moses and Aaron + 14. These are the ancestors of some of the clans of Israel: The sons of Reuben, Israel's oldest son, were Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi. Their descendants became the clans of Reuben. + 15. The sons of Simeon were Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar, and Shaul. (Shaul's mother was a Canaanite woman.) Their descendants became the clans of Simeon. 16. These are the descendants of Levi, as listed in their family records: The sons of Levi were Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. (Levi lived to be 137 years old.) @@ -33,8 +37,10 @@ The sons of Reuben, Israel's oldest son, were Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi. 18. The descendants of Kohath included Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. (Kohath lived to be 133 years old.) 19. The descendants of Merari included Mahli and Mushi. + These are the clans of the Levites, as listed in their family records. + 20. Amram married his father's sister Jochebed, and she gave birth to his sons, Aaron and Moses. (Amram lived to be 137 years old.) 21. The sons of Izhar were Korah, Nepheg, and Zicri. @@ -46,8 +52,10 @@ These are the clans of the Levites, as listed in their family records. 24. The sons of Korah were Assir, Elkanah, and Abiasaph. Their descendants became the clans of Korah. 25. Eleazar son of Aaron married one of the daughters of Putiel, and she gave birth to his son, Phinehas. + These are the ancestors of the Levite families, listed according to their clans. + 26. The Aaron and Moses named in this list are the same ones to whom the LORD said, "Lead the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt like an army." 27. It was Moses and Aaron who spoke to Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, about leading the people of Israel out of Egypt. @@ -56,3 +64,4 @@ These are the ancestors of the Levite families, listed according to their clans. 30. But Moses argued with the LORD, saying, "I can't do it! I'm such a clumsy speaker! Why should Pharaoh listen to me?" + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_07.md index 3a1a7fbf..8ff4f81b 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_07.md @@ -16,7 +16,10 @@ Aaron's Staff Becomes a Serpent 10. So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did what the LORD had commanded them. Aaron threw down his staff before Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent! 11. Then Pharaoh called in his own wise men and sorcerers, and these Egyptian magicians did the same thing with their magic. 12. They threw down their staffs, which also became serpents! But then Aaron's staff swallowed up their staffs. -13. Pharaoh's heart, however, remained hard. He still refused to listen, just as the LORD had predicted.A Plague of Blood +13. Pharaoh's heart, however, remained hard. He still refused to listen, just as the LORD had predicted. + +A Plague of Blood + 14. Then the LORD said to Moses, "Pharaoh's heart is stubborn, and he still refuses to let the people go. 15. So go to Pharaoh in the morning as he goes down to the river. Stand on the bank of the Nile and meet him there. Be sure to take along the staff that turned into a snake. @@ -35,3 +38,4 @@ Aaron's Staff Becomes a Serpent 25. Seven days passed from the time the LORD struck the Nile. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_08.md index cb5eae36..d1c9a56e 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_08.md @@ -21,13 +21,19 @@ A Plague of Frogs 12. So Moses and Aaron left Pharaoh's palace, and Moses cried out to the LORD about the frogs he had inflicted on Pharaoh. 13. And the LORD did just what Moses had predicted. The frogs in the houses, the courtyards, and the fields all died. 14. The Egyptians piled them into great heaps, and a terrible stench filled the land. -15. But when Pharaoh saw that relief had come, he became stubborn. He refused to listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had predicted.A Plague of Gnats +15. But when Pharaoh saw that relief had come, he became stubborn. He refused to listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had predicted. + +A Plague of Gnats + 16. So the LORD said to Moses, "Tell Aaron, 'Raise your staff and strike the ground. The dust will turn into swarms of gnats throughout the land of Egypt.'" 17. So Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them. When Aaron raised his hand and struck the ground with his staff, gnats infested the entire land, covering the Egyptians and their animals. All the dust in the land of Egypt turned into gnats. 18. Pharaoh's magicians tried to do the same thing with their secret arts, but this time they failed. And the gnats covered everyone, people and animals alike. -19. "This is the finger of God!" the magicians exclaimed to Pharaoh. But Pharaoh's heart remained hard. He wouldn't listen to them, just as the LORD had predicted.A Plague of Flies +19. "This is the finger of God!" the magicians exclaimed to Pharaoh. But Pharaoh's heart remained hard. He wouldn't listen to them, just as the LORD had predicted. + +A Plague of Flies + 20. Then the LORD told Moses, "Get up early in the morning and stand in Pharaoh's way as he goes down to the river. Say to him, 'This is what the LORD says: Let my people go, so they can worship me. 21. If you refuse, then I will send swarms of flies on you, your officials, your people, and all the houses. The Egyptian homes will be filled with flies, and the ground will be covered with them. @@ -50,3 +56,4 @@ A Plague of Frogs 32. But Pharaoh again became stubborn and refused to let the people go. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_09.md index 13ec11b3..3421a96e 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_09.md @@ -8,14 +8,20 @@ A Plague against Livestock 5. The LORD has already set the time for the plague to begin. He has declared that he will strike the land tomorrow.'" 6. And the LORD did just as he had said. The next morning all the livestock of the Egyptians died, but the Israelites didn't lose a single animal. -7. Pharaoh sent his officials to investigate, and they discovered that the Israelites had not lost a single animal! But even so, Pharaoh's heart remained stubborn, and he still refused to let the people go.A Plague of Festering Boils +7. Pharaoh sent his officials to investigate, and they discovered that the Israelites had not lost a single animal! But even so, Pharaoh's heart remained stubborn, and he still refused to let the people go. + +A Plague of Festering Boils + 8. Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "Take handfuls of soot from a brick kiln, and have Moses toss it into the air while Pharaoh watches. 9. The ashes will spread like fine dust over the whole land of Egypt, causing festering boils to break out on people and animals throughout the land." 10. So they took soot from a brick kiln and went and stood before Pharaoh. As Pharaoh watched, Moses threw the soot into the air, and boils broke out on people and animals alike. 11. Even the magicians were unable to stand before Moses, because the boils had broken out on them and all the Egyptians. -12. But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and just as the LORD had predicted to Moses, Pharaoh refused to listen.A Plague of Hail +12. But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and just as the LORD had predicted to Moses, Pharaoh refused to listen. + +A Plague of Hail + 13. Then the LORD said to Moses, "Get up early in the morning and stand before Pharaoh. Tell him, 'This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: Let my people go, so they can worship me. 14. If you don't, I will send more plagues on you and your officials and your people. Then you will know that there is no one like me in all the earth. @@ -49,3 +55,4 @@ A Plague against Livestock 35. Because his heart was hard, Pharaoh refused to let the people leave, just as the LORD had predicted through Moses. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_10.md index e4f2e913..1ae0bd1c 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_10.md @@ -29,7 +29,10 @@ A Plague of Locusts 18. So Moses left Pharaoh's court and pleaded with the LORD. 19. The LORD responded by shifting the wind, and the strong west wind blew the locusts into the Red Sea. Not a single locust remained in all the land of Egypt. -20. But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart again, so he refused to let the people go.A Plague of Darkness +20. But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart again, so he refused to let the people go. + +A Plague of Darkness + 21. Then the LORD said to Moses, "Lift your hand toward heaven, and the land of Egypt will be covered with a darkness so thick you can feel it." 22. So Moses lifted his hand to the sky, and a deep darkness covered the entire land of Egypt for three days. @@ -46,3 +49,4 @@ A Plague of Locusts 29. "Very well," Moses replied. "I will never see your face again." + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_11.md index 7cf5025d..f41033fb 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_11.md @@ -15,3 +15,4 @@ Death for Egypt's Firstborn 10. Moses and Aaron performed these miracles in Pharaoh's presence, but the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he wouldn't let the Israelites leave the country. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_12.md index 51be02df..95d018d3 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_12.md @@ -37,7 +37,10 @@ The First Passover 28. So the people of Israel did just as the LORD had commanded through Moses and Aaron. 29. And that night at midnight, the LORD struck down all the firstborn sons in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn son of Pharaoh, who sat on his throne, to the firstborn son of the prisoner in the dungeon. Even the firstborn of their livestock were killed. -30. Pharaoh and all his officials and all the people of Egypt woke up during the night, and loud wailing was heard throughout the land of Egypt. There was not a single house where someone had not died.Israel's Exodus from Egypt +30. Pharaoh and all his officials and all the people of Egypt woke up during the night, and loud wailing was heard throughout the land of Egypt. There was not a single house where someone had not died. + +Israel's Exodus from Egypt + 31. Pharaoh sent for Moses and Aaron during the night. "Get out!" he ordered. "Leave my people--and take the rest of the Israelites with you! Go and worship the LORD as you have requested. 32. Take your flocks and herds, as you said, and be gone. Go, but bless me as you leave." @@ -53,7 +56,10 @@ The First Passover 40. The people of Israel had lived in Egypt for 430 years. 41. In fact, it was on the last day of the 430th year that all the LORD's forces left the land. -42. On this night the LORD kept his promise to bring his people out of the land of Egypt. So this night belongs to him, and it must be commemorated every year by all the Israelites, from generation to generation.Instructions for the Passover +42. On this night the LORD kept his promise to bring his people out of the land of Egypt. So this night belongs to him, and it must be commemorated every year by all the Israelites, from generation to generation. + +Instructions for the Passover + 43. Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "These are the instructions for the festival of Passover. No outsiders are allowed to eat the Passover meal. 44. But any slave who has been purchased may eat it if he has been circumcised. @@ -68,3 +74,4 @@ The First Passover 51. On that very day the LORD brought the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt like an army. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_13.md index b974a379..50522bd3 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_13.md @@ -20,7 +20,9 @@ Dedication of the Firstborn 14. "And in the future, your children will ask you, 'What does all this mean?' Then you will tell them, 'With the power of his mighty hand, the LORD brought us out of Egypt, the place of our slavery. 15. Pharaoh stubbornly refused to let us go, so the LORD killed all the firstborn males throughout the land of Egypt, both people and animals. That is why I now sacrifice all the firstborn males to the LORD--except that the firstborn sons are always bought back.' -16. This ceremony will be like a mark branded on your hand or your forehead. It is a reminder that the power of the LORD's mighty hand brought us out of Egypt."Israel's Wilderness Detour +16. This ceremony will be like a mark branded on your hand or your forehead. It is a reminder that the power of the LORD's mighty hand brought us out of Egypt." +Israel's Wilderness Detour + 17. When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, "If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt." 18. So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea. Thus the Israelites left Egypt like an army ready for battle. @@ -32,3 +34,4 @@ Dedication of the Firstborn 22. And the LORD did not remove the pillar of cloud or pillar of fire from its place in front of the people. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_14.md index 1e35fa10..72694648 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_14.md @@ -2,7 +2,10 @@ 1. Then the LORD gave these instructions to Moses: 2. "Order the Israelites to turn back and camp by Pi-hahiroth between Migdol and the sea. Camp there along the shore, across from Baal-zephon. 3. Then Pharaoh will think, 'The Israelites are confused. They are trapped in the wilderness!' -4. And once again I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will chase after you. I have planned this in order to display my glory through Pharaoh and his whole army. After this the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD!" So the Israelites camped there as they were told.The Egyptians Pursue Israel +4. And once again I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will chase after you. I have planned this in order to display my glory through Pharaoh and his whole army. After this the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD!" So the Israelites camped there as they were told. + +The Egyptians Pursue Israel + 5. When word reached the king of Egypt that the Israelites had fled, Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds. "What have we done, letting all those Israelite slaves get away?" they asked. 6. So Pharaoh harnessed his chariot and called up his troops. @@ -15,7 +18,9 @@ 12. Didn't we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt? We said, 'Leave us alone! Let us be slaves to the Egyptians. It's better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!'" 13. But Moses told the people, "Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. -14. The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm."Escape through the Red Sea +14. The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm." +Escape through the Red Sea + 15. Then the LORD said to Moses, "Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! 16. Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground. @@ -41,3 +46,4 @@ 31. When the people of Israel saw the mighty power that the LORD had unleashed against the Egyptians, they were filled with awe before him. They put their faith in the LORD and in his servant Moses. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_15.md index b9a2b3cb..f5660c28 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_15.md @@ -3,82 +3,133 @@ A Song of Deliverance # Chapter 15 1. Then Moses and the people of Israel sang this song to the LORD: "I will sing to the LORD, - for he has triumphed gloriously; + +for he has triumphed gloriously; he has hurled both horse and rider - into the sea. + +into the sea. + 2. The LORD is my strength and my song; - he has given me victory. + +he has given me victory. + This is my God, and I will praise him-- - my father's God, and I will exalt him! + +my father's God, and I will exalt him! + 3. The LORD is a warrior; Yahweh is his name! 4. Pharaoh's chariots and army - he has hurled into the sea. + he has hurled +into the sea. + The finest of Pharaoh's officers are drowned in the Red Sea. 5. The deep waters gushed over them; - they sank to the bottom like a stone. + +they sank to the bottom like a stone. + 6. "Your right hand, O LORD, - is glorious in power. + +is glorious in power. Your right hand, O LORD, - smashes the enemy. + +smashes the enemy. + 7. In the greatness of your majesty, - you overthrow those who rise against you. + +you overthrow those who rise against you. + You unleash your blazing fury; - it consumes them like straw. + +it consumes them like straw. + 8. At the blast of your breath, - the waters piled up! + +the waters piled up! The surging waters stood straight like a wall; - in the heart of the sea the deep waters became hard. + +in the heart of the sea the deep waters became hard. + 9. "The enemy boasted, 'I will chase them - and catch up with them. + +and catch up with them. + I will plunder them - and consume them. + +and consume them. + I will flash my sword; - my powerful hand will destroy them.' + +my powerful hand will destroy them.' + 10. But you blew with your breath, - and the sea covered them. + +and the sea covered them. + They sank like lead - in the mighty waters. + +in the mighty waters. + 11. "Who is like you among the gods, O LORD-- - glorious in holiness, + +glorious in holiness, awesome in splendor, - performing great wonders? + +performing great wonders? + 12. You raised your right hand, - and the earth swallowed our enemies. + +and the earth swallowed our enemies. + 13. "With your unfailing love you lead - the people you have redeemed. + +the people you have redeemed. + In your might, you guide them - to your sacred home. + +to your sacred home. + 14. The peoples hear and tremble; - anguish grips those who live in Philistia. + +anguish grips those who live in Philistia. + 15. The leaders of Edom are terrified; - the nobles of Moab tremble. + +the nobles of Moab tremble. + All who live in Canaan melt away; + 16. terror and dread fall upon them. + The power of your arm - makes them lifeless as stone + +makes them lifeless as stone until your people pass by, O LORD, - until the people you purchased pass by. + +until the people you purchased pass by. + 17. You will bring them in and plant them on your own mountain-- the place, O LORD, reserved for your own dwelling, - the sanctuary, O Lord, that your hands have established. + +the sanctuary, O Lord, that your hands have established. + 18. The LORD will reign forever and ever!" @@ -87,9 +138,13 @@ until your people pass by, O LORD, 20. Then Miriam the prophet, Aaron's sister, took a tambourine and led all the women as they played their tambourines and danced. 21. And Miriam sang this song: "Sing to the LORD, - for he has triumphed gloriously; + +for he has triumphed gloriously; he has hurled both horse and rider - into the sea."Bitter Water at Marah + +into the sea." +Bitter Water at Marah + 22. Then Moses led the people of Israel away from the Red Sea, and they moved out into the desert of Shur. They traveled in this desert for three days without finding any water. 23. When they came to the oasis of Marah, the water was too bitter to drink. So they called the place Marah (which means "bitter"). @@ -102,3 +157,4 @@ It was there at Marah that the LORD set before them the following decree as a st 27. After leaving Marah, the Israelites traveled on to the oasis of Elim, where they found twelve springs and seventy palm trees. They camped there beside the water. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_16.md index aa4d78ca..dd6b457d 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_16.md @@ -55,3 +55,4 @@ And Moses told them, "It is the food the LORD has given you to eat. 36. The container used to measure the manna was an omer, which was one-tenth of an ephah; it held about two quarts. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_17.md index 373e8e8a..958576fb 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_17.md @@ -12,7 +12,9 @@ Water from the Rock 5. The LORD said to Moses, "Walk out in front of the people. Take your staff, the one you used when you struck the water of the Nile, and call some of the elders of Israel to join you. 6. I will stand before you on the rock at Mount Sinai. Strike the rock, and water will come gushing out. Then the people will be able to drink." So Moses struck the rock as he was told, and water gushed out as the elders looked on. -7. Moses named the place Massah (which means "test") and Meribah (which means "arguing") because the people of Israel argued with Moses and tested the LORD by saying, "Is the LORD here with us or not?"Israel Defeats the Amalekites +7. Moses named the place Massah (which means "test") and Meribah (which means "arguing") because the people of Israel argued with Moses and tested the LORD by saying, "Is the LORD here with us or not?" +Israel Defeats the Amalekites + 8. While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them. 9. Moses commanded Joshua, "Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand." @@ -27,3 +29,4 @@ Water from the Rock 16. He said, "They have raised their fist against the LORD's throne, so now the LORD will be at war with Amalek generation after generation." + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_18.md index 92a5fbf3..067197e7 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_18.md @@ -16,7 +16,10 @@ Jethro's Visit to Moses 10. "Praise the LORD," Jethro said, "for he has rescued you from the Egyptians and from Pharaoh. Yes, he has rescued Israel from the powerful hand of Egypt! 11. I know now that the LORD is greater than all other gods, because he rescued his people from the oppression of the proud Egyptians." -12. Then Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, brought a burnt offering and sacrifices to God. Aaron and all the elders of Israel came out and joined him in a sacrificial meal in God's presence.Jethro's Wise Advice +12. Then Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, brought a burnt offering and sacrifices to God. Aaron and all the elders of Israel came out and joined him in a sacrificial meal in God's presence. + +Jethro's Wise Advice + 13. The next day, Moses took his seat to hear the people's disputes against each other. They waited before him from morning till evening. @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ Jethro's Visit to Moses 27. Soon after this, Moses said good-bye to his father-in-law, who returned to his own land. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_19.md index 8992e3d9..4535d542 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_19.md @@ -38,3 +38,4 @@ Moses told the LORD what the people had said. 25. So Moses went down to the people and told them what the LORD had said. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_20.md index 112324ca..1e17122a 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_20.md @@ -36,7 +36,10 @@ Ten Commandments for the Covenant Community 20. "Don't be afraid," Moses answered them, "for God has come in this way to test you, and so that your fear of him will keep you from sinning!" -21. As the people stood in the distance, Moses approached the dark cloud where God was.Proper Use of Altars +21. As the people stood in the distance, Moses approached the dark cloud where God was. + +Proper Use of Altars + 22. And the LORD said to Moses, "Say this to the people of Israel: You saw for yourselves that I spoke to you from heaven. 23. Remember, you must not make any idols of silver or gold to rival me. @@ -46,3 +49,4 @@ Ten Commandments for the Covenant Community 26. And do not approach my altar by going up steps. If you do, someone might look up under your clothing and see your nakedness. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_21.md index 0b046598..0c3f15a4 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_21.md @@ -15,7 +15,10 @@ Fair Treatment of Slaves 9. But if the slave's owner arranges for her to marry his son, he may no longer treat her as a slave but as a daughter. 10. "If a man who has married a slave wife takes another wife for himself, he must not neglect the rights of the first wife to food, clothing, and sexual intimacy. -11. If he fails in any of these three obligations, she may leave as a free woman without making any payment.Cases of Personal Injury +11. If he fails in any of these three obligations, she may leave as a free woman without making any payment. + +Cases of Personal Injury + 12. "Anyone who assaults and kills another person must be put to death. 13. But if it was simply an accident permitted by God, I will appoint a place of refuge where the slayer can run for safety. @@ -55,3 +58,4 @@ Fair Treatment of Slaves 36. But if the ox had a reputation for goring, yet its owner failed to keep it under control, he must pay full compensation--a live ox for the dead one--but he may keep the dead ox. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_22.md index 4c14b3d4..0c4d06ae 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_22.md @@ -5,7 +5,9 @@ Protection of Property 2. "If a thief is caught in the act of breaking into a house and is struck and killed in the process, the person who killed the thief is not guilty of murder. 3. But if it happens in daylight, the one who killed the thief is guilty of murder. + "A thief who is caught must pay in full for everything he stole. If he cannot pay, he must be sold as a slave to pay for his theft. + 4. If someone steals an ox or a donkey or a sheep and it is found in the thief's possession, then the thief must pay double the value of the stolen animal. 5. "If an animal is grazing in a field or vineyard and the owner lets it stray into someone else's field to graze, then the animal's owner must pay compensation from the best of his own grain or grapes. @@ -23,7 +25,11 @@ Protection of Property 13. If it was torn to pieces by a wild animal, the remains of the carcass must be shown as evidence, and no compensation will be required. 14. "If someone borrows an animal from a neighbor and it is injured or dies when the owner is absent, the person who borrowed it must pay full compensation. -15. But if the owner was present, no compensation is required. And no compensation is required if the animal was rented, for this loss is covered by the rental fee.Social Responsibility +15. But if the owner was present, no compensation is required. And no compensation is required if the animal was rented, for this loss is covered by the rental fee. + + +Social Responsibility + 16. "If a man seduces a virgin who is not engaged to anyone and has sex with her, he must pay the customary bride price and marry her. 17. But if her father refuses to let him marry her, the man must still pay him an amount equal to the bride price of a virgin. @@ -47,10 +53,13 @@ Protection of Property 28. "You must not dishonor God or curse any of your rulers. 29. "You must not hold anything back when you give me offerings from your crops and your wine. + "You must give me your firstborn sons. + 30. "You must also give me the firstborn of your cattle, sheep, and goats. But leave the newborn animal with its mother for seven days; then give it to me on the eighth day. 31. "You must be my holy people. Therefore, do not eat any animal that has been torn up and killed by wild animals. Throw it to the dogs. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_23.md index 6760b896..f621ea76 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_23.md @@ -22,7 +22,10 @@ A Call for Justice 12. "You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working. This gives your ox and your donkey a chance to rest. It also allows your slaves and the foreigners living among you to be refreshed. -13. "Pay close attention to all my instructions. You must not call on the name of any other gods. Do not even speak their names.Three Annual Festivals +13. "Pay close attention to all my instructions. You must not call on the name of any other gods. Do not even speak their names. + +Three Annual Festivals + 14. "Each year you must celebrate three festivals in my honor. 15. First, celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread. For seven days the bread you eat must be made without yeast, just as I commanded you. Celebrate this festival annually at the appointed time in early spring, in the month of Abib, for that is the anniversary of your departure from Egypt. No one may appear before me without an offering. @@ -34,6 +37,7 @@ A Call for Justice 18. "You must not offer the blood of my sacrificial offerings together with any baked goods containing yeast. And do not leave the fat from the festival offerings until the next morning. 19. "As you harvest your crops, bring the very best of the first harvest to the house of the LORD your God. + "You must not cook a young goat in its mother's milk.A Promise of the LORD's Presence 20. "See, I am sending an angel before you to protect you on your journey and lead you safely to the place I have prepared for you. @@ -55,3 +59,4 @@ A Call for Justice 33. They must not live in your land, or they will cause you to sin against me. If you serve their gods, you will be caught in the trap of idolatry." + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_24.md index f3133275..d86f4b0a 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_24.md @@ -29,3 +29,4 @@ Israel Accepts the LORD's Covenant 18. Then Moses disappeared into the cloud as he climbed higher up the mountain. He remained on the mountain forty days and forty nights. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_25.md index bff2d237..03b829b2 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_25.md @@ -6,19 +6,26 @@ Offerings for the Tabernacle 3. Here is a list of sacred offerings you may accept from them: gold, silver, and bronze; + 4. blue, purple, and scarlet thread; fine linen and goat hair for cloth; + 5. tanned ram skins and fine goatskin leather; acacia wood; + 6. olive oil for the lamps; spices for the anointing oil and the fragrant incense; + 7. onyx stones, and other gemstones to be set in the ephod and the priest's chestpiece. 8. "Have the people of Israel build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them. -9. You must build this Tabernacle and its furnishings exactly according to the pattern I will show you.Plans for the Ark of the Covenant +9. You must build this Tabernacle and its furnishings exactly according to the pattern I will show you. + +Plans for the Ark of the Covenant + 10. "Have the people make an Ark of acacia wood--a sacred chest 45 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 27 inches high. 11. Overlay it inside and outside with pure gold, and run a molding of gold all around it. @@ -33,7 +40,10 @@ spices for the anointing oil and the fragrant incense; 19. Mold the cherubim on each end of the atonement cover, making it all of one piece of gold. 20. The cherubim will face each other and look down on the atonement cover. With their wings spread above it, they will protect it. 21. Place inside the Ark the stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, which I will give to you. Then put the atonement cover on top of the Ark. -22. I will meet with you there and talk to you from above the atonement cover between the gold cherubim that hover over the Ark of the Covenant. From there I will give you my commands for the people of Israel.Plans for the Table +22. I will meet with you there and talk to you from above the atonement cover between the gold cherubim that hover over the Ark of the Covenant. From there I will give you my commands for the people of Israel. + +Plans for the Table + 23. "Then make a table of acacia wood, 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 27 inches high. 24. Overlay it with pure gold and run a gold molding around the edge. @@ -42,7 +52,10 @@ spices for the anointing oil and the fragrant incense; 27. Attach the rings near the border to hold the poles that are used to carry the table. 28. Make these poles from acacia wood, and overlay them with gold. 29. Make special containers of pure gold for the table--bowls, ladles, pitchers, and jars--to be used in pouring out liquid offerings. -30. Place the Bread of the Presence on the table to remain before me at all times.Plans for the Lampstand +30. Place the Bread of the Presence on the table to remain before me at all times. + +Plans for the Lampstand + 31. "Make a lampstand of pure, hammered gold. Make the entire lampstand and its decorations of one piece--the base, center stem, lamp cups, buds, and petals. 32. Make it with six branches going out from the center stem, three on each side. @@ -57,3 +70,4 @@ spices for the anointing oil and the fragrant incense; 40. "Be sure that you make everything according to the pattern I have shown you here on the mountain. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_26.md index 76a91b93..00c3f5fc 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_26.md @@ -47,3 +47,4 @@ Plans for the Tabernacle 37. Craft five posts from acacia wood. Overlay them with gold, and hang the curtain from them with gold hooks. Cast five bronze bases for the posts. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_27.md index e9e96cab..d26ad060 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_27.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ Plans for the Altar of Burnt Offering 5. Install the grating halfway down the side of the altar, under the ledge. 6. For carrying the altar, make poles from acacia wood, and overlay them with bronze. 7. Insert the poles through the rings on the two sides of the altar. -8. The altar must be hollow, made from planks. Build it just as you were shown on the mountain.Plans for the Courtyard +8. The altar must be hollow, made from planks. Build it just as you were shown on the mountain. + +Plans for the Courtyard + 9. "Then make the courtyard for the Tabernacle, enclosed with curtains made of finely woven linen. On the south side, make the curtains 150 feet long. 10. They will be held up by twenty posts set securely in twenty bronze bases. Hang the curtains with silver hooks and rings. @@ -22,9 +25,13 @@ Plans for the Altar of Burnt Offering 17. All the posts around the courtyard must have silver rings and hooks and bronze bases. 18. So the entire courtyard will be 150 feet long and 75 feet wide, with curtain walls 7 1/2 feet high, made from finely woven linen. The bases for the posts will be made of bronze. -19. "All the articles used in the rituals of the Tabernacle, including all the tent pegs used to support the Tabernacle and the courtyard curtains, must be made of bronze.Light for the Tabernacle +19. "All the articles used in the rituals of the Tabernacle, including all the tent pegs used to support the Tabernacle and the courtyard curtains, must be made of bronze. + +Light for the Tabernacle + 20. "Command the people of Israel to bring you pure oil of pressed olives for the light, to keep the lamps burning continually. 21. The lampstand will stand in the Tabernacle, in front of the inner curtain that shields the Ark of the Covenant. Aaron and his sons must keep the lamps burning in the LORD's presence all night. This is a permanent law for the people of Israel, and it must be observed from generation to generation. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_28.md index 72b00f5a..2080c3a9 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_28.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ Clothing for the Priests 2. Make sacred garments for Aaron that are glorious and beautiful. 3. Instruct all the skilled craftsmen whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom. Have them make garments for Aaron that will distinguish him as a priest set apart for my service. 4. These are the garments they are to make: a chestpiece, an ephod, a robe, a patterned tunic, a turban, and a sash. They are to make these sacred garments for your brother, Aaron, and his sons to wear when they serve me as priests. -5. So give them fine linen cloth, gold thread, and blue, purple, and scarlet thread.Design of the Ephod +5. So give them fine linen cloth, gold thread, and blue, purple, and scarlet thread. + +Design of the Ephod + 6. "The craftsmen must make the ephod of finely woven linen and skillfully embroider it with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread. 7. It will consist of two pieces, front and back, joined at the shoulders with two shoulder-pieces. @@ -16,7 +19,10 @@ Clothing for the Priests 11. Engrave these names on the two stones in the same way a jeweler engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in settings of gold filigree. 12. Fasten the two stones on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod as a reminder that Aaron represents the people of Israel. Aaron will carry these names on his shoulders as a constant reminder whenever he goes before the LORD. 13. Make the settings of gold filigree, -14. then braid two cords of pure gold and attach them to the filigree settings on the shoulders of the ephod.Design of the Chestpiece +14. then braid two cords of pure gold and attach them to the filigree settings on the shoulders of the ephod. + +Design of the Chestpiece + 15. "Then, with great skill and care, make a chestpiece to be worn for seeking a decision from God. Make it to match the ephod, using finely woven linen embroidered with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread. 16. Make the chestpiece of a single piece of cloth folded to form a pouch nine inches square. @@ -35,7 +41,9 @@ Clothing for the Priests 28. Then attach the bottom rings of the chestpiece to the rings on the ephod with blue cords. This will hold the chestpiece securely to the ephod above the decorative sash. 29. "In this way, Aaron will carry the names of the tribes of Israel on the sacred chestpiece over his heart when he goes into the Holy Place. This will be a continual reminder that he represents the people when he comes before the LORD. -30. Insert the Urim and Thummim into the sacred chestpiece so they will be carried over Aaron's heart when he goes into the LORD's presence. In this way, Aaron will always carry over his heart the objects used to determine the LORD's will for his people whenever he goes in before the LORD.Additional Clothing for the Priests +30. Insert the Urim and Thummim into the sacred chestpiece so they will be carried over Aaron's heart when he goes into the LORD's presence. In this way, Aaron will always carry over his heart the objects used to determine the LORD's will for his people whenever he goes in before the LORD.Additional +Clothing for the Priests + 31. "Make the robe that is worn with the ephod from a single piece of blue cloth, 32. with an opening for Aaron's head in the middle of it. Reinforce the opening with a woven collar so it will not tear. @@ -55,3 +63,4 @@ Clothing for the Priests 43. These must be worn whenever Aaron and his sons enter the Tabernacle or approach the altar in the Holy Place to perform their priestly duties. Then they will not incur guilt and die. This is a permanent law for Aaron and all his descendants after him. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_29.md index e3d75a47..89f7410c 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_29.md @@ -60,3 +60,4 @@ Dedication of the Priests 46. and they will know that I am the LORD their God. I am the one who brought them out of the land of Egypt so that I could live among them. I am the LORD their God. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_30.md index 6dc98c3a..95f16426 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_30.md @@ -12,20 +12,26 @@ Plans for the Incense Altar 8. And each evening when he lights the lamps, he must again burn incense in the LORD's presence. This must be done from generation to generation. 9. Do not offer any unholy incense on this altar, or any burnt offerings, grain offerings, or liquid offerings. -10. "Once a year Aaron must purify the altar by smearing its horns with blood from the offering made to purify the people from their sin. This will be a regular, annual event from generation to generation, for this is the LORD's most holy altar."Money for the Tabernacle +10. "Once a year Aaron must purify the altar by smearing its horns with blood from the offering made to purify the people from their sin. This will be a regular, annual event from generation to generation, for this is the LORD's most holy altar." +Money for the Tabernacle + 11. Then the LORD said to Moses, 12. "Whenever you take a census of the people of Israel, each man who is counted must pay a ransom for himself to the LORD. Then no plague will strike the people as you count them. 13. Each person who is counted must give a small piece of silver as a sacred offering to the LORD. (This payment is half a shekel, based on the sanctuary shekel, which equals twenty gerahs.) 14. All who have reached their twentieth birthday must give this sacred offering to the LORD. 15. When this offering is given to the LORD to purify your lives, making you right with him, the rich must not give more than the specified amount, and the poor must not give less. -16. Receive this ransom money from the Israelites, and use it for the care of the Tabernacle. It will bring the Israelites to the LORD's attention, and it will purify your lives."Plans for the Washbasin +16. Receive this ransom money from the Israelites, and use it for the care of the Tabernacle. It will bring the Israelites to the LORD's attention, and it will purify your lives." +Plans for the Washbasin + 17. Then the LORD said to Moses, 18. "Make a bronze washbasin with a bronze stand. Place it between the Tabernacle and the altar, and fill it with water. 19. Aaron and his sons will wash their hands and feet there. 20. They must wash with water whenever they go into the Tabernacle to appear before the LORD and when they approach the altar to burn up their special gifts to the LORD--or they will die! -21. They must always wash their hands and feet, or they will die. This is a permanent law for Aaron and his descendants, to be observed from generation to generation."The Anointing Oil +21. They must always wash their hands and feet, or they will die. This is a permanent law for Aaron and his descendants, to be observed from generation to generation." +The Anointing Oil + 22. Then the LORD said to Moses, 23. "Collect choice spices--12 1/2 pounds of pure myrrh, 6 1/4 pounds of fragrant cinnamon, 6 1/4 pounds of fragrant calamus, @@ -39,7 +45,9 @@ Plans for the Incense Altar 30. "Anoint Aaron and his sons also, consecrating them to serve me as priests. 31. And say to the people of Israel, 'This holy anointing oil is reserved for me from generation to generation. 32. It must never be used to anoint anyone else, and you must never make any blend like it for yourselves. It is holy, and you must treat it as holy. -33. Anyone who makes a blend like it or anoints someone other than a priest will be cut off from the community.'"The Incense +33. Anyone who makes a blend like it or anoints someone other than a priest will be cut off from the community.'" +The Incense + 34. Then the LORD said to Moses, "Gather fragrant spices--resin droplets, mollusk shell, and galbanum--and mix these fragrant spices with pure frankincense, weighed out in equal amounts. 35. Using the usual techniques of the incense maker, blend the spices together and sprinkle them with salt to produce a pure and holy incense. @@ -48,3 +56,4 @@ Plans for the Incense Altar 38. Anyone who makes incense like this for personal use will be cut off from the community." + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_31.md index 5fa6eec2..dba9ba12 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_31.md @@ -14,18 +14,24 @@ the Ark of the Covenant; the Ark's cover--the place of atonement; all the furnishings of the Tabernacle; + 8. the table and its utensils; the pure gold lampstand with all its accessories; the incense altar; + 9. the altar of burnt offering with all its utensils; the washbasin with its stand; + 10. the beautifully stitched garments--the sacred garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments for his sons to wear as they minister as priests; 11. the anointing oil; the fragrant incense for the Holy Place. -The craftsmen must make everything as I have commanded you."Instructions for the Sabbath + +The craftsmen must make everything as I have commanded you." +Instructions for the Sabbath + 12. The LORD then gave these instructions to Moses: 13. "Tell the people of Israel: 'Be careful to keep my Sabbath day, for the Sabbath is a sign of the covenant between me and you from generation to generation. It is given so you may know that I am the LORD, who makes you holy. @@ -37,3 +43,4 @@ The craftsmen must make everything as I have commanded you."Instructions for the 18. When the LORD finished speaking with Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, written by the finger of God. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_32.md index 14a8eae9..34e825c9 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_32.md @@ -46,7 +46,9 @@ The Gold Calf 27. Moses told them, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: Each of you, take your swords and go back and forth from one end of the camp to the other. Kill everyone--even your brothers, friends, and neighbors." 28. The Levites obeyed Moses' command, and about 3,000 people died that day. -29. Then Moses told the Levites, "Today you have ordained yourselves for the service of the LORD, for you obeyed him even though it meant killing your own sons and brothers. Today you have earned a blessing."Moses Intercedes for Israel +29. Then Moses told the Levites, "Today you have ordained yourselves for the service of the LORD, for you obeyed him even though it meant killing your own sons and brothers. Today you have earned a blessing." +Moses Intercedes for Israel + 30. The next day Moses said to the people, "You have committed a terrible sin, but I will go back up to the LORD on the mountain. Perhaps I will be able to obtain forgiveness for your sin." @@ -59,3 +61,4 @@ The Gold Calf 35. Then the LORD sent a great plague upon the people because they had worshiped the calf Aaron had made. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_33.md index f547cf1e..8357c377 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_33.md @@ -33,3 +33,4 @@ 23. Then I will remove my hand and let you see me from behind. But my face will not be seen." + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_34.md index 779f05ca..a4b5a614 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_34.md @@ -10,16 +10,24 @@ A New Copy of the Covenant 5. Then the LORD came down in a cloud and stood there with him; and he called out his own name, Yahweh. 6. The LORD passed in front of Moses, calling out, "Yahweh! The LORD! - The God of compassion and mercy! + +The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger - and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. + +and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. + 7. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. - I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. + +I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. + But I do not excuse the guilty. - I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; + +I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected-- - even children in the third and fourth generations." + +even children in the third and fourth generations." + 8. Moses immediately threw himself to the ground and worshiped. 9. And he said, "O Lord, if it is true that I have found favor with you, then please travel with us. Yes, this is a stubborn and rebellious people, but please forgive our iniquity and our sins. Claim us as your own special possession." @@ -39,8 +47,10 @@ the entire family is affected-- 19. "The firstborn of every animal belongs to me, including the firstborn males from your herds of cattle and your flocks of sheep and goats. 20. A firstborn donkey may be bought back from the LORD by presenting a lamb or young goat in its place. But if you do not buy it back, you must break its neck. However, you must buy back every firstborn son. + "No one may appear before me without an offering. + 21. "You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working, even during the seasons of plowing and harvest. 22. "You must celebrate the Festival of Harvest with the first crop of the wheat harvest, and celebrate the Festival of the Final Harvest at the end of the harvest season. @@ -50,8 +60,10 @@ the entire family is affected-- 25. "You must not offer the blood of my sacrificial offerings together with any baked goods containing yeast. And none of the meat of the Passover sacrifice may be kept over until the next morning. 26. "As you harvest your crops, bring the very best of the first harvest to the house of the LORD your God. + "You must not cook a young goat in its mother's milk." + 27. Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write down all these instructions, for they represent the terms of the covenant I am making with you and with Israel." 28. Moses remained there on the mountain with the LORD forty days and forty nights. In all that time he ate no bread and drank no water. And the LORD wrote the terms of the covenant--the Ten Commandments--on the stone tablets. @@ -66,3 +78,4 @@ the entire family is affected-- 35. and the people of Israel would see the radiant glow of his face. So he would put the veil over his face until he returned to speak with the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_35.md index 2aec744c..e23f768c 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_35.md @@ -3,21 +3,27 @@ Instructions for the Sabbath # Chapter 35 1. Then Moses called together the whole community of Israel and told them, "These are the instructions the LORD has commanded you to follow. 2. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day must be a Sabbath day of complete rest, a holy day dedicated to the LORD. Anyone who works on that day must be put to death. -3. You must not even light a fire in any of your homes on the Sabbath."Offerings for the Tabernacle +3. You must not even light a fire in any of your homes on the Sabbath." +Offerings for the Tabernacle + 4. Then Moses said to the whole community of Israel, "This is what the LORD has commanded: 5. Take a sacred offering for the LORD. Let those with generous hearts present the following gifts to the LORD: gold, silver, and bronze; + 6. blue, purple, and scarlet thread; fine linen and goat hair for cloth; + 7. tanned ram skins and fine goatskin leather; acacia wood; + 8. olive oil for the lamps; spices for the anointing oil and the fragrant incense; + 9. onyx stones, and other gemstones to be set in the ephod and the priest's chestpiece. 10. "Come, all of you who are gifted craftsmen. Construct everything that the LORD has commanded: @@ -28,23 +34,28 @@ spices for the anointing oil and the fragrant incense; the Ark's cover--the place of atonement; the inner curtain to shield the Ark; + 13. the table, its carrying poles, and all its utensils; the Bread of the Presence; + 14. for light, the lampstand, its accessories, the lamp cups, and the olive oil for lighting; 15. the incense altar and its carrying poles; the anointing oil and fragrant incense; the curtain for the entrance of the Tabernacle; + 16. the altar of burnt offering; the bronze grating of the altar and its carrying poles and utensils; the washbasin with its stand; + 17. the curtains for the walls of the courtyard; the posts and their bases; the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard; + 18. the tent pegs of the Tabernacle and courtyard and their ropes; 19. the beautifully stitched garments for the priests to wear while ministering in the Holy Place--the sacred garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments for his sons to wear as they minister as priests." @@ -52,7 +63,8 @@ the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard; 20. So the whole community of Israel left Moses and returned to their tents. 21. All whose hearts were stirred and whose spirits were moved came and brought their sacred offerings to the LORD. They brought all the materials needed for the Tabernacle, for the performance of its rituals, and for the sacred garments. 22. Both men and women came, all whose hearts were willing. They brought to the LORD their offerings of gold--brooches, earrings, rings from their fingers, and necklaces. They presented gold objects of every kind as a special offering to the LORD. -23. All those who owned the following items willingly brought them: blue, purple, and scarlet thread; fine linen and goat hair for cloth; and tanned ram skins and fine goatskin leather. +23. All those who owned the following items willingly brought them: blue, purple, and scarlet thread; +fine linen and goat hair for cloth; and tanned ram skins and fine goatskin leather. 24. And all who had silver and bronze objects gave them as a sacred offering to the LORD. And those who had acacia wood brought it for use in the project. 25. All the women who were skilled in sewing and spinning prepared blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and fine linen cloth. @@ -69,3 +81,4 @@ the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard; 35. The LORD has given them special skills as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet thread on fine linen cloth, and weavers. They excel as craftsmen and as designers. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_36.md index 99bb0e4c..d7d727a0 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_36.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ 5. They went to Moses and reported, "The people have given more than enough materials to complete the job the LORD has commanded us to do!" 6. So Moses gave the command, and this message was sent throughout the camp: "Men and women, don't prepare any more gifts for the sanctuary. We have enough!" So the people stopped bringing their sacred offerings. -7. Their contributions were more than enough to complete the whole project.Building the Tabernacle +7. Their contributions were more than enough to complete the whole project. + +Building the Tabernacle + 8. The skilled craftsmen made ten curtains of finely woven linen for the Tabernacle. Then Bezalel decorated the curtains with blue, purple, and scarlet thread and with skillfully embroidered cherubim. 9. All ten curtains were exactly the same size--42 feet long and 6 feet wide. @@ -47,3 +50,4 @@ 38. This curtain was hung on gold hooks attached to five posts. The posts with their decorated tops and hooks were overlaid with gold, and the five bases were cast from bronze. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_37.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_37.md index c831d668..2f095495 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_37.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_37.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ Building the Ark of the Covenant 6. Then he made the Ark's cover--the place of atonement--from pure gold. It was 45 inches long and 27 inches wide. 7. He made two cherubim from hammered gold and placed them on the two ends of the atonement cover. 8. He molded the cherubim on each end of the atonement cover, making it all of one piece of gold. -9. The cherubim faced each other and looked down on the atonement cover. With their wings spread above it, they protected it.Building the Table +9. The cherubim faced each other and looked down on the atonement cover. With their wings spread above it, they protected it. + +Building the Table + 10. Then Bezalel made the table of acacia wood, 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 27 inches high. 11. He overlaid it with pure gold and ran a gold molding around the edge. @@ -18,7 +21,10 @@ Building the Ark of the Covenant 13. Then he cast four gold rings for the table and attached them at the four corners next to the four legs. 14. The rings were attached near the border to hold the poles that were used to carry the table. 15. He made these poles from acacia wood and overlaid them with gold. -16. Then he made special containers of pure gold for the table--bowls, ladles, jars, and pitchers--to be used in pouring out liquid offerings.Building the Lampstand +16. Then he made special containers of pure gold for the table--bowls, ladles, jars, and pitchers--to be used in pouring out liquid offerings. + +Building the Lampstand + 17. Then Bezalel made the lampstand of pure, hammered gold. He made the entire lampstand and its decorations of one piece--the base, center stem, lamp cups, buds, and petals. 18. The lampstand had six branches going out from the center stem, three on each side. @@ -28,7 +34,10 @@ Building the Ark of the Covenant 22. The almond buds and branches were all of one piece with the center stem, and they were hammered from pure gold. 23. He also made seven lamps for the lampstand, lamp snuffers, and trays, all of pure gold. -24. The entire lampstand, along with its accessories, was made from 75 pounds of pure gold.Building the Incense Altar +24. The entire lampstand, along with its accessories, was made from 75 pounds of pure gold. + +Building the Incense Altar + 25. Then Bezalel made the incense altar of acacia wood. It was 18 inches square and 36 inches high, with horns at the corners carved from the same piece of wood as the altar itself. 26. He overlaid the top, sides, and horns of the altar with pure gold, and he ran a gold molding around the entire altar. @@ -38,3 +47,4 @@ Building the Ark of the Covenant 29. Then he made the sacred anointing oil and the fragrant incense, using the techniques of a skilled incense maker. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_38.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_38.md index 0de2363e..4e4b6c49 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_38.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_38.md @@ -7,9 +7,15 @@ Building the Altar of Burnt Offering 4. Next he made a bronze grating and installed it halfway down the side of the altar, under the ledge. 5. He cast four rings and attached them to the corners of the bronze grating to hold the carrying poles. 6. He made the poles from acacia wood and overlaid them with bronze. -7. He inserted the poles through the rings on the sides of the altar. The altar was hollow and was made from planks.Building the Washbasin +7. He inserted the poles through the rings on the sides of the altar. The altar was hollow and was made from planks. + +Building the Washbasin + + +8. Bezalel made the bronze washbasin and its bronze stand from bronze mirrors donated by the women who served at the entrance of the Tabernacle. + +Building the Courtyard -8. Bezalel made the bronze washbasin and its bronze stand from bronze mirrors donated by the women who served at the entrance of the Tabernacle.Building the Courtyard 9. Then Bezalel made the courtyard, which was enclosed with curtains made of finely woven linen. On the south side the curtains were 150 feet long. 10. They were held up by twenty posts set securely in twenty bronze bases. He hung the curtains with silver hooks and rings. @@ -25,7 +31,10 @@ Building the Altar of Burnt Offering 18. He made the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard of finely woven linen, and he decorated it with beautiful embroidery in blue, purple, and scarlet thread. It was 30 feet long, and its height was 7 1/2 feet, just like the curtains of the courtyard walls. 19. It was supported by four posts, each set securely in its own bronze base. The tops of the posts were overlaid with silver, and the hooks and rings were also made of silver. -20. All the tent pegs used in the Tabernacle and courtyard were made of bronze.Inventory of Materials +20. All the tent pegs used in the Tabernacle and courtyard were made of bronze. + +Inventory of Materials + 21. This is an inventory of the materials used in building the Tabernacle of the Covenant. The Levites compiled the figures, as Moses directed, and Ithamar son of Aaron the priest served as recorder. 22. Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses. @@ -43,3 +52,4 @@ Building the Altar of Burnt Offering 31. Bronze was also used to make the bases for the posts that supported the curtains around the courtyard, the bases for the curtain at the entrance of the courtyard, and all the tent pegs for the Tabernacle and the courtyard. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_39.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_39.md index d043fd44..289cf3e4 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_39.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_39.md @@ -1,7 +1,10 @@ Clothing for the Priests # Chapter 39 -1. The craftsmen made beautiful sacred garments of blue, purple, and scarlet cloth--clothing for Aaron to wear while ministering in the Holy Place, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.Making the Ephod +1. The craftsmen made beautiful sacred garments of blue, purple, and scarlet cloth--clothing for Aaron to wear while ministering in the Holy Place, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. + +Making the Ephod + 2. Bezalel made the ephod of finely woven linen and embroidered it with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread. 3. He made gold thread by hammering out thin sheets of gold and cutting it into fine strands. With great skill and care, he worked it into the fine linen with the blue, purple, and scarlet thread. @@ -9,7 +12,10 @@ Clothing for the Priests 4. The ephod consisted of two pieces, front and back, joined at the shoulders with two shoulder-pieces. 5. The decorative sash was made of the same materials: finely woven linen embroidered with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 6. They mounted the two onyx stones in settings of gold filigree. The stones were engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel, just as a seal is engraved. -7. He fastened these stones on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod as a reminder that the priest represents the people of Israel. All this was done just as the LORD had commanded Moses.Making the Chestpiece +7. He fastened these stones on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod as a reminder that the priest represents the people of Israel. All this was done just as the LORD had commanded Moses. + +Making the Chestpiece + 8. Bezalel made the chestpiece with great skill and care. He made it to match the ephod, using finely woven linen embroidered with gold and with blue, purple, and scarlet thread. 9. He made the chestpiece of a single piece of cloth folded to form a pouch nine inches square. @@ -25,7 +31,9 @@ Clothing for the Priests 18. They tied the other ends of the cords to the gold settings on the shoulder-pieces of the ephod. 19. Then they made two more gold rings and attached them to the inside edges of the chestpiece next to the ephod. 20. Then they made two more gold rings and attached them to the front of the ephod, below the shoulder-pieces, just above the knot where the decorative sash was fastened to the ephod. -21. They attached the bottom rings of the chestpiece to the rings on the ephod with blue cords. In this way, the chestpiece was held securely to the ephod above the decorative sash. All this was done just as the LORD had commanded Moses.Additional Clothing for the Priests +21. They attached the bottom rings of the chestpiece to the rings on the ephod with blue cords. In this way, the chestpiece was held securely to the ephod above the decorative sash. All this was done just as the LORD had commanded Moses.Additional +Clothing for the Priests + 22. Bezalel made the robe that is worn with the ephod from a single piece of blue woven cloth, 23. with an opening for Aaron's head in the middle of it. The opening was reinforced with a woven collar so it would not tear. @@ -38,40 +46,50 @@ Clothing for the Priests 29. The sashes were made of finely woven linen and embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet thread, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 30. Finally, they made the sacred medallion--the badge of holiness--of pure gold. They engraved it like a seal with these words: Holy to the lord. -31. They attached the medallion with a blue cord to Aaron's turban, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.Moses Inspects the Work +31. They attached the medallion with a blue cord to Aaron's turban, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. + +Moses Inspects the Work + 32. And so at last the Tabernacle was finished. The Israelites had done everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 33. And they brought the entire Tabernacle to Moses: the sacred tent with all its furnishings, clasps, frames, crossbars, posts, and bases; + 34. the tent coverings of tanned ram skins and fine goatskin leather; the inner curtain to shield the Ark; + 35. the Ark of the Covenant and its carrying poles; the Ark's cover--the place of atonement; 36. the table and all its utensils; the Bread of the Presence; + 37. the pure gold lampstand with its symmetrical lamp cups, all its accessories, and the olive oil for lighting; 38. the gold altar; the anointing oil and fragrant incense; the curtain for the entrance of the sacred tent; + 39. the bronze altar; the bronze grating and its carrying poles and utensils; the washbasin with its stand; + 40. the curtains for the walls of the courtyard; the posts and their bases; the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard; the ropes and tent pegs; all the furnishings to be used in worship at the Tabernacle; + 41. the beautifully stitched garments for the priests to wear while ministering in the Holy Place--the sacred garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments for his sons to wear as they minister as priests. 42. So the people of Israel followed all of the LORD's instructions to Moses. 43. Then Moses inspected all their work. When he found it had been done just as the LORD had commanded him, he blessed them. + diff --git a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_40.md b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_40.md index 514031fc..4c779315 100644 --- a/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_40.md +++ b/NLT/02_Exodus/Chapter_40.md @@ -53,3 +53,4 @@ The Tabernacle Completed 38. The cloud of the LORD hovered over the Tabernacle during the day, and at night fire glowed inside the cloud so the whole family of Israel could see it. This continued throughout all their journeys. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_01.md index bd550fcd..dcbeba52 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_01.md @@ -23,3 +23,4 @@ Procedures for the Burnt Offering 17. Then, grasping the bird by its wings, the priest will tear the bird open, but without tearing it apart. Then he will burn it as a burnt offering on the wood burning on the altar. It is a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_02.md index 28714a10..a5c5cd3d 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_02.md @@ -23,3 +23,4 @@ Procedures for the Grain Offering 16. The priest will take a representative portion of the grain moistened with oil, together with all the frankincense, and burn it as a special gift presented to the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_03.md index b52e06e9..98d73a82 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_03.md @@ -23,3 +23,4 @@ Procedures for the Peace Offering 17. "You must never eat any fat or blood. This is a permanent law for you, and it must be observed from generation to generation, wherever you live." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_04.md index 68c7af6c..14e8da3c 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_04.md @@ -43,3 +43,4 @@ Procedures for the Sin Offering 35. Then he must remove all the sheep's fat, just as he does with the fat of a sheep presented as a peace offering. He will burn the fat on the altar on top of the special gifts presented to the LORD. Through this process, the priest will purify the people from their sin, making them right with the LORD, and they will be forgiven. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_05.md index 2dc6323e..33bccbbf 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_05.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ Sins Requiring a Sin Offering 11. "If you cannot afford to bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons, you may bring two quarts of choice flour for your sin offering. Since it is an offering for sin, you must not moisten it with olive oil or put any frankincense on it. 12. Take the flour to the priest, who will scoop out a handful as a representative portion. He will burn it on the altar on top of the special gifts presented to the LORD. It is an offering for sin. -13. Through this process, the priest will purify those who are guilty of any of these sins, making them right with the LORD, and they will be forgiven. The rest of the flour will belong to the priest, just as with the grain offering."Procedures for the Guilt Offering +13. Through this process, the priest will purify those who are guilty of any of these sins, making them right with the LORD, and they will be forgiven. The rest of the flour will belong to the priest, just as with the grain offering." +Procedures for the Guilt Offering + 14. Then the LORD said to Moses, 15. "If one of you commits a sin by unintentionally defiling the LORD's sacred property, you must bring a guilt offering to the LORD. The offering must be your own ram with no defects, or you may buy one of equal value with silver, as measured by the weight of the sanctuary shekel. @@ -30,3 +32,4 @@ Sins Requiring a Sin Offering 19. This is a guilt offering, for you have been guilty of an offense against the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_06.md index d0d6f0bb..8579483a 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_06.md @@ -7,26 +7,35 @@ Sins Requiring a Guilt Offering 4. If you have sinned in any of these ways, you are guilty. You must give back whatever you stole, or the money you took by extortion, or the security deposit, or the lost property you found, 5. or anything obtained by swearing falsely. You must make restitution by paying the full price plus an additional 20 percent to the person you have harmed. On the same day you must present a guilt offering. 6. As a guilt offering to the LORD, you must bring to the priest your own ram with no defects, or you may buy one of equal value. -7. Through this process, the priest will purify you before the LORD, making you right with him, and you will be forgiven for any of these sins you have committed."Further Instructions for the Burnt Offering +7. Through this process, the priest will purify you before the LORD, making you right with him, and you will be forgiven for any of these sins you have committed." +Further Instructions for the Burnt Offering + 8. Then the LORD said to Moses, 9. "Give Aaron and his sons the following instructions regarding the burnt offering. The burnt offering must be left on top of the altar until the next morning, and the fire on the altar must be kept burning all night. 10. In the morning, after the priest on duty has put on his official linen clothing and linen undergarments, he must clean out the ashes of the burnt offering and put them beside the altar. 11. Then he must take off these garments, change back into his regular clothes, and carry the ashes outside the camp to a place that is ceremonially clean. 12. Meanwhile, the fire on the altar must be kept burning; it must never go out. Each morning the priest will add fresh wood to the fire and arrange the burnt offering on it. He will then burn the fat of the peace offerings on it. -13. Remember, the fire must be kept burning on the altar at all times. It must never go out.Further Instructions for the Grain Offering +13. Remember, the fire must be kept burning on the altar at all times. It must never go out. + +Further Instructions for the Grain Offering + 14. "These are the instructions regarding the grain offering. Aaron's sons must present this offering to the LORD in front of the altar. 15. The priest on duty will take from the grain offering a handful of the choice flour moistened with olive oil, together with all the frankincense. He will burn this representative portion on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 16. Aaron and his sons may eat the rest of the flour, but it must be baked without yeast and eaten in a sacred place within the courtyard of the Tabernacle. 17. Remember, it must never be prepared with yeast. I have given it to the priests as their share of the special gifts presented to me. Like the sin offering and the guilt offering, it is most holy. -18. Any of Aaron's male descendants may eat from the special gifts presented to the LORD. This is their permanent right from generation to generation. Anyone or anything that touches these offerings will become holy."Procedures for the Ordination Offering +18. Any of Aaron's male descendants may eat from the special gifts presented to the LORD. This is their permanent right from generation to generation. Anyone or anything that touches these offerings will become holy." +Procedures for the Ordination Offering + 19. Then the LORD said to Moses, 20. "On the day Aaron and his sons are anointed, they must present to the LORD the standard grain offering of two quarts of choice flour, half to be offered in the morning and half to be offered in the evening. 21. It must be carefully mixed with olive oil and cooked on a griddle. Then slice this grain offering and present it as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 22. In each generation, the high priest who succeeds Aaron must prepare this same offering. It belongs to the LORD and must be burned up completely. This is a permanent law. -23. All such grain offerings of a priest must be burned up entirely. None of it may be eaten."Further Instructions for the Sin Offering +23. All such grain offerings of a priest must be burned up entirely. None of it may be eaten." +Further Instructions for the Sin Offering + 24. Then the LORD said to Moses, 25. "Give Aaron and his sons the following instructions regarding the sin offering. The animal given as an offering for sin is a most holy offering, and it must be slaughtered in the LORD's presence at the place where the burnt offerings are slaughtered. @@ -37,3 +46,4 @@ Sins Requiring a Guilt Offering 30. But the offering for sin may not be eaten if its blood was brought into the Tabernacle as an offering for purification in the Holy Place. It must be completely burned with fire. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_07.md index 569a08ed..7361a853 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_07.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ Further Instructions for the Guilt Offering 7. "The same instructions apply to both the guilt offering and the sin offering. Both belong to the priest who uses them to purify someone, making that person right with the LORD. 8. In the case of the burnt offering, the priest may keep the hide of the sacrificed animal. 9. Any grain offering that has been baked in an oven, prepared in a pan, or cooked on a griddle belongs to the priest who presents it. -10. All other grain offerings, whether made of dry flour or flour moistened with olive oil, are to be shared equally among all the priests, the descendants of Aaron.Further Instructions for the Peace Offering +10. All other grain offerings, whether made of dry flour or flour moistened with olive oil, are to be shared equally among all the priests, the descendants of Aaron. + +Further Instructions for the Peace Offering + 11. "These are the instructions regarding the different kinds of peace offerings that may be presented to the LORD. 12. If you present your peace offering as an expression of thanksgiving, the usual animal sacrifice must be accompanied by various kinds of bread made without yeast--thin cakes mixed with olive oil, wafers spread with oil, and cakes made of choice flour mixed with olive oil. @@ -25,14 +28,18 @@ Further Instructions for the Guilt Offering 19. "Meat that touches anything ceremonially unclean may not be eaten; it must be completely burned up. The rest of the meat may be eaten, but only by people who are ceremonially clean. 20. If you are ceremonially unclean and you eat meat from a peace offering that was presented to the LORD, you will be cut off from the community. -21. If you touch anything that is unclean (whether it is human defilement or an unclean animal or any other unclean, detestable thing) and then eat meat from a peace offering presented to the LORD, you will be cut off from the community."The Forbidden Blood and Fat +21. If you touch anything that is unclean (whether it is human defilement or an unclean animal or any other unclean, detestable thing) and then eat meat from a peace offering presented to the LORD, you will be cut off from the community." +The Forbidden Blood and Fat + 22. Then the LORD said to Moses, 23. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. You must never eat fat, whether from cattle, sheep, or goats. 24. The fat of an animal found dead or torn to pieces by wild animals must never be eaten, though it may be used for any other purpose. 25. Anyone who eats fat from an animal presented as a special gift to the LORD will be cut off from the community. 26. No matter where you live, you must never consume the blood of any bird or animal. -27. Anyone who consumes blood will be cut off from the community."A Portion for the Priests +27. Anyone who consumes blood will be cut off from the community." +A Portion for the Priests + 28. Then the LORD said to Moses, 29. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. When you present a peace offering to the LORD, bring part of it as a gift to the LORD. @@ -48,3 +55,4 @@ Further Instructions for the Guilt Offering 38. The LORD gave these instructions to Moses on Mount Sinai when he commanded the Israelites to present their offerings to the LORD in the wilderness of Sinai. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_08.md index 643dde99..f0f34823 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_08.md @@ -47,3 +47,4 @@ Ordination of the Priests 36. So Aaron and his sons did everything the LORD had commanded through Moses. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_09.md index 299b2832..b795fb17 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_09.md @@ -34,3 +34,4 @@ The Priests Begin Their Work 24. Fire blazed forth from the LORD's presence and consumed the burnt offering and the fat on the altar. When the people saw this, they shouted with joy and fell face down on the ground. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_10.md index af0bfe0d..575d9f18 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_10.md @@ -6,16 +6,23 @@ The Sin of Nadab and Abihu 3. Then Moses said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD meant when he said, 'I will display my holiness - through those who come near me. + +through those who come near me. + I will display my glory - before all the people.'" + +before all the people.'" And Aaron was silent. + 4. Then Moses called for Mishael and Elzaphan, Aaron's cousins, the sons of Aaron's uncle Uzziel. He said to them, "Come forward and carry away the bodies of your relatives from in front of the sanctuary to a place outside the camp." 5. So they came forward and picked them up by their garments and carried them out of the camp, just as Moses had commanded. 6. Then Moses said to Aaron and his sons Eleazar and Ithamar, "Do not show grief by leaving your hair uncombed or by tearing your clothes. If you do, you will die, and the LORD's anger will strike the whole community of Israel. However, the rest of the Israelites, your relatives, may mourn because of the LORD's fiery destruction of Nadab and Abihu. -7. But you must not leave the entrance of the Tabernacle or you will die, for you have been anointed with the LORD's anointing oil." So they did as Moses commanded.Instructions for Priestly Conduct +7. But you must not leave the entrance of the Tabernacle or you will die, for you have been anointed with the LORD's anointing oil." So they did as Moses commanded. + +Instructions for Priestly Conduct + 8. Then the LORD said to Aaron, 9. "You and your descendants must never drink wine or any other alcoholic drink before going into the Tabernacle. If you do, you will die. This is a permanent law for you, and it must be observed from generation to generation. @@ -35,3 +42,4 @@ And Aaron was silent. 20. And when Moses heard this, he was satisfied. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_11.md index 57aba541..a3974cac 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_11.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ Ceremonially Clean and Unclean Animals # Chapter 11 1. Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 2. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. + "Of all the land animals, these are the ones you may use for food. + 3. You may eat any animal that has completely split hooves and chews the cud. 4. You may not, however, eat the following animals that have split hooves or that chew the cud, but not both. The camel chews the cud but does not have split hooves, so it is ceremonially unclean for you. 5. The hyrax chews the cud but does not have split hooves, so it is unclean. @@ -62,3 +64,4 @@ Ceremonially Clean and Unclean Animals 47. By these instructions you will know what is unclean and clean, and which animals may be eaten and which may not be eaten." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_12.md index cea6a2dd..34350e28 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_12.md @@ -13,3 +13,4 @@ Purification after Childbirth 8. "If a woman cannot afford to bring a lamb, she must bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons. One will be for the burnt offering and the other for the purification offering. The priest will sacrifice them to purify her, and she will be ceremonially clean." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_13.md index d29d81b8..00ece913 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_13.md @@ -55,7 +55,10 @@ Serious Skin Diseases 44. the man is indeed infected with a skin disease and is unclean. The priest must pronounce him ceremonially unclean because of the sore on his head. 45. "Those who suffer from a serious skin disease must tear their clothing and leave their hair uncombed. They must cover their mouth and call out, 'Unclean! Unclean!' -46. As long as the serious disease lasts, they will be ceremonially unclean. They must live in isolation in their place outside the camp.Treatment of Contaminated Clothing +46. As long as the serious disease lasts, they will be ceremonially unclean. They must live in isolation in their place outside the camp. + +Treatment of Contaminated Clothing + 47. "Now suppose mildew contaminates some woolen or linen clothing, 48. woolen or linen fabric, the hide of an animal, or anything made of leather. @@ -74,3 +77,4 @@ Serious Skin Diseases 59. "These are the instructions for dealing with mildew that contaminates woolen or linen clothing or fabric or anything made of leather. This is how the priest will determine whether these items are ceremonially clean or unclean." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_14.md index 1b5aa264..a0c57f9e 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_14.md @@ -39,7 +39,9 @@ Cleansing from Skin Diseases 30. "Then the priest will offer the two turtledoves or the two young pigeons, whichever the person can afford. 31. One of them is for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering, to be presented along with the grain offering. Through this process, the priest will purify the person before the LORD. -32. These are the instructions for purification for those who have recovered from a serious skin disease but who cannot afford to bring the offerings normally required for the ceremony of purification."Treatment of Contaminated Houses +32. These are the instructions for purification for those who have recovered from a serious skin disease but who cannot afford to bring the offerings normally required for the ceremony of purification." +Treatment of Contaminated Houses + 33. Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 34. "When you arrive in Canaan, the land I am giving you as your own possession, I may contaminate some of the houses in your land with mildew. @@ -69,6 +71,8 @@ Cleansing from Skin Diseases 55. and mildew, whether on clothing or in a house; 56. and a swelling on the skin, a rash, or discolored skin. 57. This procedure will determine whether a person or object is ceremonially clean or unclean. + "These are the instructions regarding skin diseases and mildew." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_15.md index b880a9b1..89a45971 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_15.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ Bodily Discharges # Chapter 15 1. The LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 2. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. + "Any man who has a bodily discharge is ceremonially unclean. + 3. This defilement is caused by his discharge, whether the discharge continues or stops. In either case the man is unclean. 4. Any bed on which the man with the discharge lies and anything on which he sits will be ceremonially unclean. 5. So if you touch the man's bed, you must wash your clothes and bathe yourself in water, and you will remain unclean until evening. @@ -43,3 +45,4 @@ Bodily Discharges 33. or a woman during her menstrual period. It applies to any man or woman who has a bodily discharge, and to a man who has sexual intercourse with a woman who is ceremonially unclean." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_16.md index 753e1e2e..170c91af 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_16.md @@ -48,3 +48,4 @@ The Day of Atonement Moses followed all these instructions exactly as the LORD had commanded him. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_17.md index bc687a5b..6b72b44c 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_17.md @@ -24,3 +24,4 @@ Prohibitions against Eating Blood 16. But if they do not wash their clothes and bathe themselves, they will be punished for their sin." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_18.md index f013fb01..7afc21a4 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_18.md @@ -53,3 +53,4 @@ Forbidden Sexual Practices 30. So obey my instructions, and do not defile yourselves by committing any of these detestable practices that were committed by the people who lived in the land before you. I am the LORD your God." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_19.md index e61be774..a16aba65 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_19.md @@ -17,13 +17,17 @@ Holiness in Personal Conduct 10. It is the same with your grape crop--do not strip every last bunch of grapes from the vines, and do not pick up the grapes that fall to the ground. Leave them for the poor and the foreigners living among you. I am the LORD your God. 11. "Do not steal. + "Do not deceive or cheat one another. + 12. "Do not bring shame on the name of your God by using it to swear falsely. I am the LORD. 13. "Do not defraud or rob your neighbor. + "Do not make your hired workers wait until the next day to receive their pay. + 14. "Do not insult the deaf or cause the blind to stumble. You must fear your God; I am the LORD. 15. "Do not twist justice in legal matters by favoring the poor or being partial to the rich and powerful. Always judge people fairly. @@ -36,8 +40,10 @@ Holiness in Personal Conduct 18. "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against a fellow Israelite, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. 19. "You must obey all my decrees. + "Do not mate two different kinds of animals. Do not plant your field with two different kinds of seed. Do not wear clothing woven from two different kinds of thread. + 20. "If a man has sex with a slave girl whose freedom has never been purchased but who is committed to become another man's wife, he must pay full compensation to her master. But since she is not a free woman, neither the man nor the woman will be put to death. 21. The man, however, must bring a ram as a guilt offering and present it to the LORD at the entrance of the Tabernacle. 22. The priest will then purify him before the LORD with the ram of the guilt offering, and the man's sin will be forgiven. @@ -47,8 +53,10 @@ Holiness in Personal Conduct 25. Finally, in the fifth year you may eat the fruit. If you follow this pattern, your harvest will increase. I am the LORD your God. 26. "Do not eat meat that has not been drained of its blood. + "Do not practice fortune-telling or witchcraft. + 27. "Do not trim off the hair on your temples or trim your beards. 28. "Do not cut your bodies for the dead, and do not mark your skin with tattoos. I am the LORD. @@ -70,3 +78,4 @@ Holiness in Personal Conduct 37. "You must be careful to keep all of my decrees and regulations by putting them into practice. I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_20.md index ef6f4025..6bc90933 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_20.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ Punishments for Disobedience # Chapter 20 1. The LORD said to Moses, 2. "Give the people of Israel these instructions, which apply both to native Israelites and to the foreigners living in Israel. + "If any of them offer their children as a sacrifice to Molech, they must be put to death. The people of the community must stone them to death. + 3. I myself will turn against them and cut them off from the community, because they have defiled my sanctuary and brought shame on my holy name by offering their children to Molech. 4. And if the people of the community ignore those who offer their children to Molech and refuse to execute them, 5. I myself will turn against them and their families and will cut them off from the community. This will happen to all who commit spiritual prostitution by worshiping Molech. @@ -48,3 +50,4 @@ Punishments for Disobedience 27. "Men and women among you who act as mediums or who consult the spirits of the dead must be put to death by stoning. They are guilty of a capital offense." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_21.md index 78ed527b..c5411689 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_21.md @@ -2,7 +2,9 @@ Instructions for the Priests # Chapter 21 1. The LORD said to Moses, "Give the following instructions to the priests, the descendants of Aaron. + "A priest must not make himself ceremonially unclean by touching the dead body of a relative. + 2. The only exceptions are his closest relatives--his mother or father, son or daughter, brother, 3. or his virgin sister who depends on him because she has no husband. 4. But a priest must not defile himself and make himself unclean for someone who is related to him only by marriage. @@ -35,3 +37,4 @@ Instructions for the Priests 24. So Moses gave these instructions to Aaron and his sons and to all the Israelites. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_22.md index 6d744db0..44df431a 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_22.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ 14. "Any such person who eats the sacred offerings without realizing it must pay the priest for the amount eaten, plus an additional 20 percent. 15. The priests must not let the Israelites defile the sacred offerings brought to the LORD -16. by allowing unauthorized people to eat them. This would bring guilt upon them and require them to pay compensation. I am the LORD who makes them holy."Worthy and Unworthy Offerings +16. by allowing unauthorized people to eat them. This would bring guilt upon them and require them to pay compensation. I am the LORD who makes them holy." +Worthy and Unworthy Offerings + 17. And the LORD said to Moses, 18. "Give Aaron and his sons and all the Israelites these instructions, which apply both to native Israelites and to the foreigners living among you. @@ -44,3 +46,4 @@ 33. It was I who rescued you from the land of Egypt, that I might be your God. I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_23.md index 894cf027..40dba1b1 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_23.md @@ -6,19 +6,27 @@ The Appointed Festivals 3. "You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of complete rest, an official day for holy assembly. It is the LORD's Sabbath day, and it must be observed wherever you live. -4. "In addition to the Sabbath, these are the LORD's appointed festivals, the official days for holy assembly that are to be celebrated at their proper times each year.Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread +4. "In addition to the Sabbath, these are the LORD's appointed festivals, the official days for holy assembly that are to be celebrated at their proper times each year. + +Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread + 5. "The LORD's Passover begins at sundown on the fourteenth day of the first month. 6. On the next day, the fifteenth day of the month, you must begin celebrating the Festival of Unleavened Bread. This festival to the LORD continues for seven days, and during that time the bread you eat must be made without yeast. 7. On the first day of the festival, all the people must stop their ordinary work and observe an official day for holy assembly. -8. For seven days you must present special gifts to the LORD. On the seventh day the people must again stop all their ordinary work to observe an official day for holy assembly."Celebration of First Harvest +8. For seven days you must present special gifts to the LORD. On the seventh day the people must again stop all their ordinary work to observe an official day for holy assembly." +Celebration of First Harvest + 9. Then the LORD said to Moses, 10. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. When you enter the land I am giving you and you harvest its first crops, bring the priest a bundle of grain from the first cutting of your grain harvest. 11. On the day after the Sabbath, the priest will lift it up before the LORD so it may be accepted on your behalf. 12. On that same day you must sacrifice a one-year-old male lamb with no defects as a burnt offering to the LORD. 13. With it you must present a grain offering consisting of four quarts of choice flour moistened with olive oil. It will be a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. You must also offer one quart of wine as a liquid offering. -14. Do not eat any bread or roasted grain or fresh kernels on that day until you bring this offering to your God. This is a permanent law for you, and it must be observed from generation to generation wherever you live.The Festival of Harvest +14. Do not eat any bread or roasted grain or fresh kernels on that day until you bring this offering to your God. This is a permanent law for you, and it must be observed from generation to generation wherever you live. + +The Festival of Harvest + 15. "From the day after the Sabbath--the day you bring the bundle of grain to be lifted up as a special offering--count off seven full weeks. 16. Keep counting until the day after the seventh Sabbath, fifty days later. Then present an offering of new grain to the LORD. @@ -29,11 +37,15 @@ The Appointed Festivals 20. "The priest will lift up the two lambs as a special offering to the LORD, together with the loaves representing the first of your crops. These offerings, which are holy to the LORD, belong to the priests. 21. That same day will be proclaimed an official day for holy assembly, a day on which you do no ordinary work. This is a permanent law for you, and it must be observed from generation to generation wherever you live. -22. "When you harvest the crops of your land, do not harvest the grain along the edges of your fields, and do not pick up what the harvesters drop. Leave it for the poor and the foreigners living among you. I am the LORD your God."The Festival of Trumpets +22. "When you harvest the crops of your land, do not harvest the grain along the edges of your fields, and do not pick up what the harvesters drop. Leave it for the poor and the foreigners living among you. I am the LORD your God." +The Festival of Trumpets + 23. The LORD said to Moses, 24. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. On the first day of the appointed month in early autumn, you are to observe a day of complete rest. It will be an official day for holy assembly, a day commemorated with loud blasts of a trumpet. -25. You must do no ordinary work on that day. Instead, you are to present special gifts to the LORD."The Day of Atonement +25. You must do no ordinary work on that day. Instead, you are to present special gifts to the LORD." +The Day of Atonement + 26. Then the LORD said to Moses, 27. "Be careful to celebrate the Day of Atonement on the tenth day of that same month--nine days after the Festival of Trumpets. You must observe it as an official day for holy assembly, a day to deny yourselves and present special gifts to the LORD. @@ -41,7 +53,9 @@ The Appointed Festivals 29. All who do not deny themselves that day will be cut off from God's people. 30. And I will destroy anyone among you who does any work on that day. 31. You must not do any work at all! This is a permanent law for you, and it must be observed from generation to generation wherever you live. -32. This will be a Sabbath day of complete rest for you, and on that day you must deny yourselves. This day of rest will begin at sundown on the ninth day of the month and extend until sundown on the tenth day."The Festival of Shelters +32. This will be a Sabbath day of complete rest for you, and on that day you must deny yourselves. This day of rest will begin at sundown on the ninth day of the month and extend until sundown on the tenth day." +The Festival of Shelters + 33. And the LORD said to Moses, 34. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. Begin celebrating the Festival of Shelters on the fifteenth day of the appointed month--five days after the Day of Atonement. This festival to the LORD will last for seven days. @@ -60,3 +74,4 @@ The Appointed Festivals 44. So Moses gave the Israelites these instructions regarding the annual festivals of the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_24.md index 10ef84a0..ccc0a4f1 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_24.md @@ -10,7 +10,9 @@ Pure Oil and Holy Bread 6. Place the bread before the LORD on the pure gold table, and arrange the loaves in two stacks, with six loaves in each stack. 7. Put some pure frankincense near each stack to serve as a representative offering, a special gift presented to the LORD. 8. Every Sabbath day this bread must be laid out before the LORD as a gift from the Israelites; it is an ongoing expression of the eternal covenant. -9. The loaves of bread will belong to Aaron and his descendants, who must eat them in a sacred place, for they are most holy. It is the permanent right of the priests to claim this portion of the special gifts presented to the LORD."An Example of Just Punishment +9. The loaves of bread will belong to Aaron and his descendants, who must eat them in a sacred place, for they are most holy. It is the permanent right of the priests to claim this portion of the special gifts presented to the LORD." +An Example of Just Punishment + 10. One day a man who had an Israelite mother and an Egyptian father came out of his tent and got into a fight with one of the Israelite men. 11. During the fight, this son of an Israelite woman blasphemed the Name of the LORD with a curse. So the man was brought to Moses for judgment. His mother was Shelomith, the daughter of Dibri of the tribe of Dan. @@ -35,3 +37,4 @@ Pure Oil and Holy Bread 23. After Moses gave all these instructions to the Israelites, they took the blasphemer outside the camp and stoned him to death. The Israelites did just as the LORD had commanded Moses. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_25.md index f679b813..9634b899 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_25.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ The Sabbath Year 4. but during the seventh year the land must have a Sabbath year of complete rest. It is the LORD's Sabbath. Do not plant your fields or prune your vineyards during that year. 5. And don't store away the crops that grow on their own or gather the grapes from your unpruned vines. The land must have a year of complete rest. 6. But you may eat whatever the land produces on its own during its Sabbath. This applies to you, your male and female servants, your hired workers, and the temporary residents who live with you. -7. Your livestock and the wild animals in your land will also be allowed to eat what the land produces.The Year of Jubilee +7. Your livestock and the wild animals in your land will also be allowed to eat what the land produces. + +The Year of Jubilee + 8. "In addition, you must count off seven Sabbath years, seven sets of seven years, adding up to forty-nine years in all. 9. Then on the Day of Atonement in the fiftieth year, blow the ram's horn loud and long throughout the land. @@ -25,7 +28,10 @@ The Sabbath Year 19. Then the land will yield large crops, and you will eat your fill and live securely in it. 20. But you might ask, 'What will we eat during the seventh year, since we are not allowed to plant or harvest crops that year?' 21. Be assured that I will send my blessing for you in the sixth year, so the land will produce a crop large enough for three years. -22. When you plant your fields in the eighth year, you will still be eating from the large crop of the sixth year. In fact, you will still be eating from that large crop when the new crop is harvested in the ninth year.Redemption of Property +22. When you plant your fields in the eighth year, you will still be eating from the large crop of the sixth year. In fact, you will still be eating from that large crop when the new crop is harvested in the ninth year. + +Redemption of Property + 23. "The land must never be sold on a permanent basis, for the land belongs to me. You are only foreigners and tenant farmers working for me. @@ -41,7 +47,10 @@ The Sabbath Year 32. "The Levites always have the right to buy back a house they have sold within the towns allotted to them. 33. And any property that is sold by the Levites--all houses within the Levitical towns--must be returned in the Year of Jubilee. After all, the houses in the towns reserved for the Levites are the only property they own in all Israel. -34. The open pastureland around the Levitical towns may never be sold. It is their permanent possession.Redemption of the Poor and Enslaved +34. The open pastureland around the Levitical towns may never be sold. It is their permanent possession. + +Redemption of the Poor and Enslaved + 35. "If one of your fellow Israelites falls into poverty and cannot support himself, support him as you would a foreigner or a temporary resident and allow him to live with you. 36. Do not charge interest or make a profit at his expense. Instead, show your fear of God by letting him live with you as your relative. @@ -69,3 +78,4 @@ The Sabbath Year 55. For the people of Israel belong to me. They are my servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_26.md index 546403b8..da4753f9 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_26.md @@ -16,7 +16,10 @@ Blessings for Obedience 10. You will have such a surplus of crops that you will need to clear out the old grain to make room for the new harvest! 11. I will live among you, and I will not despise you. 12. I will walk among you; I will be your God, and you will be my people. -13. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt so you would no longer be their slaves. I broke the yoke of slavery from your neck so you can walk with your heads held high.Punishments for Disobedience +13. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt so you would no longer be their slaves. I broke the yoke of slavery from your neck so you can walk with your heads held high. + +Punishments for Disobedience + 14. "However, if you do not listen to me or obey all these commands, 15. and if you break my covenant by rejecting my decrees, treating my regulations with contempt, and refusing to obey my commands, @@ -61,3 +64,4 @@ Blessings for Obedience 46. These are the decrees, regulations, and instructions that the LORD gave through Moses on Mount Sinai as evidence of the relationship between himself and the Israelites. + diff --git a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_27.md index 9226b034..67fa1104 100644 --- a/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/03_Leviticus/Chapter_27.md @@ -45,3 +45,4 @@ Redemption of Gifts Offered to the LORD 34. These are the commands that the LORD gave through Moses on Mount Sinai for the Israelites. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_01.md index 2352612f..bce4a3ac 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_01.md @@ -30,3 +30,4 @@ Registration of Israel's Troops 54. So the Israelites did everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_02.md index 09e83fb0..a60efc01 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_02.md @@ -4,23 +4,32 @@ Organization for Israel's Camp 1. Then the LORD gave these instructions to Moses and Aaron: 2. "When the Israelites set up camp, each tribe will be assigned its own area. The tribal divisions will camp beneath their family banners on all four sides of the Tabernacle, but at some distance from it. -###### 3-4 "The divisions of Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun are to camp toward the sunrise on the east side of the Tabernacle, beneath their family banners. These are the names of the tribes, their leaders, and the numbers of their registered troops: +###### 3-4 "The divisions of +Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun are to camp toward the sunrise on the east side of the Tabernacle, beneath their family banners. These are the names of the tribes, their leaders, and the numbers of their registered troops: -9. So the total of all the troops on Judah's side of the camp is 186,400. These three tribes are to lead the way whenever the Israelites travel to a new campsite. -10-11"The divisions of Reuben, Simeon, and Gad are to camp on the south side of the Tabernacle, beneath their family banners. These are the names of the tribes, their leaders, and the numbers of their registered troops: +9. So the total of all the troops on +Judah's side of the camp is 186,400. These three tribes are to lead the way whenever the Israelites travel to a new campsite. +10-11"The divisions of +Reuben, Simeon, and Gad are to camp on the south side of the Tabernacle, beneath their family banners. These are the names of the tribes, their leaders, and the numbers of their registered troops: -16. So the total of all the troops on Reuben's side of the camp is 151,450. These three tribes will be second in line whenever the Israelites travel. +16. So the total of all the troops on +Reuben's side of the camp is 151,450. These three tribes will be second in line whenever the Israelites travel. 17. "Then the Tabernacle, carried by the Levites, will set out from the middle of the camp. All the tribes are to travel in the same order that they camp, each in position under the appropriate family banner. -18-19"The divisions of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin are to camp on the west side of the Tabernacle, beneath their family banners. These are the names of the tribes, their leaders, and the numbers of their registered troops: +18-19"The divisions of +Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin are to camp on the west side of the Tabernacle, beneath their family banners. These are the names of the tribes, their leaders, and the numbers of their registered troops: -24. So the total of all the troops on Ephraim's side of the camp is 108,100. These three tribes will be third in line whenever the Israelites travel. -25-26"The divisions of Dan, Asher, and Naphtali are to camp on the north side of the Tabernacle, beneath their family banners. These are the names of the tribes, their leaders, and the numbers of their registered troops: +24. So the total of all the troops on +Ephraim's side of the camp is 108,100. These three tribes will be third in line whenever the Israelites travel. +25-26"The divisions of +Dan, Asher, and Naphtali are to camp on the north side of the Tabernacle, beneath their family banners. These are the names of the tribes, their leaders, and the numbers of their registered troops: -31. So the total of all the troops on Dan's side of the camp is 157,600. These three tribes will be last, marching under their banners whenever the Israelites travel." +31. So the total of all the troops on +Dan's side of the camp is 157,600. These three tribes will be last, marching under their banners whenever the Israelites travel." 32. In summary, the troops of Israel listed by their families totaled 603,550. 33. But as the LORD had commanded, the Levites were not included in this registration. 34. So the people of Israel did everything as the LORD had commanded Moses. Each clan and family set up camp and marched under their banners exactly as the LORD had instructed them. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_03.md index 4bbeb467..ec9dce47 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_03.md @@ -15,7 +15,9 @@ Levites Appointed for Service 11. And the LORD said to Moses, 12. "Look, I have chosen the Levites from among the Israelites to serve as substitutes for all the firstborn sons of the people of Israel. The Levites belong to me, -13. for all the firstborn males are mine. On the day I struck down all the firstborn sons of the Egyptians, I set apart for myself all the firstborn in Israel, both of people and of animals. They are mine; I am the LORD."Registration of the Levites +13. for all the firstborn males are mine. On the day I struck down all the firstborn sons of the Egyptians, I set apart for myself all the firstborn in Israel, both of people and of animals. They are mine; I am the LORD." +Registration of the Levites + 14. The LORD spoke again to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai. He said, 15. "Record the names of the members of the tribe of Levi by their families and clans. List every male who is one month old or older." @@ -28,8 +30,10 @@ Levites Appointed for Service 19. The clans descended from Kohath were named after four of his descendants, Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. 20. The clans descended from Merari were named after two of his descendants, Mahli and Mushi. + These were the Levite clans, listed according to their family groups. + 21. The descendants of Gershon were composed of the clans descended from Libni and Shimei. 22. There were 7,500 males one month old or older among these Gershonite clans. 23. They were assigned the area to the west of the Tabernacle for their camp. @@ -52,7 +56,10 @@ These were the Levite clans, listed according to their family groups. 38. The area in front of the Tabernacle, in the east toward the sunrise, was reserved for the tents of Moses and of Aaron and his sons, who had the final responsibility for the sanctuary on behalf of the people of Israel. Anyone other than a priest or Levite who went too near the sanctuary was to be put to death. -39. When Moses and Aaron counted the Levite clans at the LORD's command, the total number was 22,000 males one month old or older.Redeeming the Firstborn Sons +39. When Moses and Aaron counted the Levite clans at the LORD's command, the total number was 22,000 males one month old or older. + +Redeeming the Firstborn Sons + 40. Then the LORD said to Moses, "Now count all the firstborn sons in Israel who are one month old or older, and make a list of their names. 41. The Levites must be reserved for me as substitutes for the firstborn sons of Israel; I am the LORD. And the Levites' livestock must be reserved for me as substitutes for the firstborn livestock of the whole nation of Israel." @@ -71,3 +78,4 @@ These were the Levite clans, listed according to their family groups. 51. And Moses gave the silver for the redemption to Aaron and his sons, just as the LORD had commanded. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_04.md index 3ed1d5d0..0075d454 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_04.md @@ -27,7 +27,9 @@ Duties of the Kohathite Clan 17. Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 18. "Do not let the Kohathite clans be destroyed from among the Levites! 19. This is what you must do so they will live and not die when they approach the most sacred objects. Aaron and his sons must always go in with them and assign a specific duty or load to each person. -20. The Kohathites must never enter the sanctuary to look at the sacred objects for even a moment, or they will die."Duties of the Gershonite Clan +20. The Kohathites must never enter the sanctuary to look at the sacred objects for even a moment, or they will die." +Duties of the Gershonite Clan + 21. And the LORD said to Moses, 22. "Record the names of the members of the clans and families of the Gershonite division of the tribe of Levi. @@ -37,14 +39,19 @@ Duties of the Kohathite Clan 25. They must carry the curtains of the Tabernacle, the Tabernacle itself with its coverings, the outer covering of fine goatskin leather, and the curtain for the Tabernacle entrance. 26. They are also to carry the curtains for the courtyard walls that surround the Tabernacle and altar, the curtain across the courtyard entrance, the ropes, and all the equipment related to their use. The Gershonites are responsible for all these items. 27. Aaron and his sons will direct the Gershonites regarding all their duties, whether it involves moving the equipment or doing other work. They must assign the Gershonites responsibility for the loads they are to carry. -28. So these are the duties assigned to the Gershonite clans at the Tabernacle. They will be directly responsible to Ithamar son of Aaron the priest.Duties of the Merarite Clan +28. So these are the duties assigned to the Gershonite clans at the Tabernacle. They will be directly responsible to Ithamar son of Aaron the priest. + +Duties of the Merarite Clan + 29. "Now record the names of the members of the clans and families of the Merarite division of the tribe of Levi. 30. List all the men between the ages of thirty and fifty who are eligible to serve in the Tabernacle. 31. "Their only duty at the Tabernacle will be to carry loads. They will carry the frames of the Tabernacle, the crossbars, the posts, and the bases; 32. also the posts for the courtyard walls with their bases, pegs, and ropes; and all the accessories and everything else related to their use. Assign the various loads to each man by name. -33. So these are the duties of the Merarite clans at the Tabernacle. They are directly responsible to Ithamar son of Aaron the priest."Summary of the Registration +33. So these are the duties of the Merarite clans at the Tabernacle. They are directly responsible to Ithamar son of Aaron the priest." +Summary of the Registration + 34. So Moses, Aaron, and the other leaders of the community listed the members of the Kohathite division by their clans and families. 35. The list included all the men between thirty and fifty years of age who were eligible for service in the Tabernacle, @@ -68,3 +75,4 @@ Duties of the Kohathite Clan And so the registration was completed, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_05.md index 6ab860ef..99ec85a8 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_05.md @@ -11,11 +11,15 @@ Purity in Israel's Camp 7. They must confess their sin and make full restitution for what they have done, adding an additional 20 percent and returning it to the person who was wronged. 8. But if the person who was wronged is dead, and there are no near relatives to whom restitution can be made, the payment belongs to the LORD and must be given to the priest. Those who are guilty must also bring a ram as a sacrifice, and they will be purified and made right with the LORD. 9. All the sacred offerings that the Israelites bring to a priest will belong to him. -10. Each priest may keep all the sacred donations that he receives."Protecting Marital Faithfulness +10. Each priest may keep all the sacred donations that he receives." +Protecting Marital Faithfulness + 11. And the LORD said to Moses, 12. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. + "Suppose a man's wife goes astray, and she is unfaithful to her husband + 13. and has sex with another man, but neither her husband nor anyone else knows about it. She has defiled herself, even though there was no witness and she was not caught in the act. 14. If her husband becomes jealous and is suspicious of his wife and needs to know whether or not she has defiled herself, 15. the husband must bring his wife to the priest. He must also bring an offering of two quarts of barley flour to be presented on her behalf. Do not mix it with olive oil or frankincense, for it is a jealousy offering--an offering to prove whether or not she is guilty. @@ -41,3 +45,4 @@ Purity in Israel's Camp 31. The husband will be innocent of any guilt in this matter, but his wife will be held accountable for her sin." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_06.md index 5a18da1c..c075a9f0 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_06.md @@ -27,20 +27,29 @@ Nazirite Laws 19. After the Nazirite's head has been shaved, the priest will take for each of them the boiled shoulder of the ram, and he will take from the basket a cake and a wafer made without yeast. He will put them all into the Nazirite's hands. 20. Then the priest will lift them up as a special offering before the LORD. These are holy portions for the priest, along with the breast of the special offering and the thigh of the sacred offering that are lifted up before the LORD. After this ceremony the Nazirites may again drink wine. -21. "This is the ritual law of the Nazirites, who vow to bring these offerings to the LORD. They may also bring additional offerings if they can afford it. And they must be careful to do whatever they vowed when they set themselves apart as Nazirites."The Priestly Blessing +21. "This is the ritual law of the Nazirites, who vow to bring these offerings to the LORD. They may also bring additional offerings if they can afford it. And they must be careful to do whatever they vowed when they set themselves apart as Nazirites." +The Priestly Blessing + 22. Then the LORD said to Moses, 23. "Tell Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel with this special blessing: 24. 'May the LORD bless you - and protect you. + +and protect you. + 25. May the LORD smile on you - and be gracious to you. + +and be gracious to you. + 26. May the LORD show you his favor - and give you his peace.' + +and give you his peace.' + 27. Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in my name, I myself will bless them." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_07.md index a4f12e4f..61d832a9 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_07.md @@ -120,3 +120,4 @@ Offerings of Dedication 89. Whenever Moses went into the Tabernacle to speak with the LORD, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the Ark's cover--the place of atonement--that rests on the Ark of the Covenant. The LORD spoke to him from there. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_08.md index 86a70a03..c74b106d 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_08.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ Preparing the Lamps 1. The LORD said to Moses, 2. "Give Aaron the following instructions: When you set up the seven lamps in the lampstand, place them so their light shines forward in front of the lampstand." 3. So Aaron did this. He set up the seven lamps so they reflected their light forward, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. -4. The entire lampstand, from its base to its decorative blossoms, was made of beaten gold. It was built according to the exact design the LORD had shown Moses.The Levites Dedicated +4. The entire lampstand, from its base to its decorative blossoms, was made of beaten gold. It was built according to the exact design the LORD had shown Moses. + +The Levites Dedicated + 5. Then the LORD said to Moses, 6. "Now set the Levites apart from the rest of the people of Israel and make them ceremonially clean. @@ -34,3 +37,4 @@ Preparing the Lamps 26. After retirement they may assist their fellow Levites by serving as guards at the Tabernacle, but they may not officiate in the service. This is how you must assign duties to the Levites." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_09.md index a515f663..7dcba006 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_09.md @@ -18,7 +18,9 @@ The Second Passover 12. They must not leave any of the lamb until the next morning, and they must not break any of its bones. They must follow all the normal regulations concerning the Passover. 13. "But those who neglect to celebrate the Passover at the regular time, even though they are ceremonially clean and not away on a trip, will be cut off from the community of Israel. If they fail to present the LORD's offering at the proper time, they will suffer the consequences of their guilt. -14. And if foreigners living among you want to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, they must follow these same decrees and regulations. The same laws apply both to native-born Israelites and to the foreigners living among you."The Fiery Cloud +14. And if foreigners living among you want to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, they must follow these same decrees and regulations. The same laws apply both to native-born Israelites and to the foreigners living among you." +The Fiery Cloud + 15. On the day the Tabernacle was set up, the cloud covered it. But from evening until morning the cloud over the Tabernacle looked like a pillar of fire. 16. This was the regular pattern--at night the cloud that covered the Tabernacle had the appearance of fire. @@ -31,3 +33,4 @@ The Second Passover 23. So they camped or traveled at the LORD's command, and they did whatever the LORD told them through Moses. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_10.md index 95d8c834..d061a97a 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_10.md @@ -12,7 +12,9 @@ The Silver Trumpets 8. Only the priests, Aaron's descendants, are allowed to blow the trumpets. This is a permanent law for you, to be observed from generation to generation. 9. "When you arrive in your own land and go to war against your enemies who attack you, sound the alarm with the trumpets. Then the LORD your God will remember you and rescue you from your enemies. -10. Blow the trumpets in times of gladness, too, sounding them at your annual festivals and at the beginning of each month. And blow the trumpets over your burnt offerings and peace offerings. The trumpets will remind your God of his covenant with you. I am the LORD your God."The Israelites Leave Sinai +10. Blow the trumpets in times of gladness, too, sounding them at your annual festivals and at the beginning of each month. And blow the trumpets over your burnt offerings and peace offerings. The trumpets will remind your God of his covenant with you. I am the LORD your God." +The Israelites Leave Sinai + 11. In the second year after Israel's departure from Egypt--on the twentieth day of the second month--the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle of the Covenant. 12. So the Israelites set out from the wilderness of Sinai and traveled on from place to place until the cloud stopped in the wilderness of Paran. @@ -51,3 +53,4 @@ The Silver Trumpets 36. And when the Ark was set down, he would say, "Return, O LORD, to the countless thousands of Israel!" + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_11.md index c4e123f4..6360b39e 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_11.md @@ -18,7 +18,9 @@ The People Complain to Moses 12. Did I give birth to them? Did I bring them into the world? Why did you tell me to carry them in my arms like a mother carries a nursing baby? How can I carry them to the land you swore to give their ancestors? 13. Where am I supposed to get meat for all these people? They keep whining to me, saying, 'Give us meat to eat!' 14. I can't carry all these people by myself! The load is far too heavy! -15. If this is how you intend to treat me, just go ahead and kill me. Do me a favor and spare me this misery!"Moses Chooses Seventy Leaders +15. If this is how you intend to treat me, just go ahead and kill me. Do me a favor and spare me this misery!" +Moses Chooses Seventy Leaders + 16. Then the LORD said to Moses, "Gather before me seventy men who are recognized as elders and leaders of Israel. Bring them to the Tabernacle to stand there with you. 17. I will come down and talk to you there. I will take some of the Spirit that is upon you, and I will put the Spirit upon them also. They will bear the burden of the people along with you, so you will not have to carry it alone. @@ -50,3 +52,4 @@ The People Complain to Moses 35. From Kibroth-hattaavah the Israelites traveled to Hazeroth, where they stayed for some time. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_12.md index 7724a649..f27e5bb2 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_12.md @@ -10,16 +10,24 @@ The Complaints of Miriam and Aaron 6. And the LORD said to them, "Now listen to what I say: "If there were prophets among you, I, the LORD, would reveal myself in visions. - I would speak to them in dreams. + +I would speak to them in dreams. + 7. But not with my servant Moses. - Of all my house, he is the one I trust. + +Of all my house, he is the one I trust. + 8. I speak to him face to face, - clearly, and not in riddles! + +clearly, and not in riddles! He sees the LORD as he is. + So why were you not afraid - to criticize my servant Moses?" + +to criticize my servant Moses?" + 9. The LORD was very angry with them, and he departed. 10. As the cloud moved from above the Tabernacle, there stood Miriam, her skin as white as snow from leprosy. When Aaron saw what had happened to her, @@ -34,3 +42,4 @@ So why were you not afraid 16. Then they left Hazeroth and camped in the wilderness of Paran. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_13.md index 91301625..432357bf 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_13.md @@ -6,7 +6,8 @@ Twelve Scouts Explore Canaan 3. So Moses did as the LORD commanded him. He sent out twelve men, all tribal leaders of Israel, from their camp in the wilderness of Paran. 4. These were the tribes and the names of their leaders: -16. These are the names of the men Moses sent out to explore the land. (Moses called Hoshea son of Nun by the name Joshua.) +16. These are the names of the men Moses sent out to explore the land. (Moses called +Hoshea son of Nun by the name Joshua.) 17. Moses gave the men these instructions as he sent them out to explore the land: "Go north through the Negev into the hill country. 18. See what the land is like, and find out whether the people living there are strong or weak, few or many. @@ -16,7 +17,10 @@ Twelve Scouts Explore Canaan 21. So they went up and explored the land from the wilderness of Zin as far as Rehob, near Lebo-hamath. 22. Going north, they passed through the Negev and arrived at Hebron, where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai--all descendants of Anak--lived. (The ancient town of Hebron was founded seven years before the Egyptian city of Zoan.) 23. When they came to the valley of Eshcol, they cut down a branch with a single cluster of grapes so large that it took two of them to carry it on a pole between them! They also brought back samples of the pomegranates and figs. -24. That place was called the valley of Eshcol (which means "cluster"), because of the cluster of grapes the Israelite men cut there.The Scouting Report +24. That place was called the valley of Eshcol (which means "cluster"), because of the cluster of grapes the Israelite men cut there. + +The Scouting Report + 25. After exploring the land for forty days, the men returned 26. to Moses, Aaron, and the whole community of Israel at Kadesh in the wilderness of Paran. They reported to the whole community what they had seen and showed them the fruit they had taken from the land. @@ -31,3 +35,4 @@ Twelve Scouts Explore Canaan 33. We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak. Next to them we felt like grasshoppers, and that's what they thought, too!" + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_14.md index 69b993e6..35906cc9 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_14.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ The People Rebel 10. But the whole community began to talk about stoning Joshua and Caleb. Then the glorious presence of the LORD appeared to all the Israelites at the Tabernacle. 11. And the LORD said to Moses, "How long will these people treat me with contempt? Will they never believe me, even after all the miraculous signs I have done among them? -12. I will disown them and destroy them with a plague. Then I will make you into a nation greater and mightier than they are!"Moses Intercedes for the People +12. I will disown them and destroy them with a plague. Then I will make you into a nation greater and mightier than they are!" +Moses Intercedes for the People + 13. But Moses objected. "What will the Egyptians think when they hear about it?" he asked the LORD. "They know full well the power you displayed in rescuing your people from Egypt. 14. Now if you destroy them, the Egyptians will send a report to the inhabitants of this land, who have already heard that you live among your people. They know, LORD, that you have appeared to your people face to face and that your pillar of cloud hovers over them. They know that you go before them in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. @@ -60,3 +62,4 @@ The People Rebel 45. Then the Amalekites and the Canaanites who lived in those hills came down and attacked them and chased them back as far as Hormah. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_15.md index 2b4db9c7..c1bc918d 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_15.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ Laws concerning Offerings # Chapter 15 1. Then the LORD told Moses, 2. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. + "When you finally settle in the land I am giving you, + 3. you will offer special gifts as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. These gifts may take the form of a burnt offering, a sacrifice to fulfill a vow, a voluntary offering, or an offering at any of your annual festivals, and they may be taken from your herds of cattle or your flocks of sheep and goats. 4. When you present these offerings, you must also give the LORD a grain offering of two quarts of choice flour mixed with one quart of olive oil. 5. For each lamb offered as a burnt offering or a special sacrifice, you must also present one quart of wine as a liquid offering. @@ -24,7 +26,9 @@ Laws concerning Offerings 17. Then the LORD said to Moses, 18. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. + "When you arrive in the land where I am taking you, + 19. and you eat the crops that grow there, you must set some aside as a sacred offering to the LORD. 20. Present a cake from the first of the flour you grind, and set it aside as a sacred offering, as you do with the first grain from the threshing floor. 21. Throughout the generations to come, you are to present a sacred offering to the LORD each year from the first of your ground flour. @@ -40,13 +44,18 @@ Laws concerning Offerings 29. These same instructions apply both to native-born Israelites and to the foreigners living among you. 30. "But those who brazenly violate the LORD's will, whether native-born Israelites or foreigners, have blasphemed the LORD, and they must be cut off from the community. -31. Since they have treated the LORD's word with contempt and deliberately disobeyed his command, they must be completely cut off and suffer the punishment for their guilt."Penalty for Breaking the Sabbath +31. Since they have treated the LORD's word with contempt and deliberately disobeyed his command, they must be completely cut off and suffer the punishment for their guilt." +Penalty for Breaking the Sabbath + 32. One day while the people of Israel were in the wilderness, they discovered a man gathering wood on the Sabbath day. 33. The people who found him doing this took him before Moses, Aaron, and the rest of the community. 34. They held him in custody because they did not know what to do with him. 35. Then the LORD said to Moses, "The man must be put to death! The whole community must stone him outside the camp." -36. So the whole community took the man outside the camp and stoned him to death, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.Tassels on Clothing +36. So the whole community took the man outside the camp and stoned him to death, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. + +Tassels on Clothing + 37. Then the LORD said to Moses, 38. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel: Throughout the generations to come you must make tassels for the hems of your clothing and attach them with a blue cord. @@ -55,3 +64,4 @@ Laws concerning Offerings 41. I am the LORD your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt that I might be your God. I am the LORD your God!" + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_16.md index adcbb78c..86b0d456 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_16.md @@ -69,3 +69,4 @@ Korah's Rebellion 50. Then because the plague had stopped, Aaron returned to Moses at the entrance of the Tabernacle. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_17.md index d011588f..c93abfc1 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_17.md @@ -19,3 +19,4 @@ The Budding of Aaron's Staff 13. Everyone who even comes close to the Tabernacle of the LORD dies. Are we all doomed to die?" + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_18.md index 63bf7404..09857781 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_18.md @@ -9,7 +9,9 @@ Duties of Priests and Levites 5. "You yourselves must perform the sacred duties inside the sanctuary and at the altar. If you follow these instructions, the LORD's anger will never again blaze against the people of Israel. 6. I myself have chosen your fellow Levites from among the Israelites to be your special assistants. They are a gift to you, dedicated to the LORD for service in the Tabernacle. -7. But you and your sons, the priests, must personally handle all the priestly rituals associated with the altar and with everything behind the inner curtain. I am giving you the priesthood as your special privilege of service. Any unauthorized person who comes too near the sanctuary will be put to death."Support for the Priests and Levites +7. But you and your sons, the priests, must personally handle all the priestly rituals associated with the altar and with everything behind the inner curtain. I am giving you the priesthood as your special privilege of service. Any unauthorized person who comes too near the sanctuary will be put to death." +Support for the Priests and Levites + 8. The LORD gave these further instructions to Aaron: "I myself have put you in charge of all the holy offerings that are brought to me by the people of Israel. I have given all these consecrated offerings to you and your sons as your permanent share. 9. You are allotted the portion of the most holy offerings that is not burned on the fire. This portion of all the most holy offerings--including the grain offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings--will be most holy, and it belongs to you and your sons. @@ -47,3 +49,4 @@ Duties of Priests and Levites 32. You will not be considered guilty for accepting the LORD's tithes if you give the best portion to the priests. But be careful not to treat the holy gifts of the people of Israel as though they were common. If you do, you will die." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_19.md index e2363b5b..a2e52441 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_19.md @@ -30,3 +30,4 @@ The Water of Purification 22. Anything and anyone that a defiled person touches will be ceremonially unclean until evening." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_20.md index e54035c7..79d22696 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_20.md @@ -17,10 +17,14 @@ Moses Strikes the Rock 11. Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with the staff, and water gushed out. So the entire community and their livestock drank their fill. 12. But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not trust me enough to demonstrate my holiness to the people of Israel, you will not lead them into the land I am giving them!" -13. This place was known as the waters of Meribah (which means "arguing") because there the people of Israel argued with the LORD, and there he demonstrated his holiness among them.Edom Refuses Israel Passage +13. This place was known as the waters of Meribah (which means "arguing") because there the people of Israel argued with the LORD, and there he demonstrated his holiness among them. + +Edom Refuses Israel Passage + 14. While Moses was at Kadesh, he sent ambassadors to the king of Edom with this message: "This is what your relatives, the people of Israel, say: You know all the hardships we have been through. + 15. Our ancestors went down to Egypt, and we lived there a long time, and we and our ancestors were brutally mistreated by the Egyptians. 16. But when we cried out to the LORD, he heard us and sent an angel who brought us out of Egypt. Now we are camped at Kadesh, a town on the border of your land. 17. Please let us travel through your land. We will be careful not to go through your fields and vineyards. We won't even drink water from your wells. We will stay on the king's road and never leave it until we have passed through your territory." @@ -30,7 +34,10 @@ Moses Strikes the Rock 19. The Israelites answered, "We will stay on the main road. If our livestock drink your water, we will pay for it. Just let us pass through your country. That's all we ask." 20. But the king of Edom replied, "Stay out! You may not pass through our land." With that he mobilized his army and marched out against them with an imposing force. -21. Because Edom refused to allow Israel to pass through their country, Israel was forced to turn around.The Death of Aaron +21. Because Edom refused to allow Israel to pass through their country, Israel was forced to turn around. + +The Death of Aaron + 22. The whole community of Israel left Kadesh and arrived at Mount Hor. 23. There, on the border of the land of Edom, the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, @@ -43,3 +50,4 @@ Moses Strikes the Rock 29. When the people realized that Aaron had died, all Israel mourned for him thirty days. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_21.md index f03b97ad..fe50fada 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_21.md @@ -3,7 +3,10 @@ Victory over the Canaanites # Chapter 21 1. The Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev, heard that the Israelites were approaching on the road through Atharim. So he attacked the Israelites and took some of them as prisoners. 2. Then the people of Israel made this vow to the LORD: "If you will hand these people over to us, we will completely destroy all their towns." -3. The LORD heard the Israelites' request and gave them victory over the Canaanites. The Israelites completely destroyed them and their towns, and the place has been called Hormah ever since.The Bronze Snake +3. The LORD heard the Israelites' request and gave them victory over the Canaanites. The Israelites completely destroyed them and their towns, and the place has been called Hormah ever since. + +The Bronze Snake + 4. Then the people of Israel set out from Mount Hor, taking the road to the Red Sea to go around the land of Edom. But the people grew impatient with the long journey, 5. and they began to speak against God and Moses. "Why have you brought us out of Egypt to die here in the wilderness?" they complained. "There is nothing to eat here and nothing to drink. And we hate this horrible manna!" @@ -12,7 +15,9 @@ Victory over the Canaanites 7. Then the people came to Moses and cried out, "We have sinned by speaking against the LORD and against you. Pray that the LORD will take away the snakes." So Moses prayed for the people. 8. Then the LORD told him, "Make a replica of a poisonous snake and attach it to a pole. All who are bitten will live if they simply look at it!" -9. So Moses made a snake out of bronze and attached it to a pole. Then anyone who was bitten by a snake could look at the bronze snake and be healed!Israel's Journey to Moab +9. So Moses made a snake out of bronze and attached it to a pole. Then anyone who was bitten by a snake could look at the bronze snake and be healed! +Israel's Journey to Moab + 10. The Israelites traveled next to Oboth and camped there. 11. Then they went on to Iye-abarim, in the wilderness on the eastern border of Moab. @@ -24,15 +29,23 @@ Victory over the Canaanites 16. From there the Israelites traveled to Beer, which is the well where the LORD said to Moses, "Assemble the people, and I will give them water." 17. There the Israelites sang this song: "Spring up, O well! - Yes, sing its praises! + +Yes, sing its praises! + 18. Sing of this well, - which princes dug, + +which princes dug, which great leaders hollowed out - with their scepters and staffs." + +with their scepters and staffs." Then the Israelites left the wilderness and proceeded on through Mattanah, + 19. Nahaliel, and Bamoth. -20. After that they went to the valley in Moab where Pisgah Peak overlooks the wasteland.Victory over Sihon and Og +20. After that they went to the valley in Moab where Pisgah Peak overlooks the wasteland. + +Victory over Sihon and Og + 21. The Israelites sent ambassadors to King Sihon of the Amorites with this message: @@ -45,20 +58,31 @@ Then the Israelites left the wilderness and proceeded on through Mattanah, 26. Heshbon had been the capital of King Sihon of the Amorites. He had defeated a former Moabite king and seized all his land as far as the Arnon River. 27. Therefore, the ancient poets wrote this about him: "Come to Heshbon and let it be rebuilt! - Let the city of Sihon be restored. + +Let the city of Sihon be restored. + 28. A fire flamed forth from Heshbon, - a blaze from the city of Sihon. + +a blaze from the city of Sihon. + It burned the city of Ar in Moab; - it destroyed the rulers of the Arnon heights. + +it destroyed the rulers of the Arnon heights. + 29. What sorrow awaits you, O people of Moab! - You are finished, O worshipers of Chemosh! + +You are finished, O worshipers of Chemosh! Chemosh has left his sons as refugees, - his daughters as captives of Sihon, the Amorite king. + +his daughters as captives of Sihon, the Amorite king. + 30. We have utterly destroyed them, - from Heshbon to Dibon. + +from Heshbon to Dibon. + We have completely wiped them out as far away as Nophah and Medeba." @@ -69,3 +93,4 @@ We have completely wiped them out 35. And Israel killed King Og, his sons, and all his subjects; not a single survivor remained. Then Israel occupied their land. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_22.md index 6dea1221..1c8cc3e0 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_22.md @@ -6,8 +6,10 @@ Balak Sends for Balaam 3. And when the people of Moab saw how many Israelites there were, they were terrified. 4. The king of Moab said to the elders of Midian, "This mob will devour everything in sight, like an ox devours grass in the field!" So Balak, king of Moab, + 5. sent messengers to call Balaam son of Beor, who was living in his native land of Pethor near the Euphrates River. His message said: "Look, a vast horde of people has arrived from Egypt. They cover the face of the earth and are threatening me. + 6. Please come and curse these people for me because they are too powerful for me. Then perhaps I will be able to conquer them and drive them from the land. I know that blessings fall on any people you bless, and curses fall on people you curse." 7. Balak's messengers, who were elders of Moab and Midian, set out with money to pay Balaam to place a curse upon Israel. They went to Balaam and delivered Balak's message to him. @@ -26,12 +28,15 @@ So Balak, king of Moab, 15. Then Balak tried again. This time he sent a larger number of even more distinguished officials than those he had sent the first time. 16. They went to Balaam and delivered this message to him: "This is what Balak son of Zippor says: Please don't let anything stop you from coming to help me. + 17. I will pay you very well and do whatever you tell me. Just come and curse these people for me!" 18. But Balaam responded to Balak's messengers, "Even if Balak were to give me his palace filled with silver and gold, I would be powerless to do anything against the will of the LORD my God. 19. But stay here one more night, and I will see if the LORD has anything else to say to me." -20. That night God came to Balaam and told him, "Since these men have come for you, get up and go with them. But do only what I tell you to do."Balaam and His Donkey +20. That night God came to Balaam and told him, "Since these men have come for you, get up and go with them. But do only what I tell you to do." +Balaam and His Donkey + 21. So the next morning Balaam got up, saddled his donkey, and started off with the Moabite officials. 22. But God was angry that Balaam was going, so he sent the angel of the LORD to stand in the road to block his way. As Balaam and two servants were riding along, @@ -48,6 +53,7 @@ So Balak, king of Moab, 30. "But I am the same donkey you have ridden all your life," the donkey answered. "Have I ever done anything like this before?" "No," Balaam admitted. + 31. Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the roadway with a drawn sword in his hand. Balaam bowed his head and fell face down on the ground before him. 32. "Why did you beat your donkey those three times?" the angel of the LORD demanded. "Look, I have come to block your way because you are stubbornly resisting me. @@ -66,3 +72,4 @@ So Balak, king of Moab, 41. The next morning Balak took Balaam up to Bamoth-baal. From there he could see some of the people of Israel spread out below him. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_23.md index ca0fa2f7..8e471f05 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_23.md @@ -12,28 +12,42 @@ Balaam Blesses Israel 6. So Balaam returned and found the king standing beside his burnt offerings with all the officials of Moab. 7. This was the message Balaam delivered: "Balak summoned me to come from Aram; - the king of Moab brought me from the eastern hills. + +the king of Moab brought me from the eastern hills. + 'Come,' he said, 'curse Jacob for me! - Come and announce Israel's doom.' + +Come and announce Israel's doom.' + 8. But how can I curse those - whom God has not cursed? + +whom God has not cursed? How can I condemn those whom the LORD has not condemned? 9. I see them from the cliff tops; - I watch them from the hills. + +I watch them from the hills. + I see a people who live by themselves, - set apart from other nations. + +set apart from other nations. + 10. Who can count Jacob's descendants, as numerous as dust? - Who can count even a fourth of Israel's people? + +Who can count even a fourth of Israel's people? Let me die like the righteous; - let my life end like theirs." + +let my life end like theirs." + 11. Then King Balak demanded of Balaam, "What have you done to me? I brought you to curse my enemies. Instead, you have blessed them!" -12. But Balaam replied, "I will speak only the message that the LORD puts in my mouth."Balaam's Second Message +12. But Balaam replied, "I will speak only the message that the LORD puts in my mouth." +Balaam's Second Message + 13. Then King Balak told him, "Come with me to another place. There you will see another part of the nation of Israel, but not all of them. Curse at least that many!" 14. So Balak took Balaam to the plateau of Zophim on Pisgah Peak. He built seven altars there and offered a young bull and a ram on each altar. @@ -46,38 +60,62 @@ Let me die like the righteous; 18. This was the message Balaam delivered: "Rise up, Balak, and listen! - Hear me, son of Zippor. + +Hear me, son of Zippor. + 19. God is not a man, so he does not lie. - He is not human, so he does not change his mind. + +He is not human, so he does not change his mind. + Has he ever spoken and failed to act? - Has he ever promised and not carried it through? + +Has he ever promised and not carried it through? + 20. Listen, I received a command to bless; - God has blessed, and I cannot reverse it! + +God has blessed, and I cannot reverse it! + 21. No misfortune is in his plan for Jacob; - no trouble is in store for Israel. + +no trouble is in store for Israel. For the LORD their God is with them; - he has been proclaimed their king. + +he has been proclaimed their king. + 22. God brought them out of Egypt; - for them he is as strong as a wild ox. + +for them he is as strong as a wild ox. + 23. No curse can touch Jacob; - no magic has any power against Israel. + +no magic has any power against Israel. + For now it will be said of Jacob, - 'What wonders God has done for Israel!' + +'What wonders God has done for Israel!' + 24. These people rise up like a lioness, - like a majestic lion rousing itself. + +like a majestic lion rousing itself. + They refuse to rest - until they have feasted on prey, - drinking the blood of the slaughtered!" + +until they have feasted on prey, + +drinking the blood of the slaughtered!" + 25. Then Balak said to Balaam, "Fine, but if you won't curse them, at least don't bless them!" -26. But Balaam replied to Balak, "Didn't I tell you that I can do only what the LORD tells me?"Balaam's Third Message +26. But Balaam replied to Balak, "Didn't I tell you that I can do only what the LORD tells me?" +Balaam's Third Message + 27. Then King Balak said to Balaam, "Come, I will take you to one more place. Perhaps it will please God to let you curse them from there." @@ -86,3 +124,4 @@ They refuse to rest 30. So Balak did as Balaam ordered and offered a young bull and a ram on each altar. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_24.md index 45aa3725..d4bae1c8 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_24.md @@ -3,85 +3,133 @@ 2. where he saw the people of Israel camped, tribe by tribe. Then the Spirit of God came upon him, 3. and this is the message he delivered: "This is the message of Balaam son of Beor, - the message of the man whose eyes see clearly, + +the message of the man whose eyes see clearly, + 4. the message of one who hears the words of God, - who sees a vision from the Almighty, - who bows down with eyes wide open: + +who sees a vision from the Almighty, + +who bows down with eyes wide open: + 5. How beautiful are your tents, O Jacob; - how lovely are your homes, O Israel! + +how lovely are your homes, O Israel! + 6. They spread before me like palm groves, - like gardens by the riverside. + +like gardens by the riverside. They are like tall trees planted by the LORD, - like cedars beside the waters. + +like cedars beside the waters. + 7. Water will flow from their buckets; - their offspring have all they need. + +their offspring have all they need. + Their king will be greater than Agag; - their kingdom will be exalted. + +their kingdom will be exalted. + 8. God brought them out of Egypt; - for them he is as strong as a wild ox. + +for them he is as strong as a wild ox. + He devours all the nations that oppose him, - breaking their bones in pieces, - shooting them with arrows. + +breaking their bones in pieces, + +shooting them with arrows. + 9. Like a lion, Israel crouches and lies down; - like a lioness, who dares to arouse her? + +like a lioness, who dares to arouse her? Blessed is everyone who blesses you, O Israel, - and cursed is everyone who curses you." + +and cursed is everyone who curses you." + 10. King Balak flew into a rage against Balaam. He angrily clapped his hands and shouted, "I called you to curse my enemies! Instead, you have blessed them three times. 11. Now get out of here! Go back home! I promised to reward you richly, but the LORD has kept you from your reward." 12. Balaam told Balak, "Don't you remember what I told your messengers? I said, 13. 'Even if Balak were to give me his palace filled with silver and gold, I would be powerless to do anything against the will of the LORD.' I told you that I could say only what the LORD says! -14. Now I am returning to my own people. But first let me tell you what the Israelites will do to your people in the future."Balaam's Final Messages +14. Now I am returning to my own people. But first let me tell you what the Israelites will do to your people in the future." +Balaam's Final Messages + 15. This is the message Balaam delivered: "This is the message of Balaam son of Beor, - the message of the man whose eyes see clearly, + +the message of the man whose eyes see clearly, + 16. the message of one who hears the words of God, - who has knowledge from the Most High, + +who has knowledge from the Most High, who sees a vision from the Almighty, - who bows down with eyes wide open: + +who bows down with eyes wide open: + 17. I see him, but not here and now. - I perceive him, but far in the distant future. + +I perceive him, but far in the distant future. + A star will rise from Jacob; - a scepter will emerge from Israel. + +a scepter will emerge from Israel. + It will crush the heads of Moab's people, cracking the skulls of the people of Sheth. 18. Edom will be taken over, - and Seir, its enemy, will be conquered, - while Israel marches on in triumph. + +and Seir, its enemy, will be conquered, + +while Israel marches on in triumph. + 19. A ruler will rise in Jacob - who will destroy the survivors of Ir." + +who will destroy the survivors of Ir." + 20. Then Balaam looked over toward the people of Amalek and delivered this message: "Amalek was the greatest of nations, - but its destiny is destruction!" + +but its destiny is destruction!" + 21. Then he looked over toward the Kenites and delivered this message: "Your home is secure; - your nest is set in the rocks. + +your nest is set in the rocks. + 22. But the Kenites will be destroyed when Assyria takes you captive." 23. Balaam concluded his messages by saying: "Alas, who can survive - unless God has willed it? + +unless God has willed it? + 24. Ships will come from the coasts of Cyprus; - they will oppress Assyria and afflict Eber, - but they, too, will be utterly destroyed." + +they will oppress Assyria and afflict Eber, + +but they, too, will be utterly destroyed." + 25. Then Balaam left and returned home, and Balak also went on his way. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_25.md index 3e4e3659..4e64683f 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_25.md @@ -27,3 +27,4 @@ Moab Seduces Israel 18. because they assaulted you with deceit and tricked you into worshiping Baal of Peor, and because of Cozbi, the daughter of a Midianite leader, who was killed at the time of the plague because of what happened at Peor." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_26.md index 26a1a230..5569c765 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_26.md @@ -6,144 +6,239 @@ The Second Registration of Israel's Troops 3. So there on the plains of Moab beside the Jordan River, across from Jericho, Moses and Eleazar the priest issued these instructions to the leaders of Israel: 4. "List all the men of Israel twenty years old and older, just as the LORD commanded Moses." -This is the record of all the descendants of Israel who came out of Egypt.The Tribe of Reuben +This is the record of all the descendants of Israel who came out of Egypt. + +The Tribe of Reuben + 5. These were the clans descended from the sons of Reuben, Jacob's oldest son: The Hanochite clan, named after their ancestor Hanoch. + The Palluite clan, named after their ancestor Pallu. + 6. The Hezronite clan, named after their ancestor Hezron. + The Carmite clan, named after their ancestor Carmi. + 7. These were the clans of Reuben. Their registered troops numbered 43,730. 8. Pallu was the ancestor of Eliab, 9. and Eliab was the father of Nemuel, Dathan, and Abiram. This Dathan and Abiram are the same community leaders who conspired with Korah against Moses and Aaron, rebelling against the LORD. 10. But the earth opened up its mouth and swallowed them with Korah, and fire devoured 250 of their followers. This served as a warning to the entire nation of Israel. -11. However, the sons of Korah did not die that day.The Tribe of Simeon +11. However, the sons of Korah did not die that day. + +The Tribe of Simeon + 12. These were the clans descended from the sons of Simeon: The Jemuelite clan, named after their ancestor Jemuel. + The Jaminite clan, named after their ancestor Jamin. + The Jakinite clan, named after their ancestor Jakin. + 13. The Zoharite clan, named after their ancestor Zohar. + The Shaulite clan, named after their ancestor Shaul. -14. These were the clans of Simeon. Their registered troops numbered 22,200.The Tribe of Gad + +14. These were the clans of Simeon. Their registered troops numbered 22,200. + +The Tribe of Gad + 15. These were the clans descended from the sons of Gad: The Zephonite clan, named after their ancestor Zephon. + The Haggite clan, named after their ancestor Haggi. + The Shunite clan, named after their ancestor Shuni. + 16. The Oznite clan, named after their ancestor Ozni. + The Erite clan, named after their ancestor Eri. + 17. The Arodite clan, named after their ancestor Arodi. + The Arelite clan, named after their ancestor Areli. -18. These were the clans of Gad. Their registered troops numbered 40,500.The Tribe of Judah + +18. These were the clans of Gad. Their registered troops numbered 40,500. + +The Tribe of Judah + 19. Judah had two sons, Er and Onan, who had died in the land of Canaan. 20. These were the clans descended from Judah's surviving sons: The Shelanite clan, named after their ancestor Shelah. + The Perezite clan, named after their ancestor Perez. + The Zerahite clan, named after their ancestor Zerah. + 21. These were the subclans descended from the Perezites: The Hezronites, named after their ancestor Hezron. + The Hamulites, named after their ancestor Hamul. -22. These were the clans of Judah. Their registered troops numbered 76,500.The Tribe of Issachar + +22. These were the clans of Judah. Their registered troops numbered 76,500. + +The Tribe of Issachar + 23. These were the clans descended from the sons of Issachar: The Tolaite clan, named after their ancestor Tola. The Puite clan, named after their ancestor Puah. 24. The Jashubite clan, named after their ancestor Jashub. + The Shimronite clan, named after their ancestor Shimron. -25. These were the clans of Issachar. Their registered troops numbered 64,300.The Tribe of Zebulun + +25. These were the clans of Issachar. Their registered troops numbered 64,300. + +The Tribe of Zebulun + 26. These were the clans descended from the sons of Zebulun: The Seredite clan, named after their ancestor Sered. + The Elonite clan, named after their ancestor Elon. + The Jahleelite clan, named after their ancestor Jahleel. -27. These were the clans of Zebulun. Their registered troops numbered 60,500.The Tribe of Manasseh + +27. These were the clans of Zebulun. Their registered troops numbered 60,500. + +The Tribe of Manasseh + 28. Two clans were descended from Joseph through Manasseh and Ephraim. 29. These were the clans descended from Manasseh: The Makirite clan, named after their ancestor Makir. + The Gileadite clan, named after their ancestor Gilead, Makir's son. + 30. These were the subclans descended from the Gileadites: The Iezerites, named after their ancestor Iezer. + The Helekites, named after their ancestor Helek. + 31. The Asrielites, named after their ancestor Asriel. + The Shechemites, named after their ancestor Shechem. + 32. The Shemidaites, named after their ancestor Shemida. + The Hepherites, named after their ancestor Hepher. + 33. (One of Hepher's descendants, Zelophehad, had no sons, but his daughters' names were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.) -34. These were the clans of Manasseh. Their registered troops numbered 52,700.The Tribe of Ephraim +34. These were the clans of Manasseh. Their registered troops numbered 52,700. + +The Tribe of Ephraim + 35. These were the clans descended from the sons of Ephraim: The Shuthelahite clan, named after their ancestor Shuthelah. + The Bekerite clan, named after their ancestor Beker. + The Tahanite clan, named after their ancestor Tahan. + 36. This was the subclan descended from the Shuthelahites: The Eranites, named after their ancestor Eran. + 37. These were the clans of Ephraim. Their registered troops numbered 32,500. -These clans of Manasseh and Ephraim were all descendants of Joseph.The Tribe of Benjamin + +These clans of Manasseh and Ephraim were all descendants of Joseph. + +The Tribe of Benjamin + 38. These were the clans descended from the sons of Benjamin: The Belaite clan, named after their ancestor Bela. + The Ashbelite clan, named after their ancestor Ashbel. + The Ahiramite clan, named after their ancestor Ahiram. + 39. The Shuphamite clan, named after their ancestor Shupham. + The Huphamite clan, named after their ancestor Hupham. + 40. These were the subclans descended from the Belaites: The Ardites, named after their ancestor Ard. + The Naamites, named after their ancestor Naaman. -41. These were the clans of Benjamin. Their registered troops numbered 45,600.The Tribe of Dan + +41. These were the clans of Benjamin. Their registered troops numbered 45,600. + +The Tribe of Dan + 42. These were the clans descended from the sons of Dan: The Shuhamite clan, named after their ancestor Shuham. -43. These were the Shuhamite clans of Dan. Their registered troops numbered 64,400.The Tribe of Asher + +43. These were the Shuhamite clans of Dan. Their registered troops numbered 64,400. + +The Tribe of Asher + 44. These were the clans descended from the sons of Asher: The Imnite clan, named after their ancestor Imnah. + The Ishvite clan, named after their ancestor Ishvi. + The Beriite clan, named after their ancestor Beriah. + 45. These were the subclans descended from the Beriites: The Heberites, named after their ancestor Heber. + The Malkielites, named after their ancestor Malkiel. + 46. Asher also had a daughter named Serah. -47. These were the clans of Asher. Their registered troops numbered 53,400.The Tribe of Naphtali +47. These were the clans of Asher. Their registered troops numbered 53,400. + +The Tribe of Naphtali + 48. These were the clans descended from the sons of Naphtali: The Jahzeelite clan, named after their ancestor Jahzeel. + The Gunite clan, named after their ancestor Guni. + 49. The Jezerite clan, named after their ancestor Jezer. + The Shillemite clan, named after their ancestor Shillem. -50. These were the clans of Naphtali. Their registered troops numbered 45,400.Results of the Registration + +50. These were the clans of Naphtali. Their registered troops numbered 45,400. + +Results of the Registration + 51. In summary, the registered troops of all Israel numbered 601,730. @@ -151,15 +246,22 @@ The Shillemite clan, named after their ancestor Shillem. 53. "Divide the land among the tribes, and distribute the grants of land in proportion to the tribes' populations, as indicated by the number of names on the list. 54. Give the larger tribes more land and the smaller tribes less land, each group receiving a grant in proportion to the size of its population. 55. But you must assign the land by lot, and give land to each ancestral tribe according to the number of names on the list. -56. Each grant of land must be assigned by lot among the larger and smaller tribal groups."The Tribe of Levi +56. Each grant of land must be assigned by lot among the larger and smaller tribal groups." +The Tribe of Levi + 57. This is the record of the Levites who were counted according to their clans: The Gershonite clan, named after their ancestor Gershon. + The Kohathite clan, named after their ancestor Kohath. + The Merarite clan, named after their ancestor Merari. + 58. The Libnites, the Hebronites, the Mahlites, the Mushites, and the Korahites were all subclans of the Levites. + Now Kohath was the ancestor of Amram, + 59. and Amram's wife was named Jochebed. She also was a descendant of Levi, born among the Levites in the land of Egypt. Amram and Jochebed became the parents of Aaron, Moses, and their sister, Miriam. 60. To Aaron were born Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. 61. But Nadab and Abihu died when they burned before the LORD the wrong kind of fire, different than he had commanded. @@ -171,3 +273,4 @@ Now Kohath was the ancestor of Amram, 65. For the LORD had said of them, "They will all die in the wilderness." Not one of them survived except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_27.md index 61a3c26e..2b620854 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_27.md @@ -13,7 +13,9 @@ The Daughters of Zelophehad 8. "And give the following instructions to the people of Israel: If a man dies and has no son, then give his inheritance to his daughters. 9. And if he has no daughter either, transfer his inheritance to his brothers. 10. If he has no brothers, give his inheritance to his father's brothers. -11. But if his father has no brothers, give his inheritance to the nearest relative in his clan. This is a legal requirement for the people of Israel, just as the LORD commanded Moses."Joshua Chosen to Lead Israel +11. But if his father has no brothers, give his inheritance to the nearest relative in his clan. This is a legal requirement for the people of Israel, just as the LORD commanded Moses." +Joshua Chosen to Lead Israel + 12. One day the LORD said to Moses, "Climb one of the mountains east of the river, and look out over the land I have given the people of Israel. 13. After you have seen it, you will die like your brother, Aaron, @@ -32,3 +34,4 @@ The Daughters of Zelophehad 23. Moses laid his hands on him and commissioned him to lead the people, just as the LORD had commanded through Moses. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_28.md index 9201b9b5..a8908472 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_28.md @@ -9,17 +9,26 @@ The Daily Offerings 5. With each lamb you must offer a grain offering of two quarts of choice flour mixed with one quart of pure oil of pressed olives. 6. This is the regular burnt offering instituted at Mount Sinai as a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 7. Along with it you must present the proper liquid offering of one quart of alcoholic drink with each lamb, poured out in the Holy Place as an offering to the LORD. -8. Offer the second lamb in the evening with the same grain offering and liquid offering. It, too, is a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.The Sabbath Offerings +8. Offer the second lamb in the evening with the same grain offering and liquid offering. It, too, is a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. + +The Sabbath Offerings + 9. "On the Sabbath day, sacrifice two one-year-old male lambs with no defects. They must be accompanied by a grain offering of four quarts of choice flour moistened with olive oil, and a liquid offering. -10. This is the burnt offering to be presented each Sabbath day, in addition to the regular burnt offering and its accompanying liquid offering.The Monthly Offerings +10. This is the burnt offering to be presented each Sabbath day, in addition to the regular burnt offering and its accompanying liquid offering. + +The Monthly Offerings + 11. "On the first day of each month, present an extra burnt offering to the LORD of two young bulls, one ram, and seven one-year-old male lambs, all with no defects. 12. These must be accompanied by grain offerings of choice flour moistened with olive oil--six quarts with each bull, four quarts with the ram, 13. and two quarts with each lamb. This burnt offering will be a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 14. You must also present a liquid offering with each sacrifice: two quarts of wine for each bull, a third of a gallon for the ram, and one quart for each lamb. Present this monthly burnt offering on the first day of each month throughout the year. -15. "On the first day of each month, you must also offer one male goat for a sin offering to the LORD. This is in addition to the regular burnt offering and its accompanying liquid offering.Offerings for the Passover +15. "On the first day of each month, you must also offer one male goat for a sin offering to the LORD. This is in addition to the regular burnt offering and its accompanying liquid offering. + +Offerings for the Passover + 16. "On the fourteenth day of the first month, you must celebrate the LORD's Passover. 17. On the following day--the fifteenth day of the month--a joyous, seven-day festival will begin, but no bread made with yeast may be eaten. @@ -30,7 +39,10 @@ The Daily Offerings 22. You must also offer a male goat as a sin offering to purify yourselves and make yourselves right with the LORD. 23. Present these offerings in addition to your regular morning burnt offering. 24. On each of the seven days of the festival, this is how you must prepare the food offering that is presented as a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. These will be offered in addition to the regular burnt offerings and liquid offerings. -25. The seventh day of the festival will be another official day for holy assembly, and no ordinary work may be done on that day.Offerings for the Festival of Harvest +25. The seventh day of the festival will be another official day for holy assembly, and no ordinary work may be done on that day. + +Offerings for the Festival of Harvest + 26. "At the Festival of Harvest, when you present the first of your new grain to the LORD, you must call an official day for holy assembly, and you may do no ordinary work on that day. 27. Present a special burnt offering on that day as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. It will consist of two young bulls, one ram, and seven one-year-old male lambs. @@ -40,3 +52,4 @@ The Daily Offerings 31. Prepare these special burnt offerings, along with their liquid offerings, in addition to the regular burnt offering and its accompanying grain offering. Be sure that all the animals you sacrifice have no defects. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_29.md index 15b18b50..258ee4ed 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_29.md @@ -6,13 +6,19 @@ Offerings for the Festival of Trumpets 3. These must be accompanied by grain offerings of choice flour moistened with olive oil--six quarts with the bull, four quarts with the ram, 4. and two quarts with each of the seven lambs. 5. In addition, you must sacrifice a male goat as a sin offering to purify yourselves and make yourselves right with the LORD. -6. These special sacrifices are in addition to your regular monthly and daily burnt offerings, and they must be given with their prescribed grain offerings and liquid offerings. These offerings are given as a special gift to the LORD, a pleasing aroma to him.Offerings for the Day of Atonement +6. These special sacrifices are in addition to your regular monthly and daily burnt offerings, and they must be given with their prescribed grain offerings and liquid offerings. These offerings are given as a special gift to the LORD, a pleasing aroma to him. + +Offerings for the Day of Atonement + 7. "Ten days later, on the tenth day of the same month, you must call another holy assembly. On that day, the Day of Atonement, the people must go without food and must do no ordinary work. 8. You must present a burnt offering as a pleasing aroma to the LORD. It will consist of one young bull, one ram, and seven one-year-old male lambs, all with no defects. 9. These offerings must be accompanied by the prescribed grain offerings of choice flour moistened with olive oil--six quarts of choice flour with the bull, four quarts of choice flour with the ram, 10. and two quarts of choice flour with each of the seven lambs. -11. You must also sacrifice one male goat for a sin offering. This is in addition to the sin offering of atonement and the regular daily burnt offering with its grain offering, and their accompanying liquid offerings.Offerings for the Festival of Shelters +11. You must also sacrifice one male goat for a sin offering. This is in addition to the sin offering of atonement and the regular daily burnt offering with its grain offering, and their accompanying liquid offerings. + +Offerings for the Festival of Shelters + 12. "Five days later, on the fifteenth day of the same month, you must call another holy assembly of all the people, and you may do no ordinary work on that day. It is the beginning of the Festival of Shelters, a seven-day festival to the LORD. 13. On the first day of the festival, you must present a burnt offering as a special gift, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. It will consist of thirteen young bulls, two rams, and fourteen one-year-old male lambs, all with no defects. @@ -54,3 +60,4 @@ Offerings for the Festival of Trumpets 40. So Moses gave all of these instructions to the people of Israel as the LORD had commanded him. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_30.md index efd06271..efd55246 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_30.md @@ -23,3 +23,4 @@ Laws concerning Vows 16. These are the regulations the LORD gave Moses concerning relationships between a man and his wife, and between a father and a young daughter who still lives at home. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_31.md index 7c700b37..9d0b73eb 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_31.md @@ -28,7 +28,9 @@ Conquest of the Midianites 21. Then Eleazar the priest said to the men who were in the battle, "The LORD has given Moses this legal requirement: 22. Anything made of gold, silver, bronze, iron, tin, or lead-- 23. that is, all metals that do not burn--must be passed through fire in order to be made ceremonially pure. These metal objects must then be further purified with the water of purification. But everything that burns must be purified by the water alone. -24. On the seventh day you must wash your clothes and be purified. Then you may return to the camp."Division of the Plunder +24. On the seventh day you must wash your clothes and be purified. Then you may return to the camp." +Division of the Plunder + 25. And the LORD said to Moses, 26. "You and Eleazar the priest and the family leaders of each tribe are to make a list of all the plunder taken in the battle, including the people and animals. @@ -67,3 +69,4 @@ Conquest of the Midianites 54. So Moses and Eleazar the priest accepted the gifts from the generals and captains and brought the gold to the Tabernacle as a reminder to the LORD that the people of Israel belong to him. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_32.md index 790e4579..63f1ec8d 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_32.md @@ -56,3 +56,4 @@ The Tribes East of the Jordan 42. Meanwhile, a man named Nobah captured the town of Kenath and its surrounding villages, and he renamed that area Nobah after himself. + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_33.md index 4199fb13..a64892e9 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_33.md @@ -103,3 +103,4 @@ Remembering Israel's Journey 56. And I will do to you what I had planned to do to them." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_34.md index 4f2117d8..494ab751 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_34.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ Boundaries of the Land 13. Then Moses told the Israelites, "This territory is the homeland you are to divide among yourselves by sacred lot. The LORD has commanded that the land be divided among the nine and a half remaining tribes. 14. The families of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh have already received their grants of land -15. on the east side of the Jordan River, across from Jericho toward the sunrise."Leaders to Divide the Land +15. on the east side of the Jordan River, across from Jericho toward the sunrise." +Leaders to Divide the Land + 16. And the LORD said to Moses, 17. "Eleazar the priest and Joshua son of Nun are the men designated to divide the grants of land among the people. @@ -29,3 +31,4 @@ Boundaries of the Land 29. These are the men the LORD has appointed to divide the grants of land in Canaan among the Israelites." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_35.md index 846ad69a..3ddc279b 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_35.md @@ -9,11 +9,15 @@ Towns for the Levites 6. "Six of the towns you give the Levites will be cities of refuge, where a person who has accidentally killed someone can flee for safety. In addition, give them forty-two other towns. 7. In all, forty-eight towns with the surrounding pastureland will be given to the Levites. -8. These towns will come from the property of the people of Israel. The larger tribes will give more towns to the Levites, while the smaller tribes will give fewer. Each tribe will give property in proportion to the size of its land."Cities of Refuge +8. These towns will come from the property of the people of Israel. The larger tribes will give more towns to the Levites, while the smaller tribes will give fewer. Each tribe will give property in proportion to the size of its land." +Cities of Refuge + 9. The LORD said to Moses, 10. "Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. + "When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan, + 11. designate cities of refuge to which people can flee if they have killed someone accidentally. 12. These cities will be places of protection from a dead person's relatives who want to avenge the death. The slayer must not be put to death before being tried by the community. 13. Designate six cities of refuge for yourselves, @@ -44,3 +48,4 @@ Towns for the Levites 34. You must not defile the land where you live, for I live there myself. I am the LORD, who lives among the people of Israel." + diff --git a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_36.md index c86257aa..f2f52cdc 100644 --- a/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/04_Numbers/Chapter_36.md @@ -19,3 +19,4 @@ Women Who Inherit Property 13. These are the commands and regulations that the LORD gave to the people of Israel through Moses while they were camped on the plains of Moab beside the Jordan River, across from Jericho. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_01.md index 6b4300b1..b1639098 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_01.md @@ -7,11 +7,16 @@ Introduction to Moses' First Address 3. But forty years after the Israelites left Egypt, on the first day of the eleventh month, Moses addressed the people of Israel, telling them everything the LORD had commanded him to say. 4. This took place after he had defeated King Sihon of the Amorites, who ruled in Heshbon, and at Edrei had defeated King Og of Bashan, who ruled in Ashtaroth. -5. While the Israelites were in the land of Moab east of the Jordan River, Moses carefully explained the LORD's instructions as follows.The Command to Leave Sinai +5. While the Israelites were in the land of Moab east of the Jordan River, Moses carefully explained the LORD's instructions as follows. + +The Command to Leave Sinai + 6. "When we were at Mount Sinai, the LORD our God said to us, 'You have stayed at this mountain long enough. 7. It is time to break camp and move on. Go to the hill country of the Amorites and to all the neighboring regions--the Jordan Valley, the hill country, the western foothills, the Negev, and the coastal plain. Go to the land of the Canaanites and to Lebanon, and all the way to the great Euphrates River. -8. Look, I am giving all this land to you! Go in and occupy it, for it is the land the LORD swore to give to your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and to all their descendants.'"Moses Appoints Leaders from Each Tribe +8. Look, I am giving all this land to you! Go in and occupy it, for it is the land the LORD swore to give to your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and to all their descendants.'" +Moses Appoints Leaders from Each Tribe + 9. Moses continued, "At that time I told you, 'You are too great a burden for me to carry all by myself. 10. The LORD your God has increased your population, making you as numerous as the stars! @@ -25,7 +30,10 @@ Introduction to Moses' First Address 16. "At that time I instructed the judges, 'You must hear the cases of your fellow Israelites and the foreigners living among you. Be perfectly fair in your decisions 17. and impartial in your judgments. Hear the cases of those who are poor as well as those who are rich. Don't be afraid of anyone's anger, for the decision you make is God's decision. Bring me any cases that are too difficult for you, and I will handle them.' -18. "At that time I gave you instructions about everything you were to do.Scouts Explore the Land +18. "At that time I gave you instructions about everything you were to do. + +Scouts Explore the Land + 19. "Then, just as the LORD our God commanded us, we left Mount Sinai and traveled through the great and terrifying wilderness, as you yourselves remember, and headed toward the hill country of the Amorites. When we arrived at Kadesh-barnea, 20. I said to you, 'You have now reached the hill country of the Amorites that the LORD our God is giving us. @@ -67,3 +75,4 @@ Introduction to Moses' First Address 46. So you stayed there at Kadesh for a long time. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_02.md index 1b5add92..7316cd1f 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_02.md @@ -11,7 +11,9 @@ Remembering Israel's Wanderings 7. For the LORD your God has blessed you in everything you have done. He has watched your every step through this great wilderness. During these forty years, the LORD your God has been with you, and you have lacked nothing."' 8. "So we bypassed the territory of our relatives, the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir. We avoided the road through the Arabah Valley that comes up from Elath and Ezion-geber. + "Then as we turned north along the desert route through Moab, + 9. the LORD warned us, 'Do not bother the Moabites, the descendants of Lot, or start a war with them. I have given them Ar as their property, and I will not give you any of their land.'" 10. (A race of giants called the Emites had once lived in the area of Ar. They were as strong and numerous and tall as the Anakites, another race of giants. @@ -34,7 +36,9 @@ Remembering Israel's Wanderings 23. A similar thing happened when the Caphtorites from Crete invaded and destroyed the Avvites, who had lived in villages in the area of Gaza.) 24. Moses continued, "Then the LORD said, 'Now get moving! Cross the Arnon Gorge. Look, I will hand over to you Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and I will give you his land. Attack him and begin to occupy the land. -25. Beginning today I will make people throughout the earth terrified because of you. When they hear reports about you, they will tremble with dread and fear.'"Victory over Sihon of Heshbon +25. Beginning today I will make people throughout the earth terrified because of you. When they hear reports about you, they will tremble with dread and fear.'" +Victory over Sihon of Heshbon + 26. Moses continued, "From the wilderness of Kedemoth I sent ambassadors to King Sihon of Heshbon with this proposal of peace: @@ -55,3 +59,4 @@ Remembering Israel's Wanderings 37. However, we avoided the land of the Ammonites all along the Jabbok River and the towns in the hill country--all the places the LORD our God had commanded us to leave alone. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_03.md index 3ad9bdeb..80a322eb 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_03.md @@ -13,7 +13,9 @@ Victory over Og of Bashan 8. "So we took the land of the two Amorite kings east of the Jordan River--all the way from the Arnon Gorge to Mount Hermon. 9. (Mount Hermon is called Sirion by the Sidonians, and the Amorites call it Senir.) 10. We had now conquered all the cities on the plateau and all Gilead and Bashan, as far as the towns of Salecah and Edrei, which were part of Og's kingdom in Bashan. -11. (King Og of Bashan was the last survivor of the giant Rephaites. His bed was made of iron and was more than thirteen feet long and six feet wide. It can still be seen in the Ammonite city of Rabbah.)Land Division East of the Jordan +11. (King Og of Bashan was the last survivor of the giant Rephaites. His bed was made of iron and was more than thirteen feet long and six feet wide. It can still be seen in the Ammonite city of Rabbah.) +Land Division East of the Jordan + 12. "When we took possession of this land, I gave to the tribes of Reuben and Gad the territory beyond Aroer along the Arnon Gorge, plus half of the hill country of Gilead with its towns. 13. Then I gave the rest of Gilead and all of Bashan--Og's former kingdom--to the half-tribe of Manasseh. (This entire Argob region of Bashan used to be known as the land of the Rephaites. @@ -24,7 +26,9 @@ Victory over Og of Bashan 18. "At that time I gave this command to the tribes that would live east of the Jordan: 'Although the LORD your God has given you this land as your property, all your fighting men must cross the Jordan ahead of your Israelite relatives, armed and ready to assist them. 19. Your wives, children, and numerous livestock, however, may stay behind in the towns I have given you. -20. When the LORD has given security to the rest of the Israelites, as he has to you, and when they occupy the land the LORD your God is giving them across the Jordan River, then you may all return here to the land I have given you.'Moses Forbidden to Enter the Land +20. When the LORD has given security to the rest of the Israelites, as he has to you, and when they occupy the land the LORD your God is giving them across the Jordan River, then you may all return here to the land I have given you.' +Moses Forbidden to Enter the Land + 21. "At that time I gave Joshua this charge: 'You have seen for yourself everything the LORD your God has done to these two kings. He will do the same to all the kingdoms on the west side of the Jordan. 22. Do not be afraid of the nations there, for the LORD your God will fight for you.' @@ -39,3 +43,4 @@ Victory over Og of Bashan 29. So we stayed in the valley near Beth-peor. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_04.md index 0eb2fe50..0d491fdd 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_04.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ Moses Urges Israel to Obey 11. "You came near and stood at the foot of the mountain, while flames from the mountain shot into the sky. The mountain was shrouded in black clouds and deep darkness. 12. And the LORD spoke to you from the heart of the fire. You heard the sound of his words but didn't see his form; there was only a voice. 13. He proclaimed his covenant--the Ten Commandments--which he commanded you to keep, and which he wrote on two stone tablets. -14. It was at that time that the LORD commanded me to teach you his decrees and regulations so you would obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy.A Warning against Idolatry +14. It was at that time that the LORD commanded me to teach you his decrees and regulations so you would obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy. + +A Warning against Idolatry + 15. "But be very careful! You did not see the LORD's form on the day he spoke to you from the heart of the fire at Mount Sinai. 16. So do not corrupt yourselves by making an idol in any form--whether of a man or a woman, @@ -40,7 +43,10 @@ Moses Urges Israel to Obey 29. But from there you will search again for the LORD your God. And if you search for him with all your heart and soul, you will find him. 30. "In the distant future, when you are suffering all these things, you will finally return to the LORD your God and listen to what he tells you. -31. For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the solemn covenant he made with your ancestors.There Is Only One God +31. For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the solemn covenant he made with your ancestors. + +There Is Only One God + 32. "Now search all of history, from the time God created people on the earth until now, and search from one end of the heavens to the other. Has anything as great as this ever been seen or heard before? 33. Has any nation ever heard the voice of God speaking from fire--as you did--and survived? @@ -52,11 +58,16 @@ Moses Urges Israel to Obey 38. He drove out nations far greater than you, so he could bring you in and give you their land as your special possession, as it is today. 39. "So remember this and keep it firmly in mind: The LORD is God both in heaven and on earth, and there is no other. -40. If you obey all the decrees and commands I am giving you today, all will be well with you and your children. I am giving you these instructions so you will enjoy a long life in the land the LORD your God is giving you for all time."Eastern Cities of Refuge +40. If you obey all the decrees and commands I am giving you today, all will be well with you and your children. I am giving you these instructions so you will enjoy a long life in the land the LORD your God is giving you for all time." +Eastern Cities of Refuge + 41. Then Moses set apart three cities of refuge east of the Jordan River. 42. Anyone who killed another person unintentionally, without previous hostility, could flee there to live in safety. -43. These were the cities: Bezer on the wilderness plateau for the tribe of Reuben; Ramoth in Gilead for the tribe of Gad; Golan in Bashan for the tribe of Manasseh.Introduction to Moses' Second Address +43. These were the cities: Bezer on the wilderness plateau for the tribe of Reuben; Ramoth in Gilead for the tribe of Gad; Golan in Bashan for the tribe of Manasseh. + +Introduction to Moses' Second Address + 44. This is the body of instruction that Moses presented to the Israelites. 45. These are the laws, decrees, and regulations that Moses gave to the people of Israel when they left Egypt, @@ -66,3 +77,4 @@ Moses Urges Israel to Obey 49. And they conquered the eastern bank of the Jordan River as far south as the Dead Sea, below the slopes of Pisgah.) + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_05.md index 63d4e661..6e11b057 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_05.md @@ -52,3 +52,4 @@ Ten Commandments for the Covenant Community 33. Stay on the path that the LORD your God has commanded you to follow. Then you will live long and prosperous lives in the land you are about to enter and occupy. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_06.md index ecbdee66..8558544c 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_06.md @@ -33,3 +33,4 @@ A Call for Wholehearted Commitment 25. For we will be counted as righteous when we obey all the commands the LORD our God has given us.' + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_07.md index 33f62d25..ccf52045 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_07.md @@ -34,3 +34,4 @@ The Privilege of Holiness 26. Do not bring any detestable objects into your home, for then you will be destroyed, just like them. You must utterly detest such things, for they are set apart for destruction. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_08.md index 92450f1f..0c25e2c9 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_08.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ A Call to Remember and Obey 20. Just as the LORD has destroyed other nations in your path, you also will be destroyed if you refuse to obey the LORD your God. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_09.md index e1f943f4..fb0818bc 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_09.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ Victory by God's Grace 4. "After the LORD your God has done this for you, don't say in your hearts, 'The LORD has given us this land because we are such good people!' No, it is because of the wickedness of the other nations that he is pushing them out of your way. 5. It is not because you are so good or have such integrity that you are about to occupy their land. The LORD your God will drive these nations out ahead of you only because of their wickedness, and to fulfill the oath he swore to your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. -6. You must recognize that the LORD your God is not giving you this good land because you are good, for you are not--you are a stubborn people.Remembering the Gold Calf +6. You must recognize that the LORD your God is not giving you this good land because you are good, for you are not--you are a stubborn people. + +Remembering the Gold Calf + 7. "Remember and never forget how angry you made the LORD your God out in the wilderness. From the day you left Egypt until now, you have been constantly rebelling against him. 8. Even at Mount Sinai you made the LORD so angry he was ready to destroy you. @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ Victory by God's Grace 29. But they are your people and your special possession, whom you brought out of Egypt by your great strength and powerful arm.' + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_10.md index c3a42b47..cfb127b8 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_10.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ A New Copy of the Covenant 9. That is why the Levites have no share of property or possession of land among the other Israelite tribes. The LORD himself is their special possession, as the LORD your God told them.) 10. "As for me, I stayed on the mountain in the LORD's presence for forty days and nights, as I had done the first time. And once again the LORD listened to my pleas and agreed not to destroy you. -11. Then the LORD said to me, 'Get up and resume the journey, and lead the people to the land I swore to give to their ancestors, so they may take possession of it.'A Call to Love and Obedience +11. Then the LORD said to me, 'Get up and resume the journey, and lead the people to the land I swore to give to their ancestors, so they may take possession of it.' +A Call to Love and Obedience + 12. "And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the LORD your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul. 13. And you must always obey the LORD's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good. @@ -31,3 +33,4 @@ A New Copy of the Covenant 22. When your ancestors went down into Egypt, there were only seventy of them. But now the LORD your God has made you as numerous as the stars in the sky! + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_11.md index 1b8ee22c..13cf2f7d 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_11.md @@ -6,7 +6,9 @@ 5. "Your children didn't see how the LORD cared for you in the wilderness until you arrived here. 6. They didn't see what he did to Dathan and Abiram (the sons of Eliab, a descendant of Reuben) when the earth opened its mouth in the Israelite camp and swallowed them, along with their households and tents and every living thing that belonged to them. -7. But you have seen the LORD perform all these mighty deeds with your own eyes!The Blessings of Obedience +7. But you have seen the LORD perform all these mighty deeds with your own eyes! +The Blessings of Obedience + 8. "Therefore, be careful to obey every command I am giving you today, so you may have strength to go in and take over the land you are about to enter. 9. If you obey, you will enjoy a long life in the land the LORD swore to give to your ancestors and to you, their descendants--a land flowing with milk and honey! @@ -41,3 +43,4 @@ 32. you must be careful to obey all the decrees and regulations I am giving you today. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_12.md index b5fa3870..7b0864c8 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_12.md @@ -45,3 +45,4 @@ The LORD's Chosen Place for Worship 32. "So be careful to obey all the commands I give you. You must not add anything to them or subtract anything from them. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_13.md index 2f00e446..d5355f4e 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_13.md @@ -24,3 +24,4 @@ A Warning against Idolatry 18. "The LORD your God will be merciful only if you listen to his voice and keep all his commands that I am giving you today, doing what pleases him. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_14.md index bb6845c3..bd826e64 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_14.md @@ -28,7 +28,11 @@ Ceremonially Clean and Unclean Animals 20. But you may eat any winged bird or insect that is ceremonially clean. 21. "You must not eat anything that has died a natural death. You may give it to a foreigner living in your town, or you may sell it to a stranger. But do not eat it yourselves, for you are set apart as holy to the LORD your God. -"You must not cook a young goat in its mother's milk.The Giving of Tithes + +"You must not cook a young goat in its mother's milk. + +The Giving of Tithes + 22. "You must set aside a tithe of your crops--one-tenth of all the crops you harvest each year. 23. Bring this tithe to the designated place of worship--the place the LORD your God chooses for his name to be honored--and eat it there in his presence. This applies to your tithes of grain, new wine, olive oil, and the firstborn males of your flocks and herds. Doing this will teach you always to fear the LORD your God. @@ -42,3 +46,4 @@ Ceremonially Clean and Unclean Animals 29. Give it to the Levites, who will receive no allotment of land among you, as well as to the foreigners living among you, the orphans, and the widows in your towns, so they can eat and be satisfied. Then the LORD your God will bless you in all your work. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_15.md index 0bcf384d..dad3c875 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_15.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ Release for Debtors 8. Instead, be generous and lend them whatever they need. 9. Do not be mean-spirited and refuse someone a loan because the year for canceling debts is close at hand. If you refuse to make the loan and the needy person cries out to the LORD, you will be considered guilty of sin. 10. Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the LORD your God will bless you in everything you do. -11. There will always be some in the land who are poor. That is why I am commanding you to share freely with the poor and with other Israelites in need.Release for Hebrew Slaves +11. There will always be some in the land who are poor. That is why I am commanding you to share freely with the poor and with other Israelites in need. + +Release for Hebrew Slaves + 12. "If a fellow Hebrew sells himself or herself to be your servant and serves you for six years, in the seventh year you must set that servant free. @@ -24,7 +27,10 @@ Release for Debtors 16. "But suppose your servant says, 'I will not leave you,' because he loves you and your family, and he has done well with you. 17. In that case, take an awl and push it through his earlobe into the door. After that, he will be your servant for life. And do the same for your female servants. -18. "You must not consider it a hardship when you release your servants. Remember that for six years they have given you services worth double the wages of hired workers, and the LORD your God will bless you in all you do.Sacrificing Firstborn Male Animals +18. "You must not consider it a hardship when you release your servants. Remember that for six years they have given you services worth double the wages of hired workers, and the LORD your God will bless you in all you do. + +Sacrificing Firstborn Male Animals + 19. "You must set aside for the LORD your God all the firstborn males from your flocks and herds. Do not use the firstborn of your herds to work your fields, and do not shear the firstborn of your flocks. 20. Instead, you and your family must eat these animals in the presence of the LORD your God each year at the place he chooses. @@ -33,3 +39,4 @@ Release for Debtors 23. But you must not consume the blood. You must pour it out on the ground like water. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_16.md index a36cb74a..b139c393 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_16.md @@ -9,19 +9,28 @@ Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread 5. "You may not sacrifice the Passover in just any of the towns that the LORD your God is giving you. 6. You must offer it only at the designated place of worship--the place the LORD your God chooses for his name to be honored. Sacrifice it there in the evening as the sun goes down on the anniversary of your exodus from Egypt. 7. Roast the lamb and eat it in the place the LORD your God chooses. Then you may go back to your tents the next morning. -8. For the next six days you may not eat any bread made with yeast. On the seventh day proclaim another holy day in honor of the LORD your God, and no work may be done on that day.The Festival of Harvest +8. For the next six days you may not eat any bread made with yeast. On the seventh day proclaim another holy day in honor of the LORD your God, and no work may be done on that day. + +The Festival of Harvest + 9. "Count off seven weeks from when you first begin to cut the grain at the time of harvest. 10. Then celebrate the Festival of Harvest to honor the LORD your God. Bring him a voluntary offering in proportion to the blessings you have received from him. 11. This is a time to celebrate before the LORD your God at the designated place of worship he will choose for his name to be honored. Celebrate with your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, the Levites from your towns, and the foreigners, orphans, and widows who live among you. -12. Remember that you were once slaves in Egypt, so be careful to obey all these decrees.The Festival of Shelters +12. Remember that you were once slaves in Egypt, so be careful to obey all these decrees. + +The Festival of Shelters + 13. "You must observe the Festival of Shelters for seven days at the end of the harvest season, after the grain has been threshed and the grapes have been pressed. 14. This festival will be a happy time of celebrating with your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows from your towns. 15. For seven days you must celebrate this festival to honor the LORD your God at the place he chooses, for it is he who blesses you with bountiful harvests and gives you success in all your work. This festival will be a time of great joy for all. 16. "Each year every man in Israel must celebrate these three festivals: the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the Festival of Harvest, and the Festival of Shelters. On each of these occasions, all men must appear before the LORD your God at the place he chooses, but they must not appear before the LORD without a gift for him. -17. All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the LORD your God.Justice for the People +17. All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the LORD your God. + +Justice for the People + 18. "Appoint judges and officials for yourselves from each of your tribes in all the towns the LORD your God is giving you. They must judge the people fairly. 19. You must never twist justice or show partiality. Never accept a bribe, for bribes blind the eyes of the wise and corrupt the decisions of the godly. @@ -31,3 +40,4 @@ Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread 22. And never set up sacred pillars for worship, for the LORD your God hates them. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_17.md index dca8ecbc..e65122b9 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_17.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ 10. You must carry out the verdict they announce and the sentence they prescribe at the place the LORD chooses. You must do exactly what they say. 11. After they have interpreted the law and declared their verdict, the sentence they impose must be fully executed; do not modify it in any way. 12. Anyone arrogant enough to reject the verdict of the judge or of the priest who represents the LORD your God must die. In this way you will purge the evil from Israel. -13. Then everyone else will hear about it and be afraid to act so arrogantly.Guidelines for a King +13. Then everyone else will hear about it and be afraid to act so arrogantly. + +Guidelines for a King + 14. "You are about to enter the land the LORD your God is giving you. When you take it over and settle there, you may think, 'We should select a king to rule over us like the other nations around us.' 15. If this happens, be sure to select as king the man the LORD your God chooses. You must appoint a fellow Israelite; he may not be a foreigner. @@ -26,3 +29,4 @@ 20. This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_18.md index 67411a89..10610af9 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_18.md @@ -10,14 +10,19 @@ Gifts for the Priests and Levites 6. "Suppose a Levite chooses to move from his town in Israel, wherever he is living, to the place the LORD chooses for worship. 7. He may minister there in the name of the LORD his God, just like all his fellow Levites who are serving the LORD there. -8. He may eat his share of the sacrifices and offerings, even if he also receives support from his family.A Call to Holy Living +8. He may eat his share of the sacrifices and offerings, even if he also receives support from his family. + +A Call to Holy Living + 9. "When you enter the land the LORD your God is giving you, be very careful not to imitate the detestable customs of the nations living there. 10. For example, never sacrifice your son or daughter as a burnt offering. And do not let your people practice fortune-telling, or use sorcery, or interpret omens, or engage in witchcraft, 11. or cast spells, or function as mediums or psychics, or call forth the spirits of the dead. 12. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD. It is because the other nations have done these detestable things that the LORD your God will drive them out ahead of you. 13. But you must be blameless before the LORD your God. -14. The nations you are about to displace consult sorcerers and fortune-tellers, but the LORD your God forbids you to do such things."True and False Prophets +14. The nations you are about to displace consult sorcerers and fortune-tellers, but the LORD your God forbids you to do such things." +True and False Prophets + 15. Moses continued, "The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him. 16. For this is what you yourselves requested of the LORD your God when you were assembled at Mount Sinai. You said, 'Don't let us hear the voice of the LORD our God anymore or see this blazing fire, for we will die.' @@ -31,3 +36,4 @@ Gifts for the Priests and Levites 22. If the prophet speaks in the LORD's name but his prediction does not happen or come true, you will know that the LORD did not give that message. That prophet has spoken without my authority and need not be feared. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_19.md index e04a31e0..da97eb8d 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_19.md @@ -17,7 +17,10 @@ Cities of Refuge 11. "But suppose someone is hostile toward a neighbor and deliberately ambushes and murders him and then flees to one of the cities of refuge. 12. In that case, the elders of the murderer's hometown must send agents to the city of refuge to bring him back and hand him over to the dead person's avenger to be put to death. -13. Do not feel sorry for that murderer! Purge from Israel the guilt of murdering innocent people; then all will go well with you.Concern for Justice +13. Do not feel sorry for that murderer! Purge from Israel the guilt of murdering innocent people; then all will go well with you. + +Concern for Justice + 14. "When you arrive in the land the LORD your God is giving you as your special possession, you must never steal anyone's land by moving the boundary markers your ancestors set up to mark their property. @@ -31,3 +34,4 @@ Cities of Refuge 21. You must show no pity for the guilty! Your rule should be life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_20.md index 1a1f4a8c..82fb4c98 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_20.md @@ -28,3 +28,4 @@ Regulations concerning War 20. You may only cut down trees that you know are not valuable for food. Use them to make the equipment you need to attack the enemy town until it falls. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_21.md index 119c72fa..bfea9523 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_21.md @@ -10,24 +10,37 @@ Cleansing for Unsolved Murder 6. "The elders of the town must wash their hands over the heifer whose neck was broken. 7. Then they must say, 'Our hands did not shed this person's blood, nor did we see it happen. 8. O LORD, forgive your people Israel whom you have redeemed. Do not charge your people with the guilt of murdering an innocent person.' Then they will be absolved of the guilt of this person's blood. -9. By following these instructions, you will do what is right in the LORD's sight and will cleanse the guilt of murder from your community.Marriage to a Captive Woman +9. By following these instructions, you will do what is right in the LORD's sight and will cleanse the guilt of murder from your community. + +Marriage to a Captive Woman + 10. "Suppose you go out to war against your enemies and the LORD your God hands them over to you, and you take some of them as captives. 11. And suppose you see among the captives a beautiful woman, and you are attracted to her and want to marry her. 12. If this happens, you may take her to your home, where she must shave her head, cut her nails, 13. and change the clothes she was wearing when she was captured. She will stay in your home, but let her mourn for her father and mother for a full month. Then you may marry her, and you will be her husband and she will be your wife. -14. But if you marry her and she does not please you, you must let her go free. You may not sell her or treat her as a slave, for you have humiliated her.Rights of the Firstborn +14. But if you marry her and she does not please you, you must let her go free. You may not sell her or treat her as a slave, for you have humiliated her. + +Rights of the Firstborn + 15. "Suppose a man has two wives, but he loves one and not the other, and both have given him sons. And suppose the firstborn son is the son of the wife he does not love. 16. When the man divides his inheritance, he may not give the larger inheritance to his younger son, the son of the wife he loves, as if he were the firstborn son. -17. He must recognize the rights of his oldest son, the son of the wife he does not love, by giving him a double portion. He is the first son of his father's virility, and the rights of the firstborn belong to him.Dealing with a Rebellious Son +17. He must recognize the rights of his oldest son, the son of the wife he does not love, by giving him a double portion. He is the first son of his father's virility, and the rights of the firstborn belong to him. + +Dealing with a Rebellious Son + 18. "Suppose a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who will not obey his father or mother, even though they discipline him. 19. In such a case, the father and mother must take the son to the elders as they hold court at the town gate. 20. The parents must say to the elders, 'This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious and refuses to obey. He is a glutton and a drunkard.' -21. Then all the men of his town must stone him to death. In this way, you will purge this evil from among you, and all Israel will hear about it and be afraid.Various Regulations +21. Then all the men of his town must stone him to death. In this way, you will purge this evil from among you, and all Israel will hear about it and be afraid. + +Various Regulations + 22. "If someone has committed a crime worthy of death and is executed and hung on a tree, 23. the body must not remain hanging from the tree overnight. You must bury the body that same day, for anyone who is hung is cursed in the sight of God. In this way, you will prevent the defilement of the land the LORD your God is giving you as your special possession. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_22.md index 101aef54..c99d245e 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_22.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ 11. "You must not wear clothing made of wool and linen woven together. -12. "You must put four tassels on the hem of the cloak with which you cover yourself--on the front, back, and sides.Regulations for Sexual Purity +12. "You must put four tassels on the hem of the cloak with which you cover yourself--on the front, back, and sides. + +Regulations for Sexual Purity + 13. "Suppose a man marries a woman, but after sleeping with her, he turns against her 14. and publicly accuses her of shameful conduct, saying, 'When I married this woman, I discovered she was not a virgin.' @@ -46,3 +49,4 @@ 30. "A man must not marry his father's former wife, for this would violate his father. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_23.md index e62204a3..a6bda033 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_23.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ Regulations concerning Worship 6. As long as you live, you must never promote the welfare and prosperity of the Ammonites or Moabites. 7. "Do not detest the Edomites or the Egyptians, because the Edomites are your relatives and you lived as foreigners among the Egyptians. -8. The third generation of Edomites and Egyptians may enter the assembly of the LORD.Miscellaneous Regulations +8. The third generation of Edomites and Egyptians may enter the assembly of the LORD. + +Miscellaneous Regulations + 9. "When you go to war against your enemies, be sure to stay away from anything that is impure. @@ -39,3 +42,4 @@ Regulations concerning Worship 25. And when you enter your neighbor's field of grain, you may pluck the heads of grain with your hand, but you must not harvest it with a sickle. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_24.md index eee252bc..54066c34 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_24.md @@ -32,3 +32,4 @@ 22. Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt. That is why I am giving you this command. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_25.md index ea397633..75cabe6f 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_25.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ 19. Therefore, when the LORD your God has given you rest from all your enemies in the land he is giving you as a special possession, you must destroy the Amalekites and erase their memory from under heaven. Never forget this! + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_26.md index 68c67805..a87c4f04 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_26.md @@ -25,3 +25,4 @@ Harvest Offerings and Tithes 19. And if you do, he will set you high above all the other nations he has made. Then you will receive praise, honor, and renown. You will be a nation that is holy to the LORD your God, just as he promised." + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_27.md index 52fbce93..e3e1c3ab 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_27.md @@ -12,7 +12,9 @@ The Altar on Mount Ebal 8. You must clearly write all these instructions on the stones coated with plaster." 9. Then Moses and the Levitical priests addressed all Israel as follows: "O Israel, be quiet and listen! Today you have become the people of the LORD your God. -10. So you must obey the LORD your God by keeping all these commands and decrees that I am giving you today."Curses from Mount Ebal +10. So you must obey the LORD your God by keeping all these commands and decrees that I am giving you today." +Curses from Mount Ebal + 11. That same day Moses also gave this charge to the people: 12. "When you cross the Jordan River, the tribes of Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph, and Benjamin must stand on Mount Gerizim to proclaim a blessing over the people. @@ -23,37 +25,49 @@ The Altar on Mount Ebal 15. 'Cursed is anyone who carves or casts an idol and secretly sets it up. These idols, the work of craftsmen, are detestable to the LORD.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 16. 'Cursed is anyone who dishonors father or mother.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 17. 'Cursed is anyone who steals property from a neighbor by moving a boundary marker.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 18. 'Cursed is anyone who leads a blind person astray on the road.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 19. 'Cursed is anyone who denies justice to foreigners, orphans, or widows.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 20. 'Cursed is anyone who has sexual intercourse with one of his father's wives, for he has violated his father.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 21. 'Cursed is anyone who has sexual intercourse with an animal.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 22. 'Cursed is anyone who has sexual intercourse with his sister, whether she is the daughter of his father or his mother.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 23. 'Cursed is anyone who has sexual intercourse with his mother-in-law.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 24. 'Cursed is anyone who attacks a neighbor in secret.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 25. 'Cursed is anyone who accepts payment to kill an innocent person.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + 26. 'Cursed is anyone who does not affirm and obey the terms of these instructions.' And all the people will reply, 'Amen.' + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_28.md index 71e974b2..4ca3870b 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_28.md @@ -5,18 +5,28 @@ Blessings for Obedience 2. You will experience all these blessings if you obey the LORD your God: 3. Your towns and your fields - will be blessed. + +will be blessed. + 4. Your children and your crops - will be blessed. + +will be blessed. + The offspring of your herds and flocks - will be blessed. + +will be blessed. + 5. Your fruit baskets and breadboards - will be blessed. + +will be blessed. + 6. Wherever you go and whatever you do, - you will be blessed. + you +will be blessed. + 7. "The LORD will conquer your enemies when they attack you. They will attack you from one direction, but they will scatter from you in seven! @@ -28,23 +38,36 @@ The offspring of your herds and flocks 11. "The LORD will give you prosperity in the land he swore to your ancestors to give you, blessing you with many children, numerous livestock, and abundant crops. 12. The LORD will send rain at the proper time from his rich treasury in the heavens and will bless all the work you do. You will lend to many nations, but you will never need to borrow from them. 13. If you listen to these commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today, and if you carefully obey them, the LORD will make you the head and not the tail, and you will always be on top and never at the bottom. -14. You must not turn away from any of the commands I am giving you today, nor follow after other gods and worship them.Curses for Disobedience +14. You must not turn away from any of the commands I am giving you today, nor follow after other gods and worship them. + +Curses for Disobedience + 15. "But if you refuse to listen to the LORD your God and do not obey all the commands and decrees I am giving you today, all these curses will come and overwhelm you: 16. Your towns and your fields - will be cursed. + +will be cursed. + 17. Your fruit baskets and breadboards - will be cursed. + +will be cursed. + 18. Your children and your crops - will be cursed. + +will be cursed. + The offspring of your herds and flocks - will be cursed. + +will be cursed. + 19. Wherever you go and whatever you do, - you will be cursed. + you +will be cursed. + 20. "The LORD himself will send on you curses, confusion, and frustration in everything you do, until at last you are completely destroyed for doing evil and abandoning me. 21. The LORD will afflict you with diseases until none of you are left in the land you are about to enter and occupy. @@ -108,3 +131,4 @@ The offspring of your herds and flocks 68. Then the LORD will send you back to Egypt in ships, to a destination I promised you would never see again. There you will offer to sell yourselves to your enemies as slaves, but no one will buy you." + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_29.md index 7f62215f..774b9cf2 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_29.md @@ -1,5 +1,8 @@ # Chapter 29 -1. These are the terms of the covenant the LORD commanded Moses to make with the Israelites while they were in the land of Moab, in addition to the covenant he had made with them at Mount Sinai.Moses Reviews the Covenant +1. These are the terms of the covenant the LORD commanded Moses to make with the Israelites while they were in the land of Moab, in addition to the covenant he had made with them at Mount Sinai. + +Moses Reviews the Covenant + 2. Moses summoned all the Israelites and said to them, "You have seen with your own eyes everything the LORD did in the land of Egypt to Pharaoh and to all his servants and to his whole country-- 3. all the great tests of strength, the miraculous signs, and the amazing wonders. @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ 29. "The LORD our God has secrets known to no one. We are not accountable for them, but we and our children are accountable forever for all that he has revealed to us, so that we may obey all the terms of these instructions. + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_30.md index 732fa1cb..f5d84970 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_30.md @@ -12,7 +12,10 @@ A Call to Return to the LORD 8. Then you will again obey the LORD and keep all his commands that I am giving you today. 9. "The LORD your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the LORD will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors. -10. The LORD your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and soul.The Choice of Life or Death +10. The LORD your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and soul. + +The Choice of Life or Death + 11. "This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you, and it is not beyond your reach. 12. It is not kept in heaven, so distant that you must ask, 'Who will go up to heaven and bring it down so we can hear it and obey?' @@ -29,3 +32,4 @@ A Call to Return to the LORD 20. You can make this choice by loving the LORD your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the LORD, you will live long in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_31.md index ed151f38..772c1830 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_31.md @@ -10,13 +10,17 @@ Joshua Becomes Israel's Leader 6. So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you." 7. Then Moses called for Joshua, and as all Israel watched, he said to him, "Be strong and courageous! For you will lead these people into the land that the LORD swore to their ancestors he would give them. You are the one who will divide it among them as their grants of land. -8. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you."Public Reading of the Book of Instruction +8. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you." +Public Reading of the Book of Instruction + 9. So Moses wrote this entire body of instruction in a book and gave it to the priests, who carried the Ark of the LORD's Covenant, and to the elders of Israel. 10. Then Moses gave them this command: "At the end of every seventh year, the Year of Release, during the Festival of Shelters, 11. you must read this Book of Instruction to all the people of Israel when they assemble before the LORD your God at the place he chooses. 12. Call them all together--men, women, children, and the foreigners living in your towns--so they may hear this Book of Instruction and learn to fear the LORD your God and carefully obey all the terms of these instructions. -13. Do this so that your children who have not known these instructions will hear them and will learn to fear the LORD your God. Do this as long as you live in the land you are crossing the Jordan to occupy."Israel's Disobedience Predicted +13. Do this so that your children who have not known these instructions will hear them and will learn to fear the LORD your God. Do this as long as you live in the land you are crossing the Jordan to occupy." +Israel's Disobedience Predicted + 14. Then the LORD said to Moses, "The time has come for you to die. Call Joshua and present yourselves at the Tabernacle, so that I may commission him there." So Moses and Joshua went and presented themselves at the Tabernacle. 15. And the LORD appeared to them in a pillar of cloud that stood at the entrance to the sacred tent. @@ -25,7 +29,8 @@ Joshua Becomes Israel's Leader 17. Then my anger will blaze forth against them. I will abandon them, hiding my face from them, and they will be devoured. Terrible trouble will come down on them, and on that day they will say, 'These disasters have come down on us because God is no longer among us!' 18. At that time I will hide my face from them on account of all the evil they commit by worshiping other gods. -19. "So write down the words of this song, and teach it to the people of Israel. Help them learn it, so it may serve as a witness for me against them. +19. "So write down the words of this song, and teach it to the people of Israel. +Help them learn it, so it may serve as a witness for me against them. 20. For I will bring them into the land I swore to give their ancestors--a land flowing with milk and honey. There they will become prosperous, eat all the food they want, and become fat. But they will begin to worship other gods; they will despise me and break my covenant. 21. And when great disasters come down on them, this song will stand as evidence against them, for it will never be forgotten by their descendants. I know the intentions of these people, even now before they have entered the land I swore to give them." @@ -39,8 +44,11 @@ Joshua Becomes Israel's Leader 27. For I know how rebellious and stubborn you are. Even now, while I am still alive and am here with you, you have rebelled against the LORD. How much more rebellious will you be after my death! 28. "Now summon all the elders and officials of your tribes, so that I can speak to them directly and call heaven and earth to witness against them. -29. I know that after my death you will become utterly corrupt and will turn from the way I have commanded you to follow. In the days to come, disaster will come down on you, for you will do what is evil in the LORD's sight, making him very angry with your actions."The Song of Moses +29. I know that after my death you will become utterly corrupt and will turn from the way I have commanded you to follow. In the days to come, disaster will come down on you, for you will do what is evil in the LORD's sight, making him very angry with your actions." +The Song of Moses + 30. So Moses recited this entire song publicly to the assembly of Israel: + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_32.md index df1b072c..398dacd5 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_32.md @@ -1,132 +1,215 @@ # Chapter 32 1. "Listen, O heavens, and I will speak! - Hear, O earth, the words that I say! + +Hear, O earth, the words that I say! + 2. Let my teaching fall on you like rain; - let my speech settle like dew. + +let my speech settle like dew. + Let my words fall like rain on tender grass, - like gentle showers on young plants. + +like gentle showers on young plants. + 3. I will proclaim the name of the LORD; - how glorious is our God! + +how glorious is our God! + 4. He is the Rock; his deeds are perfect. - Everything he does is just and fair. + +Everything he does is just and fair. + He is a faithful God who does no wrong; - how just and upright he is! + +how just and upright he is! + 5. "But they have acted corruptly toward him; - when they act so perversely, + +when they act so perversely, are they really his children? - They are a deceitful and twisted generation. + +They are a deceitful and twisted generation. + 6. Is this the way you repay the LORD, - you foolish and senseless people? + +you foolish and senseless people? Isn't he your Father who created you? - Has he not made you and established you? + +Has he not made you and established you? + 7. Remember the days of long ago; - think about the generations past. + +think about the generations past. + Ask your father, and he will inform you. - Inquire of your elders, and they will tell you. + +Inquire of your elders, and they will tell you. + 8. When the Most High assigned lands to the nations, - when he divided up the human race, + +when he divided up the human race, he established the boundaries of the peoples according to the number in his heavenly court. 9. "For the people of Israel belong to the LORD; - Jacob is his special possession. + +Jacob is his special possession. + 10. He found them in a desert land, - in an empty, howling wasteland. + +in an empty, howling wasteland. + He surrounded them and watched over them; he guarded them as he would guard his own eyes. 11. Like an eagle that rouses her chicks - and hovers over her young, + +and hovers over her young, so he spread his wings to take them up - and carried them safely on his pinions. + +and carried them safely on his pinions. + 12. The LORD alone guided them; - they followed no foreign gods. + +they followed no foreign gods. + 13. He let them ride over the highlands - and feast on the crops of the fields. + +and feast on the crops of the fields. + He nourished them with honey from the rock - and olive oil from the stony ground. + +and olive oil from the stony ground. + 14. He fed them yogurt from the herd - and milk from the flock, - together with the fat of lambs. + +and milk from the flock, + +together with the fat of lambs. + He gave them choice rams from Bashan, and goats, - together with the choicest wheat. + +together with the choicest wheat. + You drank the finest wine, - made from the juice of grapes. + +made from the juice of grapes. + 15. "But Israel soon became fat and unruly; - the people grew heavy, plump, and stuffed! + +the people grew heavy, plump, and stuffed! Then they abandoned the God who had made them; - they made light of the Rock of their salvation. + +they made light of the Rock of their salvation. + 16. They stirred up his jealousy by worshiping foreign gods; - they provoked his fury with detestable deeds. + +they provoked his fury with detestable deeds. + 17. They offered sacrifices to demons, which are not God, - to gods they had not known before, + +to gods they had not known before, to new gods only recently arrived, - to gods their ancestors had never feared. + +to gods their ancestors had never feared. + 18. You neglected the Rock who had fathered you; - you forgot the God who had given you birth. + +you forgot the God who had given you birth. + 19. "The LORD saw this and drew back, - provoked to anger by his own sons and daughters. + +provoked to anger by his own sons and daughters. + 20. He said, 'I will abandon them; - then see what becomes of them. + +then see what becomes of them. + For they are a twisted generation, - children without integrity. + +children without integrity. + 21. They have roused my jealousy by worshiping things that are not God; - they have provoked my anger with their useless idols. + +they have provoked my anger with their useless idols. + Now I will rouse their jealousy through people who are not even a people; - I will provoke their anger through the foolish Gentiles. + +I will provoke their anger through the foolish Gentiles. + 22. For my anger blazes forth like fire and burns to the depths of the grave. + It devours the earth and all its crops - and ignites the foundations of the mountains. + +and ignites the foundations of the mountains. + 23. I will heap disasters upon them - and shoot them down with my arrows. + +and shoot them down with my arrows. + 24. I will weaken them with famine, - burning fever, and deadly disease. + +burning fever, and deadly disease. + I will send the fangs of wild beasts - and poisonous snakes that glide in the dust. + +and poisonous snakes that glide in the dust. + 25. Outside, the sword will bring death, - and inside, terror will strike + +and inside, terror will strike both young men and young women, - both infants and the aged. + +both infants and the aged. + 26. I would have annihilated them, - wiping out even the memory of them. + +wiping out even the memory of them. + 27. But I feared the taunt of Israel's enemy, - who might misunderstand and say, + +who might misunderstand and say, "Our own power has triumphed! The LORD had nothing to do with this!"' 28. "But Israel is a senseless nation; - the people are foolish, without understanding. + +the people are foolish, without understanding. + 29. Oh, that they were wise and could understand this! - Oh, that they might know their fate! + +Oh, that they might know their fate! + 30. How could one person chase a thousand of them, - and two people put ten thousand to flight, + +and two people put ten thousand to flight, unless their Rock had sold them, unless the LORD had given them up? @@ -134,68 +217,106 @@ unless their Rock had sold them, as even they recognize. 32. Their vine grows from the vine of Sodom, - from the vineyards of Gomorrah. + +from the vineyards of Gomorrah. + Their grapes are poison, - and their clusters are bitter. + +and their clusters are bitter. + 33. Their wine is the venom of serpents, - the deadly poison of cobras. + +the deadly poison of cobras. + 34. "The LORD says, 'Am I not storing up these things, - sealing them away in my treasury? + +sealing them away in my treasury? + 35. I will take revenge; I will pay them back. - In due time their feet will slip. + +In due time their feet will slip. + Their day of disaster will arrive, - and their destiny will overtake them.' + +and their destiny will overtake them.' + 36. "Indeed, the LORD will give justice to his people, and he will change his mind about his servants, when he sees their strength is gone - and no one is left, slave or free. + +and no one is left, slave or free. + 37. Then he will ask, 'Where are their gods, - the rocks they fled to for refuge? + +the rocks they fled to for refuge? + 38. Where now are those gods, - who ate the fat of their sacrifices - and drank the wine of their offerings? + +who ate the fat of their sacrifices + +and drank the wine of their offerings? Let those gods arise and help you! - Let them provide you with shelter! + +Let them provide you with shelter! + 39. Look now; I myself am he! - There is no other god but me! + +There is no other god but me! I am the one who kills and gives life; - I am the one who wounds and heals; - no one can be rescued from my powerful hand! + +I am the one who wounds and heals; + +no one can be rescued from my powerful hand! + 40. Now I raise my hand to heaven - and declare, "As surely as I live, + +and declare, "As surely as I live, + 41. when I sharpen my flashing sword - and begin to carry out justice, + +and begin to carry out justice, I will take revenge on my enemies - and repay those who reject me. + +and repay those who reject me. + 42. I will make my arrows drunk with blood, - and my sword will devour flesh-- + +and my sword will devour flesh-- the blood of the slaughtered and the captives, - and the heads of the enemy leaders."' + +and the heads of the enemy leaders."' + 43. "Rejoice with him, you heavens, and let all of God's angels worship him. + Rejoice with his people, you Gentiles, and let all the angels be strengthened in him. For he will avenge the blood of his children; - he will take revenge against his enemies. + +he will take revenge against his enemies. He will repay those who hate him - and cleanse his people's land." + +and cleanse his people's land." + 44. So Moses came with Joshua son of Nun and recited all the words of this song to the people. 45. When Moses had finished reciting all these words to the people of Israel, 46. he added: "Take to heart all the words of warning I have given you today. Pass them on as a command to your children so they will obey every word of these instructions. -47. These instructions are not empty words--they are your life! By obeying them you will enjoy a long life in the land you will occupy when you cross the Jordan River."Moses' Death Foretold +47. These instructions are not empty words--they are your life! By obeying them you will enjoy a long life in the land you will occupy when you cross the Jordan River." +Moses' Death Foretold + 48. That same day the LORD said to Moses, 49. "Go to Moab, to the mountains east of the river, and climb Mount Nebo, which is across from Jericho. Look out across the land of Canaan, the land I am giving to the people of Israel as their own special possession. @@ -204,3 +325,4 @@ He will repay those who hate him 52. So you will see the land from a distance, but you may not enter the land I am giving to the people of Israel." + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_33.md index 42842688..4c1accb8 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_33.md @@ -6,139 +6,226 @@ Moses Blesses the People 2. "The LORD came from Mount Sinai and dawned upon us from Mount Seir; he shone forth from Mount Paran - and came from Meribah-kadesh + +and came from Meribah-kadesh with flaming fire at his right hand. 3. Indeed, he loves his people; - all his holy ones are in his hands. + +all his holy ones are in his hands. + They follow in his steps - and accept his teaching. + +and accept his teaching. + 4. Moses gave us the LORD's instruction, the special possession of the people of Israel. 5. The LORD became king in Israel-- - when the leaders of the people assembled, - when the tribes of Israel gathered as one." + +when the leaders of the people assembled, + +when the tribes of Israel gathered as one." + 6. Moses said this about the tribe of Reuben: "Let the tribe of Reuben live and not die out, - though they are few in number." + +though they are few in number." + 7. Moses said this about the tribe of Judah: "O LORD, hear the cry of Judah - and bring them together as a people. + +and bring them together as a people. + Give them strength to defend their cause; - help them against their enemies!" + +help them against their enemies!" + 8. Moses said this about the tribe of Levi: "O LORD, you have given your Thummim and Urim--the sacred lots-- to your faithful servants the Levites. + You put them to the test at Massah - and struggled with them at the waters of Meribah. + +and struggled with them at the waters of Meribah. + 9. The Levites obeyed your word - and guarded your covenant. + +and guarded your covenant. + They were more loyal to you - than to their own parents. + +than to their own parents. + They ignored their relatives - and did not acknowledge their own children. + +and did not acknowledge their own children. + 10. They teach your regulations to Jacob; - they give your instructions to Israel. + +they give your instructions to Israel. + They present incense before you - and offer whole burnt offerings on the altar. + +and offer whole burnt offerings on the altar. + 11. Bless the ministry of the Levites, O LORD, - and accept all the work of their hands. + +and accept all the work of their hands. + Hit their enemies where it hurts the most; - strike down their foes so they never rise again." + +strike down their foes so they never rise again." + 12. Moses said this about the tribe of Benjamin: "The people of Benjamin are loved by the LORD - and live in safety beside him. + +and live in safety beside him. + He surrounds them continuously - and preserves them from every harm." + +and preserves them from every harm." + 13. Moses said this about the tribes of Joseph: "May their land be blessed by the LORD - with the precious gift of dew from the heavens - and water from beneath the earth; + +with the precious gift of dew from the heavens + +and water from beneath the earth; + 14. with the rich fruit that grows in the sun, - and the rich harvest produced each month; + +and the rich harvest produced each month; + 15. with the finest crops of the ancient mountains, - and the abundance from the everlasting hills; + +and the abundance from the everlasting hills; + 16. with the best gifts of the earth and its bounty, - and the favor of the one who appeared in the burning bush. + +and the favor of the one who appeared in the burning bush. + May these blessings rest on Joseph's head, - crowning the brow of the prince among his brothers. + +crowning the brow of the prince among his brothers. + 17. Joseph has the majesty of a young bull; - he has the horns of a wild ox. + +he has the horns of a wild ox. + He will gore distant nations, - even to the ends of the earth. + +even to the ends of the earth. + This is my blessing for the multitudes of Ephraim - and the thousands of Manasseh." + +and the thousands of Manasseh." + 18. Moses said this about the tribes of Zebulun and Issachar: "May the people of Zebulun prosper in their travels. - May the people of Issachar prosper at home in their tents. + +May the people of Issachar prosper at home in their tents. + 19. They summon the people to the mountain - to offer proper sacrifices there. + +to offer proper sacrifices there. + They benefit from the riches of the sea - and the hidden treasures in the sand." + +and the hidden treasures in the sand." + 20. Moses said this about the tribe of Gad: "Blessed is the one who enlarges Gad's territory! - Gad is poised there like a lion - to tear off an arm or a head. + +Gad is poised there like a lion + +to tear off an arm or a head. + 21. The people of Gad took the best land for themselves; - a leader's share was assigned to them. + +a leader's share was assigned to them. + When the leaders of the people were assembled, they carried out the LORD's justice - and obeyed his regulations for Israel." + +and obeyed his regulations for Israel." + 22. Moses said this about the tribe of Dan: "Dan is a lion's cub, - leaping out from Bashan." + +leaping out from Bashan." + 23. Moses said this about the tribe of Naphtali: "O Naphtali, you are rich in favor and full of the LORD's blessings; - may you possess the west and the south." + +may you possess the west and the south." + 24. Moses said this about the tribe of Asher: "May Asher be blessed above other sons; - may he be esteemed by his brothers; - may he bathe his feet in olive oil. + +may he be esteemed by his brothers; + +may he bathe his feet in olive oil. + 25. May the bolts of your gates be of iron and bronze; - may you be secure all your days." + +may you be secure all your days." + 26. "There is no one like the God of Israel. - He rides across the heavens to help you, - across the skies in majestic splendor. + +He rides across the heavens to help you, + +across the skies in majestic splendor. + 27. The eternal God is your refuge, - and his everlasting arms are under you. + +and his everlasting arms are under you. + He drives out the enemy before you; - he cries out, 'Destroy them!' + +he cries out, 'Destroy them!' + 28. So Israel will live in safety, - prosperous Jacob in security, + +prosperous Jacob in security, in a land of grain and new wine, - while the heavens drop down dew. + +while the heavens drop down dew. + 29. How blessed you are, O Israel! Who else is like you, a people saved by the LORD? He is your protecting shield - and your triumphant sword! + +and your triumphant sword! Your enemies will cringe before you, - and you will stomp on their backs!" + +and you will stomp on their backs!" + diff --git a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_34.md index 85c2b5e7..54dbc0aa 100644 --- a/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/05_Deuteronomy/Chapter_34.md @@ -18,3 +18,4 @@ The Death of Moses 12. With mighty power, Moses performed terrifying acts in the sight of all Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_01.md index 249dbfc7..9638dd43 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_01.md @@ -10,7 +10,9 @@ The LORD's Charge to Joshua 6. "Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. 7. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 8. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. -9. This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."Joshua's Charge to the Israelites +9. This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." +Joshua's Charge to the Israelites + 10. Joshua then commanded the officers of Israel, 11. "Go through the camp and tell the people to get their provisions ready. In three days you will cross the Jordan River and take possession of the land the LORD your God is giving you." @@ -25,3 +27,4 @@ The LORD's Charge to Joshua 18. Anyone who rebels against your orders and does not obey your words and everything you command will be put to death. So be strong and courageous!" + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_02.md index f98f0573..6aa1a7bc 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_02.md @@ -37,3 +37,4 @@ Rahab Protects the Spies 24. "The LORD has given us the whole land," they said, "for all the people in the land are terrified of us." + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_03.md index 02e78500..5470c7d2 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_03.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ The Israelites Cross the Jordan 17. Meanwhile, the priests who were carrying the Ark of the LORD's Covenant stood on dry ground in the middle of the riverbed as the people passed by. They waited there until the whole nation of Israel had crossed the Jordan on dry ground. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_04.md index 41fc71c2..65b338e0 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_04.md @@ -36,3 +36,4 @@ Memorials to the Jordan Crossing 24. He did this so all the nations of the earth might know that the LORD's hand is powerful, and so you might fear the LORD your God forever." + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_05.md index 0ba4d71a..8a101aff 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_05.md @@ -1,5 +1,8 @@ # Chapter 5 -1. When all the Amorite kings west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings who lived along the Mediterranean coast heard how the LORD had dried up the Jordan River so the people of Israel could cross, they lost heart and were paralyzed with fear because of them.Israel Reestablishes Covenant Ceremonies +1. When all the Amorite kings west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings who lived along the Mediterranean coast heard how the LORD had dried up the Jordan River so the people of Israel could cross, they lost heart and were paralyzed with fear because of them. + +Israel Reestablishes Covenant Ceremonies + 2. At that time the LORD told Joshua, "Make flint knives and circumcise this second generation of Israelites." 3. So Joshua made flint knives and circumcised the entire male population of Israel at Gibeath-haaraloth. @@ -21,6 +24,8 @@ 14. "Neither one," he replied. "I am the commander of the LORD's army." At this, Joshua fell with his face to the ground in reverence. "I am at your command," Joshua said. "What do you want your servant to do?" + 15. The commander of the LORD's army replied, "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy." And Joshua did as he was told. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_06.md index f12aa2e7..23120698 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_06.md @@ -38,12 +38,19 @@ The Fall of Jericho 26. At that time Joshua invoked this curse: "May the curse of the LORD fall on anyone - who tries to rebuild the town of Jericho. + +who tries to rebuild the town of Jericho. + At the cost of his firstborn son, - he will lay its foundation. + +he will lay its foundation. + At the cost of his youngest son, - he will set up its gates." + +he will set up its gates." + 27. So the LORD was with Joshua, and his reputation spread throughout the land. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_07.md index c47e800b..0a70c555 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_07.md @@ -21,7 +21,9 @@ Ai Defeats the Israelites 13. "Get up! Command the people to purify themselves in preparation for tomorrow. For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: Hidden among you, O Israel, are things set apart for the LORD. You will never defeat your enemies until you remove these things from among you. 14. "In the morning you must present yourselves by tribes, and the LORD will point out the tribe to which the guilty man belongs. That tribe must come forward with its clans, and the LORD will point out the guilty clan. That clan will then come forward, and the LORD will point out the guilty family. Finally, each member of the guilty family must come forward one by one. -15. The one who has stolen what was set apart for destruction will himself be burned with fire, along with everything he has, for he has broken the covenant of the LORD and has done a horrible thing in Israel."Achan's Sin +15. The one who has stolen what was set apart for destruction will himself be burned with fire, along with everything he has, for he has broken the covenant of the LORD and has done a horrible thing in Israel." +Achan's Sin + 16. Early the next morning Joshua brought the tribes of Israel before the LORD, and the tribe of Judah was singled out. 17. Then the clans of Judah came forward, and the clan of Zerah was singled out. Then the families of Zerah came forward, and the family of Zimri was singled out. @@ -40,3 +42,4 @@ Ai Defeats the Israelites 26. They piled a great heap of stones over Achan, which remains to this day. That is why the place has been called the Valley of Trouble ever since. So the LORD was no longer angry. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_08.md index 56d31ea1..bcda82f9 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_08.md @@ -48,3 +48,4 @@ The Israelites Defeat Ai 35. Every word of every command that Moses had ever given was read to the entire assembly of Israel, including the women and children and the foreigners who lived among them. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_09.md index 3cef7f21..294d765a 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_09.md @@ -14,6 +14,7 @@ The Gibeonites Deceive Israel 8. They replied, "We are your servants." "But who are you?" Joshua demanded. "Where do you come from?" + 9. They answered, "Your servants have come from a very distant country. We have heard of the might of the LORD your God and of all he did in Egypt. 10. We have also heard what he did to the two Amorite kings east of the Jordan River--King Sihon of Heshbon and King Og of Bashan (who lived in Ashtaroth). 11. So our elders and all our people instructed us, 'Take supplies for a long journey. Go meet with the people of Israel and tell them, "We are your servants; please make a treaty with us."' @@ -27,7 +28,9 @@ The Gibeonites Deceive Israel 16. Three days after making the treaty, they learned that these people actually lived nearby! 17. The Israelites set out at once to investigate and reached their towns in three days. The names of these towns were Gibeon, Kephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim. 18. But the Israelites did not attack the towns, for the Israelite leaders had made a vow to them in the name of the LORD, the God of Israel. + The people of Israel grumbled against their leaders because of the treaty. + 19. But the leaders replied, "Since we have sworn an oath in the presence of the LORD, the God of Israel, we cannot touch them. 20. This is what we must do. We must let them live, for divine anger would come upon us if we broke our oath. 21. Let them live." So they made them woodcutters and water carriers for the entire community, as the Israelite leaders directed. @@ -42,3 +45,4 @@ The people of Israel grumbled against their leaders because of the treaty. 27. But that day he made the Gibeonites the woodcutters and water carriers for the community of Israel and for the altar of the LORD--wherever the LORD would choose to build it. And that is what they do to this day. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_10.md index 2784245b..103ce36f 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_10.md @@ -8,7 +8,8 @@ Israel Defeats the Southern Armies 4. "Come and help me destroy Gibeon," he urged them, "for they have made peace with Joshua and the people of Israel." 5. So these five Amorite kings combined their armies for a united attack. They moved all their troops into place and attacked Gibeon. -6. The men of Gibeon quickly sent messengers to Joshua at his camp in Gilgal. "Don't abandon your servants now!" they pleaded. "Come at once! Save us! Help us! For all the Amorite kings who live in the hill country have joined forces to attack us." +6. The men of Gibeon quickly sent messengers to Joshua at his camp in Gilgal. "Don't abandon your servants now!" they pleaded. "Come at once! Save us! +Help us! For all the Amorite kings who live in the hill country have joined forces to attack us." 7. So Joshua and his entire army, including his best warriors, left Gilgal and set out for Gibeon. 8. "Do not be afraid of them," the LORD said to Joshua, "for I have given you victory over them. Not a single one of them will be able to stand up to you." @@ -19,13 +20,18 @@ Israel Defeats the Southern Armies 12. On the day the LORD gave the Israelites victory over the Amorites, Joshua prayed to the LORD in front of all the people of Israel. He said, "Let the sun stand still over Gibeon, - and the moon over the valley of Aijalon." + +and the moon over the valley of Aijalon." + 13. So the sun stood still and the moon stayed in place until the nation of Israel had defeated its enemies. Is this event not recorded in The Book of Jashar? The sun stayed in the middle of the sky, and it did not set as on a normal day. 14. There has never been a day like this one before or since, when the LORD answered such a prayer. Surely the LORD fought for Israel that day! -15. Then Joshua and the Israelite army returned to their camp at Gilgal.Joshua Kills the Five Southern Kings +15. Then Joshua and the Israelite army returned to their camp at Gilgal. + +Joshua Kills the Five Southern Kings + 16. During the battle the five kings escaped and hid in a cave at Makkedah. 17. When Joshua heard that they had been found, @@ -42,7 +48,10 @@ Is this event not recorded in The Book of Jashar? The sun stayed in the middle o 25. "Don't ever be afraid or discouraged," Joshua told his men. "Be strong and courageous, for the LORD is going to do this to all of your enemies." 26. Then Joshua killed each of the five kings and impaled them on five sharpened poles, where they hung until evening. -27. As the sun was going down, Joshua gave instructions for the bodies of the kings to be taken down from the poles and thrown into the cave where they had been hiding. Then they covered the opening of the cave with a pile of large rocks, which remains to this very day.Israel Destroys the Southern Towns +27. As the sun was going down, Joshua gave instructions for the bodies of the kings to be taken down from the poles and thrown into the cave where they had been hiding. Then they covered the opening of the cave with a pile of large rocks, which remains to this very day. + +Israel Destroys the Southern Towns + 28. That same day Joshua captured and destroyed the town of Makkedah. He killed everyone in it, including the king, leaving no survivors. He destroyed them all, and he killed the king of Makkedah as he had killed the king of Jericho. 29. Then Joshua and the Israelites went to Libnah and attacked it. @@ -67,3 +76,4 @@ Is this event not recorded in The Book of Jashar? The sun stayed in the middle o 43. Then Joshua and the Israelite army returned to their camp at Gilgal. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_11.md index e0d263b2..83605395 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_11.md @@ -34,3 +34,4 @@ Israel Defeats the Northern Armies 23. So Joshua took control of the entire land, just as the LORD had instructed Moses. He gave it to the people of Israel as their special possession, dividing the land among the tribes. So the land finally had rest from war. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_12.md index 162149cb..7572b06c 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_12.md @@ -9,7 +9,10 @@ Kings Defeated East of the Jordan 4. King Og of Bashan, the last of the Rephaites, lived at Ashtaroth and Edrei. 5. He ruled a territory stretching from Mount Hermon to Salecah in the north and to all of Bashan in the east, and westward to the borders of the kingdoms of Geshur and Maacah. This territory included the northern half of Gilead, as far as the boundary of King Sihon of Heshbon. -6. Moses, the servant of the LORD, and the Israelites had destroyed the people of King Sihon and King Og. And Moses gave their land as a possession to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.Kings Defeated West of the Jordan +6. Moses, the servant of the LORD, and the Israelites had destroyed the people of King Sihon and King Og. And Moses gave their land as a possession to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. + +Kings Defeated West of the Jordan + 7. The following is a list of the kings that Joshua and the Israelite armies defeated on the west side of the Jordan, from Baal-gad in the valley of Lebanon to Mount Halak, which leads up to Seir. (Joshua gave this land to the tribes of Israel as their possession, 8. including the hill country, the western foothills, the Jordan Valley, the mountain slopes, the Judean wilderness, and the Negev. The people who lived in this region were the Hittites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites.) These are the kings Israel defeated: @@ -17,49 +20,65 @@ Kings Defeated East of the Jordan 9. The king of Jericho The king of Ai, near Bethel + 10. The king of Jerusalem The king of Hebron + 11. The king of Jarmuth The king of Lachish + 12. The king of Eglon The king of Gezer + 13. The king of Debir The king of Geder + 14. The king of Hormah The king of Arad + 15. The king of Libnah The king of Adullam + 16. The king of Makkedah The king of Bethel + 17. The king of Tappuah The king of Hepher + 18. The king of Aphek The king of Lasharon + 19. The king of Madon The king of Hazor + 20. The king of Shimron-meron The king of Acshaph + 21. The king of Taanach The king of Megiddo + 22. The king of Kedesh The king of Jokneam in Carmel + 23. The king of Dor in the town of Naphoth-dor The king of Goyim in Gilgal 24. The king of Tirzah. + In all, thirty-one kings were defeated. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_13.md index 1684ac1e..0ecc13aa 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_13.md @@ -7,8 +7,12 @@ The Land Yet to Be Conquered 4. in the south also remains to be conquered. In the north, the following area has not yet been conquered: all the land of the Canaanites, including Mearah (which belongs to the Sidonians), stretching northward to Aphek on the border of the Amorites; 5. the land of the Gebalites and all of the Lebanon mountain area to the east, from Baal-gad below Mount Hermon to Lebo-hamath; 6. and all the hill country from Lebanon to Misrephoth-maim, including all the land of the Sidonians. + "I myself will drive these people out of the land ahead of the Israelites. So be sure to give this land to Israel as a special possession, just as I have commanded you. -7. Include all this territory as Israel's possession when you divide this land among the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh."The Land Divided East of the Jordan + +7. Include all this territory as Israel's possession when you divide this land among the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh." +The Land Divided East of the Jordan + 8. Half the tribe of Manasseh and the tribes of Reuben and Gad had already received their grants of land on the east side of the Jordan, for Moses, the servant of the LORD, had previously assigned this land to them. @@ -16,9 +20,15 @@ The Land Yet to Be Conquered 10. It also included all the towns of King Sihon of the Amorites, who had reigned in Heshbon, and extended as far as the borders of Ammon. 11. It included Gilead, the territory of the kingdoms of Geshur and Maacah, all of Mount Hermon, all of Bashan as far as Salecah, 12. and all the territory of King Og of Bashan, who had reigned in Ashtaroth and Edrei. King Og was the last of the Rephaites, for Moses had attacked them and driven them out. -13. But the Israelites failed to drive out the people of Geshur and Maacah, so they continue to live among the Israelites to this day.An Allotment for the Tribe of Levi +13. But the Israelites failed to drive out the people of Geshur and Maacah, so they continue to live among the Israelites to this day. + +An Allotment for the Tribe of Levi + + +14. Moses did not assign any allotment of land to the tribe of Levi. Instead, as the LORD had promised them, their allotment came from the offerings burned on the altar to the LORD, the God of Israel. + +The Land Given to the Tribe of Reuben -14. Moses did not assign any allotment of land to the tribe of Levi. Instead, as the LORD had promised them, their allotment came from the offerings burned on the altar to the LORD, the God of Israel.The Land Given to the Tribe of Reuben 15. Moses had assigned the following area to the clans of the tribe of Reuben. @@ -30,14 +40,20 @@ The Land Yet to Be Conquered 21. The land of Reuben also included all the towns of the plain and the entire kingdom of Sihon. Sihon was the Amorite king who had reigned in Heshbon and was killed by Moses along with the leaders of Midian--Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba--princes living in the region who were allied with Sihon. 22. The Israelites had also killed Balaam son of Beor, who used magic to tell the future. -23. The Jordan River marked the western boundary for the tribe of Reuben. The towns and their surrounding villages in this area were given as a homeland to the clans of the tribe of Reuben.The Land Given to the Tribe of Gad +23. The Jordan River marked the western boundary for the tribe of Reuben. The towns and their surrounding villages in this area were given as a homeland to the clans of the tribe of Reuben. + +The Land Given to the Tribe of Gad + 24. Moses had assigned the following area to the clans of the tribe of Gad. 25. Their territory included Jazer, all the towns of Gilead, and half of the land of Ammon, as far as the town of Aroer just west of Rabbah. 26. It extended from Heshbon to Ramath-mizpeh and Betonim, and from Mahanaim to the territory of Lo-debar. 27. In the valley were Beth-haram, Beth-nimrah, Succoth, Zaphon, and the rest of the kingdom of King Sihon of Heshbon. The western boundary ran along the Jordan River, extended as far north as the tip of the Sea of Galilee, and then turned eastward. -28. The towns and their surrounding villages in this area were given as a homeland to the clans of the tribe of Gad.The Land Given to the Half-Tribe of Manasseh +28. The towns and their surrounding villages in this area were given as a homeland to the clans of the tribe of Gad. + +The Land Given to the Half-Tribe of Manasseh + 29. Moses had assigned the following area to the clans of the half-tribe of Manasseh. @@ -48,3 +64,4 @@ The Land Yet to Be Conquered 33. But Moses gave no allotment of land to the tribe of Levi, for the LORD, the God of Israel, had promised that he himself would be their allotment. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_14.md index 1c2e7ec3..65425b00 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_14.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ The Land Divided West of the Jordan 2. These nine and a half tribes received their grants of land by means of sacred lots, in accordance with the LORD's command through Moses. 3. Moses had already given a grant of land to the two and a half tribes on the east side of the Jordan River, but he had given the Levites no such allotment. 4. The descendants of Joseph had become two separate tribes--Manasseh and Ephraim. And the Levites were given no land at all, only towns to live in with surrounding pasturelands for their livestock and all their possessions. -5. So the land was distributed in strict accordance with the LORD's commands to Moses.Caleb Requests His Land +5. So the land was distributed in strict accordance with the LORD's commands to Moses. + +Caleb Requests His Land + 6. A delegation from the tribe of Judah, led by Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite, came to Joshua at Gilgal. Caleb said to Joshua, "Remember what the LORD said to Moses, the man of God, about you and me when we were at Kadesh-barnea. 7. I was forty years old when Moses, the servant of the LORD, sent me from Kadesh-barnea to explore the land of Canaan. I returned and gave an honest report, @@ -22,3 +25,4 @@ The Land Divided West of the Jordan And the land had rest from war. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_15.md index 7f06e229..3789501a 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_15.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ The Land Given to the Tribe of Judah 4. From there it passed to Azmon until it finally reached the Brook of Egypt, which it followed to the Mediterranean Sea. This was their southern boundary. 5. The eastern boundary extended along the Dead Sea to the mouth of the Jordan River. + The northern boundary began at the bay where the Jordan River empties into the Dead Sea, + 6. went up from there to Beth-hoglah, then proceeded north of Beth-arabah to the Stone of Bohan. (Bohan was Reuben's son.) 7. From that point it went through the valley of Achor to Debir, turning north toward Gilgal, which is across from the slopes of Adummim on the south side of the valley. From there the boundary extended to the springs at En-shemesh and on to En-rogel. 8. The boundary then passed through the valley of Ben-Hinnom, along the southern slopes of the Jebusites, where the city of Jerusalem is located. Then it went west to the top of the mountain above the valley of Hinnom, and on up to the northern end of the valley of Rephaim. @@ -17,7 +19,11 @@ The northern boundary began at the bay where the Jordan River empties into the D 11. The boundary then proceeded to the slope of the hill north of Ekron, where it turned toward Shikkeron and Mount Baalah. It passed Jabneel and ended at the Mediterranean Sea. 12. The western boundary was the shoreline of the Mediterranean Sea. -These are the boundaries for the clans of the tribe of Judah.The Land Given to Caleb + +These are the boundaries for the clans of the tribe of Judah. + +The Land Given to Caleb + 13. The LORD commanded Joshua to assign some of Judah's territory to Caleb son of Jephunneh. So Caleb was given the town of Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), which had been named after Anak's ancestor. 14. Caleb drove out the three groups of Anakites--the descendants of Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai, the sons of Anak. @@ -28,7 +34,10 @@ These are the boundaries for the clans of the tribe of Judah.The Land Given to C 18. When Acsah married Othniel, she urged him to ask her father for a field. As she got down off her donkey, Caleb asked her, "What's the matter?" -19. She said, "Give me another gift. You have already given me land in the Negev; now please give me springs of water, too." So Caleb gave her the upper and lower springs.The Towns Allotted to Judah +19. She said, "Give me another gift. You have already given me land in the Negev; now please give me springs of water, too." So Caleb gave her the upper and lower springs. + +The Towns Allotted to Judah + 20. This was the homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Judah. @@ -88,3 +97,4 @@ These are the boundaries for the clans of the tribe of Judah.The Land Given to C 63. But the tribe of Judah could not drive out the Jebusites, who lived in the city of Jerusalem, so the Jebusites live there among the people of Judah to this day. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_16.md index 116b95b5..34d76eb6 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_16.md @@ -5,10 +5,15 @@ The Land Given to Ephraim and West Manasseh 2. From Bethel (that is, Luz) it ran over to Ataroth in the territory of the Arkites. 3. Then it descended westward to the territory of the Japhletites as far as Lower Beth-horon, then to Gezer and over to the Mediterranean Sea. -4. This was the homeland allocated to the families of Joseph's sons, Manasseh and Ephraim.The Land Given to Ephraim +4. This was the homeland allocated to the families of Joseph's sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. + +The Land Given to Ephraim + 5. The following territory was given to the clans of the tribe of Ephraim. + The boundary of their homeland began at Ataroth-addar in the east. From there it ran to Upper Beth-horon, + 6. then on to the Mediterranean Sea. From Micmethath on the north, the boundary curved eastward past Taanath-shiloh to the east of Janoah. 7. From Janoah it turned southward to Ataroth and Naarah, touched Jericho, and ended at the Jordan River. 8. From Tappuah the boundary extended westward, following the Kanah Ravine to the Mediterranean Sea. This is the homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Ephraim. @@ -17,3 +22,4 @@ The boundary of their homeland began at Ataroth-addar in the east. From there it 10. They did not drive the Canaanites out of Gezer, however, so the people of Gezer live as slaves among the people of Ephraim to this day. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_17.md index d07736ae..4a868c27 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_17.md @@ -30,3 +30,4 @@ So Joshua gave them a grant of land along with their uncles, as the LORD had com 18. The forests of the hill country will be yours as well. Clear as much of the land as you wish, and take possession of its farthest corners. And you will drive out the Canaanites from the valleys, too, even though they are strong and have iron chariots." + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_18.md index ba385f2b..779c766c 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_18.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ The Allotments of the Remaining Land 8. As the men started on their way to map out the land, Joshua commanded them, "Go and explore the land and write a description of it. Then return to me, and I will assign the land to the tribes by casting sacred lots here in the presence of the LORD at Shiloh." 9. The men did as they were told and mapped the entire territory into seven sections, listing the towns in each section. They made a written record and then returned to Joshua in the camp at Shiloh. -10. And there at Shiloh, Joshua cast sacred lots in the presence of the LORD to determine which tribe should have each section.The Land Given to Benjamin +10. And there at Shiloh, Joshua cast sacred lots in the presence of the LORD to determine which tribe should have each section. + +The Land Given to Benjamin + 11. The first allotment of land went to the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. It lay between the territory assigned to the tribes of Judah and Joseph. @@ -29,10 +32,16 @@ The Allotments of the Remaining Land 19. ran past the north slope of Beth-hoglah, and ended at the north bay of the Dead Sea, which is the southern end of the Jordan River. This was the southern boundary. 20. The eastern boundary was the Jordan River. -These were the boundaries of the homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Benjamin.The Towns Given to Benjamin + +These were the boundaries of the homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. + +The Towns Given to Benjamin + 21. These were the towns given to the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. + Jericho, Beth-hoglah, Emek-keziz, + 22. Beth-arabah, Zemaraim, Bethel, 23. Avvim, Parah, Ophrah, 24. Kephar-ammoni, Ophni, and Geba--twelve towns with their surrounding villages. @@ -40,6 +49,8 @@ Jericho, Beth-hoglah, Emek-keziz, 26. Mizpah, Kephirah, Mozah, 27. Rekem, Irpeel, Taralah, 28. Zela, Haeleph, the Jebusite town (that is, Jerusalem), Gibeah, and Kiriath-jearim--fourteen towns with their surrounding villages. + This was the homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_19.md index 7f547a87..9348fe59 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_19.md @@ -10,18 +10,28 @@ The Land Given to Simeon 6. Beth-lebaoth, and Sharuhen--thirteen towns with their surrounding villages. 7. It also included Ain, Rimmon, Ether, and Ashan--four towns with their villages, 8. including all the surrounding villages as far south as Baalath-beer (also known as Ramah of the Negev). + This was the homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Simeon. -9. Their allocation of land came from part of what had been given to Judah because Judah's territory was too large for them. So the tribe of Simeon received an allocation within the territory of Judah.The Land Given to Zebulun + +9. Their allocation of land came from part of what had been given to Judah because Judah's territory was too large for them. So the tribe of Simeon received an allocation within the territory of Judah. + +The Land Given to Zebulun + 10. The third allotment of land went to the clans of the tribe of Zebulun. + The boundary of Zebulun's homeland started at Sarid. + 11. From there it went west, going past Maralah, touching Dabbesheth, and proceeding to the brook east of Jokneam. 12. In the other direction, the boundary went east from Sarid to the border of Kisloth-tabor, and from there to Daberath and up to Japhia. 13. Then it continued east to Gath-hepher, Eth-kazin, and Rimmon and turned toward Neah. 14. The northern boundary of Zebulun passed Hannathon and ended at the valley of Iphtah-el. 15. The towns in these areas included Kattath, Nahalal, Shimron, Idalah, and Bethlehem--twelve towns with their surrounding villages. -16. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Zebulun included these towns and their surrounding villages.The Land Given to Issachar +16. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Zebulun included these towns and their surrounding villages. + +The Land Given to Issachar + 17. The fourth allotment of land went to the clans of the tribe of Issachar. @@ -31,7 +41,10 @@ The boundary of Zebulun's homeland started at Sarid. 21. Remeth, En-gannim, En-haddah, and Beth-pazzez. 22. The boundary also touched Tabor, Shahazumah, and Beth-shemesh, ending at the Jordan River--sixteen towns with their surrounding villages. -23. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Issachar included these towns and their surrounding villages.The Land Given to Asher +23. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Issachar included these towns and their surrounding villages. + +The Land Given to Asher + 24. The fifth allotment of land went to the clans of the tribe of Asher. @@ -42,7 +55,10 @@ The boundary of Zebulun's homeland started at Sarid. 29. Then the boundary turned toward Ramah and the fortress of Tyre, where it turned toward Hosah and came to the Mediterranean Sea. The territory also included Mehebel, Aczib, 30. Ummah, Aphek, and Rehob--twenty-two towns with their surrounding villages. -31. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Asher included these towns and their surrounding villages.The Land Given to Naphtali +31. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Asher included these towns and their surrounding villages. + +The Land Given to Naphtali + 32. The sixth allotment of land went to the clans of the tribe of Naphtali. @@ -53,7 +69,10 @@ The boundary of Zebulun's homeland started at Sarid. 37. Kedesh, Edrei, En-hazor, 38. Yiron, Migdal-el, Horem, Beth-anath, and Beth-shemesh--nineteen towns with their surrounding villages. -39. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Naphtali included these towns and their surrounding villages.The Land Given to Dan +39. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Naphtali included these towns and their surrounding villages. + +The Land Given to Dan + 40. The seventh allotment of land went to the clans of the tribe of Dan. @@ -66,7 +85,10 @@ The boundary of Zebulun's homeland started at Sarid. 47. But the tribe of Dan had trouble taking possession of their land, so they attacked the town of Laish. They captured it, slaughtered its people, and settled there. They renamed the town Dan after their ancestor. -48. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Dan included these towns and their surrounding villages.The Land Given to Joshua +48. The homeland allocated to the clans of the tribe of Dan included these towns and their surrounding villages. + +The Land Given to Joshua + 49. After all the land was divided among the tribes, the Israelites gave a piece of land to Joshua as his allocation. 50. For the LORD had said he could have any town he wanted. He chose Timnath-serah in the hill country of Ephraim. He rebuilt the town and lived there. @@ -74,3 +96,4 @@ The boundary of Zebulun's homeland started at Sarid. 51. These are the territories that Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the tribal leaders allocated as grants of land to the tribes of Israel by casting sacred lots in the presence of the LORD at the entrance of the Tabernacle at Shiloh. So the division of the land was completed. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_20.md index a6ba617e..7651c4bd 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_20.md @@ -14,3 +14,4 @@ The Cities of Refuge 9. These cities were set apart for all the Israelites as well as the foreigners living among them. Anyone who accidentally killed another person could take refuge in one of these cities. In this way, they could escape being killed in revenge prior to standing trial before the local assembly. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_21.md index 0eaf0945..a756f8e2 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_21.md @@ -67,3 +67,4 @@ The Towns Given to the Levites 45. Not a single one of all the good promises the LORD had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true. + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_22.md index 0641c2e9..014ae7cb 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_22.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ The Eastern Tribes Return Home 7. Moses had given the land of Bashan, east of the Jordan River, to the half-tribe of Manasseh. (The other half of the tribe was given land west of the Jordan.) As Joshua sent them away and blessed them, 8. he said to them, "Go back to your homes with the great wealth you have taken from your enemies--the vast herds of livestock, the silver, gold, bronze, and iron, and the large supply of clothing. Share the plunder with your relatives." -9. So the men of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh left the rest of Israel at Shiloh in the land of Canaan. They started the journey back to their own land of Gilead, the territory that belonged to them according to the LORD's command through Moses.The Eastern Tribes Build an Altar +9. So the men of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh left the rest of Israel at Shiloh in the land of Canaan. They started the journey back to their own land of Gilead, the territory that belonged to them according to the LORD's command through Moses. + +The Eastern Tribes Build an Altar + 10. But while they were still in Canaan, and when they came to a place called Geliloth near the Jordan River, the men of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh stopped to build a large and imposing altar. @@ -50,3 +53,4 @@ The Eastern Tribes Return Home 34. The people of Reuben and Gad named the altar "Witness," for they said, "It is a witness between us and them that the LORD is our God, too." + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_23.md index d95d1d2c..45dcd263 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_23.md @@ -23,3 +23,4 @@ Joshua's Final Words to Israel 16. If you break the covenant of the LORD your God by worshiping and serving other gods, his anger will burn against you, and you will quickly vanish from the good land he has given you." + diff --git a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_24.md index 655e92e1..a3bad90c 100644 --- a/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/06_Joshua/Chapter_24.md @@ -34,6 +34,7 @@ The LORD's Covenant Renewed 22. "You are a witness to your own decision," Joshua said. "You have chosen to serve the LORD." "Yes," they replied, "we are witnesses to what we have said." + 23. "All right then," Joshua said, "destroy the idols among you, and turn your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel." 24. The people said to Joshua, "We will serve the LORD our God. We will obey him alone." @@ -43,7 +44,10 @@ The LORD's Covenant Renewed 27. Joshua said to all the people, "This stone has heard everything the LORD said to us. It will be a witness to testify against you if you go back on your word to God." -28. Then Joshua sent all the people away to their own homelands.Leaders Buried in the Promised Land +28. Then Joshua sent all the people away to their own homelands. + +Leaders Buried in the Promised Land + 29. After this, Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died at the age of 110. 30. They buried him in the land he had been allocated, at Timnath-serah in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash. @@ -55,3 +59,4 @@ The LORD's Covenant Renewed 33. Eleazar son of Aaron also died. He was buried in the hill country of Ephraim, in the town of Gibeah, which had been given to his son Phinehas. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_01.md index 1632c655..52a67d1a 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_01.md @@ -28,7 +28,10 @@ Judah and Simeon Conquer the Land 16. When the tribe of Judah left Jericho--the city of palms--the Kenites, who were descendants of Moses' father-in-law, traveled with them into the wilderness of Judah. They settled among the people there, near the town of Arad in the Negev. 17. Then Judah joined with Simeon to fight against the Canaanites living in Zephath, and they completely destroyed the town. So the town was named Hormah. -18. In addition, Judah captured the towns of Gaza, Ashkelon, and Ekron, along with their surrounding territories.Israel Fails to Conquer the Land +18. In addition, Judah captured the towns of Gaza, Ashkelon, and Ekron, along with their surrounding territories. + +Israel Fails to Conquer the Land + 19. The LORD was with the people of Judah, and they took possession of the hill country. But they failed to drive out the people living in the plains, who had iron chariots. 20. The town of Hebron was given to Caleb as Moses had promised. And Caleb drove out the people living there, who were descendants of the three sons of Anak. @@ -58,3 +61,4 @@ Judah and Simeon Conquer the Land 36. The boundary of the Amorites ran from Scorpion Pass to Sela and continued upward from there. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_02.md index 23da9da2..28ff3616 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_02.md @@ -6,7 +6,10 @@ The LORD's Messenger Comes to Bokim 3. So now I declare that I will no longer drive out the people living in your land. They will be thorns in your sides, and their gods will be a constant temptation to you." 4. When the angel of the LORD finished speaking to all the Israelites, the people wept loudly. -5. So they called the place Bokim (which means "weeping"), and they offered sacrifices there to the LORD.The Death of Joshua +5. So they called the place Bokim (which means "weeping"), and they offered sacrifices there to the LORD. + +The Death of Joshua + 6. After Joshua sent the people away, each of the tribes left to take possession of the land allotted to them. 7. And the Israelites served the LORD throughout the lifetime of Joshua and the leaders who outlived him--those who had seen all the great things the LORD had done for Israel. @@ -34,3 +37,4 @@ The LORD's Messenger Comes to Bokim 23. That is why the LORD left those nations in place. He did not quickly drive them out or allow Joshua to conquer them all. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_03.md index 819a1f88..7815b6a6 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_03.md @@ -7,14 +7,20 @@ The Nations Left in Canaan 4. These people were left to test the Israelites--to see whether they would obey the commands the LORD had given to their ancestors through Moses. 5. So the people of Israel lived among the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, -6. and they intermarried with them. Israelite sons married their daughters, and Israelite daughters were given in marriage to their sons. And the Israelites served their gods.Othniel Becomes Israel's Judge +6. and they intermarried with them. Israelite sons married their daughters, and Israelite daughters were given in marriage to their sons. And the Israelites served their gods. + +Othniel Becomes Israel's Judge + 7. The Israelites did evil in the LORD's sight. They forgot about the LORD their God, and they served the images of Baal and the Asherah poles. 8. Then the LORD burned with anger against Israel, and he turned them over to King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram-naharaim. And the Israelites served Cushan-rishathaim for eight years. 9. But when the people of Israel cried out to the LORD for help, the LORD raised up a rescuer to save them. His name was Othniel, the son of Caleb's younger brother, Kenaz. 10. The Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he became Israel's judge. He went to war against King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram, and the LORD gave Othniel victory over him. -11. So there was peace in the land for forty years. Then Othniel son of Kenaz died.Ehud Becomes Israel's Judge +11. So there was peace in the land for forty years. Then Othniel son of Kenaz died. + +Ehud Becomes Israel's Judge + 12. Once again the Israelites did evil in the LORD's sight, and the LORD gave King Eglon of Moab control over Israel because of their evil. 13. Eglon enlisted the Ammonites and Amalekites as allies, and then he went out and defeated Israel, taking possession of Jericho, the city of palms. @@ -28,6 +34,7 @@ The Nations Left in Canaan 19. But when Ehud reached the stone idols near Gilgal, he turned back. He came to Eglon and said, "I have a secret message for you." So the king commanded his servants, "Be quiet!" and he sent them all out of the room. + 20. Ehud walked over to Eglon, who was sitting alone in a cool upstairs room. And Ehud said, "I have a message from God for you!" As King Eglon rose from his seat, 21. Ehud reached with his left hand, pulled out the dagger strapped to his right thigh, and plunged it into the king's belly. 22. The dagger went so deep that the handle disappeared beneath the king's fat. So Ehud did not pull out the dagger, and the king's bowels emptied. @@ -42,8 +49,12 @@ So the king commanded his servants, "Be quiet!" and he sent them all out of the 28. "Follow me," he said, "for the LORD has given you victory over Moab your enemy." So they followed him. And the Israelites took control of the shallow crossings of the Jordan River across from Moab, preventing anyone from crossing. 29. They attacked the Moabites and killed about 10,000 of their strongest and most able-bodied warriors. Not one of them escaped. -30. So Moab was conquered by Israel that day, and there was peace in the land for eighty years.Shamgar Becomes Israel's Judge +30. So Moab was conquered by Israel that day, and there was peace in the land for eighty years. + +Shamgar Becomes Israel's Judge + 31. After Ehud, Shamgar son of Anath rescued Israel. He once killed 600 Philistines with an ox goad. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_04.md index b2b2d458..e7e41f55 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_04.md @@ -39,3 +39,4 @@ Deborah Becomes Israel's Judge 24. And from that time on Israel became stronger and stronger against King Jabin until they finally destroyed him. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_05.md index 8f4ef799..e1ac2886 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_05.md @@ -4,139 +4,225 @@ The Song of Deborah 1. On that day Deborah and Barak son of Abinoam sang this song: 2. "Israel's leaders took charge, - and the people gladly followed. + +and the people gladly followed. Praise the LORD! 3. "Listen, you kings! - Pay attention, you mighty rulers! + +Pay attention, you mighty rulers! For I will sing to the LORD. - I will make music to the LORD, the God of Israel. + I will make music to the LORD, +the God of Israel. + 4. "LORD, when you set out from Seir - and marched across the fields of Edom, + +and marched across the fields of Edom, the earth trembled, - and the cloudy skies poured down rain. + +and the cloudy skies poured down rain. + 5. The mountains quaked in the presence of the LORD, - the God of Mount Sinai-- + +the God of Mount Sinai-- in the presence of the LORD, - the God of Israel. + +the God of Israel. + 6. "In the days of Shamgar son of Anath, - and in the days of Jael, + +and in the days of Jael, people avoided the main roads, - and travelers stayed on winding pathways. + +and travelers stayed on winding pathways. + 7. There were few people left in the villages of Israel-- - until Deborah arose as a mother for Israel. + +until Deborah arose as a mother for Israel. + 8. When Israel chose new gods, - war erupted at the city gates. + +war erupted at the city gates. + Yet not a shield or spear could be seen - among forty thousand warriors in Israel! + +among forty thousand warriors in Israel! + 9. My heart is with the commanders of Israel, - with those who volunteered for war. + +with those who volunteered for war. Praise the LORD! 10. "Consider this, you who ride on fine donkeys, - you who sit on fancy saddle blankets, - and you who walk along the road. + +you who sit on fancy saddle blankets, + +and you who walk along the road. + 11. Listen to the village musicians - gathered at the watering holes. + +gathered at the watering holes. They recount the righteous victories of the LORD - and the victories of his villagers in Israel. + +and the victories of his villagers in Israel. Then the people of the LORD - marched down to the city gates. + +marched down to the city gates. + 12. "Wake up, Deborah, wake up! - Wake up, wake up, and sing a song! + +Wake up, wake up, and sing a song! Arise, Barak! - Lead your captives away, son of Abinoam! + +Lead your captives away, son of Abinoam! + 13. "Down from Tabor marched the few against the nobles. The people of the LORD marched down against mighty warriors. 14. They came down from Ephraim-- - a land that once belonged to the Amalekites; - they followed you, Benjamin, with your troops. + +a land that once belonged to the Amalekites; + +they followed you, Benjamin, with your troops. + From Makir the commanders marched down; - from Zebulun came those who carry a commander's staff. + +from Zebulun came those who carry a commander's staff. + 15. The princes of Issachar were with Deborah and Barak. - They followed Barak, rushing into the valley. + +They followed Barak, rushing into the valley. + But in the tribe of Reuben - there was great indecision. + +there was great indecision. + 16. Why did you sit at home among the sheepfolds-- - to hear the shepherds whistle for their flocks? + +to hear the shepherds whistle for their flocks? Yes, in the tribe of Reuben - there was great indecision. + +there was great indecision. + 17. Gilead remained east of the Jordan. - And why did Dan stay home? + +And why did Dan stay home? Asher sat unmoved at the seashore, - remaining in his harbors. + +remaining in his harbors. + 18. But Zebulun risked his life, - as did Naphtali, on the heights of the battlefield. + +as did Naphtali, on the heights of the battlefield. + 19. "The kings of Canaan came and fought, - at Taanach near Megiddo's springs, - but they carried off no silver treasures. + +at Taanach near Megiddo's springs, + +but they carried off no silver treasures. + 20. The stars fought from heaven. - The stars in their orbits fought against Sisera. + +The stars in their orbits fought against Sisera. + 21. The Kishon River swept them away-- - that ancient torrent, the Kishon. + +that ancient torrent, the Kishon. + March on with courage, my soul! + 22. Then the horses' hooves hammered the ground, - the galloping, galloping of Sisera's mighty steeds. + +the galloping, galloping of Sisera's mighty steeds. + 23. 'Let the people of Meroz be cursed,' said the angel of the LORD. - 'Let them be utterly cursed, + +'Let them be utterly cursed, because they did not come to help the LORD-- to help the LORD against the mighty warriors.' 24. "Most blessed among women is Jael, - the wife of Heber the Kenite. - May she be blessed above all women who live in tents. + +the wife of Heber the Kenite. + +May she be blessed above all women who live in tents. + 25. Sisera asked for water, - and she gave him milk. + +and she gave him milk. + In a bowl fit for nobles, - she brought him yogurt. + +she brought him yogurt. + 26. Then with her left hand she reached for a tent peg, - and with her right hand for the workman's hammer. + +and with her right hand for the workman's hammer. + She struck Sisera with the hammer, crushing his head. - With a shattering blow, she pierced his temples. + +With a shattering blow, she pierced his temples. + 27. He sank, he fell, - he lay still at her feet. + +he lay still at her feet. + And where he sank, - there he died. + +there he died. + 28. "From the window Sisera's mother looked out. - Through the window she watched for his return, saying, + +Through the window she watched for his return, saying, 'Why is his chariot so long in coming? - Why don't we hear the sound of chariot wheels?' + +Why don't we hear the sound of chariot wheels?' + 29. "Her wise women answer, - and she repeats these words to herself: + +and she repeats these words to herself: + 30. 'They must be dividing the captured plunder-- - with a woman or two for every man. + +with a woman or two for every man. + There will be colorful robes for Sisera, - and colorful, embroidered robes for me. + +and colorful, embroidered robes for me. + Yes, the plunder will include - colorful robes embroidered on both sides.' + +colorful robes embroidered on both sides.' + 31. "LORD, may all your enemies die like Sisera! - But may those who love you rise like the sun in all its power!" + +But may those who love you rise like the sun in all its power!" Then there was peace in the land for forty years. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_06.md index 0b266377..05b6fbc1 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_06.md @@ -28,6 +28,7 @@ Gideon Becomes Israel's Judge 18. Don't go away until I come back and bring my offering to you." He answered, "I will stay here until you return." + 19. Gideon hurried home. He cooked a young goat, and with a basket of flour he baked some bread without yeast. Then, carrying the meat in a basket and the broth in a pot, he brought them out and presented them to the angel, who was under the great tree. 20. The angel of God said to him, "Place the meat and the unleavened bread on this rock, and pour the broth over it." And Gideon did as he was told. @@ -49,7 +50,10 @@ He answered, "I will stay here until you return." 30. "Bring out your son," the men of the town demanded of Joash. "He must die for destroying the altar of Baal and for cutting down the Asherah pole." 31. But Joash shouted to the mob that confronted him, "Why are you defending Baal? Will you argue his case? Whoever pleads his case will be put to death by morning! If Baal truly is a god, let him defend himself and destroy the one who broke down his altar!" -32. From then on Gideon was called Jerub-baal, which means "Let Baal defend himself," because he broke down Baal's altar.Gideon Asks for a Sign +32. From then on Gideon was called Jerub-baal, which means "Let Baal defend himself," because he broke down Baal's altar. + +Gideon Asks for a Sign + 33. Soon afterward the armies of Midian, Amalek, and the people of the east formed an alliance against Israel and crossed the Jordan, camping in the valley of Jezreel. 34. Then the Spirit of the LORD clothed Gideon with power. He blew a ram's horn as a call to arms, and the men of the clan of Abiezer came to him. @@ -63,3 +67,4 @@ He answered, "I will stay here until you return." 40. So that night God did as Gideon asked. The fleece was dry in the morning, but the ground was covered with dew. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_07.md index 90056c2a..4a1e350d 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_07.md @@ -11,11 +11,14 @@ Gideon Defeats the Midianites 7. The LORD told Gideon, "With these 300 men I will rescue you and give you victory over the Midianites. Send all the others home." 8. So Gideon collected the provisions and rams' horns of the other warriors and sent them home. But he kept the 300 men with him. + The Midianite camp was in the valley just below Gideon. + 9. That night the LORD said, "Get up! Go down into the Midianite camp, for I have given you victory over them! 10. But if you are afraid to attack, go down to the camp with your servant Purah. 11. Listen to what the Midianites are saying, and you will be greatly encouraged. Then you will be eager to attack." So Gideon took Purah and went down to the edge of the enemy camp. + 12. The armies of Midian, Amalek, and the people of the east had settled in the valley like a swarm of locusts. Their camels were like grains of sand on the seashore--too many to count! 13. Gideon crept up just as a man was telling his companion about a dream. The man said, "I had this dream, and in my dream a loaf of barley bread came tumbling down into the Midianite camp. It hit a tent, turned it over, and knocked it flat!" @@ -36,6 +39,8 @@ So Gideon took Purah and went down to the edge of the enemy camp. 23. Then Gideon sent for the warriors of Naphtali, Asher, and Manasseh, who joined in chasing the army of Midian. 24. Gideon also sent messengers throughout the hill country of Ephraim, saying, "Come down to attack the Midianites. Cut them off at the shallow crossings of the Jordan River at Beth-barah." So all the men of Ephraim did as they were told. + 25. They captured Oreb and Zeeb, the two Midianite commanders, killing Oreb at the rock of Oreb, and Zeeb at the winepress of Zeeb. And they continued to chase the Midianites. Afterward the Israelites brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon, who was by the Jordan River. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_08.md index 6e6ac9d6..0f5b2b76 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_08.md @@ -29,11 +29,15 @@ Gideon Kills Zebah and Zalmunna 18. Then Gideon asked Zebah and Zalmunna, "The men you killed at Tabor--what were they like?" "Like you," they replied. "They all had the look of a king's son." + 19. "They were my brothers, the sons of my own mother!" Gideon exclaimed. "As surely as the LORD lives, I wouldn't kill you if you hadn't killed them." 20. Turning to Jether, his oldest son, he said, "Kill them!" But Jether did not draw his sword, for he was only a boy and was afraid. -21. Then Zebah and Zalmunna said to Gideon, "Be a man! Kill us yourself!" So Gideon killed them both and took the royal ornaments from the necks of their camels.Gideon's Sacred Ephod +21. Then Zebah and Zalmunna said to Gideon, "Be a man! Kill us yourself!" So Gideon killed them both and took the royal ornaments from the necks of their camels. + +Gideon's Sacred Ephod + 22. Then the Israelites said to Gideon, "Be our ruler! You and your son and your grandson will be our rulers, for you have rescued us from Midian." @@ -57,3 +61,4 @@ Gideon Kills Zebah and Zalmunna 35. Nor did they show any loyalty to the family of Jerub-baal (that is, Gideon), despite all the good he had done for Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_09.md index 71c763af..2653833b 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_09.md @@ -8,44 +8,70 @@ Abimelech Rules over Shechem 4. They gave him seventy silver coins from the temple of Baal-berith, which he used to hire some reckless troublemakers who agreed to follow him. 5. He went to his father's home at Ophrah, and there, on one stone, they killed all seventy of his half brothers, the sons of Gideon. But the youngest brother, Jotham, escaped and hid. -6. Then all the leading citizens of Shechem and Beth-millo called a meeting under the oak beside the pillar at Shechem and made Abimelech their king.Jotham's Parable +6. Then all the leading citizens of Shechem and Beth-millo called a meeting under the oak beside the pillar at Shechem and made Abimelech their king. + +Jotham's Parable + 7. When Jotham heard about this, he climbed to the top of Mount Gerizim and shouted, "Listen to me, citizens of Shechem! - Listen to me if you want God to listen to you! + +Listen to me if you want God to listen to you! + 8. Once upon a time the trees decided to choose a king. - First they said to the olive tree, - 'Be our king!' + +First they said to the olive tree, + +'Be our king!' + 9. But the olive tree refused, saying, 'Should I quit producing the olive oil - that blesses both God and people, - just to wave back and forth over the trees?' + +that blesses both God and people, + +just to wave back and forth over the trees?' + 10. "Then they said to the fig tree, - 'You be our king!' + +'You be our king!' + 11. But the fig tree also refused, saying, 'Should I quit producing my sweet fruit - just to wave back and forth over the trees?' + +just to wave back and forth over the trees?' + 12. "Then they said to the grapevine, - 'You be our king!' + +'You be our king!' + 13. But the grapevine also refused, saying, 'Should I quit producing the wine - that cheers both God and people, - just to wave back and forth over the trees?' + +that cheers both God and people, + +just to wave back and forth over the trees?' + 14. "Then all the trees finally turned to the thornbush and said, - 'Come, you be our king!' + +'Come, you be our king!' + 15. And the thornbush replied to the trees, 'If you truly want to make me your king, - come and take shelter in my shade. + +come and take shelter in my shade. + If not, let fire come out from me - and devour the cedars of Lebanon.'" + +and devour the cedars of Lebanon.'" + 16. Jotham continued, "Now make sure you have acted honorably and in good faith by making Abimelech your king, and that you have done right by Gideon and all of his descendants. Have you treated him with the honor he deserves for all he accomplished? 17. For he fought for you and risked his life when he rescued you from the Midianites. @@ -54,7 +80,10 @@ If not, let fire come out from me 19. "If you have acted honorably and in good faith toward Gideon and his descendants today, then may you find joy in Abimelech, and may he find joy in you. 20. But if you have not acted in good faith, then may fire come out from Abimelech and devour the leading citizens of Shechem and Beth-millo; and may fire come out from the citizens of Shechem and Beth-millo and devour Abimelech!" -21. Then Jotham escaped and lived in Beer because he was afraid of his brother Abimelech.Shechem Rebels against Abimelech +21. Then Jotham escaped and lived in Beer because he was afraid of his brother Abimelech. + +Shechem Rebels against Abimelech + 22. After Abimelech had ruled over Israel for three years, 23. God sent a spirit that stirred up trouble between Abimelech and the leading citizens of Shechem, and they revolted. @@ -76,6 +105,7 @@ If not, let fire come out from me 36. When Gaal saw them, he said to Zebul, "Look, there are people coming down from the hilltops!" Zebul replied, "It's just the shadows on the hills that look like men." + 37. But again Gaal said, "No, people are coming down from the hills. And another group is coming down the road past the Diviners' Oak." 38. Then Zebul turned on him and asked, "Now where is that big mouth of yours? Wasn't it you that said, 'Who is Abimelech, and why should we be his servants?' The men you mocked are right outside the city! Go out and fight them!" @@ -106,3 +136,4 @@ Zebul replied, "It's just the shadows on the hills that look like men." 57. God also punished the men of Shechem for all their evil. So the curse of Jotham son of Gideon was fulfilled. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_10.md index 7c121646..d3bdf945 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_10.md @@ -2,17 +2,25 @@ Tola Becomes Israel's Judge # Chapter 10 1. After Abimelech died, Tola son of Puah, son of Dodo, was the next person to rescue Israel. He was from the tribe of Issachar but lived in the town of Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim. -2. He judged Israel for twenty-three years. When he died, he was buried in Shamir.Jair Becomes Israel's Judge +2. He judged Israel for twenty-three years. When he died, he was buried in Shamir. + +Jair Becomes Israel's Judge + 3. After Tola died, Jair from Gilead judged Israel for twenty-two years. 4. His thirty sons rode around on thirty donkeys, and they owned thirty towns in the land of Gilead, which are still called the Towns of Jair. -5. When Jair died, he was buried in Kamon.The Ammonites Oppress Israel +5. When Jair died, he was buried in Kamon. + +The Ammonites Oppress Israel + 6. Again the Israelites did evil in the LORD's sight. They served the images of Baal and Ashtoreth, and the gods of Aram, Sidon, Moab, Ammon, and Philistia. They abandoned the LORD and no longer served him at all. 7. So the LORD burned with anger against Israel, and he turned them over to the Philistines and the Ammonites, 8. who began to oppress them that year. For eighteen years they oppressed all the Israelites east of the Jordan River in the land of the Amorites (that is, in Gilead). 9. The Ammonites also crossed to the west side of the Jordan and attacked Judah, Benjamin, and Ephraim. + The Israelites were in great distress. + 10. Finally, they cried out to the LORD for help, saying, "We have sinned against you because we have abandoned you as our God and have served the images of Baal." 11. The LORD replied, "Did I not rescue you from the Egyptians, the Amorites, the Ammonites, the Philistines, @@ -27,3 +35,4 @@ The Israelites were in great distress. 18. The leaders of Gilead said to each other, "Whoever attacks the Ammonites first will become ruler over all the people of Gilead." + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_11.md index f58e922c..99a852ad 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_11.md @@ -7,7 +7,8 @@ Jephthah Becomes Israel's Judge 4. At about this time, the Ammonites began their war against Israel. 5. When the Ammonites attacked, the elders of Gilead sent for Jephthah in the land of Tob. -6. The elders said, "Come and be our commander! Help us fight the Ammonites!" +6. The elders said, "Come and be our commander! +Help us fight the Ammonites!" 7. But Jephthah said to them, "Aren't you the ones who hated me and drove me from my father's house? Why do you come to me now when you're in trouble?" @@ -43,7 +44,10 @@ Jephthah Becomes Israel's Judge 26. "Israel has been living here for 300 years, inhabiting Heshbon and its surrounding settlements, all the way to Aroer and its settlements, and in all the towns along the Arnon River. Why have you made no effort to recover it before now? 27. Therefore, I have not sinned against you. Rather, you have wronged me by attacking me. Let the LORD, who is judge, decide today which of us is right--Israel or Ammon." -28. But the king of Ammon paid no attention to Jephthah's message.Jephthah's Vow +28. But the king of Ammon paid no attention to Jephthah's message. + +Jephthah's Vow + 29. At that time the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah, and he went throughout the land of Gilead and Manasseh, including Mizpah in Gilead, and from there he led an army against the Ammonites. 30. And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD. He said, "If you give me victory over the Ammonites, @@ -60,7 +64,10 @@ Jephthah Becomes Israel's Judge 38. "You may go," Jephthah said. And he sent her away for two months. She and her friends went into the hills and wept because she would never have children. 39. When she returned home, her father kept the vow he had made, and she died a virgin. + So it has become a custom in Israel + 40. for young Israelite women to go away for four days each year to lament the fate of Jephthah's daughter. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_12.md index 2cf6eb57..4c16faa0 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_12.md @@ -11,17 +11,27 @@ Ephraim Fights with Jephthah 5. Jephthah captured the shallow crossings of the Jordan River, and whenever a fugitive from Ephraim tried to go back across, the men of Gilead would challenge him. "Are you a member of the tribe of Ephraim?" they would ask. If the man said, "No, I'm not," 6. they would tell him to say "Shibboleth." If he was from Ephraim, he would say "Sibboleth," because people from Ephraim cannot pronounce the word correctly. Then they would take him and kill him at the shallow crossings of the Jordan. In all, 42,000 Ephraimites were killed at that time. -7. Jephthah judged Israel for six years. When he died, he was buried in one of the towns of Gilead.Ibzan Becomes Israel's Judge +7. Jephthah judged Israel for six years. When he died, he was buried in one of the towns of Gilead. + +Ibzan Becomes Israel's Judge + 8. After Jephthah died, Ibzan from Bethlehem judged Israel. 9. He had thirty sons and thirty daughters. He sent his daughters to marry men outside his clan, and he brought in thirty young women from outside his clan to marry his sons. Ibzan judged Israel for seven years. -10. When he died, he was buried at Bethlehem.Elon Becomes Israel's Judge +10. When he died, he was buried at Bethlehem. + +Elon Becomes Israel's Judge + 11. After Ibzan died, Elon from the tribe of Zebulun judged Israel for ten years. -12. When he died, he was buried at Aijalon in Zebulun.Abdon Becomes Israel's Judge +12. When he died, he was buried at Aijalon in Zebulun. + +Abdon Becomes Israel's Judge + 13. After Elon died, Abdon son of Hillel, from Pirathon, judged Israel. 14. He had forty sons and thirty grandsons, who rode on seventy donkeys. He judged Israel for eight years. 15. When he died, he was buried at Pirathon in Ephraim, in the hill country of the Amalekites. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_13.md index 97d98437..48bf3f16 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_13.md @@ -19,6 +19,7 @@ The Birth of Samson 11. Manoah ran back with his wife and asked, "Are you the man who spoke to my wife the other day?" "Yes," he replied, "I am." + 12. So Manoah asked him, "When your words come true, what kind of rules should govern the boy's life and work?" 13. The angel of the LORD replied, "Be sure your wife follows the instructions I gave her. @@ -44,3 +45,4 @@ The Birth of Samson 25. And the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him while he lived in Mahaneh-dan, which is located between the towns of Zorah and Eshtaol. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_14.md index e73d8963..a0e569ed 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_14.md @@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ Samson's Riddle 3. His father and mother objected. "Isn't there even one woman in our tribe or among all the Israelites you could marry?" they asked. "Why must you go to the pagan Philistines to find a wife?" But Samson told his father, "Get her for me! She looks good to me." + 4. His father and mother didn't realize the LORD was at work in this, creating an opportunity to work against the Philistines, who ruled over Israel at that time. 5. As Samson and his parents were going down to Timnah, a young lion suddenly attacked Samson near the vineyards of Timnah. @@ -22,22 +23,29 @@ But Samson told his father, "Get her for me! She looks good to me." 13. But if you can't solve it, then you must give me thirty fine linen robes and thirty sets of festive clothing." "All right," they agreed, "let's hear your riddle." + 14. So he said: "Out of the one who eats came something to eat; - out of the strong came something sweet." + +out of the strong came something sweet." Three days later they were still trying to figure it out. + 15. On the fourth day they said to Samson's wife, "Entice your husband to explain the riddle for us, or we will burn down your father's house with you in it. Did you invite us to this party just to make us poor?" 16. So Samson's wife came to him in tears and said, "You don't love me; you hate me! You have given my people a riddle, but you haven't told me the answer." "I haven't even given the answer to my father or mother," he replied. "Why should I tell you?" + 17. So she cried whenever she was with him and kept it up for the rest of the celebration. At last, on the seventh day he told her the answer because she was tormenting him with her nagging. Then she explained the riddle to the young men. 18. So before sunset of the seventh day, the men of the town came to Samson with their answer: "What is sweeter than honey? - What is stronger than a lion?" + +What is stronger than a lion?" Samson replied, "If you hadn't plowed with my heifer, you wouldn't have solved my riddle!" + 19. Then the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him. He went down to the town of Ashkelon, killed thirty men, took their belongings, and gave their clothing to the men who had solved his riddle. But Samson was furious about what had happened, and he went back home to live with his father and mother. 20. So his wife was given in marriage to the man who had been Samson's best man at the wedding. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_15.md index ffccec28..2fd8dfc0 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_15.md @@ -10,8 +10,10 @@ Samson's Vengeance on the Philistines 5. Then he lit the torches and let the foxes run through the grain fields of the Philistines. He burned all their grain to the ground, including the sheaves and the uncut grain. He also destroyed their vineyards and olive groves. 6. "Who did this?" the Philistines demanded. + "Samson," was the reply, "because his father-in-law from Timnah gave Samson's wife to be married to his best man." So the Philistines went and got the woman and her father and burned them to death. + 7. "Because you did this," Samson vowed, "I won't rest until I take my revenge on you!" 8. So he attacked the Philistines with great fury and killed many of them. Then he went to live in a cave in the rock of Etam. @@ -19,21 +21,28 @@ Samson's Vengeance on the Philistines 10. The men of Judah asked the Philistines, "Why are you attacking us?" The Philistines replied, "We've come to capture Samson. We've come to pay him back for what he did to us." + 11. So 3,000 men of Judah went down to get Samson at the cave in the rock of Etam. They said to Samson, "Don't you realize the Philistines rule over us? What are you doing to us?" But Samson replied, "I only did to them what they did to me." + 12. But the men of Judah told him, "We have come to tie you up and hand you over to the Philistines." "All right," Samson said. "But promise that you won't kill me yourselves." + 13. "We will only tie you up and hand you over to the Philistines," they replied. "We won't kill you." So they tied him up with two new ropes and brought him up from the rock. 14. As Samson arrived at Lehi, the Philistines came shouting in triumph. But the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon Samson, and he snapped the ropes on his arms as if they were burnt strands of flax, and they fell from his wrists. 15. Then he found the jawbone of a recently killed donkey. He picked it up and killed 1,000 Philistines with it. 16. Then Samson said, -"With the jawbone of a donkey, - I've piled them in heaps! +" With the jawbone of a donkey, - I've killed a thousand men!" + +I've piled them in heaps! +With the jawbone of a donkey, + +I've killed a thousand men!" + 17. When he finished his boasting, he threw away the jawbone; and the place was named Jawbone Hill. @@ -43,3 +52,4 @@ With the jawbone of a donkey, 20. Samson judged Israel for twenty years during the period when the Philistines dominated the land. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_16.md index 52de1d55..467b35cb 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_16.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ Samson Carries Away Gaza's Gates 1. One day Samson went to the Philistine town of Gaza and spent the night with a prostitute. 2. Word soon spread that Samson was there, so the men of Gaza gathered together and waited all night at the town gates. They kept quiet during the night, saying to themselves, "When the light of morning comes, we will kill him." -3. But Samson stayed in bed only until midnight. Then he got up, took hold of the doors of the town gate, including the two posts, and lifted them up, bar and all. He put them on his shoulders and carried them all the way to the top of the hill across from Hebron.Samson and Delilah +3. But Samson stayed in bed only until midnight. Then he got up, took hold of the doors of the town gate, including the two posts, and lifted them up, bar and all. He put them on his shoulders and carried them all the way to the top of the hill across from Hebron. + +Samson and Delilah + 4. Some time later Samson fell in love with a woman named Delilah, who lived in the valley of Sorek. 5. The rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, "Entice Samson to tell you what makes him so strong and how he can be overpowered and tied up securely. Then each of us will give you 1,100 pieces of silver." @@ -25,6 +28,7 @@ Samson Carries Away Gaza's Gates 13. Then Delilah said, "You've been making fun of me and telling me lies! Now tell me how you can be tied up securely." Samson replied, "If you were to weave the seven braids of my hair into the fabric on your loom and tighten it with the loom shuttle, I would become as weak as anyone else." So while he slept, Delilah wove the seven braids of his hair into the fabric. + 14. Then she tightened it with the loom shuttle. Again she cried out, "Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!" But Samson woke up, pulled back the loom shuttle, and yanked his hair away from the loom and the fabric. 15. Then Delilah pouted, "How can you tell me, 'I love you,' when you don't share your secrets with me? You've made fun of me three times now, and you still haven't told me what makes you so strong!" @@ -40,7 +44,10 @@ When he woke up, he thought, "I will do as before and shake myself free." But he 21. So the Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes. They took him to Gaza, where he was bound with bronze chains and forced to grind grain in the prison. -22. But before long, his hair began to grow back.Samson's Final Victory +22. But before long, his hair began to grow back. + +Samson's Final Victory + 23. The Philistine rulers held a great festival, offering sacrifices and praising their god, Dagon. They said, "Our god has given us victory over our enemy Samson!" @@ -58,3 +65,4 @@ When he woke up, he thought, "I will do as before and shake myself free." But he 31. Later his brothers and other relatives went down to get his body. They took him back home and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol, where his father, Manoah, was buried. Samson had judged Israel for twenty years. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_17.md index 4ddfbc0c..22d6b209 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_17.md @@ -14,8 +14,10 @@ Micah's Idols 7. One day a young Levite, who had been living in Bethlehem in Judah, arrived in that area. 8. He had left Bethlehem in search of another place to live, and as he traveled, he came to the hill country of Ephraim. He happened to stop at Micah's house as he was traveling through. 9. "Where are you from?" Micah asked him. + He replied, "I am a Levite from Bethlehem in Judah, and I am looking for a place to live." + 10. "Stay here with me," Micah said, "and you can be a father and priest to me. I will give you ten pieces of silver a year, plus a change of clothes and your food." 11. The Levite agreed to this, and the young man became like one of Micah's sons. @@ -23,3 +25,4 @@ He replied, "I am a Levite from Bethlehem in Judah, and I am looking for a place 13. "I know the LORD will bless me now," Micah said, "because I have a Levite serving as my priest." + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_18.md index bf3e8d81..6014e786 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_18.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ Idolatry in the Tribe of Dan # Chapter 18 1. Now in those days Israel had no king. And the tribe of Dan was trying to find a place where they could settle, for they had not yet moved into the land assigned to them when the land was divided among the tribes of Israel. 2. So the men of Dan chose from their clans five capable warriors from the towns of Zorah and Eshtaol to scout out a land for them to settle in. + When these warriors arrived in the hill country of Ephraim, they came to Micah's house and spent the night there. + 3. While at Micah's house, they recognized the young Levite's accent, so they went over and asked him, "Who brought you here, and what are you doing in this place? Why are you here?" 4. He told them about his agreement with Micah and that he had been hired as Micah's personal priest. @@ -44,10 +46,13 @@ When these warriors arrived in the hill country of Ephraim, they came to Micah's 27. Then, with Micah's idols and his priest, the men of Dan came to the town of Laish, whose people were peaceful and secure. They attacked with swords and burned the town to the ground. 28. There was no one to rescue the people, for they lived a great distance from Sidon and had no allies nearby. This happened in the valley near Beth-rehob. + Then the people of the tribe of Dan rebuilt the town and lived there. + 29. They renamed the town Dan after their ancestor, Israel's son, but it had originally been called Laish. 30. Then they set up the carved image, and they appointed Jonathan son of Gershom, son of Moses, as their priest. This family continued as priests for the tribe of Dan until the Exile. 31. So Micah's carved image was worshiped by the tribe of Dan as long as the Tabernacle of God remained at Shiloh. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_19.md index 48d20afe..c50b794d 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_19.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ The Levite and His Concubine # Chapter 19 1. Now in those days Israel had no king. There was a man from the tribe of Levi living in a remote area of the hill country of Ephraim. One day he brought home a woman from Bethlehem in Judah to be his concubine. 2. But she became angry with him and returned to her father's home in Bethlehem. + After about four months, + 3. her husband set out for Bethlehem to speak personally to her and persuade her to come back. He took with him a servant and a pair of donkeys. When he arrived at her father's house, her father saw him and welcomed him. 4. Her father urged him to stay awhile, so he stayed three days, eating, drinking, and sleeping there. @@ -47,3 +49,4 @@ After about four months, 30. Everyone who saw it said, "Such a horrible crime has not been committed in all the time since Israel left Egypt. Think about it! What are we going to do? Who's going to speak up?" + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_20.md index 30846156..b3dd74d4 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_20.md @@ -18,6 +18,7 @@ Israel's War with Benjamin 12. The Israelites sent messengers to the tribe of Benjamin, saying, "What a terrible thing has been done among you! 13. Give up those evil men, those troublemakers from Gibeah, so we can execute them and purge Israel of this evil." But the people of Benjamin would not listen. + 14. Instead, they came from their towns and gathered at Gibeah to fight the Israelites. 15. In all, 26,000 of their warriors armed with swords arrived in Gibeah to join the 700 elite troops who lived there. 16. Among Benjamin's elite troops, 700 were left-handed, and each of them could sling a rock and hit a target within a hairsbreadth without missing. @@ -44,7 +45,8 @@ The LORD said, "Go! Tomorrow I will hand them over to you." 29. So the Israelites set an ambush all around Gibeah. 30. They went out on the third day and took their positions at the same place as before. -31. When the men of Benjamin came out to attack, they were drawn away from the town. And as they had done before, they began to kill the Israelites. About thirty Israelites died in the open fields and along the roads, one leading to Bethel and the other leading back to Gibeah. +31. When the men of Benjamin came out to attack, they were drawn away from the town. And as they had done before, they began to kill the Israelites. +About thirty Israelites died in the open fields and along the roads, one leading to Bethel and the other leading back to Gibeah. 32. Then the warriors of Benjamin shouted, "We're defeating them as we did before!" But the Israelites had planned in advance to run away so that the men of Benjamin would chase them along the roads and be drawn away from the town. @@ -52,11 +54,15 @@ The LORD said, "Go! Tomorrow I will hand them over to you." 34. There were 10,000 elite Israelite troops who advanced against Gibeah. The fighting was so heavy that Benjamin didn't realize the impending disaster. 35. So the LORD helped Israel defeat Benjamin, and that day the Israelites killed 25,100 of Benjamin's warriors, all of whom were experienced swordsmen. 36. Then the men of Benjamin saw that they were beaten. + The Israelites had retreated from Benjamin's warriors in order to give those hiding in ambush more room to maneuver against Gibeah. + 37. Then those who were hiding rushed in from all sides and killed everyone in the town. 38. They had arranged to send up a large cloud of smoke from the town as a signal. 39. When the Israelites saw the smoke, they turned and attacked Benjamin's warriors. + By that time Benjamin's warriors had killed about thirty Israelites, and they shouted, "We're defeating them as we did in the first battle!" + 40. But when the warriors of Benjamin looked behind them and saw the smoke rising into the sky from every part of the town, 41. the men of Israel turned and attacked. At this point the men of Benjamin became terrified, because they realized disaster was close at hand. 42. So they turned around and fled before the Israelites toward the wilderness. But they couldn't escape the battle, and the people who came out of the nearby towns were also killed. @@ -69,3 +75,4 @@ By that time Benjamin's warriors had killed about thirty Israelites, and they sh 48. And the Israelites returned and slaughtered every living thing in all the towns--the people, the livestock, and everything they found. They also burned down all the towns they came to. + diff --git a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_21.md index f59a8114..65b35cd1 100644 --- a/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/07_Judges/Chapter_21.md @@ -38,3 +38,4 @@ Israel Provides Wives for Benjamin 25. In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes. + diff --git a/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_01.md index 56c55f09..56d3df52 100644 --- a/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_01.md @@ -6,7 +6,10 @@ Elimelech Moves His Family to Moab 3. Then Elimelech died, and Naomi was left with her two sons. 4. The two sons married Moabite women. One married a woman named Orpah, and the other a woman named Ruth. But about ten years later, -5. both Mahlon and Kilion died. This left Naomi alone, without her two sons or her husband.Naomi and Ruth Return +5. both Mahlon and Kilion died. This left Naomi alone, without her two sons or her husband. + +Naomi and Ruth Return + 6. Then Naomi heard in Moab that the LORD had blessed his people in Judah by giving them good crops again. So Naomi and her daughters-in-law got ready to leave Moab to return to her homeland. 7. With her two daughters-in-law she set out from the place where she had been living, and they took the road that would lead them back to Judah. @@ -35,3 +38,4 @@ Elimelech Moves His Family to Moab 22. So Naomi returned from Moab, accompanied by her daughter-in-law Ruth, the young Moabite woman. They arrived in Bethlehem in late spring, at the beginning of the barley harvest. + diff --git a/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_02.md index 59f26c14..9d98e960 100644 --- a/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_02.md @@ -5,6 +5,7 @@ Ruth Works in Boaz's Field 2. One day Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, "Let me go out into the harvest fields to pick up the stalks of grain left behind by anyone who is kind enough to let me do it." Naomi replied, "All right, my daughter, go ahead." + 3. So Ruth went out to gather grain behind the harvesters. And as it happened, she found herself working in a field that belonged to Boaz, the relative of her father-in-law, Elimelech. 4. While she was there, Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters. "The LORD be with you!" he said. @@ -36,6 +37,7 @@ Naomi replied, "All right, my daughter, go ahead." 19. "Where did you gather all this grain today?" Naomi asked. "Where did you work? May the LORD bless the one who helped you!" So Ruth told her mother-in-law about the man in whose field she had worked. She said, "The man I worked with today is named Boaz." + 20. "May the LORD bless him!" Naomi told her daughter-in-law. "He is showing his kindness to us as well as to your dead husband. That man is one of our closest relatives, one of our family redeemers." 21. Then Ruth said, "What's more, Boaz even told me to come back and stay with his harvesters until the entire harvest is completed." @@ -45,3 +47,4 @@ So Ruth told her mother-in-law about the man in whose field she had worked. She 23. So Ruth worked alongside the women in Boaz's fields and gathered grain with them until the end of the barley harvest. Then she continued working with them through the wheat harvest in early summer. And all the while she lived with her mother-in-law. + diff --git a/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_03.md index cd8c2869..55b03657 100644 --- a/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_03.md @@ -12,8 +12,10 @@ Ruth at the Threshing Floor 7. After Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he lay down at the far end of the pile of grain and went to sleep. Then Ruth came quietly, uncovered his feet, and lay down. 8. Around midnight Boaz suddenly woke up and turned over. He was surprised to find a woman lying at his feet! 9. "Who are you?" he asked. + "I am your servant Ruth," she replied. "Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer." + 10. "The LORD bless you, my daughter!" Boaz exclaimed. "You are showing even more family loyalty now than you did before, for you have not gone after a younger man, whether rich or poor. 11. Now don't worry about a thing, my daughter. I will do what is necessary, for everyone in town knows you are a virtuous woman. 12. But while it's true that I am one of your family redeemers, there is another man who is more closely related to you than I am. @@ -24,8 +26,10 @@ Ruth at the Threshing Floor 16. When Ruth went back to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, "What happened, my daughter?" Ruth told Naomi everything Boaz had done for her, + 17. and she added, "He gave me these six scoops of barley and said, 'Don't go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'" 18. Then Naomi said to her, "Just be patient, my daughter, until we hear what happens. The man won't rest until he has settled things today." + diff --git a/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_04.md index f9b0a293..3f2fe2ed 100644 --- a/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/08_Ruth/Chapter_04.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ Boaz Marries Ruth 4. I thought I should speak to you about it so that you can redeem it if you wish. If you want the land, then buy it here in the presence of these witnesses. But if you don't want it, let me know right away, because I am next in line to redeem it after you." The man replied, "All right, I'll redeem it." + 5. Then Boaz told him, "Of course, your purchase of the land from Naomi also requires that you marry Ruth, the Moabite widow. That way she can have children who will carry on her husband's name and keep the land in the family." 6. "Then I can't redeem it," the family redeemer replied, "because this might endanger my own estate. You redeem the land; I cannot do it." @@ -18,7 +19,9 @@ The man replied, "All right, I'll redeem it." 10. And with the land I have acquired Ruth, the Moabite widow of Mahlon, to be my wife. This way she can have a son to carry on the family name of her dead husband and to inherit the family property here in his hometown. You are all witnesses today." 11. Then the elders and all the people standing in the gate replied, "We are witnesses! May the LORD make this woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, from whom all the nation of Israel descended! May you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. -12. And may the LORD give you descendants by this young woman who will be like those of our ancestor Perez, the son of Tamar and Judah."The Descendants of Boaz +12. And may the LORD give you descendants by this young woman who will be like those of our ancestor Perez, the son of Tamar and Judah." +The Descendants of Boaz + 13. So Boaz took Ruth into his home, and she became his wife. When he slept with her, the LORD enabled her to become pregnant, and she gave birth to a son. 14. Then the women of the town said to Naomi, "Praise the LORD, who has now provided a redeemer for your family! May this child be famous in Israel. @@ -30,16 +33,23 @@ The man replied, "All right, I'll redeem it." 18. This is the genealogical record of their ancestor Perez: Perez was the father of Hezron. + 19. Hezron was the father of Ram. + Ram was the father of Amminadab. + 20. Amminadab was the father of Nahshon. Nahshon was the father of Salmon. 21. Salmon was the father of Boaz. + Boaz was the father of Obed. + 22. Obed was the father of Jesse. + Jesse was the father of David. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_01.md index 9eb7d329..50b53906 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_01.md @@ -10,7 +10,9 @@ Elkanah and His Family 6. So Peninnah would taunt Hannah and make fun of her because the LORD had kept her from having children. 7. Year after year it was the same--Peninnah would taunt Hannah as they went to the Tabernacle. Each time, Hannah would be reduced to tears and would not even eat. -8. "Why are you crying, Hannah?" Elkanah would ask. "Why aren't you eating? Why be downhearted just because you have no children? You have me--isn't that better than having ten sons?"Hannah's Prayer for a Son +8. "Why are you crying, Hannah?" Elkanah would ask. "Why aren't you eating? Why be downhearted just because you have no children? You have me--isn't that better than having ten sons?" +Hannah's Prayer for a Son + 9. Once after a sacrificial meal at Shiloh, Hannah got up and went to pray. Eli the priest was sitting at his customary place beside the entrance of the Tabernacle. 10. Hannah was in deep anguish, crying bitterly as she prayed to the LORD. @@ -25,7 +27,10 @@ Elkanah and His Family 17. "In that case," Eli said, "go in peace! May the God of Israel grant the request you have asked of him." -18. "Oh, thank you, sir!" she exclaimed. Then she went back and began to eat again, and she was no longer sad.Samuel's Birth and Dedication +18. "Oh, thank you, sir!" she exclaimed. Then she went back and began to eat again, and she was no longer sad. + +Samuel's Birth and Dedication + 19. The entire family got up early the next morning and went to worship the LORD once more. Then they returned home to Ramah. When Elkanah slept with Hannah, the LORD remembered her plea, 20. and in due time she gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, for she said, "I asked the LORD for him." @@ -42,3 +47,4 @@ Elkanah and His Family 28. Now I am giving him to the LORD, and he will belong to the LORD his whole life." And they worshiped the LORD there. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_02.md index b0eb75df..a53599c7 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_02.md @@ -4,50 +4,80 @@ Hannah's Prayer of Praise 1. Then Hannah prayed: "My heart rejoices in the LORD! The LORD has made me strong. + Now I have an answer for my enemies; - I rejoice because you rescued me. + +I rejoice because you rescued me. + 2. No one is holy like the LORD! - There is no one besides you; - there is no Rock like our God. + +There is no one besides you; + +there is no Rock like our God. + 3. "Stop acting so proud and haughty! - Don't speak with such arrogance! + +Don't speak with such arrogance! For the LORD is a God who knows what you have done; - he will judge your actions. + +he will judge your actions. + 4. The bow of the mighty is now broken, - and those who stumbled are now strong. + +and those who stumbled are now strong. + 5. Those who were well fed are now starving, - and those who were starving are now full. + +and those who were starving are now full. + The childless woman now has seven children, - and the woman with many children wastes away. + +and the woman with many children wastes away. + 6. The LORD gives both death and life; he brings some down to the grave but raises others up. 7. The LORD makes some poor and others rich; - he brings some down and lifts others up. + +he brings some down and lifts others up. + 8. He lifts the poor from the dust - and the needy from the garbage dump. + +and the needy from the garbage dump. + He sets them among princes, - placing them in seats of honor. + +placing them in seats of honor. For all the earth is the LORD's, - and he has set the world in order. + +and he has set the world in order. + 9. "He will protect his faithful ones, - but the wicked will disappear in darkness. + +but the wicked will disappear in darkness. + No one will succeed by strength alone. + 10. Those who fight against the LORD will be shattered. + He thunders against them from heaven; the LORD judges throughout the earth. + He gives power to his king; he increases the strength of his anointed one." -11. Then Elkanah returned home to Ramah without Samuel. And the boy served the LORD by assisting Eli the priest.Eli's Wicked Sons +11. Then Elkanah returned home to Ramah without Samuel. And the boy served the LORD by assisting Eli the priest. + +Eli's Wicked Sons + 12. Now the sons of Eli were scoundrels who had no respect for the LORD 13. or for their duties as priests. Whenever anyone offered a sacrifice, Eli's sons would send over a servant with a three-pronged fork. While the meat of the sacrificed animal was still boiling, @@ -67,7 +97,10 @@ He gives power to his king; 24. You must stop, my sons! The reports I hear among the LORD's people are not good. 25. If someone sins against another person, God can mediate for the guilty party. But if someone sins against the LORD, who can intercede?" But Eli's sons wouldn't listen to their father, for the LORD was already planning to put them to death. -26. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew taller and grew in favor with the LORD and with the people.A Warning for Eli's Family +26. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew taller and grew in favor with the LORD and with the people. + +A Warning for Eli's Family + 27. One day a man of God came to Eli and gave him this message from the LORD: "I revealed myself to your ancestors when they were Pharaoh's slaves in Egypt. 28. I chose your ancestor Aaron from among all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to offer sacrifices on my altar, to burn incense, and to wear the priestly vest as he served me. And I assigned the sacrificial offerings to you priests. @@ -83,3 +116,4 @@ He gives power to his king; 36. Then all of your surviving family will bow before him, begging for money and food. 'Please,' they will say, 'give us jobs among the priests so we will have enough to eat.'" + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_03.md index 8d4dfe35..1436ed59 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_03.md @@ -7,13 +7,16 @@ The LORD Speaks to Samuel 3. The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was sleeping in the Tabernacle near the Ark of God. 4. Suddenly the LORD called out, "Samuel!" "Yes?" Samuel replied. "What is it?" + 5. He got up and ran to Eli. "Here I am. Did you call me?" "I didn't call you," Eli replied. "Go back to bed." So he did. + 6. Then the LORD called out again, "Samuel!" Again Samuel got up and went to Eli. "Here I am. Did you call me?" "I didn't call you, my son," Eli said. "Go back to bed." + 7. Samuel did not yet know the LORD because he had never had a message from the LORD before. 8. So the LORD called a third time, and once more Samuel got up and went to Eli. "Here I am. Did you call me?" Then Eli realized it was the LORD who was calling the boy. @@ -22,6 +25,7 @@ Then Eli realized it was the LORD who was calling the boy. 10. And the LORD came and called as before, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel replied, "Speak, your servant is listening." + 11. Then the LORD said to Samuel, "I am about to do a shocking thing in Israel. 12. I am going to carry out all my threats against Eli and his family, from beginning to end. 13. I have warned him that judgment is coming upon his family forever, because his sons are blaspheming God and he hasn't disciplined them. @@ -31,6 +35,7 @@ And Samuel replied, "Speak, your servant is listening." 16. But Eli called out to him, "Samuel, my son." "Here I am," Samuel replied. + 17. "What did the LORD say to you? Tell me everything. And may God strike you and even kill you if you hide anything from me!" 18. So Samuel told Eli everything; he didn't hold anything back. "It is the LORD's will," Eli replied. "Let him do what he thinks best." @@ -39,3 +44,4 @@ And Samuel replied, "Speak, your servant is listening." 21. The LORD continued to appear at Shiloh and gave messages to Samuel there at the Tabernacle. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_04.md index 4b4f9636..ee41aaf4 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,7 +1,10 @@ # Chapter 4 1. -1. And Samuel's words went out to all the people of Israel.The Philistines Capture the Ark +1. And Samuel's words went out to all the people of Israel. + +The Philistines Capture the Ark At that time Israel was at war with the Philistines. The Israelite army was camped near Ebenezer, and the Philistines were at Aphek. + 2. The Philistines attacked and defeated the army of Israel, killing 4,000 men. 3. After the battle was over, the troops retreated to their camp, and the elders of Israel asked, "Why did the LORD allow us to be defeated by the Philistines?" Then they said, "Let's bring the Ark of the Covenant of the LORD from Shiloh. If we carry it into battle with us, it will save us from our enemies." @@ -10,21 +13,28 @@ At that time Israel was at war with the Philistines. The Israelite army was camp 6. "What's going on?" the Philistines asked. "What's all the shouting about in the Hebrew camp?" When they were told it was because the Ark of the LORD had arrived, 7. they panicked. "The gods have come into their camp!" they cried. "This is a disaster! We have never had to face anything like this before! -8. Help! Who can save us from these mighty gods of Israel? They are the same gods who destroyed the Egyptians with plagues when Israel was in the wilderness. +8. +Help! Who can save us from these mighty gods of Israel? They are the same gods who destroyed the Egyptians with plagues when Israel was in the wilderness. 9. Fight as never before, Philistines! If you don't, we will become the Hebrews' slaves just as they have been ours! Stand up like men and fight!" 10. So the Philistines fought desperately, and Israel was defeated again. The slaughter was great; 30,000 Israelite soldiers died that day. The survivors turned and fled to their tents. -11. The Ark of God was captured, and Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were killed.The Death of Eli +11. The Ark of God was captured, and Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were killed. + +The Death of Eli + 12. A man from the tribe of Benjamin ran from the battlefield and arrived at Shiloh later that same day. He had torn his clothes and put dust on his head to show his grief. 13. Eli was waiting beside the road to hear the news of the battle, for his heart trembled for the safety of the Ark of God. When the messenger arrived and told what had happened, an outcry resounded throughout the town. 14. "What is all the noise about?" Eli asked. + The messenger rushed over to Eli, + 15. who was ninety-eight years old and blind. 16. He said to Eli, "I have just come from the battlefield--I was there this very day." "What happened, my son?" Eli demanded. + 17. "Israel has been defeated by the Philistines," the messenger replied. "The people have been slaughtered, and your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were also killed. And the Ark of God has been captured." 18. When the messenger mentioned what had happened to the Ark of God, Eli fell backward from his seat beside the gate. He broke his neck and died, for he was old and overweight. He had been Israel's judge for forty years. @@ -36,3 +46,4 @@ The messenger rushed over to Eli, 22. Then she said, "The glory has departed from Israel, for the Ark of God has been captured." + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_05.md index 9abc6960..fc9c2ab8 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_05.md @@ -11,6 +11,7 @@ The Ark in Philistia 7. When the people realized what was happening, they cried out, "We can't keep the Ark of the God of Israel here any longer! He is against us! We will all be destroyed along with Dagon, our god." 8. So they called together the rulers of the Philistine towns and asked, "What should we do with the Ark of the God of Israel?" The rulers discussed it and replied, "Move it to the town of Gath." So they moved the Ark of the God of Israel to Gath. + 9. But when the Ark arrived at Gath, the LORD's heavy hand fell on its men, young and old; he struck them with a plague of tumors, and there was a great panic. 10. So they sent the Ark of God to the town of Ekron, but when the people of Ekron saw it coming they cried out, "They are bringing the Ark of the God of Israel here to kill us, too!" @@ -18,3 +19,4 @@ The rulers discussed it and replied, "Move it to the town of Gath." So they move 12. Those who didn't die were afflicted with tumors; and the cry from the town rose to heaven. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_06.md index 1cf638eb..18a3bd8a 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_06.md @@ -7,7 +7,9 @@ The Philistines Return the Ark 3. "Send the Ark of the God of Israel back with a gift," they were told. "Send a guilt offering so the plague will stop. Then, if you are healed, you will know it was his hand that caused the plague." 4. "What sort of guilt offering should we send?" they asked. + And they were told, "Since the plague has struck both you and your five rulers, make five gold tumors and five gold rats, just like those that have ravaged your land. + 5. Make these things to show honor to the God of Israel. Perhaps then he will stop afflicting you, your gods, and your land. 6. Don't be stubborn and rebellious as Pharaoh and the Egyptians were. By the time God was finished with them, they were eager to let Israel go. @@ -25,7 +27,10 @@ And they were told, "Since the plague has struck both you and your five rulers, 16. The five Philistine rulers watched all this and then returned to Ekron that same day. 17. The five gold tumors sent by the Philistines as a guilt offering to the LORD were gifts from the rulers of Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron. -18. The five gold rats represented the five Philistine towns and their surrounding villages, which were controlled by the five rulers. The large rock at Beth-shemesh, where they set the Ark of the LORD, still stands in the field of Joshua as a witness to what happened there.The Ark Moved to Kiriath-Jearim +18. The five gold rats represented the five Philistine towns and their surrounding villages, which were controlled by the five rulers. The large rock at Beth-shemesh, where they set the Ark of the LORD, still stands in the field of Joshua as a witness to what happened there. + +The Ark Moved to Kiriath-Jearim + 19. But the LORD killed seventy men from Beth-shemesh because they looked into the Ark of the LORD. And the people mourned greatly because of what the LORD had done. 20. "Who is able to stand in the presence of the LORD, this holy God?" they cried out. "Where can we send the Ark from here?" @@ -33,3 +38,4 @@ And they were told, "Since the plague has struck both you and your five rulers, 21. So they sent messengers to the people at Kiriath-jearim and told them, "The Philistines have returned the Ark of the LORD. Come here and get it!" + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_07.md index a9d72557..240745d2 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_07.md @@ -1,6 +1,9 @@ # Chapter 7 1. So the men of Kiriath-jearim came to get the Ark of the LORD. They took it to the hillside home of Abinadab and ordained Eleazar, his son, to be in charge of it. -2. The Ark remained in Kiriath-jearim for a long time--twenty years in all. During that time all Israel mourned because it seemed the LORD had abandoned them.Samuel Leads Israel to Victory +2. The Ark remained in Kiriath-jearim for a long time--twenty years in all. During that time all Israel mourned because it seemed the LORD had abandoned them. + +Samuel Leads Israel to Victory + 3. Then Samuel said to all the people of Israel, "If you want to return to the LORD with all your hearts, get rid of your foreign gods and your images of Ashtoreth. Turn your hearts to the LORD and obey him alone; then he will rescue you from the Philistines." 4. So the Israelites got rid of their images of Baal and Ashtoreth and worshiped only the LORD. @@ -25,3 +28,4 @@ 17. Then he would return to his home at Ramah, and he would hear cases there, too. And Samuel built an altar to the LORD at Ramah. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_08.md index 3784d058..f0bd33ac 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_08.md @@ -11,7 +11,9 @@ Israel Requests a King 6. Samuel was displeased with their request and went to the LORD for guidance. 7. "Do everything they say to you," the LORD replied, "for they are rejecting me, not you. They don't want me to be their king any longer. 8. Ever since I brought them from Egypt they have continually abandoned me and followed other gods. And now they are giving you the same treatment. -9. Do as they ask, but solemnly warn them about the way a king will reign over them."Samuel Warns against a Kingdom +9. Do as they ask, but solemnly warn them about the way a king will reign over them." +Samuel Warns against a Kingdom + 10. So Samuel passed on the LORD's warning to the people who were asking him for a king. 11. "This is how a king will reign over you," Samuel said. "The king will draft your sons and assign them to his chariots and his charioteers, making them run before his chariots. @@ -30,3 +32,4 @@ Israel Requests a King 22. and the LORD replied, "Do as they say, and give them a king." Then Samuel agreed and sent the people home. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_09.md index 92f0cb9d..e97cf3cc 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_09.md @@ -26,7 +26,8 @@ Saul Meets Samuel 14. So they entered the town, and as they passed through the gates, Samuel was coming out toward them to go up to the place of worship. 15. Now the LORD had told Samuel the previous day, -16. "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him to be the leader of my people, Israel. He will rescue them from the Philistines, for I have looked down on my people in mercy and have heard their cry." +16. " +About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him to be the leader of my people, Israel. He will rescue them from the Philistines, for I have looked down on my people in mercy and have heard their cry." 17. When Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said, "That's the man I told you about! He will rule my people." @@ -46,3 +47,4 @@ Saul Meets Samuel 27. When they reached the edge of town, Samuel told Saul to send his servant on ahead. After the servant was gone, Samuel said, "Stay here, for I have received a special message for you from God." + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_10.md index 3f138eef..d2bdbc95 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_10.md @@ -10,7 +10,9 @@ Samuel Anoints Saul as King 5. "When you arrive at Gibeah of God, where the garrison of the Philistines is located, you will meet a band of prophets coming down from the place of worship. They will be playing a harp, a tambourine, a flute, and a lyre, and they will be prophesying. 6. At that time the Spirit of the LORD will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them. You will be changed into a different person. 7. After these signs take place, do what must be done, for God is with you. -8. Then go down to Gilgal ahead of me. I will join you there to sacrifice burnt offerings and peace offerings. You must wait for seven days until I arrive and give you further instructions."Samuel's Signs Are Fulfilled +8. Then go down to Gilgal ahead of me. I will join you there to sacrifice burnt offerings and peace offerings. You must wait for seven days until I arrive and give you further instructions." +Samuel's Signs Are Fulfilled + 9. As Saul turned and started to leave, God gave him a new heart, and all Samuel's signs were fulfilled that day. 10. When Saul and his servant arrived at Gibeah, they saw a group of prophets coming toward them. Then the Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul, and he, too, began to prophesy. @@ -20,11 +22,16 @@ Samuel Anoints Saul as King 13. When Saul had finished prophesying, he went up to the place of worship. 14. "Where have you been?" Saul's uncle asked him and his servant. + "We were looking for the donkeys," Saul replied, "but we couldn't find them. So we went to Samuel to ask him where they were." + 15. "Oh? And what did he say?" his uncle asked. -16. "He told us that the donkeys had already been found," Saul replied. But Saul didn't tell his uncle what Samuel said about the kingdom.Saul Is Acclaimed King +16. "He told us that the donkeys had already been found," Saul replied. But Saul didn't tell his uncle what Samuel said about the kingdom. + +Saul Is Acclaimed King + 17. Later Samuel called all the people of Israel to meet before the LORD at Mizpah. 18. And he said, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, has declared: I brought you from Egypt and rescued you from the Egyptians and from all of the nations that were oppressing you. @@ -39,6 +46,7 @@ And the LORD replied, "He is hiding among the baggage." 24. Then Samuel said to all the people, "This is the man the LORD has chosen as your king. No one in all Israel is like him!" And all the people shouted, "Long live the king!" + 25. Then Samuel told the people what the rights and duties of a king were. He wrote them down on a scroll and placed it before the LORD. Then Samuel sent the people home again. 26. When Saul returned to his home at Gibeah, a group of men whose hearts God had touched went with him. @@ -46,3 +54,4 @@ And all the people shouted, "Long live the king!" [Nahash, king of the Ammonites, had been grievously oppressing the people of Gad and Reuben who lived east of the Jordan River. He gouged out the right eye of each of the Israelites living there, and he didn't allow anyone to come and rescue them. In fact, of all the Israelites east of the Jordan, there wasn't a single one whose right eye Nahash had not gouged out. But there were 7,000 men who had escaped from the Ammonites, and they had settled in Jabesh-gilead.] + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_11.md index c678c3c9..4b1100a4 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_11.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Saul Defeats the Ammonites # Chapter 11 -1. About a month later, King Nahash of Ammon led his army against the Israelite town of Jabesh-gilead. But all the citizens of Jabesh asked for peace. "Make a treaty with us, and we will be your servants," they pleaded. +1. +About a month later, King Nahash of Ammon led his army against the Israelite town of Jabesh-gilead. But all the citizens of Jabesh asked for peace. "Make a treaty with us, and we will be your servants," they pleaded. 2. "All right," Nahash said, "but only on one condition. I will gouge out the right eye of every one of you as a disgrace to all Israel!" @@ -27,3 +28,4 @@ Saul Defeats the Ammonites 15. So they all went to Gilgal, and in a solemn ceremony before the LORD they made Saul king. Then they offered peace offerings to the LORD, and Saul and all the Israelites were filled with joy. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_12.md index 9ab59496..e69b77c7 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_12.md @@ -10,6 +10,7 @@ Samuel's Farewell Address 5. "The LORD and his anointed one are my witnesses today," Samuel declared, "that my hands are clean." "Yes, he is a witness," they replied. + 6. "It was the LORD who appointed Moses and Aaron," Samuel continued. "He brought your ancestors out of the land of Egypt. 7. Now stand here quietly before the LORD as I remind you of all the great things the LORD has done for you and your ancestors. @@ -40,3 +41,4 @@ Samuel's Farewell Address 25. But if you continue to sin, you and your king will be swept away." + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_13.md index 96c54881..cfab7b5e 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_13.md @@ -10,18 +10,24 @@ Continued War with Philistia 5. The Philistines mustered a mighty army of 3,000 chariots, 6,000 charioteers, and as many warriors as the grains of sand on the seashore! They camped at Micmash east of Beth-aven. 6. The men of Israel saw what a tight spot they were in; and because they were hard pressed by the enemy, they tried to hide in caves, thickets, rocks, holes, and cisterns. -7. Some of them crossed the Jordan River and escaped into the land of Gad and Gilead.Saul's Disobedience and Samuel's Rebuke +7. Some of them crossed the Jordan River and escaped into the land of Gad and Gilead. + +Saul's Disobedience and Samuel's Rebuke Meanwhile, Saul stayed at Gilgal, and his men were trembling with fear. + 8. Saul waited there seven days for Samuel, as Samuel had instructed him earlier, but Samuel still didn't come. Saul realized that his troops were rapidly slipping away. 9. So he demanded, "Bring me the burnt offering and the peace offerings!" And Saul sacrificed the burnt offering himself. 10. Just as Saul was finishing with the burnt offering, Samuel arrived. Saul went out to meet and welcome him, 11. but Samuel said, "What is this you have done?" Saul replied, "I saw my men scattering from me, and you didn't arrive when you said you would, and the Philistines are at Micmash ready for battle. + 12. So I said, 'The Philistines are ready to march against us at Gilgal, and I haven't even asked for the LORD's help!' So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering myself before you came." 13. "How foolish!" Samuel exclaimed. "You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you. Had you kept it, the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. -14. But now your kingdom must end, for the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart. The LORD has already appointed him to be the leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD's command."Israel's Military Disadvantage +14. But now your kingdom must end, for the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart. The LORD has already appointed him to be the leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD's command." +Israel's Military Disadvantage + 15. Samuel then left Gilgal and went on his way, but the rest of the troops went with Saul to meet the army. They went up from Gilgal to Gibeah in the land of Benjamin. When Saul counted the men who were still with him, he found only 600 were left! 16. Saul and Jonathan and the troops with them were staying at Geba in the land of Benjamin. The Philistines set up their camp at Micmash. @@ -36,3 +42,4 @@ Saul replied, "I saw my men scattering from me, and you didn't arrive when you s 23. The pass at Micmash had meanwhile been secured by a contingent of the Philistine army. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_14.md index 945b7250..15cf3838 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_14.md @@ -5,7 +5,9 @@ Jonathan's Daring Plan 2. Meanwhile, Saul and his 600 men were camped on the outskirts of Gibeah, around the pomegranate tree at Migron. 3. Among Saul's men was Ahijah the priest, who was wearing the ephod, the priestly vest. Ahijah was the son of Ichabod's brother Ahitub, son of Phinehas, son of Eli, the priest of the LORD who had served at Shiloh. + No one realized that Jonathan had left the Israelite camp. + 4. To reach the Philistine outpost, Jonathan had to go down between two rocky cliffs that were called Bozez and Seneh. 5. The cliff on the north was in front of Micmash, and the one on the south was in front of Geba. 6. "Let's go across to the outpost of those pagans," Jonathan said to his armor bearer. "Perhaps the LORD will help us, for nothing can hinder the LORD. He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few!" @@ -23,7 +25,10 @@ No one realized that Jonathan had left the Israelite camp. 13. So they climbed up using both hands and feet, and the Philistines fell before Jonathan, and his armor bearer killed those who came behind them. 14. They killed some twenty men in all, and their bodies were scattered over about half an acre. -15. Suddenly, panic broke out in the Philistine army, both in the camp and in the field, including even the outposts and raiding parties. And just then an earthquake struck, and everyone was terrified.Israel Defeats the Philistines +15. Suddenly, panic broke out in the Philistine army, both in the camp and in the field, including even the outposts and raiding parties. And just then an earthquake struck, and everyone was terrified. + +Israel Defeats the Philistines + 16. Saul's lookouts in Gibeah of Benjamin saw a strange sight--the vast army of Philistines began to melt away in every direction. 17. "Call the roll and find out who's missing," Saul ordered. And when they checked, they found that Jonathan and his armor bearer were gone. @@ -34,7 +39,10 @@ No one realized that Jonathan had left the Israelite camp. 20. Then Saul and all his men rushed out to the battle and found the Philistines killing each other. There was terrible confusion everywhere. 21. Even the Hebrews who had previously gone over to the Philistine army revolted and joined in with Saul, Jonathan, and the rest of the Israelites. 22. Likewise, the men of Israel who were hiding in the hill country of Ephraim joined the chase when they saw the Philistines running away. -23. So the LORD saved Israel that day, and the battle continued to rage even beyond Beth-aven.Saul's Foolish Oath +23. So the LORD saved Israel that day, and the battle continued to rage even beyond Beth-aven. + +Saul's Foolish Oath + 24. Now the men of Israel were pressed to exhaustion that day, because Saul had placed them under an oath, saying, "Let a curse fall on anyone who eats before evening--before I have full revenge on my enemies." So no one ate anything all day, 25. even though they had all found honeycomb on the ground in the forest. @@ -50,14 +58,17 @@ No one realized that Jonathan had left the Israelite camp. 32. That evening they rushed for the battle plunder and butchered the sheep, goats, cattle, and calves, but they ate them without draining the blood. 33. Someone reported to Saul, "Look, the men are sinning against the LORD by eating meat that still has blood in it." "That is very wrong," Saul said. "Find a large stone and roll it over here. + 34. Then go out among the troops and tell them, 'Bring the cattle, sheep, and goats here to me. Kill them here, and drain the blood before you eat them. Do not sin against the LORD by eating meat with the blood still in it.'" So that night all the troops brought their animals and slaughtered them there. + 35. Then Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first of the altars he built to the LORD. 36. Then Saul said, "Let's chase the Philistines all night and plunder them until sunrise. Let's destroy every last one of them." His men replied, "We'll do whatever you think is best." But the priest said, "Let's ask God first." + 37. So Saul asked God, "Should we go after the Philistines? Will you help us defeat them?" But God made no reply that day. 38. Then Saul said to the leaders, "Something's wrong! I want all my army commanders to come here. We must find out what sin was committed today. @@ -66,18 +77,24 @@ But the priest said, "Let's ask God first." 40. Then Saul said, "Jonathan and I will stand over here, and all of you stand over there." And the people responded to Saul, "Whatever you think is best." + 41. Then Saul prayed, "O LORD, God of Israel, please show us who is guilty and who is innocent." Then they cast sacred lots, and Jonathan and Saul were chosen as the guilty ones, and the people were declared innocent. 42. Then Saul said, "Now cast lots again and choose between me and Jonathan." And Jonathan was shown to be the guilty one. 43. "Tell me what you have done," Saul demanded of Jonathan. + "I tasted a little honey," Jonathan admitted. "It was only a little bit on the end of my stick. Does that deserve death?" + 44. "Yes, Jonathan," Saul said, "you must die! May God strike me and even kill me if you do not die for this." 45. But the people broke in and said to Saul, "Jonathan has won this great victory for Israel. Should he die? Far from it! As surely as the LORD lives, not one hair on his head will be touched, for God helped him do a great deed today." So the people rescued Jonathan, and he was not put to death. -46. Then Saul called back the army from chasing the Philistines, and the Philistines returned home.Saul's Military Successes +46. Then Saul called back the army from chasing the Philistines, and the Philistines returned home. + +Saul's Military Successes + 47. Now when Saul had secured his grasp on Israel's throne, he fought against his enemies in every direction--against Moab, Ammon, Edom, the kings of Zobah, and the Philistines. And wherever he turned, he was victorious. 48. He performed great deeds and conquered the Amalekites, saving Israel from all those who had plundered them. @@ -89,3 +106,4 @@ And the people responded to Saul, "Whatever you think is best." 52. The Israelites fought constantly with the Philistines throughout Saul's lifetime. So whenever Saul observed a young man who was brave and strong, he drafted him into his army. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_15.md index 2d932a25..0cfbe0c7 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_15.md @@ -27,6 +27,7 @@ Saul Defeats the Amalekites 16. Then Samuel said to Saul, "Stop! Listen to what the LORD told me last night!" "What did he tell you?" Saul asked. + 17. And Samuel told him, "Although you may think little of yourself, are you not the leader of the tribes of Israel? The LORD has anointed you king of Israel. 18. And the LORD sent you on a mission and told you, 'Go and completely destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, until they are all dead.' 19. Why haven't you obeyed the LORD? Why did you rush for the plunder and do what was evil in the LORD's sight?" @@ -36,15 +37,23 @@ Saul Defeats the Amalekites 22. But Samuel replied, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: - your burnt offerings and sacrifices - or your obedience to his voice? + +your burnt offerings and sacrifices + +or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, - and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. + +and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. + 23. Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, - and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. + +and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. So because you have rejected the command of the LORD, - he has rejected you as king."Saul Pleads for Forgiveness + +he has rejected you as king." +Saul Pleads for Forgiveness + 24. Then Saul admitted to Samuel, "Yes, I have sinned. I have disobeyed your instructions and the LORD's command, for I was afraid of the people and did what they demanded. 25. But now, please forgive my sin and come back with me so that I may worship the LORD." @@ -56,7 +65,10 @@ So because you have rejected the command of the LORD, 29. And he who is the Glory of Israel will not lie, nor will he change his mind, for he is not human that he should change his mind!" 30. Then Saul pleaded again, "I know I have sinned. But please, at least honor me before the elders of my people and before Israel by coming back with me so that I may worship the LORD your God." -31. So Samuel finally agreed and went back with him, and Saul worshiped the LORD.Samuel Executes King Agag +31. So Samuel finally agreed and went back with him, and Saul worshiped the LORD. + +Samuel Executes King Agag + 32. Then Samuel said, "Bring King Agag to me." Agag arrived full of hope, for he thought, "Surely the worst is over, and I have been spared!" 33. But Samuel said, "As your sword has killed the sons of many mothers, now your mother will be childless." And Samuel cut Agag to pieces before the LORD at Gilgal. @@ -65,3 +77,4 @@ So because you have rejected the command of the LORD, 35. Samuel never went to meet with Saul again, but he mourned constantly for him. And the LORD was sorry he had ever made Saul king of Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_16.md index 3b60950c..52448bf8 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_16.md @@ -22,10 +22,14 @@ Samuel Anoints David as King "There is still the youngest," Jesse replied. "But he's out in the fields watching the sheep and goats." "Send for him at once," Samuel said. "We will not sit down to eat until he arrives." + 12. So Jesse sent for him. He was dark and handsome, with beautiful eyes. And the LORD said, "This is the one; anoint him." -13. So as David stood there among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David from that day on. Then Samuel returned to Ramah.David Serves in Saul's Court +13. So as David stood there among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David from that day on. Then Samuel returned to Ramah. + +David Serves in Saul's Court + 14. Now the Spirit of the LORD had left Saul, and the LORD sent a tormenting spirit that filled him with depression and fear. @@ -46,3 +50,4 @@ And the LORD said, "This is the one; anoint him." 23. And whenever the tormenting spirit from God troubled Saul, David would play the harp. Then Saul would feel better, and the tormenting spirit would go away. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_17.md index 93b0c828..27fc2e63 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_17.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ Goliath Challenges the Israelites 8. Goliath stood and shouted a taunt across to the Israelites. "Why are you all coming out to fight?" he called. "I am the Philistine champion, but you are only the servants of Saul. Choose one man to come down here and fight me! 9. If he kills me, then we will be your slaves. But if I kill him, you will be our slaves! 10. I defy the armies of Israel today! Send me a man who will fight me!" -11. When Saul and the Israelites heard this, they were terrified and deeply shaken.Jesse Sends David to Saul's Camp +11. When Saul and the Israelites heard this, they were terrified and deeply shaken. + +Jesse Sends David to Saul's Camp + 12. Now David was the son of a man named Jesse, an Ephrathite from Bethlehem in the land of Judah. Jesse was an old man at that time, and he had eight sons. 13. Jesse's three oldest sons--Eliab, Abinadab, and Shimea--had already joined Saul's army to fight the Philistines. @@ -42,7 +45,10 @@ Goliath Challenges the Israelites 29. "What have I done now?" David replied. "I was only asking a question!" 30. He walked over to some others and asked them the same thing and received the same answer. -31. Then David's question was reported to King Saul, and the king sent for him.David Kills Goliath +31. Then David's question was reported to King Saul, and the king sent for him. + +David Kills Goliath + 32. "Don't worry about this Philistine," David told Saul. "I'll go fight him!" @@ -56,7 +62,9 @@ Saul finally consented. "All right, go ahead," he said. "And may the LORD be wit 38. Then Saul gave David his own armor--a bronze helmet and a coat of mail. 39. David put it on, strapped the sword over it, and took a step or two to see what it was like, for he had never worn such things before. + "I can't go in these," he protested to Saul. "I'm not used to them." So David took them off again. + 40. He picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd's bag. Then, armed only with his shepherd's staff and sling, he started across the valley to fight the Philistine. 41. Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, @@ -72,8 +80,11 @@ Saul finally consented. "All right, go ahead," he said. "And may the LORD be wit 49. Reaching into his shepherd's bag and taking out a stone, he hurled it with his sling and hit the Philistine in the forehead. The stone sank in, and Goliath stumbled and fell face down on the ground. 50. So David triumphed over the Philistine with only a sling and a stone, for he had no sword. -51. Then David ran over and pulled Goliath's sword from its sheath. David used it to kill him and cut off his head.Israel Routs the Philistines +51. Then David ran over and pulled Goliath's sword from its sheath. David used it to kill him and cut off his head. + +Israel Routs the Philistines When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they turned and ran. + 52. Then the men of Israel and Judah gave a great shout of triumph and rushed after the Philistines, chasing them as far as Gath and the gates of Ekron. The bodies of the dead and wounded Philistines were strewn all along the road from Shaaraim, as far as Gath and Ekron. 53. Then the Israelite army returned and plundered the deserted Philistine camp. 54. (David took the Philistine's head to Jerusalem, but he stored the man's armor in his own tent.) @@ -81,10 +92,13 @@ When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they turned and ran. 55. As Saul watched David go out to fight the Philistine, he asked Abner, the commander of his army, "Abner, whose son is this young man?" "I really don't know," Abner declared. + 56. "Well, find out who he is!" the king told him. 57. As soon as David returned from killing Goliath, Abner brought him to Saul with the Philistine's head still in his hand. 58. "Tell me about your father, young man," Saul said. + And David replied, "His name is Jesse, and we live in Bethlehem." + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_18.md index b802da86..352224d4 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_18.md @@ -11,7 +11,9 @@ Saul Becomes Jealous of David 6. When the victorious Israelite army was returning home after David had killed the Philistine, women from all the towns of Israel came out to meet King Saul. They sang and danced for joy with tambourines and cymbals. 7. This was their song: "Saul has killed his thousands, - and David his ten thousands!" + +and David his ten thousands!" + 8. This made Saul very angry. "What's this?" he said. "They credit David with ten thousands and me with only thousands. Next they'll be making him their king!" 9. So from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David. @@ -24,7 +26,10 @@ Saul Becomes Jealous of David 14. David continued to succeed in everything he did, for the LORD was with him. 15. When Saul recognized this, he became even more afraid of him. -16. But all Israel and Judah loved David because he was so successful at leading his troops into battle.David Marries Saul's Daughter +16. But all Israel and Judah loved David because he was so successful at leading his troops into battle. + +David Marries Saul's Daughter + 17. One day Saul said to David, "I am ready to give you my older daughter, Merab, as your wife. But first you must prove yourself to be a real warrior by fighting the LORD's battles." For Saul thought, "I'll send him out against the Philistines and let them kill him rather than doing it myself." @@ -50,3 +55,4 @@ Saul Becomes Jealous of David 30. Every time the commanders of the Philistines attacked, David was more successful against them than all the rest of Saul's officers. So David's name became very famous. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_19.md index d3a01b3f..5f5dbab2 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_19.md @@ -15,7 +15,10 @@ Saul Tries to Kill David 8. War broke out again after that, and David led his troops against the Philistines. He attacked them with such fury that they all ran away. 9. But one day when Saul was sitting at home, with spear in hand, the tormenting spirit from the LORD suddenly came upon him again. As David played his harp, -10. Saul hurled his spear at David. But David dodged out of the way, and leaving the spear stuck in the wall, he fled and escaped into the night.Michal Saves David's Life +10. Saul hurled his spear at David. But David dodged out of the way, and leaving the spear stuck in the wall, he fled and escaped into the night. + +Michal Saves David's Life + 11. Then Saul sent troops to watch David's house. They were told to kill David when he came out the next morning. But Michal, David's wife, warned him, "If you don't escape tonight, you will be dead by morning." 12. So she helped him climb out through a window, and he fled and escaped. @@ -27,16 +30,21 @@ Saul Tries to Kill David 16. But when they came to carry David out, they discovered that it was only an idol in the bed with a cushion of goat's hair at its head. 17. "Why have you betrayed me like this and let my enemy escape?" Saul demanded of Michal. + "I had to," Michal replied. "He threatened to kill me if I didn't help him." + 18. So David escaped and went to Ramah to see Samuel, and he told him all that Saul had done to him. Then Samuel took David with him to live at Naioth. 19. When the report reached Saul that David was at Naioth in Ramah, 20. he sent troops to capture him. But when they arrived and saw Samuel leading a group of prophets who were prophesying, the Spirit of God came upon Saul's men, and they also began to prophesy. 21. When Saul heard what had happened, he sent other troops, but they, too, prophesied! The same thing happened a third time. 22. Finally, Saul himself went to Ramah and arrived at the great well in Secu. "Where are Samuel and David?" he demanded. + "They are at Naioth in Ramah," someone told him. + 23. But on the way to Naioth in Ramah the Spirit of God came even upon Saul, and he, too, began to prophesy all the way to Naioth! 24. He tore off his clothes and lay naked on the ground all day and all night, prophesying in the presence of Samuel. The people who were watching exclaimed, "What? Is even Saul a prophet?" + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_20.md index 07e361f9..3c4b134e 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_20.md @@ -1,4 +1,5 @@ -Jonathan Helps David +Jonathan +Helps David # Chapter 20 1. David now fled from Naioth in Ramah and found Jonathan. "What have I done?" he exclaimed. "What is my crime? How have I offended your father that he is so determined to kill me?" @@ -62,3 +63,4 @@ Jonathan Helps David 42. At last Jonathan said to David, "Go in peace, for we have sworn loyalty to each other in the LORD's name. The LORD is the witness of a bond between us and our children forever." Then David left, and Jonathan returned to the town. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_21.md index 1cf8b384..6ffb667a 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_21.md @@ -19,10 +19,13 @@ David Runs from Saul 9. "I only have the sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you killed in the valley of Elah," the priest replied. "It is wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod. Take that if you want it, for there is nothing else here." "There is nothing like it!" David replied. "Give it to me!" + 10. So David escaped from Saul and went to King Achish of Gath. 11. But the officers of Achish were unhappy about his being there. "Isn't this David, the king of the land?" they asked. "Isn't he the one the people honor with dances, singing, 'Saul has killed his thousands, - and David his ten thousands'?" + +and David his ten thousands'?" + 12. David heard these comments and was very afraid of what King Achish of Gath might do to him. 13. So he pretended to be insane, scratching on doors and drooling down his beard. @@ -31,3 +34,4 @@ David Runs from Saul 15. We already have enough of them around here! Why should I let someone like this be my guest?" + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_22.md index 385125aa..9f5c9d9b 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_22.md @@ -15,12 +15,15 @@ David at the Cave of Adullam 8. Is that why you have conspired against me? For not one of you told me when my own son made a solemn pact with the son of Jesse. You're not even sorry for me. Think of it! My own son--encouraging him to kill me, as he is trying to do this very day!" 9. Then Doeg the Edomite, who was standing there with Saul's men, spoke up. "When I was at Nob," he said, "I saw the son of Jesse talking to the priest, Ahimelech son of Ahitub. -10. Ahimelech consulted the LORD for him. Then he gave him food and the sword of Goliath the Philistine."The Slaughter of the Priests +10. Ahimelech consulted the LORD for him. Then he gave him food and the sword of Goliath the Philistine." +The Slaughter of the Priests + 11. King Saul immediately sent for Ahimelech and all his family, who served as priests at Nob. 12. When they arrived, Saul shouted at him, "Listen to me, you son of Ahitub!" "What is it, my king?" Ahimelech asked. + 13. "Why have you and the son of Jesse conspired against me?" Saul demanded. "Why did you give him food and a sword? Why have you consulted God for him? Why have you encouraged him to kill me, as he is trying to do this very day?" 14. "But sir," Ahimelech replied, "is anyone among all your servants as faithful as David, your son-in-law? Why, he is the captain of your bodyguard and a highly honored member of your household! @@ -38,3 +41,4 @@ David at the Cave of Adullam 23. Stay here with me, and don't be afraid. I will protect you with my own life, for the same person wants to kill us both." + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_23.md index 1113be09..376bb798 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_23.md @@ -21,7 +21,9 @@ David Protects the Town of Keilah And the LORD said, "He will come." 12. Again David asked, "Will the leaders of Keilah betray me and my men to Saul?" -And the LORD replied, "Yes, they will betray you."David Hides in the Wilderness +And the LORD replied, "Yes, they will betray you." +David Hides in the Wilderness + 13. So David and his men--about 600 of them now--left Keilah and began roaming the countryside. Word soon reached Saul that David had escaped, so he didn't go to Keilah after all. 14. David now stayed in the strongholds of the wilderness and in the hill country of Ziph. Saul hunted him day after day, but God didn't let Saul find him. @@ -38,7 +40,9 @@ And the LORD replied, "Yes, they will betray you."David Hides in the Wilderness 22. Go and check again to be sure of where he is staying and who has seen him there, for I know that he is very crafty. 23. Discover his hiding places, and come back when you are sure. Then I'll go with you. And if he is in the area at all, I'll track him down, even if I have to search every hiding place in Judah!" 24. So the men of Ziph returned home ahead of Saul. + Meanwhile, David and his men had moved into the wilderness of Maon in the Arabah Valley south of Jeshimon. + 25. When David heard that Saul and his men were searching for him, he went even farther into the wilderness to the great rock, and he remained there in the wilderness of Maon. But Saul kept after him in the wilderness. 26. Saul and David were now on opposite sides of a mountain. Just as Saul and his men began to close in on David and his men, @@ -47,3 +51,4 @@ Meanwhile, David and his men had moved into the wilderness of Maon in the Arabah 29. David then went to live in the strongholds of En-gedi. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_24.md index a886170b..04c71029 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_24.md @@ -11,7 +11,9 @@ David Spares Saul's Life 5. But then David's conscience began bothering him because he had cut Saul's robe. 6. He said to his men, "The LORD forbid that I should do this to my lord the king. I shouldn't attack the LORD's anointed one, for the LORD himself has chosen him." 7. So David restrained his men and did not let them kill Saul. + After Saul had left the cave and gone on his way, + 8. David came out and shouted after him, "My lord the king!" And when Saul looked around, David bowed low before him. 9. Then he shouted to Saul, "Why do you listen to the people who say I am trying to harm you? @@ -33,3 +35,4 @@ After Saul had left the cave and gone on his way, 22. So David promised this to Saul with an oath. Then Saul went home, but David and his men went back to their stronghold. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_25.md index d6dbe55f..18f40c8e 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_25.md @@ -1,7 +1,9 @@ The Death of Samuel # Chapter 25 -1. Now Samuel died, and all Israel gathered for his funeral. They buried him at his house in Ramah.Nabal Angers David +1. Now Samuel died, and all Israel gathered for his funeral. They buried him at his house in Ramah. + +Nabal Angers David Then David moved down to the wilderness of Maon. 2. There was a wealthy man from Maon who owned property near the town of Carmel. He had 3,000 sheep and 1,000 goats, and it was sheep-shearing time. 3. This man's name was Nabal, and his wife, Abigail, was a sensible and beautiful woman. But Nabal, a descendant of Caleb, was crude and mean in all his dealings. @@ -29,7 +31,9 @@ Then David moved down to the wilderness of Maon. 20. As she was riding her donkey into a mountain ravine, she saw David and his men coming toward her. 21. David had just been saying, "A lot of good it did to help this fellow. We protected his flocks in the wilderness, and nothing he owned was lost or stolen. But he has repaid me evil for good. -22. May God strike me and kill me if even one man of his household is still alive tomorrow morning!"Abigail Intercedes for Nabal +22. May God strike me and kill me if even one man of his household is still alive tomorrow morning!" +Abigail Intercedes for Nabal + 23. When Abigail saw David, she quickly got off her donkey and bowed low before him. 24. She fell at his feet and said, "I accept all blame in this matter, my lord. Please listen to what I have to say. @@ -50,7 +54,11 @@ Then David moved down to the wilderness of Maon. 36. When Abigail arrived home, she found that Nabal was throwing a big party and was celebrating like a king. He was very drunk, so she didn't tell him anything about her meeting with David until dawn the next day. 37. In the morning when Nabal was sober, his wife told him what had happened. As a result he had a stroke, and he lay paralyzed on his bed like a stone. -38. About ten days later, the LORD struck him, and he died.David Marries Abigail +38. +About ten days later, the LORD struck him, and he died. + +David Marries Abigail + 39. When David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, "Praise the LORD, who has avenged the insult I received from Nabal and has kept me from doing it myself. Nabal has received the punishment for his sin." Then David sent messengers to Abigail to ask her to become his wife. @@ -62,3 +70,4 @@ Then David moved down to the wilderness of Maon. 44. Saul, meanwhile, had given his daughter Michal, David's wife, to a man from Gallim named Palti son of Laish. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_26.md index ae39c2e3..a711a713 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_26.md @@ -9,7 +9,9 @@ David Spares Saul Again 5. David slipped over to Saul's camp one night to look around. Saul and Abner son of Ner, the commander of his army, were sleeping inside a ring formed by the slumbering warriors. 6. "Who will volunteer to go in there with me?" David asked Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai son of Zeruiah, Joab's brother. + "I'll go with you," Abishai replied. + 7. So David and Abishai went right into Saul's camp and found him asleep, with his spear stuck in the ground beside his head. Abner and the soldiers were lying asleep around him. 8. "God has surely handed your enemy over to you this time!" Abishai whispered to David. "Let me pin him to the ground with one thrust of the spear; I won't need to strike twice!" @@ -24,11 +26,13 @@ David Spares Saul Again 14. Then he shouted down to the soldiers and to Abner son of Ner, "Wake up, Abner!" "Who is it?" Abner demanded. + 15. "Well, Abner, you're a great man, aren't you?" David taunted. "Where in all Israel is there anyone as mighty? So why haven't you guarded your master the king when someone came to kill him? 16. This isn't good at all! I swear by the LORD that you and your men deserve to die, because you failed to protect your master, the LORD's anointed! Look around! Where are the king's spear and the jug of water that were beside his head?" 17. Saul recognized David's voice and called out, "Is that you, my son David?" And David replied, "Yes, my lord the king. + 18. Why are you chasing me? What have I done? What is my crime? 19. But now let my lord the king listen to his servant. If the LORD has stirred you up against me, then let him accept my offering. But if this is simply a human scheme, then may those involved be cursed by the LORD. For they have driven me from my home, so I can no longer live among the LORD's people, and they have said, 'Go, worship pagan gods.' 20. Must I die on foreign soil, far from the presence of the LORD? Why has the king of Israel come out to search for a single flea? Why does he hunt me down like a partridge on the mountains?" @@ -42,3 +46,4 @@ And David replied, "Yes, my lord the king. 25. And Saul said to David, "Blessings on you, my son David. You will do many heroic deeds, and you will surely succeed." Then David went away, and Saul returned home. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_27.md index 9338a8d9..bc2766ca 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_27.md @@ -16,9 +16,12 @@ David among the Philistines 9. David did not leave one person alive in the villages he attacked. He took the sheep, goats, cattle, donkeys, camels, and clothing before returning home to see King Achish. 10. "Where did you make your raid today?" Achish would ask. + And David would reply, "Against the south of Judah, the Jerahmeelites, and the Kenites." + 11. No one was left alive to come to Gath and tell where he had really been. This happened again and again while he was living among the Philistines. 12. Achish believed David and thought to himself, "By now the people of Israel must hate him bitterly. Now he will have to stay here and serve me forever!" + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_28.md index 228d0a4a..dc1a5c00 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_28.md @@ -1,11 +1,13 @@ Saul Consults a Medium # Chapter 28 -1. About that time the Philistines mustered their armies for another war with Israel. King Achish told David, "You and your men will be expected to join me in battle." +1. +About that time the Philistines mustered their armies for another war with Israel. King Achish told David, "You and your men will be expected to join me in battle." 2. "Very well!" David agreed. "Now you will see for yourself what we can do." Then Achish told David, "I will make you my personal bodyguard for life." + 3. Meanwhile, Samuel had died, and all Israel had mourned for him. He was buried in Ramah, his hometown. And Saul had banned from the land of Israel all mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead. 4. The Philistines set up their camp at Shunem, and Saul gathered all the army of Israel and camped at Gilboa. @@ -14,9 +16,12 @@ Then Achish told David, "I will make you my personal bodyguard for life." 7. Saul then said to his advisers, "Find a woman who is a medium, so I can go and ask her what to do." His advisers replied, "There is a medium at Endor." + 8. So Saul disguised himself by wearing ordinary clothing instead of his royal robes. Then he went to the woman's home at night, accompanied by two of his men. + "I have to talk to a man who has died," he said. "Will you call up his spirit for me?" + 9. "Are you trying to get me killed?" the woman demanded. "You know that Saul has outlawed all the mediums and all who consult the spirits of the dead. Why are you setting a trap for me?" 10. But Saul took an oath in the name of the LORD and promised, "As surely as the LORD lives, nothing bad will happen to you for doing this." @@ -24,17 +29,22 @@ His advisers replied, "There is a medium at Endor." 11. Finally, the woman said, "Well, whose spirit do you want me to call up?" "Call up Samuel," Saul replied. + 12. When the woman saw Samuel, she screamed, "You've deceived me! You are Saul!" 13. "Don't be afraid!" the king told her. "What do you see?" "I see a god coming up out of the earth," she said. 14. "What does he look like?" Saul asked. + "He is an old man wrapped in a robe," she replied. Saul realized it was Samuel, and he fell to the ground before him. + 15. "Why have you disturbed me by calling me back?" Samuel asked Saul. + "Because I am in deep trouble," Saul replied. "The Philistines are at war with me, and God has left me and won't reply by prophets or dreams. So I have called for you to tell me what to do." + 16. But Samuel replied, "Why ask me, since the LORD has left you and has become your enemy? 17. The LORD has done just as he said he would. He has torn the kingdom from you and given it to your rival, David. 18. The LORD has done this to you today because you refused to carry out his fierce anger against the Amalekites. @@ -51,3 +61,4 @@ His advisers replied, "There is a medium at Endor." 25. She brought the meal to Saul and his advisers, and they ate it. Then they went out into the night. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_29.md index ee06dfb3..2ea41c28 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_29.md @@ -6,10 +6,13 @@ The Philistines Reject David 3. But the Philistine commanders demanded, "What are these Hebrews doing here?" And Achish told them, "This is David, the servant of King Saul of Israel. He's been with me for years, and I've never found a single fault in him from the day he arrived until today." + 4. But the Philistine commanders were angry. "Send him back to the town you've given him!" they demanded. "He can't go into the battle with us. What if he turns against us in battle and becomes our adversary? Is there any better way for him to reconcile himself with his master than by handing our heads over to him? 5. Isn't this the same David about whom the women of Israel sing in their dances, 'Saul has killed his thousands, - and David his ten thousands'?" + +and David his ten thousands'?" + 6. So Achish finally summoned David and said to him, "I swear by the LORD that you have been a trustworthy ally. I think you should go with me into battle, for I've never found a single flaw in you from the day you arrived until today. But the other Philistine rulers won't hear of it. 7. Please don't upset them, but go back quietly." @@ -22,3 +25,4 @@ And Achish told them, "This is David, the servant of King Saul of Israel. He's b 11. So David and his men headed back into the land of the Philistines, while the Philistine army went on to Jezreel. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_30.md index b5e84e3c..0e022b5a 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_30.md @@ -24,8 +24,10 @@ And the LORD told him, "Yes, go after them. You will surely recover everything t 14. We were on our way back from raiding the Kerethites in the Negev, the territory of Judah, and the land of Caleb, and we had just burned Ziklag." 15. "Will you lead me to this band of raiders?" David asked. + The young man replied, "If you take an oath in God's name that you will not kill me or give me back to my master, then I will guide you to them." + 16. So he led David to them, and they found the Amalekites spread out across the fields, eating and drinking and dancing with joy because of the vast amount of plunder they had taken from the Philistines and the land of Judah. 17. David and his men rushed in among them and slaughtered them throughout that night and the entire next day until evening. None of the Amalekites escaped except 400 young men who fled on camels. 18. David got back everything the Amalekites had taken, and he rescued his two wives. @@ -48,3 +50,4 @@ The young man replied, "If you take an oath in God's name that you will not kill 31. Hebron, and all the other places David and his men had visited. + diff --git a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_31.md index 2174177f..348378a1 100644 --- a/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/09_1 Samuel/Chapter_31.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ The Death of Saul 4. Saul groaned to his armor bearer, "Take your sword and kill me before these pagan Philistines come to run me through and taunt and torture me." But his armor bearer was afraid and would not do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it. + 5. When his armor bearer realized that Saul was dead, he fell on his own sword and died beside the king. 6. So Saul, his three sons, his armor bearer, and his troops all died together that same day. @@ -21,3 +22,4 @@ But his armor bearer was afraid and would not do it. So Saul took his own sword 13. Then they took their bones and buried them beneath the tamarisk tree at Jabesh, and they fasted for seven days. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_01.md index f89e03b4..6465ea73 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_01.md @@ -5,11 +5,14 @@ David Learns of Saul's Death 2. On the third day a man arrived from Saul's army camp. He had torn his clothes and put dirt on his head to show that he was in mourning. He fell to the ground before David in deep respect. 3. "Where have you come from?" David asked. + "I escaped from the Israelite camp," the man replied. + 4. "What happened?" David demanded. "Tell me how the battle went." The man replied, "Our entire army fled from the battle. Many of the men are dead, and Saul and his son Jonathan are also dead." + 5. "How do you know Saul and Jonathan are dead?" David demanded of the young man. 6. The man answered, "I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, and there was Saul leaning on his spear with the enemy chariots and charioteers closing in on him. @@ -18,6 +21,7 @@ The man replied, "Our entire army fled from the battle. Many of the men are dead 8. "He responded, 'Who are you?' "'I am an Amalekite,' I told him. + 9. "Then he begged me, 'Come over here and put me out of my misery, for I am in terrible pain and want to die.' 10. "So I killed him," the Amalekite told David, "for I knew he couldn't live. Then I took his crown and his armband, and I have brought them here to you, my lord." @@ -28,51 +32,81 @@ The man replied, "Our entire army fled from the battle. Many of the men are dead 13. Then David said to the young man who had brought the news, "Where are you from?" And he replied, "I am a foreigner, an Amalekite, who lives in your land." + 14. "Why were you not afraid to kill the LORD's anointed one?" David asked. 15. Then David said to one of his men, "Kill him!" So the man thrust his sword into the Amalekite and killed him. -16. "You have condemned yourself," David said, "for you yourself confessed that you killed the LORD's anointed one."David's Song for Saul and Jonathan +16. "You have condemned yourself," David said, "for you yourself confessed that you killed the LORD's anointed one." +David's Song for Saul and Jonathan + 17. Then David composed a funeral song for Saul and Jonathan, 18. and he commanded that it be taught to the people of Judah. It is known as the Song of the Bow, and it is recorded in The Book of Jashar. 19. Your pride and joy, O Israel, lies dead on the hills! - Oh, how the mighty heroes have fallen! + +Oh, how the mighty heroes have fallen! + 20. Don't announce the news in Gath, - don't proclaim it in the streets of Ashkelon, + +don't proclaim it in the streets of Ashkelon, or the daughters of the Philistines will rejoice - and the pagans will laugh in triumph. + +and the pagans will laugh in triumph. + 21. O mountains of Gilboa, - let there be no dew or rain upon you, + +let there be no dew or rain upon you, nor fruitful fields producing offerings of grain. + For there the shield of the mighty heroes was defiled; - the shield of Saul will no longer be anointed with oil. + +the shield of Saul will no longer be anointed with oil. + 22. The bow of Jonathan was powerful, - and the sword of Saul did its mighty work. + +and the sword of Saul did its mighty work. + They shed the blood of their enemies - and pierced the bodies of mighty heroes. + +and pierced the bodies of mighty heroes. + 23. How beloved and gracious were Saul and Jonathan! - They were together in life and in death. + +They were together in life and in death. + They were swifter than eagles, - stronger than lions. + +stronger than lions. + 24. O women of Israel, weep for Saul, for he dressed you in luxurious scarlet clothing, - in garments decorated with gold. + +in garments decorated with gold. + 25. Oh, how the mighty heroes have fallen in battle! - Jonathan lies dead on the hills. + +Jonathan lies dead on the hills. + 26. How I weep for you, my brother Jonathan! - Oh, how much I loved you! + +Oh, how much I loved you! And your love for me was deep, - deeper than the love of women! - -27. Oh, how the mighty heroes have fallen! - Stripped of their weapons, they lie dead. + +deeper than the love of women! + + +27. +Oh, how the mighty heroes have fallen! + +Stripped of their weapons, they lie dead. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_02.md index 5738a103..0551e42a 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_02.md @@ -3,38 +3,52 @@ David Anointed King of Judah # Chapter 2 1. After this, David asked the LORD, "Should I move back to one of the towns of Judah?" "Yes," the LORD replied. + Then David asked, "Which town should I go to?" "To Hebron," the LORD answered. 2. David's two wives were Ahinoam from Jezreel and Abigail, the widow of Nabal from Carmel. So David and his wives 3. and his men and their families all moved to Judah, and they settled in the villages near Hebron. 4. Then the men of Judah came to David and anointed him king over the people of Judah. + When David heard that the men of Jabesh-gilead had buried Saul, + 5. he sent them this message: "May the LORD bless you for being so loyal to your master Saul and giving him a decent burial. 6. May the LORD be loyal to you in return and reward you with his unfailing love! And I, too, will reward you for what you have done. -7. Now that Saul is dead, I ask you to be my strong and loyal subjects like the people of Judah, who have anointed me as their new king."Ishbosheth Proclaimed King of Israel +7. Now that Saul is dead, I ask you to be my strong and loyal subjects like the people of Judah, who have anointed me as their new king." +Ishbosheth Proclaimed King of Israel + 8. But Abner son of Ner, the commander of Saul's army, had already gone to Mahanaim with Saul's son Ishbosheth. 9. There he proclaimed Ishbosheth king over Gilead, Jezreel, Ephraim, Benjamin, the land of the Ashurites, and all the rest of Israel. 10. Ishbosheth, Saul's son, was forty years old when he became king, and he ruled from Mahanaim for two years. Meanwhile, the people of Judah remained loyal to David. -11. David made Hebron his capital, and he ruled as king of Judah for seven and a half years.War between Israel and Judah +11. David made Hebron his capital, and he ruled as king of Judah for seven and a half years. + +War between Israel and Judah + 12. One day Abner led Ishbosheth's troops from Mahanaim to Gibeon. -13. About the same time, Joab son of Zeruiah led David's troops out and met them at the pool of Gibeon. The two groups sat down there, facing each other from opposite sides of the pool. +13. +About the same time, Joab son of Zeruiah led David's troops out and met them at the pool of Gibeon. The two groups sat down there, facing each other from opposite sides of the pool. 14. Then Abner suggested to Joab, "Let's have a few of our warriors fight hand to hand here in front of us." "All right," Joab agreed. + 15. So twelve men were chosen to fight from each side--twelve men of Benjamin representing Ishbosheth son of Saul, and twelve representing David. 16. Each one grabbed his opponent by the hair and thrust his sword into the other's side so that all of them died. So this place at Gibeon has been known ever since as the Field of Swords. -17. A fierce battle followed that day, and Abner and the men of Israel were defeated by the forces of David.The Death of Asahel +17. A fierce battle followed that day, and Abner and the men of Israel were defeated by the forces of David. + +The Death of Asahel + 18. Joab, Abishai, and Asahel--the three sons of Zeruiah--were among David's forces that day. Asahel could run like a gazelle, 19. and he began chasing Abner. He pursued him relentlessly, not stopping for anything. 20. When Abner looked back and saw him coming, he called out, "Is that you, Asahel?" "Yes, it is," he replied. + 21. "Go fight someone else!" Abner warned. "Take on one of the younger men, and strip him of his weapons." But Asahel kept right on chasing Abner. 22. Again Abner shouted to him, "Get away from here! I don't want to kill you. How could I ever face your brother Joab again?" @@ -56,3 +70,4 @@ When David heard that the men of Jabesh-gilead had buried Saul, 32. Joab and his men took Asahel's body to Bethlehem and buried him there in his father's tomb. Then they traveled all night and reached Hebron at daybreak. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_03.md index d2124393..958aed5f 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_03.md @@ -1,17 +1,29 @@ # Chapter 3 -1. That was the beginning of a long war between those who were loyal to Saul and those loyal to David. As time passed David became stronger and stronger, while Saul's dynasty became weaker and weaker.David's Sons Born in Hebron +1. That was the beginning of a long war between those who were loyal to Saul and those loyal to David. As time passed David became stronger and stronger, while Saul's dynasty became weaker and weaker. + +David's Sons Born in Hebron + 2. These are the sons who were born to David in Hebron: The oldest was Amnon, whose mother was Ahinoam from Jezreel. + 3. The second was Daniel, whose mother was Abigail, the widow of Nabal from Carmel. + The third was Absalom, whose mother was Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur. + 4. The fourth was Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith. + The fifth was Shephatiah, whose mother was Abital. + 5. The sixth was Ithream, whose mother was Eglah, David's wife. -These sons were all born to David in Hebron.Abner Joins Forces with David + +These sons were all born to David in Hebron. + +Abner Joins Forces with David + 6. As the war between the house of Saul and the house of David went on, Abner became a powerful leader among those loyal to Saul. 7. One day Ishbosheth, Saul's son, accused Abner of sleeping with one of his father's concubines, a woman named Rizpah, daughter of Aiah. @@ -35,7 +47,10 @@ These sons were all born to David in Hebron.Abner Joins Forces with David 19. Abner also spoke with the men of Benjamin. Then he went to Hebron to tell David that all the people of Israel and Benjamin had agreed to support him. 20. When Abner and twenty of his men came to Hebron, David entertained them with a great feast. -21. Then Abner said to David, "Let me go and call an assembly of all Israel to support my lord the king. They will make a covenant with you to make you their king, and you will rule over everything your heart desires." So David sent Abner safely on his way.Joab Murders Abner +21. Then Abner said to David, "Let me go and call an assembly of all Israel to support my lord the king. They will make a covenant with you to make you their king, and you will rule over everything your heart desires." So David sent Abner safely on his way. + +Joab Murders Abner + 22. But just after David had sent Abner away in safety, Joab and some of David's troops returned from a raid, bringing much plunder with them. 23. When Joab arrived, he was told that Abner had just been there visiting the king and had been sent away in safety. @@ -49,18 +64,26 @@ These sons were all born to David in Hebron.Abner Joins Forces with David 28. When David heard about it, he declared, "I vow by the LORD that I and my kingdom are forever innocent of this crime against Abner son of Ner. 29. Joab and his family are the guilty ones. May the family of Joab be cursed in every generation with a man who has open sores or leprosy or who walks on crutches or dies by the sword or begs for food!" -30. So Joab and his brother Abishai killed Abner because Abner had killed their brother Asahel at the battle of Gibeon.David Mourns Abner's Death +30. So Joab and his brother Abishai killed Abner because Abner had killed their brother Asahel at the battle of Gibeon. + +David Mourns Abner's Death + 31. Then David said to Joab and all those who were with him, "Tear your clothes and put on burlap. Mourn for Abner." And King David himself walked behind the procession to the grave. 32. They buried Abner in Hebron, and the king and all the people wept at his graveside. 33. Then the king sang this funeral song for Abner: "Should Abner have died as fools die? + 34. Your hands were not bound; - your feet were not chained. + +your feet were not chained. + No, you were murdered-- - the victim of a wicked plot." + +the victim of a wicked plot." All the people wept again for Abner. + 35. David had refused to eat anything on the day of the funeral, and now everyone begged him to eat. But David had made a vow, saying, "May God strike me and even kill me if I eat anything before sundown." 36. This pleased the people very much. In fact, everything the king did pleased them! @@ -70,3 +93,4 @@ All the people wept again for Abner. 39. And even though I am the anointed king, these two sons of Zeruiah--Joab and Abishai--are too strong for me to control. So may the LORD repay these evil men for their evil deeds." + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_04.md index 608cc1f4..0d7a3bda 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_04.md @@ -19,3 +19,4 @@ The Murder of Ishbosheth 12. So David ordered his young men to kill them, and they did. They cut off their hands and feet and hung their bodies beside the pool in Hebron. Then they took Ishbosheth's head and buried it in Abner's tomb in Hebron. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_05.md index 8ce57a9a..00d35925 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_05.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ David Becomes King of All Israel 3. So there at Hebron, King David made a covenant before the LORD with all the elders of Israel. And they anointed him king of Israel. 4. David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years in all. -5. He had reigned over Judah from Hebron for seven years and six months, and from Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah for thirty-three years.David Captures Jerusalem +5. He had reigned over Judah from Hebron for seven years and six months, and from Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah for thirty-three years. + +David Captures Jerusalem + 6. David then led his men to Jerusalem to fight against the Jebusites, the original inhabitants of the land who were living there. The Jebusites taunted David, saying, "You'll never get in here! Even the blind and lame could keep you out!" For the Jebusites thought they were safe. 7. But David captured the fortress of Zion, which is now called the City of David. @@ -23,7 +26,10 @@ David Becomes King of All Israel 13. After moving from Hebron to Jerusalem, David married more concubines and wives, and they had more sons and daughters. 14. These are the names of David's sons who were born in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, 15. Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia, -16. Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet.David Conquers the Philistines +16. Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet. + +David Conquers the Philistines + 17. When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king of Israel, they mobilized all their forces to capture him. But David was told they were coming, so he went into the stronghold. 18. The Philistines arrived and spread out across the valley of Rephaim. @@ -39,3 +45,4 @@ The LORD replied to David, "Yes, go ahead. I will certainly hand them over to yo 25. So David did what the LORD commanded, and he struck down the Philistines all the way from Gibeon to Gezer. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_06.md index bc85aa53..d219668c 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_06.md @@ -19,7 +19,10 @@ Moving the Ark to Jerusalem 12. Then King David was told, "The LORD has blessed Obed-edom's household and everything he has because of the Ark of God." So David went there and brought the Ark of God from the house of Obed-edom to the City of David with a great celebration. 13. After the men who were carrying the Ark of the LORD had gone six steps, David sacrificed a bull and a fattened calf. 14. And David danced before the LORD with all his might, wearing a priestly garment. -15. So David and all the people of Israel brought up the Ark of the LORD with shouts of joy and the blowing of rams' horns.Michal's Contempt for David +15. So David and all the people of Israel brought up the Ark of the LORD with shouts of joy and the blowing of rams' horns. + +Michal's Contempt for David + 16. But as the Ark of the LORD entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, she was filled with contempt for him. @@ -34,3 +37,4 @@ Moving the Ark to Jerusalem 23. So Michal, the daughter of Saul, remained childless throughout her entire life. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_07.md index 940292b5..6f5142ea 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_07.md @@ -23,7 +23,10 @@ The LORD's Covenant Promise to David 15. But my favor will not be taken from him as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from your sight. 16. Your house and your kingdom will continue before me for all time, and your throne will be secure forever.'" -17. So Nathan went back to David and told him everything the LORD had said in this vision.David's Prayer of Thanks +17. So Nathan went back to David and told him everything the LORD had said in this vision. + +David's Prayer of Thanks + 18. Then King David went in and sat before the LORD and prayed, "Who am I, O Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? @@ -44,3 +47,4 @@ The LORD's Covenant Promise to David 29. And now, may it please you to bless the house of your servant, so that it may continue forever before you. For you have spoken, and when you grant a blessing to your servant, O Sovereign LORD, it is an eternal blessing!" + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_08.md index be665207..d4f81725 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_08.md @@ -28,3 +28,4 @@ David's Military Victories 18. Benaiah son of Jehoiada was captain of the king's bodyguard. And David's sons served as priestly leaders. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_09.md index b5004a27..69eab039 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_09.md @@ -3,18 +3,24 @@ David's Kindness to Mephibosheth # Chapter 9 1. One day David asked, "Is anyone in Saul's family still alive--anyone to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan's sake?" 2. He summoned a man named Ziba, who had been one of Saul's servants. "Are you Ziba?" the king asked. + "Yes sir, I am," Ziba replied. + 3. The king then asked him, "Is anyone still alive from Saul's family? If so, I want to show God's kindness to them." Ziba replied, "Yes, one of Jonathan's sons is still alive. He is crippled in both feet." + 4. "Where is he?" the king asked. + "In Lo-debar," Ziba told him, "at the home of Makir son of Ammiel." + 5. So David sent for him and brought him from Makir's home. 6. His name was Mephibosheth; he was Jonathan's son and Saul's grandson. When he came to David, he bowed low to the ground in deep respect. David said, "Greetings, Mephibosheth." Mephibosheth replied, "I am your servant." + 7. "Don't be afraid!" David said. "I intend to show kindness to you because of my promise to your father, Jonathan. I will give you all the property that once belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will eat here with me at the king's table!" 8. Mephibosheth bowed respectfully and exclaimed, "Who is your servant, that you should show such kindness to a dead dog like me?" @@ -28,3 +34,4 @@ Mephibosheth replied, "I am your servant." 13. And Mephibosheth, who was crippled in both feet, lived in Jerusalem and ate regularly at the king's table. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_10.md index 41242bca..d8400e9f 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_10.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ David Defeats the Ammonites # Chapter 10 1. Some time after this, King Nahash of the Ammonites died, and his son Hanun became king. 2. David said, "I am going to show loyalty to Hanun just as his father, Nahash, was always loyal to me." So David sent ambassadors to express sympathy to Hanun about his father's death. + But when David's ambassadors arrived in the land of Ammon, + 3. the Ammonite commanders said to Hanun, their master, "Do you really think these men are coming here to honor your father? No! David has sent them to spy out the city so they can come in and conquer it!" 4. So Hanun seized David's ambassadors and shaved off half of each man's beard, cut off their robes at the buttocks, and sent them back to David in shame. @@ -29,3 +31,4 @@ But when David's ambassadors arrived in the land of Ammon, 19. When all the kings allied with Hadadezer saw that they had been defeated by Israel, they surrendered to Israel and became their subjects. After that, the Arameans were afraid to help the Ammonites. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_11.md index 91003c49..162e4cba 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_11.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ David and Bathsheba 11. Uriah replied, "The Ark and the armies of Israel and Judah are living in tents, and Joab and my master's men are camping in the open fields. How could I go home to wine and dine and sleep with my wife? I swear that I would never do such a thing." 12. "Well, stay here today," David told him, "and tomorrow you may return to the army." So Uriah stayed in Jerusalem that day and the next. -13. Then David invited him to dinner and got him drunk. But even then he couldn't get Uriah to go home to his wife. Again he slept at the palace entrance with the king's palace guard.David Arranges for Uriah's Death +13. Then David invited him to dinner and got him drunk. But even then he couldn't get Uriah to go home to his wife. Again he slept at the palace entrance with the king's palace guard. + +David Arranges for Uriah's Death + 14. So the next morning David wrote a letter to Joab and gave it to Uriah to deliver. 15. The letter instructed Joab, "Station Uriah on the front lines where the battle is fiercest. Then pull back so that he will be killed." @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ David and Bathsheba 27. When the period of mourning was over, David sent for her and brought her to the palace, and she became one of his wives. Then she gave birth to a son. But the LORD was displeased with what David had done. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_12.md index a35de290..9f050fa8 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_12.md @@ -15,7 +15,9 @@ Nathan Rebukes David 10. From this time on, your family will live by the sword because you have despised me by taking Uriah's wife to be your own. 11. "This is what the LORD says: Because of what you have done, I will cause your own household to rebel against you. I will give your wives to another man before your very eyes, and he will go to bed with them in public view. -12. You did it secretly, but I will make this happen to you openly in the sight of all Israel."David Confesses His Guilt +12. You did it secretly, but I will make this happen to you openly in the sight of all Israel." +David Confesses His Guilt + 13. Then David confessed to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD." Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you, and you won't die for this sin. @@ -28,8 +30,10 @@ Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you, and you won't die for this 18. Then on the seventh day the child died. David's advisers were afraid to tell him. "He wouldn't listen to reason while the child was ill," they said. "What drastic thing will he do when we tell him the child is dead?" 19. When David saw them whispering, he realized what had happened. "Is the child dead?" he asked. + "Yes," they replied, "he is dead." + 20. Then David got up from the ground, washed himself, put on lotions, and changed his clothes. He went to the Tabernacle and worshiped the LORD. After that, he returned to the palace and was served food and ate. 21. His advisers were amazed. "We don't understand you," they told him. "While the child was still living, you wept and refused to eat. But now that the child is dead, you have stopped your mourning and are eating again." @@ -38,7 +42,10 @@ Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you, and you won't die for this 23. But why should I fast when he is dead? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him one day, but he cannot return to me." 24. Then David comforted Bathsheba, his wife, and slept with her. She became pregnant and gave birth to a son, and David named him Solomon. The LORD loved the child -25. and sent word through Nathan the prophet that they should name him Jedidiah (which means "beloved of the LORD"), as the LORD had commanded.David Captures Rabbah +25. and sent word through Nathan the prophet that they should name him Jedidiah (which means "beloved of the LORD"), as the LORD had commanded. + +David Captures Rabbah + 26. Meanwhile, Joab was fighting against Rabbah, the capital of Ammon, and he captured the royal fortifications. 27. Joab sent messengers to tell David, "I have fought against Rabbah and captured its water supply. @@ -49,3 +56,4 @@ Nathan replied, "Yes, but the LORD has forgiven you, and you won't die for this 31. He also made slaves of the people of Rabbah and forced them to labor with saws, iron picks, and iron axes, and to work in the brick kilns. That is how he dealt with the people of all the Ammonite towns. Then David and all the army returned to Jerusalem. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_13.md index 519b0eac..c2ca6a49 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_13.md @@ -8,6 +8,7 @@ The Rape of Tamar 4. One day Jonadab said to Amnon, "What's the trouble? Why should the son of a king look so dejected morning after morning?" So Amnon told him, "I am in love with Tamar, my brother Absalom's sister." + 5. "Well," Jonadab said, "I'll tell you what to do. Go back to bed and pretend you are ill. When your father comes to see you, ask him to let Tamar come and prepare some food for you. Tell him you'll feel better if she prepares it as you watch and feeds you with her own hands." 6. So Amnon lay down and pretended to be sick. And when the king came to see him, Amnon asked him, "Please let my sister Tamar come and cook my favorite dish as I watch. Then I can eat it from her own hands." @@ -27,6 +28,7 @@ So Amnon told him, "I am in love with Tamar, my brother Absalom's sister." 16. "No, no!" Tamar cried. "Sending me away now is worse than what you've already done to me." But Amnon wouldn't listen to her. + 17. He shouted for his servant and demanded, "Throw this woman out, and lock the door behind her!" 18. So the servant put her out and locked the door behind her. She was wearing a long, beautiful robe, as was the custom in those days for the king's virgin daughters. @@ -35,7 +37,10 @@ But Amnon wouldn't listen to her. 20. Her brother Absalom saw her and asked, "Is it true that Amnon has been with you? Well, my sister, keep quiet for now, since he's your brother. Don't you worry about it." So Tamar lived as a desolate woman in her brother Absalom's house. 21. When King David heard what had happened, he was very angry. -22. And though Absalom never spoke to Amnon about this, he hated Amnon deeply because of what he had done to his sister.Absalom's Revenge on Amnon +22. And though Absalom never spoke to Amnon about this, he hated Amnon deeply because of what he had done to his sister. + +Absalom's Revenge on Amnon + 23. Two years later, when Absalom's sheep were being sheared at Baal-hazor near Ephraim, Absalom invited all the king's sons to come to a feast. 24. He went to the king and said, "My sheep-shearers are now at work. Would the king and his servants please come to celebrate the occasion with me?" @@ -44,6 +49,7 @@ But Amnon wouldn't listen to her. 26. "Well, then," Absalom said, "if you can't come, how about sending my brother Amnon with us?" "Why Amnon?" the king asked. + 27. But Absalom kept on pressing the king until he finally agreed to let all his sons attend, including Amnon. So Absalom prepared a feast fit for a king. 28. Absalom told his men, "Wait until Amnon gets drunk; then at my signal, kill him! Don't be afraid. I'm the one who has given the command. Take courage and do it!" @@ -61,8 +67,11 @@ Then the watchman on the Jerusalem wall saw a great crowd coming down the hill o 36. They soon arrived, weeping and sobbing, and the king and all his servants wept bitterly with them. 37. And David mourned many days for his son Amnon. + Absalom fled to his grandfather, Talmai son of Ammihud, the king of Geshur. + 38. He stayed there in Geshur for three years. 39. And King David, now reconciled to Amnon's death, longed to be reunited with his son Absalom. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_14.md index ea0686af..91640588 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_14.md @@ -5,10 +5,13 @@ Joab Arranges for Absalom's Return 2. So he sent for a woman from Tekoa who had a reputation for great wisdom. He said to her, "Pretend you are in mourning; wear mourning clothes and don't put on lotions. Act like a woman who has been mourning for the dead for a long time. 3. Then go to the king and tell him the story I am about to tell you." Then Joab told her what to say. -4. When the woman from Tekoa approached the king, she bowed with her face to the ground in deep respect and cried out, "O king! Help me!" +4. When the woman from Tekoa approached the king, she bowed with her face to the ground in deep respect and cried out, "O king! +Help me!" 5. "What's the trouble?" the king asked. + "Alas, I am a widow!" she replied. "My husband is dead. + 6. My two sons had a fight out in the field. And since no one was there to stop it, one of them was killed. 7. Now the rest of the family is demanding, 'Let us have your son. We will execute him for murdering his brother. He doesn't deserve to inherit his family's property.' They want to extinguish the only coal I have left, and my husband's name and family will disappear from the face of the earth." @@ -22,8 +25,10 @@ Joab Arranges for Absalom's Return "As surely as the LORD lives," he replied, "not a hair on your son's head will be disturbed!" 12. "Please allow me to ask one more thing of my lord the king," she said. + "Go ahead and speak," he responded. + 13. She replied, "Why don't you do as much for the people of God as you have promised to do for me? You have convicted yourself in making this decision, because you have refused to bring home your own banished son. 14. All of us must die eventually. Our lives are like water spilled out on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again. But God does not just sweep life away; instead, he devises ways to bring us back when we have been separated from him. @@ -34,8 +39,10 @@ Joab Arranges for Absalom's Return 18. "I must know one thing," the king replied, "and tell me the truth." "Yes, my lord the king," she responded. + 19. "Did Joab put you up to this?" And the woman replied, "My lord the king, how can I deny it? Nobody can hide anything from you. Yes, Joab sent me and told me what to say. + 20. He did it to place the matter before you in a different light. But you are as wise as an angel of God, and you understand everything that happens among us!" 21. So the king sent for Joab and told him, "All right, go and bring back the young man Absalom." @@ -43,7 +50,10 @@ And the woman replied, "My lord the king, how can I deny it? Nobody can hide any 22. Joab bowed with his face to the ground in deep respect and said, "At last I know that I have gained your approval, my lord the king, for you have granted me this request!" 23. Then Joab went to Geshur and brought Absalom back to Jerusalem. -24. But the king gave this order: "Absalom may go to his own house, but he must never come into my presence." So Absalom did not see the king.Absalom Reconciled to David +24. But the king gave this order: "Absalom may go to his own house, but he must never come into my presence." So Absalom did not see the king. + +Absalom Reconciled to David + 25. Now Absalom was praised as the most handsome man in all Israel. He was flawless from head to foot. 26. He cut his hair only once a year, and then only because it was so heavy. When he weighed it out, it came to five pounds! @@ -60,3 +70,4 @@ And the woman replied, "My lord the king, how can I deny it? Nobody can hide any 33. So Joab told the king what Absalom had said. Then at last David summoned Absalom, who came and bowed low before the king, and the king kissed him. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_15.md index 2c778013..16350392 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_15.md @@ -14,9 +14,13 @@ Absalom's Rebellion 9. "All right," the king told him. "Go and fulfill your vow." So Absalom went to Hebron. + 10. But while he was there, he sent secret messengers to all the tribes of Israel to stir up a rebellion against the king. "As soon as you hear the ram's horn," his message read, "you are to say, 'Absalom has been crowned king in Hebron.'" 11. He took 200 men from Jerusalem with him as guests, but they knew nothing of his intentions. -12. While Absalom was offering the sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel, one of David's counselors who lived in Giloh. Soon many others also joined Absalom, and the conspiracy gained momentum.David Escapes from Jerusalem +12. While Absalom was offering the sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel, one of David's counselors who lived in Giloh. Soon many others also joined Absalom, and the conspiracy gained momentum. + +David Escapes from Jerusalem + 13. A messenger soon arrived in Jerusalem to tell David, "All Israel has joined Absalom in a conspiracy against you!" @@ -58,3 +62,4 @@ So Absalom went to Hebron. 37. So David's friend Hushai returned to Jerusalem, getting there just as Absalom arrived. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_16.md index 36af1817..471304fa 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_16.md @@ -4,13 +4,19 @@ David and Ziba 1. When David had gone a little beyond the summit of the Mount of Olives, Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, was waiting there for him. He had two donkeys loaded with 200 loaves of bread, 100 clusters of raisins, 100 bunches of summer fruit, and a wineskin full of wine. 2. "What are these for?" the king asked Ziba. + Ziba replied, "The donkeys are for the king's people to ride on, and the bread and summer fruit are for the young men to eat. The wine is for those who become exhausted in the wilderness." + 3. "And where is Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson?" the king asked him. + "He stayed in Jerusalem," Ziba replied. "He said, 'Today I will get back the kingdom of my grandfather Saul.'" + 4. "In that case," the king told Ziba, "I give you everything Mephibosheth owns." -"I bow before you," Ziba replied. "May I always be pleasing to you, my lord the king."Shimei Curses David +"I bow before you," Ziba replied. "May I always be pleasing to you, my lord the king." +Shimei Curses David + 5. As King David came to Bahurim, a man came out of the village cursing them. It was Shimei son of Gera, from the same clan as Saul's family. 6. He threw stones at the king and the king's officers and all the mighty warriors who surrounded him. @@ -25,7 +31,10 @@ Ziba replied, "The donkeys are for the king's people to ride on, and the bread a 12. And perhaps the LORD will see that I am being wronged and will bless me because of these curses today." 13. So David and his men continued down the road, and Shimei kept pace with them on a nearby hillside, cursing and throwing stones and dirt at David. -14. The king and all who were with him grew weary along the way, so they rested when they reached the Jordan River.Ahithophel Advises Absalom +14. The king and all who were with him grew weary along the way, so they rested when they reached the Jordan River. + +Ahithophel Advises Absalom + 15. Meanwhile, Absalom and all the army of Israel arrived at Jerusalem, accompanied by Ahithophel. 16. When David's friend Hushai the Arkite arrived, he went immediately to see Absalom. "Long live the king!" he exclaimed. "Long live the king!" @@ -43,3 +52,4 @@ Ziba replied, "The donkeys are for the king's people to ride on, and the bread a 23. Absalom followed Ahithophel's advice, just as David had done. For every word Ahithophel spoke seemed as wise as though it had come directly from the mouth of God. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_17.md index d82c43da..adf29975 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_17.md @@ -2,7 +2,10 @@ 1. Now Ahithophel urged Absalom, "Let me choose 12,000 men to start out after David tonight. 2. I will catch up with him while he is weary and discouraged. He and his troops will panic, and everyone will run away. Then I will kill only the king, 3. and I will bring all the people back to you as a bride returns to her husband. After all, it is only one man's life that you seek. Then you will be at peace with all the people." -4. This plan seemed good to Absalom and to all the elders of Israel.Hushai Counters Ahithophel's Advice +4. This plan seemed good to Absalom and to all the elders of Israel. + +Hushai Counters Ahithophel's Advice + 5. But then Absalom said, "Bring in Hushai the Arkite. Let's see what he thinks about this." 6. When Hushai arrived, Absalom told him what Ahithophel had said. Then he asked, "What is your opinion? Should we follow Ahithophel's advice? If not, what do you suggest?" @@ -16,7 +19,9 @@ 12. When we find David, we'll fall on him like dew that falls on the ground. Then neither he nor any of his men will be left alive. 13. And if David were to escape into some town, you will have all Israel there at your command. Then we can take ropes and drag the walls of the town into the nearest valley until every stone is torn down." -14. Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "Hushai's advice is better than Ahithophel's." For the LORD had determined to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel, which really was the better plan, so that he could bring disaster on Absalom!Hushai Warns David to Escape +14. Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "Hushai's advice is better than Ahithophel's." For the LORD had determined to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel, which really was the better plan, so that he could bring disaster on Absalom! +Hushai Warns David to Escape + 15. Hushai told Zadok and Abiathar, the priests, what Ahithophel had said to Absalom and the elders of Israel and what he himself had advised instead. 16. "Quick!" he told them. "Find David and urge him not to stay at the shallows of the Jordan River tonight. He must go across at once into the wilderness beyond. Otherwise he will die and his entire army with him." @@ -28,6 +33,7 @@ 20. When Absalom's men arrived, they asked her, "Have you seen Ahimaaz and Jonathan?" The woman replied, "They were here, but they crossed over the brook." Absalom's men looked for them without success and returned to Jerusalem. + 21. Then the two men crawled out of the well and hurried on to King David. "Quick!" they told him, "cross the Jordan tonight!" And they told him how Ahithophel had advised that he be captured and killed. 22. So David and all the people with him went across the Jordan River during the night, and they were all on the other bank before dawn. @@ -42,3 +48,4 @@ The woman replied, "They were here, but they crossed over the brook." Absalom's 29. honey, butter, sheep, goats, and cheese for David and those who were with him. For they said, "You must all be very hungry and tired and thirsty after your long march through the wilderness." + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_18.md index e0fa2a3b..95bbeb67 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_18.md @@ -28,7 +28,10 @@ Absalom's Defeat and Death 16. Then Joab blew the ram's horn, and his men returned from chasing the army of Israel. 17. They threw Absalom's body into a deep pit in the forest and piled a great heap of stones over it. And all Israel fled to their homes. -18. During his lifetime, Absalom had built a monument to himself in the King's Valley, for he said, "I have no son to carry on my name." He named the monument after himself, and it is known as Absalom's Monument to this day.David Mourns Absalom's Death +18. During his lifetime, Absalom had built a monument to himself in the King's Valley, for he said, "I have no son to carry on my name." He named the monument after himself, and it is known as Absalom's Monument to this day. + +David Mourns Absalom's Death + 19. Then Zadok's son Ahimaaz said, "Let me run to the king with the good news that the LORD has rescued him from his enemies." @@ -39,23 +42,31 @@ Absalom's Defeat and Death 22. But Ahimaaz continued to plead with Joab, "Whatever happens, please let me go, too." "Why should you go, my son?" Joab replied. "There will be no reward for your news." + 23. "Yes, but let me go anyway," he begged. + Joab finally said, "All right, go ahead." So Ahimaaz took the less demanding route by way of the plain and ran to Mahanaim ahead of the Ethiopian. + 24. While David was sitting between the inner and outer gates of the town, the watchman climbed to the roof of the gateway by the wall. As he looked, he saw a lone man running toward them. 25. He shouted the news down to David, and the king replied, "If he is alone, he has news." As the messenger came closer, + 26. the watchman saw another man running toward them. He shouted down, "Here comes another one!" The king replied, "He also will have news." + 27. "The first man runs like Ahimaaz son of Zadok," the watchman said. + "He is a good man and comes with good news," the king replied. + 28. Then Ahimaaz cried out to the king, "Everything is all right!" He bowed before the king with his face to the ground and said, "Praise to the LORD your God, who has handed over the rebels who dared to stand against my lord the king." 29. "What about young Absalom?" the king demanded. "Is he all right?" Ahimaaz replied, "When Joab told me to come, there was a lot of commotion. But I didn't know what was happening." + 30. "Wait here," the king told him. So Ahimaaz stepped aside. 31. Then the man from Ethiopia arrived and said, "I have good news for my lord the king. Today the LORD has rescued you from all those who rebelled against you." @@ -63,6 +74,8 @@ Ahimaaz replied, "When Joab told me to come, there was a lot of commotion. But I 32. "What about young Absalom?" the king demanded. "Is he all right?" And the Ethiopian replied, "May all of your enemies, my lord the king, both now and in the future, share the fate of that young man!" + 33. The king was overcome with emotion. He went up to the room over the gateway and burst into tears. And as he went, he cried, "O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you! O Absalom, my son, my son." + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_19.md index f146800c..c943163a 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_19.md @@ -11,7 +11,9 @@ Joab Rebukes the King 7. Now go out there and congratulate your troops, for I swear by the LORD that if you don't go out, not a single one of them will remain here tonight. Then you will be worse off than ever before." 8. So the king went out and took his seat at the town gate, and as the news spread throughout the town that he was there, everyone went to him. + Meanwhile, the Israelites who had supported Absalom fled to their homes. + 9. And throughout all the tribes of Israel there was much discussion and argument going on. The people were saying, "The king rescued us from our enemies and saved us from the Philistines, but Absalom chased him out of the country. 10. Now Absalom, whom we anointed to rule over us, is dead. Why not ask David to come back and be our king again?" @@ -19,20 +21,27 @@ Meanwhile, the Israelites who had supported Absalom fled to their homes. 12. You are my relatives, my own tribe, my own flesh and blood! So why are you the last ones to welcome back the king?" 13. And David told them to tell Amasa, "Since you are my own flesh and blood, like Joab, may God strike me and even kill me if I do not appoint you as commander of my army in his place." -14. Then Amasa convinced all the men of Judah, and they responded unanimously. They sent word to the king, "Return to us, and bring back all who are with you."David's Return to Jerusalem +14. Then Amasa convinced all the men of Judah, and they responded unanimously. They sent word to the king, "Return to us, and bring back all who are with you." +David's Return to Jerusalem + 15. So the king started back to Jerusalem. And when he arrived at the Jordan River, the people of Judah came to Gilgal to meet him and escort him across the river. 16. Shimei son of Gera, the man from Bahurim in Benjamin, hurried across with the men of Judah to welcome King David. 17. A thousand other men from the tribe of Benjamin were with him, including Ziba, the chief servant of the house of Saul, and Ziba's fifteen sons and twenty servants. They rushed down to the Jordan to meet the king. -18. They crossed the shallows of the Jordan to bring the king's household across the river, helping him in every way they could.David's Mercy to Shimei +18. They crossed the shallows of the Jordan to bring the king's household across the river, helping him in every way they could. + +David's Mercy to Shimei As the king was about to cross the river, Shimei fell down before him. + 19. "My lord the king, please forgive me," he pleaded. "Forget the terrible thing your servant did when you left Jerusalem. May the king put it out of his mind. 20. I know how much I sinned. That is why I have come here today, the very first person in all Israel to greet my lord the king." 21. Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said, "Shimei should die, for he cursed the LORD's anointed king!" 22. "Who asked your opinion, you sons of Zeruiah!" David exclaimed. "Why have you become my adversary today? This is not a day for execution, for today I am once again the king of Israel!" -23. Then, turning to Shimei, David vowed, "Your life will be spared."David's Kindness to Mephibosheth +23. Then, turning to Shimei, David vowed, "Your life will be spared." +David's Kindness to Mephibosheth + 24. Now Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson, came down from Jerusalem to meet the king. He had not cared for his feet, trimmed his beard, or washed his clothes since the day the king left Jerusalem. 25. "Why didn't you come with me, Mephibosheth?" the king asked him. @@ -43,7 +52,9 @@ As the king was about to cross the river, Shimei fell down before him. 29. "You've said enough," David replied. "I've decided that you and Ziba will divide your land equally between you." -30. "Give him all of it," Mephibosheth said. "I am content just to have you safely back again, my lord the king!"David's Kindness to Barzillai +30. "Give him all of it," Mephibosheth said. "I am content just to have you safely back again, my lord the king!" +David's Kindness to Barzillai + 31. Barzillai of Gilead had come down from Rogelim to escort the king across the Jordan. 32. He was very old--eighty years of age--and very wealthy. He was the one who had provided food for the king during his stay in Mahanaim. @@ -57,7 +68,10 @@ As the king was about to cross the river, Shimei fell down before him. 38. "Good," the king agreed. "Kimham will go with me, and I will help him in any way you would like. And I will do for you anything you want." 39. So all the people crossed the Jordan with the king. After David had blessed Barzillai and kissed him, Barzillai returned to his own home. -40. The king then crossed over to Gilgal, taking Kimham with him. All the troops of Judah and half the troops of Israel escorted the king on his way.An Argument over the King +40. The king then crossed over to Gilgal, taking Kimham with him. All the troops of Judah and half the troops of Israel escorted the king on his way. + +An Argument over the King + 41. But all the men of Israel complained to the king, "The men of Judah stole the king and didn't give us the honor of helping take you, your household, and all your men across the Jordan." @@ -66,3 +80,4 @@ As the king was about to cross the river, Shimei fell down before him. 43. "But there are ten tribes in Israel," the others replied. "So we have ten times as much right to the king as you do. What right do you have to treat us with such contempt? Weren't we the first to speak of bringing him back to be our king again?" The argument continued back and forth, and the men of Judah spoke even more harshly than the men of Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_20.md index bfe0020a..0012a821 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_20.md @@ -3,9 +3,13 @@ The Revolt of Sheba # Chapter 20 1. There happened to be a troublemaker there named Sheba son of Bicri, a man from the tribe of Benjamin. Sheba blew a ram's horn and began to chant: "Down with the dynasty of David! - We have no interest in the son of Jesse. + +We have no interest in the son of Jesse. + Come on, you men of Israel, - back to your homes!" + +back to your homes!" + 2. So all the men of Israel deserted David and followed Sheba son of Bicri. But the men of Judah stayed with their king and escorted him from the Jordan River to Jerusalem. @@ -31,15 +35,18 @@ Come on, you men of Israel, 16. But a wise woman in the town called out to Joab, "Listen to me, Joab. Come over here so I can talk to you." 17. As he approached, the woman asked, "Are you Joab?" "I am," he replied. + So she said, "Listen carefully to your servant." "I'm listening," he said. + 18. Then she continued, "There used to be a saying, 'If you want to settle an argument, ask advice at the town of Abel.' 19. I am one who is peace loving and faithful in Israel. But you are destroying an important town in Israel. Why do you want to devour what belongs to the LORD?" 20. And Joab replied, "Believe me, I don't want to devour or destroy your town! 21. That's not my purpose. All I want is a man named Sheba son of Bicri from the hill country of Ephraim, who has revolted against King David. If you hand over this one man to me, I will leave the town in peace." "All right," the woman replied, "we will throw his head over the wall to you." + 22. Then the woman went to all the people with her wise advice, and they cut off Sheba's head and threw it out to Joab. So he blew the ram's horn and called his troops back from the attack. They all returned to their homes, and Joab returned to the king at Jerusalem. 23. Now Joab was the commander of the army of Israel. Benaiah son of Jehoiada was captain of the king's bodyguard. @@ -48,3 +55,4 @@ So she said, "Listen carefully to your servant." 26. And Ira, a descendant of Jair, was David's personal priest. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_21.md index 6a353e90..4e6bf913 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_21.md @@ -9,9 +9,11 @@ David Avenges the Gibeonites 4. "Well, money can't settle this matter between us and the family of Saul," the Gibeonites replied. "Neither can we demand the life of anyone in Israel." "What can I do then?" David asked. "Just tell me and I will do it for you." + 5. Then they replied, "It was Saul who planned to destroy us, to keep us from having any place at all in the territory of Israel. 6. So let seven of Saul's sons be handed over to us, and we will execute them before the LORD at Gibeon, on the mountain of the LORD." "All right," the king said, "I will do it." + 7. The king spared Jonathan's son Mephibosheth, who was Saul's grandson, because of the oath David and Jonathan had sworn before the LORD. 8. But he gave them Saul's two sons Armoni and Mephibosheth, whose mother was Rizpah daughter of Aiah. He also gave them the five sons of Saul's daughter Merab, the wife of Adriel son of Barzillai from Meholah. 9. The men of Gibeon executed them on the mountain before the LORD. So all seven of them died together at the beginning of the barley harvest. @@ -21,7 +23,10 @@ David Avenges the Gibeonites 12. he went to the people of Jabesh-gilead and retrieved the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan. (When the Philistines had killed Saul and Jonathan on Mount Gilboa, the people of Jabesh-gilead stole their bodies from the public square of Beth-shan, where the Philistines had hung them.) 13. So David obtained the bones of Saul and Jonathan, as well as the bones of the men the Gibeonites had executed. -14. Then the king ordered that they bury the bones in the tomb of Kish, Saul's father, at the town of Zela in the land of Benjamin. After that, God ended the famine in the land.Battles against Philistine Giants +14. Then the king ordered that they bury the bones in the tomb of Kish, Saul's father, at the town of Zela in the land of Benjamin. After that, God ended the famine in the land. + +Battles against Philistine Giants + 15. Once again the Philistines were at war with Israel. And when David and his men were in the thick of battle, David became weak and exhausted. 16. Ishbi-benob was a descendant of the giants; his bronze spearhead weighed more than seven pounds, and he was armed with a new sword. He had cornered David and was about to kill him. @@ -37,3 +42,4 @@ David Avenges the Gibeonites 22. These four Philistines were descendants of the giants of Gath, but David and his warriors killed them. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_22.md index 8611839d..ef396777 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_22.md @@ -6,132 +6,209 @@ David's Song of Praise "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; 3. my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. + He is my shield, the power that saves me, - and my place of safety. + +and my place of safety. + He is my refuge, my savior, - the one who saves me from violence. + +the one who saves me from violence. + 4. I called on the LORD, who is worthy of praise, - and he saved me from my enemies. + +and he saved me from my enemies. + 5. "The waves of death overwhelmed me; - floods of destruction swept over me. + +floods of destruction swept over me. + 6. The grave wrapped its ropes around me; - death laid a trap in my path. + +death laid a trap in my path. + 7. But in my distress I cried out to the LORD; - yes, I cried to my God for help. + +yes, I cried to my God for help. + He heard me from his sanctuary; - my cry reached his ears. + +my cry reached his ears. + 8. "Then the earth quaked and trembled. - The foundations of the heavens shook; - they quaked because of his anger. + +The foundations of the heavens shook; + +they quaked because of his anger. + 9. Smoke poured from his nostrils; - fierce flames leaped from his mouth. - Glowing coals blazed forth from him. + +fierce flames leaped from his mouth. + +Glowing coals blazed forth from him. + 10. He opened the heavens and came down; - dark storm clouds were beneath his feet. + +dark storm clouds were beneath his feet. + 11. Mounted on a mighty angelic being, he flew, soaring on the wings of the wind. 12. He shrouded himself in darkness, - veiling his approach with dense rain clouds. + +veiling his approach with dense rain clouds. + 13. A great brightness shone around him, and burning coals blazed forth. 14. The LORD thundered from heaven; - the voice of the Most High resounded. + +the voice of the Most High resounded. + 15. He shot arrows and scattered his enemies; - his lightning flashed, and they were confused. + +his lightning flashed, and they were confused. + 16. Then at the command of the LORD, - at the blast of his breath, + +at the blast of his breath, the bottom of the sea could be seen, - and the foundations of the earth were laid bare. + +and the foundations of the earth were laid bare. + 17. "He reached down from heaven and rescued me; - he drew me out of deep waters. + +he drew me out of deep waters. + 18. He rescued me from my powerful enemies, - from those who hated me and were too strong for me. + +from those who hated me and were too strong for me. + 19. They attacked me at a moment when I was in distress, but the LORD supported me. 20. He led me to a place of safety; - he rescued me because he delights in me. + +he rescued me because he delights in me. + 21. The LORD rewarded me for doing right; - he restored me because of my innocence. + +he restored me because of my innocence. + 22. For I have kept the ways of the LORD; - I have not turned from my God to follow evil. + +I have not turned from my God to follow evil. + 23. I have followed all his regulations; - I have never abandoned his decrees. + +I have never abandoned his decrees. + 24. I am blameless before God; - I have kept myself from sin. + +I have kept myself from sin. + 25. The LORD rewarded me for doing right. - He has seen my innocence. + +He has seen my innocence. + 26. "To the faithful you show yourself faithful; - to those with integrity you show integrity. + +to those with integrity you show integrity. + 27. To the pure you show yourself pure, - but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd. + +but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd. + 28. You rescue the humble, - but your eyes watch the proud and humiliate them. + +but your eyes watch the proud and humiliate them. + 29. O LORD, you are my lamp. The LORD lights up my darkness. 30. In your strength I can crush an army; - with my God I can scale any wall. + +with my God I can scale any wall. + 31. "God's way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. - He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. + +He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. + 32. For who is God except the LORD? - Who but our God is a solid rock? + +Who but our God is a solid rock? + 33. God is my strong fortress, - and he makes my way perfect. + +and he makes my way perfect. + 34. He makes me as surefooted as a deer, - enabling me to stand on mountain heights. + +enabling me to stand on mountain heights. + 35. He trains my hands for battle; - he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow. + +he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow. + 36. You have given me your shield of victory; your help has made me great. 37. You have made a wide path for my feet - to keep them from slipping. + +to keep them from slipping. + 38. "I chased my enemies and destroyed them; - I did not stop until they were conquered. + +I did not stop until they were conquered. + 39. I consumed them; - I struck them down so they did not get up; - they fell beneath my feet. + +I struck them down so they did not get up; + +they fell beneath my feet. + 40. You have armed me with strength for the battle; - you have subdued my enemies under my feet. + +you have subdued my enemies under my feet. + 41. You placed my foot on their necks. - I have destroyed all who hated me. + +I have destroyed all who hated me. + 42. They looked for help, but no one came to their rescue. They even cried to the LORD, but he refused to answer. @@ -140,30 +217,47 @@ the bottom of the sea could be seen, I trampled them in the gutter like dirt. 44. "You gave me victory over my accusers. - You preserved me as the ruler over nations; - people I don't even know now serve me. + +You preserved me as the ruler over nations; + +people I don't even know now serve me. + 45. Foreign nations cringe before me; - as soon as they hear of me, they submit. + +as soon as they hear of me, they submit. + 46. They all lose their courage and come trembling from their strongholds. 47. "The LORD lives! Praise to my Rock! - May God, the Rock of my salvation, be exalted! + +May God, the Rock of my salvation, be exalted! + 48. He is the God who pays back those who harm me; - he brings down the nations under me + +he brings down the nations under me + 49. and delivers me from my enemies. + You hold me safe beyond the reach of my enemies; - you save me from violent opponents. + +you save me from violent opponents. + 50. For this, O LORD, I will praise you among the nations; - I will sing praises to your name. + +I will sing praises to your name. + 51. You give great victories to your king; - you show unfailing love to your anointed, - to David and all his descendants forever." + +you show unfailing love to your anointed, + +to David and all his descendants forever." + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_23.md index 9c7bb67c..457d68a7 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_23.md @@ -3,33 +3,51 @@ David's Last Words # Chapter 23 1. These are the last words of David: "David, the son of Jesse, speaks-- - David, the man who was raised up so high, + +David, the man who was raised up so high, David, the man anointed by the God of Jacob, David, the sweet psalmist of Israel. 2. "The Spirit of the LORD speaks through me; - his words are upon my tongue. + +his words are upon my tongue. + 3. The God of Israel spoke. - The Rock of Israel said to me: + +The Rock of Israel said to me: 'The one who rules righteously, - who rules in the fear of God, + +who rules in the fear of God, + 4. is like the light of morning at sunrise, - like a morning without clouds, + +like a morning without clouds, like the gleaming of the sun - on new grass after rain.' + +on new grass after rain.' + 5. "Is it not my family God has chosen? - Yes, he has made an everlasting covenant with me. + +Yes, he has made an everlasting covenant with me. + His agreement is arranged and guaranteed in every detail. - He will ensure my safety and success. + +He will ensure my safety and success. + 6. But the godless are like thorns to be thrown away, - for they tear the hand that touches them. + +for they tear the hand that touches them. + 7. One must use iron tools to chop them down; - they will be totally consumed by fire."David's Mightiest Warriors + +they will be totally consumed by fire." +David's Mightiest Warriors + 8. These are the names of David's mightiest warriors. The first was Jashobeam the Hacmonite, who was leader of the Three--the three mightiest warriors among David's men. He once used his spear to kill 800 enemy warriors in a single battle. @@ -44,7 +62,10 @@ His agreement is arranged and guaranteed in every detail. 15. David remarked longingly to his men, "Oh, how I would love some of that good water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem." 16. So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the LORD. -17. "The LORD forbid that I should drink this!" he exclaimed. "This water is as precious as the blood of these men who risked their lives to bring it to me." So David did not drink it. These are examples of the exploits of the Three.David's Thirty Mighty Men +17. "The LORD forbid that I should drink this!" he exclaimed. "This water is as precious as the blood of these men who risked their lives to bring it to me." So David did not drink it. These are examples of the exploits of the Three. + +David's Thirty Mighty Men + 18. Abishai son of Zeruiah, the brother of Joab, was the leader of the Thirty. He once used his spear to kill 300 enemy warriors in a single battle. It was by such feats that he became as famous as the Three. 19. Abishai was the most famous of the Thirty and was their commander, though he was not one of the Three. @@ -58,18 +79,22 @@ His agreement is arranged and guaranteed in every detail. Asahel, Joab's brother; Elhanan son of Dodo from Bethlehem; + 25. Shammah from Harod; Elika from Harod; + 26. Helez from Pelon; Ira son of Ikkesh from Tekoa; + 27. Abiezer from Anathoth; Sibbecai from Hushah; 28. Zalmon from Ahoah; Maharai from Netophah; + 29. Heled son of Baanah from Netophah; Ithai son of Ribai from Gibeah (in the land of Benjamin); @@ -79,28 +104,38 @@ Hurai from Nahale-gaash; 31. Abi-albon from Arabah; Azmaveth from Bahurim; + 32. Eliahba from Shaalbon; the sons of Jashen; Jonathan + 33. son of Shagee from Harar; Ahiam son of Sharar from Harar; + 34. Eliphelet son of Ahasbai from Maacah; Eliam son of Ahithophel from Giloh; + 35. Hezro from Carmel; Paarai from Arba; + 36. Igal son of Nathan from Zobah; Bani from Gad; + 37. Zelek from Ammon; Naharai from Beeroth, the armor bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah; + 38. Ira from Jattir; Gareb from Jattir; + 39. Uriah the Hittite. + There were thirty-seven in all. + diff --git a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_24.md index 4a5be81d..dabb62d4 100644 --- a/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/10_2 Samuel/Chapter_24.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ David Takes a Census 7. Then they came to the fortress of Tyre, and all the towns of the Hivites and Canaanites. Finally, they went south to Judah as far as Beersheba. 8. Having gone through the entire land for nine months and twenty days, they returned to Jerusalem. -9. Joab reported the number of people to the king. There were 800,000 capable warriors in Israel who could handle a sword, and 500,000 in Judah.Judgment for David's Sin +9. Joab reported the number of people to the king. There were 800,000 capable warriors in Israel who could handle a sword, and 500,000 in Judah. + +Judgment for David's Sin + 10. But after he had taken the census, David's conscience began to bother him. And he said to the LORD, "I have sinned greatly by taking this census. Please forgive my guilt, LORD, for doing this foolish thing." @@ -27,7 +30,9 @@ David Takes a Census 15. So the LORD sent a plague upon Israel that morning, and it lasted for three days. A total of 70,000 people died throughout the nation, from Dan in the north to Beersheba in the south. 16. But as the angel was preparing to destroy Jerusalem, the LORD relented and said to the death angel, "Stop! That is enough!" At that moment the angel of the LORD was by the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. -17. When David saw the angel, he said to the LORD, "I am the one who has sinned and done wrong! But these people are as innocent as sheep--what have they done? Let your anger fall against me and my family."David Builds an Altar +17. When David saw the angel, he said to the LORD, "I am the one who has sinned and done wrong! But these people are as innocent as sheep--what have they done? Let your anger fall against me and my family." +David Builds an Altar + 18. That day Gad came to David and said to him, "Go up and build an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite." @@ -44,3 +49,4 @@ David replied, "I have come to buy your threshing floor and to build an altar to 25. David built an altar there to the LORD and sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings. And the LORD answered his prayer for the land, and the plague on Israel was stopped. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_01.md index 83e7fbc7..b0bdce86 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_01.md @@ -5,9 +5,13 @@ David in His Old Age 2. So his advisers told him, "Let us find a young virgin to wait on you and look after you, my lord. She will lie in your arms and keep you warm." 3. So they searched throughout the land of Israel for a beautiful girl, and they found Abishag from Shunem and brought her to the king. -4. The girl was very beautiful, and she looked after the king and took care of him. But the king had no sexual relations with her.Adonijah Claims the Throne +4. The girl was very beautiful, and she looked after the king and took care of him. But the king had no sexual relations with her. -5. About that time David's son Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith, began boasting, "I will make myself king." So he provided himself with chariots and charioteers and recruited fifty men to run in front of him. +Adonijah Claims the Throne + + +5. +About that time David's son Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith, began boasting, "I will make myself king." So he provided himself with chariots and charioteers and recruited fifty men to run in front of him. 6. Now his father, King David, had never disciplined him at any time, even by asking, "Why are you doing that?" Adonijah had been born next after Absalom, and he was very handsome. 7. Adonijah took Joab son of Zeruiah and Abiathar the priest into his confidence, and they agreed to help him become king. @@ -23,8 +27,10 @@ David in His Old Age 15. So Bathsheba went into the king's bedroom. (He was very old now, and Abishag was taking care of him.) 16. Bathsheba bowed down before the king. + "What can I do for you?" he asked her. + 17. She replied, "My lord, you made a vow before the LORD your God when you said to me, 'Your son Solomon will surely be the next king and will sit on my throne.' 18. But instead, Adonijah has made himself king, and my lord the king does not even know about it. 19. He has sacrificed many cattle, fattened calves, and sheep, and he has invited all the king's sons to attend the celebration. He also invited Abiathar the priest and Joab, the commander of the army. But he did not invite your servant Solomon. @@ -34,10 +40,13 @@ David in His Old Age 22. While she was still speaking with the king, Nathan the prophet arrived. 23. The king's officials told him, "Nathan the prophet is here to see you." Nathan went in and bowed before the king with his face to the ground. + 24. Nathan asked, "My lord the king, have you decided that Adonijah will be the next king and that he will sit on your throne? 25. Today he has sacrificed many cattle, fattened calves, and sheep, and he has invited all the king's sons to attend the celebration. He also invited the commanders of the army and Abiathar the priest. They are feasting and drinking with him and shouting, 'Long live King Adonijah!' 26. But he did not invite me or Zadok the priest or Benaiah or your servant Solomon. -27. Has my lord the king really done this without letting any of his officials know who should be the next king?"David Makes Solomon King +27. Has my lord the king really done this without letting any of his officials know who should be the next king?" +David Makes Solomon King + 28. King David responded, "Call Bathsheba!" So she came back in and stood before the king. 29. And the king repeated his vow: "As surely as the LORD lives, who has rescued me from every danger, @@ -76,3 +85,4 @@ Nathan went in and bowed before the king with his face to the ground. 53. So King Solomon summoned Adonijah, and they brought him down from the altar. He came and bowed respectfully before King Solomon, who dismissed him, saying, "Go on home." + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_02.md index 7745675d..6307bd5b 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_02.md @@ -17,17 +17,24 @@ David's Final Instructions to Solomon 10. Then David died and was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. 11. David had reigned over Israel for forty years, seven of them in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem. -12. Solomon became king and sat on the throne of David his father, and his kingdom was firmly established.Solomon Establishes His Rule +12. Solomon became king and sat on the throne of David his father, and his kingdom was firmly established. + +Solomon Establishes His Rule + 13. One day Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith, came to see Bathsheba, Solomon's mother. "Have you come with peaceful intentions?" she asked him. + "Yes," he said, "I come in peace. + 14. In fact, I have a favor to ask of you." "What is it?" she asked. + 15. He replied, "As you know, the kingdom was rightfully mine; all Israel wanted me to be the next king. But the tables were turned, and the kingdom went to my brother instead; for that is the way the LORD wanted it. 16. So now I have just one favor to ask of you. Please don't turn me down." "What is it?" she asked. + 17. He replied, "Speak to King Solomon on my behalf, for I know he will do anything you request. Ask him to let me marry Abishag, the girl from Shunem." 18. "All right," Bathsheba replied. "I will speak to the king for you." @@ -37,6 +44,7 @@ David's Final Instructions to Solomon 20. "I have one small request to make of you," she said. "I hope you won't turn me down." "What is it, my mother?" he asked. "You know I won't refuse you." + 21. "Then let your brother Adonijah marry Abishag, the girl from Shunem," she replied. 22. "How can you possibly ask me to give Abishag to Adonijah?" King Solomon demanded. "You might as well ask me to give him the kingdom! You know that he is my older brother, and that he has Abiathar the priest and Joab son of Zeruiah on his side." @@ -55,6 +63,7 @@ David's Final Instructions to Solomon But Joab answered, "No, I will die here." So Benaiah returned to the king and told him what Joab had said. + 31. "Do as he said," the king replied. "Kill him there beside the altar and bury him. This will remove the guilt of Joab's senseless murders from me and from my father's family. 32. The LORD will repay him for the murders of two men who were more righteous and better than he. For my father knew nothing about the deaths of Abner son of Ner, commander of the army of Israel, and of Amasa son of Jether, commander of the army of Judah. 33. May their blood be on Joab and his descendants forever, and may the LORD grant peace forever to David, his descendants, his dynasty, and his throne." @@ -77,6 +86,8 @@ So Benaiah returned to the king and told him what Joab had said. 44. The king also said to Shimei, "You certainly remember all the wicked things you did to my father, David. May the LORD now bring that evil on your own head. 45. But may I, King Solomon, receive the LORD's blessings, and may one of David's descendants always sit on this throne in the presence of the LORD." 46. Then, at the king's command, Benaiah son of Jehoiada took Shimei outside and killed him. + So the kingdom was now firmly in Solomon's grip. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_03.md index f74c1fe9..586637f2 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_03.md @@ -20,7 +20,10 @@ Solomon Asks for Wisdom 13. And I will also give you what you did not ask for--riches and fame! No other king in all the world will be compared to you for the rest of your life! 14. And if you follow me and obey my decrees and my commands as your father, David, did, I will give you a long life." -15. Then Solomon woke up and realized it had been a dream. He returned to Jerusalem and stood before the Ark of the Lord's Covenant, where he sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings. Then he invited all his officials to a great banquet.Solomon Judges Wisely +15. Then Solomon woke up and realized it had been a dream. He returned to Jerusalem and stood before the Ark of the Lord's Covenant, where he sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings. Then he invited all his officials to a great banquet. + +Solomon Judges Wisely + 16. Some time later two prostitutes came to the king to have an argument settled. 17. "Please, my lord," one of them began, "this woman and I live in the same house. I gave birth to a baby while she was with me in the house. @@ -33,6 +36,7 @@ Solomon Asks for Wisdom 22. Then the other woman interrupted, "It certainly was your son, and the living child is mine." "No," the first woman said, "the living child is mine, and the dead one is yours." And so they argued back and forth before the king. + 23. Then the king said, "Let's get the facts straight. Both of you claim the living child is yours, and each says that the dead one belongs to the other. 24. All right, bring me a sword." So a sword was brought to the king. @@ -41,8 +45,10 @@ Solomon Asks for Wisdom 26. Then the woman who was the real mother of the living child, and who loved him very much, cried out, "Oh no, my lord! Give her the child--please do not kill him!" But the other woman said, "All right, he will be neither yours nor mine; divide him between us!" + 27. Then the king said, "Do not kill the child, but give him to the woman who wants him to live, for she is his mother!" 28. When all Israel heard the king's decision, the people were in awe of the king, for they saw the wisdom God had given him for rendering justice. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_04.md index 6c5f5557..059159a2 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_04.md @@ -5,22 +5,32 @@ Solomon's Officials and Governors 2. and these were his high officials: Azariah son of Zadok was the priest. + 3. Elihoreph and Ahijah, the sons of Shisha, were court secretaries. + Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the royal historian. + 4. Benaiah son of Jehoiada was commander of the army. + Zadok and Abiathar were priests. + 5. Azariah son of Nathan was in charge of the district governors. + Zabud son of Nathan, a priest, was a trusted adviser to the king. + 6. Ahishar was manager of the palace property. + Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of forced labor. + 7. Solomon also had twelve district governors who were over all Israel. They were responsible for providing food for the king's household. Each of them arranged provisions for one month of the year. 8. These are the names of the twelve governors: Ben-hur, in the hill country of Ephraim. + 9. Ben-deker, in Makaz, Shaalbim, Beth-shemesh, and Elon-bethhanan. 10. Ben-hesed, in Arubboth, including Socoh and all the land of Hepher. @@ -42,7 +52,10 @@ Ben-hur, in the hill country of Ephraim. 18. Shimei son of Ela, in Benjamin. 19. Geber son of Uri, in the land of Gilead, including the territories of King Sihon of the Amorites and King Og of Bashan. -There was also one governor over the land of Judah.Solomon's Prosperity and Wisdom +There was also one governor over the land of Judah. + +Solomon's Prosperity and Wisdom + 20. The people of Judah and Israel were as numerous as the sand on the seashore. They were very contented, with plenty to eat and drink. 21. Solomon ruled over all the kingdoms from the Euphrates River in the north to the land of the Philistines and the border of Egypt in the south. The conquered peoples of those lands sent tribute money to Solomon and continued to serve him throughout his lifetime. @@ -66,3 +79,4 @@ There was also one governor over the land of Judah.Solomon's Prosperity and Wisd 34. And kings from every nation sent their ambassadors to listen to the wisdom of Solomon. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_05.md index 6e03f9cc..42b44825 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_05.md @@ -14,6 +14,7 @@ Preparations for Building the Temple 7. When Hiram received Solomon's message, he was very pleased and said, "Praise the LORD today for giving David a wise son to be king of the great nation of Israel." 8. Then he sent this reply to Solomon: "I have received your message, and I will supply all the cedar and cypress timber you need. + 9. My servants will bring the logs from the Lebanon mountains to the Mediterranean Sea and make them into rafts and float them along the coast to whatever place you choose. Then we will break the rafts apart so you can carry the logs away. You can pay me by supplying me with food for my household." 10. So Hiram supplied as much cedar and cypress timber as Solomon desired. @@ -28,3 +29,4 @@ Preparations for Building the Temple 18. Men from the city of Gebal helped Solomon's and Hiram's builders prepare the timber and stone for the Temple. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_06.md index 7b1cfc46..6c867999 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_06.md @@ -18,7 +18,9 @@ Solomon Builds the Temple 11. Then the LORD gave this message to Solomon: 12. "Concerning this Temple you are building, if you keep all my decrees and regulations and obey all my commands, I will fulfill through you the promise I made to your father, David. -13. I will live among the Israelites and will never abandon my people Israel."The Temple's Interior +13. I will live among the Israelites and will never abandon my people Israel." +The Temple's Interior + 14. So Solomon finished building the Temple. 15. The entire inside, from floor to ceiling, was paneled with wood. He paneled the walls and ceilings with cedar, and he used planks of cypress for the floors. @@ -54,3 +56,4 @@ Solomon Builds the Temple 38. The entire building was completed in every detail by midautumn, in the month of Bul, during the eleventh year of his reign. So it took seven years to build the Temple. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_07.md index 259fb5a8..9e0f1977 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_07.md @@ -16,7 +16,10 @@ Solomon Builds His Palace 9. From foundation to eaves, all these buildings were built from huge blocks of high-quality stone, cut with saws and trimmed to exact measure on all sides. 10. Some of the huge foundation stones were 15 feet long, and some were 12 feet long. 11. The blocks of high-quality stone used in the walls were also cut to measure, and cedar beams were also used. -12. The walls of the great courtyard were built so that there was one layer of cedar beams between every three layers of finished stone, just like the walls of the inner courtyard of the LORD's Temple with its entry room.Furnishings for the Temple +12. The walls of the great courtyard were built so that there was one layer of cedar beams between every three layers of finished stone, just like the walls of the inner courtyard of the LORD's Temple with its entry room. + +Furnishings for the Temple + 13. King Solomon then asked for a man named Huram to come from Tyre. 14. He was half Israelite, since his mother was a widow from the tribe of Naphtali, and his father had been a craftsman in bronze from Tyre. Huram was extremely skillful and talented in any work in bronze, and he came to do all the metal work for King Solomon. @@ -58,6 +61,7 @@ So at last Huram completed everything King Solomon had assigned him to make for the two bowl-shaped capitals on top of the pillars; the two networks of interwoven chains that decorated the capitals; + 42. the 400 pomegranates that hung from the chains on the capitals (two rows of pomegranates for each of the chain networks that decorated the capitals on top of the pillars); 43. the ten water carts holding the ten basins; @@ -73,12 +77,15 @@ Huram made all these things of burnished bronze for the Temple of the LORD, just the gold altar; the gold table for the Bread of the Presence; + 49. the lampstands of solid gold, five on the south and five on the north, in front of the Most Holy Place; the flower decorations, lamps, and tongs--all of gold; 50. the small bowls, lamp snuffers, bowls, ladles, and incense burners--all of solid gold; the doors for the entrances to the Most Holy Place and the main room of the Temple, with their fronts overlaid with gold. + 51. So King Solomon finished all his work on the Temple of the LORD. Then he brought all the gifts his father, David, had dedicated--the silver, the gold, and the various articles--and he stored them in the treasuries of the LORD's Temple. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_08.md index 3648ea62..757e414d 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_08.md @@ -28,7 +28,9 @@ The Ark Brought to the Temple 19. but you are not the one to do it. One of your own sons will build the Temple to honor me.' 20. "And now the LORD has fulfilled the promise he made, for I have become king in my father's place, and now I sit on the throne of Israel, just as the LORD promised. I have built this Temple to honor the name of the LORD, the God of Israel. -21. And I have prepared a place there for the Ark, which contains the covenant that the LORD made with our ancestors when he brought them out of Egypt."Solomon's Prayer of Dedication +21. And I have prepared a place there for the Ark, which contains the covenant that the LORD made with our ancestors when he brought them out of Egypt." +Solomon's Prayer of Dedication + 22. Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the entire community of Israel. He lifted his hands toward heaven, 23. and he prayed, @@ -72,7 +74,9 @@ The Ark Brought to the Temple 51. for they are your people--your special possession--whom you brought out of the iron-smelting furnace of Egypt. 52. "May your eyes be open to my requests and to the requests of your people Israel. May you hear and answer them whenever they cry out to you. -53. For when you brought our ancestors out of Egypt, O Sovereign LORD, you told your servant Moses that you had set Israel apart from all the nations of the earth to be your own special possession."The Dedication of the Temple +53. For when you brought our ancestors out of Egypt, O Sovereign LORD, you told your servant Moses that you had set Israel apart from all the nations of the earth to be your own special possession." +The Dedication of the Temple + 54. When Solomon finished making these prayers and petitions to the LORD, he stood up in front of the altar of the LORD, where he had been kneeling with his hands raised toward heaven. 55. He stood and in a loud voice blessed the entire congregation of Israel: @@ -93,3 +97,4 @@ The Ark Brought to the Temple 66. After the festival was over, Solomon sent the people home. They blessed the king and went to their homes joyful and glad because the LORD had been good to his servant David and to his people Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_09.md index 757048fc..c2266237 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_09.md @@ -13,13 +13,18 @@ The LORD's Response to Solomon 7. then I will uproot Israel from this land that I have given them. I will reject this Temple that I have made holy to honor my name. I will make Israel an object of mockery and ridicule among the nations. 8. And though this Temple is impressive now, all who pass by will be appalled and will gasp in horror. They will ask, 'Why did the LORD do such terrible things to this land and to this Temple?' -9. "And the answer will be, 'Because his people abandoned the LORD their God, who brought their ancestors out of Egypt, and they worshiped other gods instead and bowed down to them. That is why the LORD has brought all these disasters on them.'"Solomon's Agreement with Hiram +9. "And the answer will be, 'Because his people abandoned the LORD their God, who brought their ancestors out of Egypt, and they worshiped other gods instead and bowed down to them. That is why the LORD has brought all these disasters on them.'" +Solomon's Agreement with Hiram + 10. It took Solomon twenty years to build the LORD's Temple and his own royal palace. At the end of that time, 11. he gave twenty towns in the land of Galilee to King Hiram of Tyre. (Hiram had previously provided all the cedar and cypress timber and gold that Solomon had requested.) 12. But when Hiram came from Tyre to see the towns Solomon had given him, he was not at all pleased with them. 13. "What kind of towns are these, my brother?" he asked. So Hiram called that area Cabul (which means "worthless"), as it is still known today. -14. Nevertheless, Hiram paid Solomon 9,000 pounds of gold.Solomon's Many Achievements +14. Nevertheless, Hiram paid Solomon 9,000 pounds of gold. + +Solomon's Many Achievements + 15. This is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon conscripted to build the LORD's Temple, the royal palace, the supporting terraces, the wall of Jerusalem, and the cities of Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer. 16. (Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, had attacked and captured Gezer, killing the Canaanite population and burning it down. He gave the city to his daughter as a wedding gift when she married Solomon. @@ -41,3 +46,4 @@ The LORD's Response to Solomon 28. They sailed to Ophir and brought back to Solomon some sixteen tons of gold. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_10.md index 26efdd26..3f7436be 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_10.md @@ -17,7 +17,10 @@ Visit of the Queen of Sheba 11. (In addition, Hiram's ships brought gold from Ophir, and they also brought rich cargoes of red sandalwood and precious jewels. 12. The king used the sandalwood to make railings for the Temple of the LORD and the royal palace, and to construct lyres and harps for the musicians. Never before or since has there been such a supply of sandalwood.) -13. King Solomon gave the queen of Sheba whatever she asked for, besides all the customary gifts he had so generously given. Then she and all her attendants returned to their own land.Solomon's Wealth and Splendor +13. King Solomon gave the queen of Sheba whatever she asked for, besides all the customary gifts he had so generously given. Then she and all her attendants returned to their own land. + +Solomon's Wealth and Splendor + 14. Each year Solomon received about 25 tons of gold. 15. This did not include the additional revenue he received from merchants and traders, all the kings of Arabia, and the governors of the land. @@ -43,3 +46,4 @@ Visit of the Queen of Sheba 29. At that time chariots from Egypt could be purchased for 600 pieces of silver, and horses for 150 pieces of silver. They were then exported to the kings of the Hittites and the kings of Aram. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_11.md index 0a86531c..f7522f24 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_11.md @@ -16,7 +16,9 @@ Solomon's Many Wives 10. He had warned Solomon specifically about worshiping other gods, but Solomon did not listen to the LORD's command. 11. So now the LORD said to him, "Since you have not kept my covenant and have disobeyed my decrees, I will surely tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your servants. 12. But for the sake of your father, David, I will not do this while you are still alive. I will take the kingdom away from your son. -13. And even so, I will not take away the entire kingdom; I will let him be king of one tribe, for the sake of my servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, my chosen city."Solomon's Adversaries +13. And even so, I will not take away the entire kingdom; I will let him be king of one tribe, for the sake of my servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, my chosen city." +Solomon's Adversaries + 14. Then the LORD raised up Hadad the Edomite, a member of Edom's royal family, to be Solomon's adversary. 15. Years before, David had defeated Edom. Joab, his army commander, had stayed to bury some of the Israelite soldiers who had died in battle. While there, they killed every male in Edom. @@ -32,9 +34,13 @@ Solomon's Many Wives 22. "Why?" Pharaoh asked him. "What do you lack here that makes you want to go home?" "Nothing," he replied. "But even so, please let me return home." + 23. God also raised up Rezon son of Eliada as Solomon's adversary. Rezon had fled from his master, King Hadadezer of Zobah, 24. and had become the leader of a gang of rebels. After David conquered Hadadezer, Rezon and his men fled to Damascus, where he became king. -25. Rezon was Israel's bitter adversary for the rest of Solomon's reign, and he made trouble, just as Hadad did. Rezon hated Israel intensely and continued to reign in Aram.Jeroboam Rebels against Solomon +25. Rezon was Israel's bitter adversary for the rest of Solomon's reign, and he made trouble, just as Hadad did. Rezon hated Israel intensely and continued to reign in Aram. + +Jeroboam Rebels against Solomon + 26. Another rebel leader was Jeroboam son of Nebat, one of Solomon's own officials. He came from the town of Zeredah in Ephraim, and his mother was Zeruah, a widow. @@ -54,10 +60,14 @@ Solomon's Many Wives 38. If you listen to what I tell you and follow my ways and do whatever I consider to be right, and if you obey my decrees and commands, as my servant David did, then I will always be with you. I will establish an enduring dynasty for you as I did for David, and I will give Israel to you. 39. Because of Solomon's sin I will punish the descendants of David--though not forever.'" -40. Solomon tried to kill Jeroboam, but he fled to King Shishak of Egypt and stayed there until Solomon died.Summary of Solomon's Reign +40. Solomon tried to kill Jeroboam, but he fled to King Shishak of Egypt and stayed there until Solomon died. + +Summary of Solomon's Reign + 41. The rest of the events in Solomon's reign, including all his deeds and his wisdom, are recorded in The Book of the Acts of Solomon. 42. Solomon ruled in Jerusalem over all Israel for forty years. 43. When he died, he was buried in the City of David, named for his father. Then his son Rehoboam became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_12.md index d1b52263..79a4ece9 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_12.md @@ -26,22 +26,32 @@ The Northern Tribes Revolt 16. When all Israel realized that the king had refused to listen to them, they responded, "Down with the dynasty of David! - We have no interest in the son of Jesse. + +We have no interest in the son of Jesse. + Back to your homes, O Israel! - Look out for your own house, O David!" + +Look out for your own house, O David!" So the people of Israel returned home. + 17. But Rehoboam continued to rule over the Israelites who lived in the towns of Judah. 18. King Rehoboam sent Adoniram, who was in charge of forced labor, to restore order, but the people of Israel stoned him to death. When this news reached King Rehoboam, he quickly jumped into his chariot and fled to Jerusalem. 19. And to this day the northern tribes of Israel have refused to be ruled by a descendant of David. -20. When the people of Israel learned of Jeroboam's return from Egypt, they called an assembly and made him king over all Israel. So only the tribe of Judah remained loyal to the family of David.Shemaiah's Prophecy +20. When the people of Israel learned of Jeroboam's return from Egypt, they called an assembly and made him king over all Israel. So only the tribe of Judah remained loyal to the family of David. + +Shemaiah's Prophecy + 21. When Rehoboam arrived at Jerusalem, he mobilized the men of Judah and the tribe of Benjamin--180,000 select troops--to fight against the men of Israel and to restore the kingdom to himself. 22. But God said to Shemaiah, the man of God, 23. "Say to Rehoboam son of Solomon, king of Judah, and to all the people of Judah and Benjamin, and to the rest of the people, -24. 'This is what the LORD says: Do not fight against your relatives, the Israelites. Go back home, for what has happened is my doing!'" So they obeyed the message of the LORD and went home, as the LORD had commanded.Jeroboam Makes Gold Calves +24. 'This is what the LORD says: Do not fight against your relatives, the Israelites. Go back home, for what has happened is my doing!'" So they obeyed the message of the LORD and went home, as the LORD had commanded. + +Jeroboam Makes Gold Calves + 25. Jeroboam then built up the city of Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and it became his capital. Later he went and built up the town of Peniel. @@ -58,3 +68,4 @@ So the people of Israel returned home. 33. So on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, a day that he himself had designated, Jeroboam offered sacrifices on the altar at Bethel. He instituted a religious festival for Israel, and he went up to the altar to burn incense. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_13.md index 1e86ecd5..816626da 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_13.md @@ -23,6 +23,7 @@ A Prophet Denounces Jeroboam 14. Then he rode after the man of God and found him sitting under a great tree. The old prophet asked him, "Are you the man of God who came from Judah?" "Yes, I am," he replied. + 15. Then he said to the man of God, "Come home with me and eat some food." 16. "No, I cannot," he replied. "I am not allowed to eat or drink anything here in this place. @@ -53,3 +54,4 @@ A Prophet Denounces Jeroboam 34. This became a great sin and resulted in the utter destruction of Jeroboam's dynasty from the face of the earth. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_14.md index e9f08f57..3b7097a7 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_14.md @@ -26,7 +26,10 @@ Ahijah's Prophecy against Jeroboam 18. And all Israel buried him and mourned for him, as the LORD had promised through the prophet Ahijah. 19. The rest of the events in Jeroboam's reign, including all his wars and how he ruled, are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. -20. Jeroboam reigned in Israel twenty-two years. When Jeroboam died, his son Nadab became the next king.Rehoboam Rules in Judah +20. Jeroboam reigned in Israel twenty-two years. When Jeroboam died, his son Nadab became the next king. + +Rehoboam Rules in Judah + 21. Meanwhile, Rehoboam son of Solomon was king in Judah. He was forty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city the LORD had chosen from among all the tribes of Israel as the place to honor his name. Rehoboam's mother was Naamah, an Ammonite woman. @@ -44,3 +47,4 @@ Ahijah's Prophecy against Jeroboam 31. When Rehoboam died, he was buried among his ancestors in the City of David. His mother was Naamah, an Ammonite woman. Then his son Abijam became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_15.md index c6389aad..78a872bd 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_15.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ Abijam Rules in Judah 6. There was war between Abijam and Jeroboam throughout Abijam's reign. 7. The rest of the events in Abijam's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah. There was constant war between Abijam and Jeroboam. -8. When Abijam died, he was buried in the City of David. Then his son Asa became the next king.Asa Rules in Judah +8. When Abijam died, he was buried in the City of David. Then his son Asa became the next king. + +Asa Rules in Judah + 9. Asa began to rule over Judah in the twentieth year of Jeroboam's reign in Israel. 10. He reigned in Jerusalem forty-one years. His grandmother was Maacah, the granddaughter of Absalom. @@ -34,7 +37,11 @@ Abijam Rules in Judah 23. The rest of the events in Asa's reign--the extent of his power, everything he did, and the names of the cities he built--are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah. In his old age his feet became diseased. 24. When Asa died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. -Then Jehoshaphat, Asa's son, became the next king.Nadab Rules in Israel + +Then Jehoshaphat, Asa's son, became the next king. + +Nadab Rules in Israel + 25. Nadab son of Jeroboam began to rule over Israel in the second year of King Asa's reign in Judah. He reigned in Israel two years. 26. But he did what was evil in the LORD's sight and followed the example of his father, continuing the sins that Jeroboam had led Israel to commit. @@ -45,10 +52,14 @@ Then Jehoshaphat, Asa's son, became the next king.Nadab Rules in Israel 29. He immediately slaughtered all the descendants of King Jeroboam, so that not one of the royal family was left, just as the LORD had promised concerning Jeroboam by the prophet Ahijah from Shiloh. 30. This was done because Jeroboam had provoked the anger of the LORD, the God of Israel, by the sins he had committed and the sins he had led Israel to commit. -31. The rest of the events in Nadab's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel.Baasha Rules in Israel +31. The rest of the events in Nadab's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. + +Baasha Rules in Israel + 32. There was constant war between King Asa of Judah and King Baasha of Israel. 33. Baasha son of Ahijah began to rule over all Israel in the third year of King Asa's reign in Judah. Baasha reigned in Tirzah twenty-four years. 34. But he did what was evil in the LORD's sight and followed the example of Jeroboam, continuing the sins that Jeroboam had led Israel to commit. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_16.md index 02fc8013..d868347e 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_16.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ 5. The rest of the events in Baasha's reign and the extent of his power are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. 6. When Baasha died, he was buried in Tirzah. Then his son Elah became the next king. -7. The message from the LORD against Baasha and his family came through the prophet Jehu son of Hanani. It was delivered because Baasha had done what was evil in the LORD's sight (just as the family of Jeroboam had done), and also because Baasha had destroyed the family of Jeroboam. The LORD's anger was provoked by Baasha's sins.Elah Rules in Israel +7. The message from the LORD against Baasha and his family came through the prophet Jehu son of Hanani. It was delivered because Baasha had done what was evil in the LORD's sight (just as the family of Jeroboam had done), and also because Baasha had destroyed the family of Jeroboam. The LORD's anger was provoked by Baasha's sins. + +Elah Rules in Israel + 8. Elah son of Baasha began to rule over Israel in the twenty-sixth year of King Asa's reign in Judah. He reigned in the city of Tirzah for two years. @@ -18,7 +21,10 @@ 12. So Zimri destroyed the dynasty of Baasha as the LORD had promised through the prophet Jehu. 13. This happened because of all the sins Baasha and his son Elah had committed, and because of the sins they led Israel to commit. They provoked the anger of the LORD, the God of Israel, with their worthless idols. -14. The rest of the events in Elah's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel.Zimri Rules in Israel +14. The rest of the events in Elah's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. + +Zimri Rules in Israel + 15. Zimri began to rule over Israel in the twenty-seventh year of King Asa's reign in Judah, but his reign in Tirzah lasted only seven days. The army of Israel was then attacking the Philistine town of Gibbethon. 16. When they heard that Zimri had committed treason and had assassinated the king, that very day they chose Omri, commander of the army, as the new king of Israel. @@ -26,7 +32,10 @@ 18. When Zimri saw that the city had been taken, he went into the citadel of the palace and burned it down over himself and died in the flames. 19. For he, too, had done what was evil in the LORD's sight. He followed the example of Jeroboam in all the sins he had committed and led Israel to commit. -20. The rest of the events in Zimri's reign and his conspiracy are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel.Omri Rules in Israel +20. The rest of the events in Zimri's reign and his conspiracy are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. + +Omri Rules in Israel + 21. But now the people of Israel were split into two factions. Half the people tried to make Tibni son of Ginath their king, while the other half supported Omri. 22. But Omri's supporters defeated the supporters of Tibni. So Tibni was killed, and Omri became the next king. @@ -38,7 +47,10 @@ 26. He followed the example of Jeroboam son of Nebat in all the sins he had committed and led Israel to commit. The people provoked the anger of the LORD, the God of Israel, with their worthless idols. 27. The rest of the events in Omri's reign, the extent of his power, and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. -28. When Omri died, he was buried in Samaria. Then his son Ahab became the next king.Ahab Rules in Israel +28. When Omri died, he was buried in Samaria. Then his son Ahab became the next king. + +Ahab Rules in Israel + 29. Ahab son of Omri began to rule over Israel in the thirty-eighth year of King Asa's reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria twenty-two years. 30. But Ahab son of Omri did what was evil in the LORD's sight, even more than any of the kings before him. @@ -49,3 +61,4 @@ 34. It was during his reign that Hiel, a man from Bethel, rebuilt Jericho. When he laid its foundations, it cost him the life of his oldest son, Abiram. And when he completed it and set up its gates, it cost him the life of his youngest son, Segub. This all happened according to the message from the LORD concerning Jericho spoken by Joshua son of Nun. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_17.md index c9ea4bdb..7245528d 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_17.md @@ -9,7 +9,10 @@ Elijah Fed by Ravens 5. So Elijah did as the LORD told him and camped beside Kerith Brook, east of the Jordan. 6. The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook. -7. But after a while the brook dried up, for there was no rainfall anywhere in the land.The Widow at Zarephath +7. But after a while the brook dried up, for there was no rainfall anywhere in the land. + +The Widow at Zarephath + 8. Then the LORD said to Elijah, 9. "Go and live in the village of Zarephath, near the city of Sidon. I have instructed a widow there to feed you." @@ -38,3 +41,4 @@ Elijah Fed by Ravens 24. Then the woman told Elijah, "Now I know for sure that you are a man of God, and that the LORD truly speaks through you." + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_18.md index 3a563d5b..257a1bf9 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_18.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ The Contest on Mount Carmel # Chapter 18 1. Later on, in the third year of the drought, the LORD said to Elijah, "Go and present yourself to King Ahab. Tell him that I will soon send rain!" 2. So Elijah went to appear before Ahab. + Meanwhile, the famine had become very severe in Samaria. + 3. So Ahab summoned Obadiah, who was in charge of the palace. (Obadiah was a devoted follower of the LORD. 4. Once when Jezebel had tried to kill all the LORD's prophets, Obadiah had hidden 100 of them in two caves. He put fifty prophets in each cave and supplied them with food and water.) 5. Ahab said to Obadiah, "We must check every spring and valley in the land to see if we can find enough grass to save at least some of my horses and mules." @@ -39,7 +41,8 @@ Meanwhile, the famine had become very severe in Samaria. 26. So they prepared one of the bulls and placed it on the altar. Then they called on the name of Baal from morning until noontime, shouting, "O Baal, answer us!" But there was no reply of any kind. Then they danced, hobbling around the altar they had made. -27. About noontime Elijah began mocking them. "You'll have to shout louder," he scoffed, "for surely he is a god! Perhaps he is daydreaming, or is relieving himself. Or maybe he is away on a trip, or is asleep and needs to be wakened!" +27. +About noontime Elijah began mocking them. "You'll have to shout louder," he scoffed, "for surely he is a god! Perhaps he is daydreaming, or is relieving himself. Or maybe he is away on a trip, or is asleep and needs to be wakened!" 28. So they shouted louder, and following their normal custom, they cut themselves with knives and swords until the blood gushed out. 29. They raved all afternoon until the time of the evening sacrifice, but still there was no sound, no reply, no response. @@ -48,8 +51,10 @@ Meanwhile, the famine had become very severe in Samaria. 31. He took twelve stones, one to represent each of the tribes of Israel, 32. and he used the stones to rebuild the altar in the name of the LORD. Then he dug a trench around the altar large enough to hold about three gallons. 33. He piled wood on the altar, cut the bull into pieces, and laid the pieces on the wood. + Then he said, "Fill four large jars with water, and pour the water over the offering and the wood." + 34. After they had done this, he said, "Do the same thing again!" And when they were finished, he said, "Now do it a third time!" So they did as he said, 35. and the water ran around the altar and even filled the trench. @@ -59,7 +64,10 @@ Then he said, "Fill four large jars with water, and pour the water over the offe 38. Immediately the fire of the LORD flashed down from heaven and burned up the young bull, the wood, the stones, and the dust. It even licked up all the water in the trench! 39. And when all the people saw it, they fell face down on the ground and cried out, "The LORD--he is God! Yes, the LORD is God!" -40. Then Elijah commanded, "Seize all the prophets of Baal. Don't let a single one escape!" So the people seized them all, and Elijah took them down to the Kishon Valley and killed them there.Elijah Prays for Rain +40. Then Elijah commanded, "Seize all the prophets of Baal. Don't let a single one escape!" So the people seized them all, and Elijah took them down to the Kishon Valley and killed them there. + +Elijah Prays for Rain + 41. Then Elijah said to Ahab, "Go get something to eat and drink, for I hear a mighty rainstorm coming!" @@ -68,10 +76,13 @@ Then he said, "Fill four large jars with water, and pour the water over the offe 43. Then he said to his servant, "Go and look out toward the sea." The servant went and looked, then returned to Elijah and said, "I didn't see anything." Seven times Elijah told him to go and look. + 44. Finally the seventh time, his servant told him, "I saw a little cloud about the size of a man's hand rising from the sea." Then Elijah shouted, "Hurry to Ahab and tell him, 'Climb into your chariot and go back home. If you don't hurry, the rain will stop you!'" + 45. And soon the sky was black with clouds. A heavy wind brought a terrific rainstorm, and Ahab left quickly for Jezreel. 46. Then the LORD gave special strength to Elijah. He tucked his cloak into his belt and ran ahead of Ahab's chariot all the way to the entrance of Jezreel. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_19.md index 9c0e1104..65394e8a 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_19.md @@ -21,19 +21,25 @@ But the LORD said to him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" 11. "Go out and stand before me on the mountain," the LORD told him. And as Elijah stood there, the LORD passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12. And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper. 13. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. + And a voice said, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" + 14. He replied again, "I have zealously served the LORD God Almighty. But the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you, torn down your altars, and killed every one of your prophets. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too." 15. Then the LORD told him, "Go back the same way you came, and travel to the wilderness of Damascus. When you arrive there, anoint Hazael to be king of Aram. 16. Then anoint Jehu grandson of Nimshi to be king of Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from the town of Abel-meholah to replace you as my prophet. 17. Anyone who escapes from Hazael will be killed by Jehu, and those who escape Jehu will be killed by Elisha! -18. Yet I will preserve 7,000 others in Israel who have never bowed down to Baal or kissed him!"The Call of Elisha +18. Yet I will preserve 7,000 others in Israel who have never bowed down to Baal or kissed him!" +The Call of Elisha + 19. So Elijah went and found Elisha son of Shaphat plowing a field. There were twelve teams of oxen in the field, and Elisha was plowing with the twelfth team. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak across his shoulders and then walked away. 20. Elisha left the oxen standing there, ran after Elijah, and said to him, "First let me go and kiss my father and mother good-bye, and then I will go with you!" Elijah replied, "Go on back, but think about what I have done to you." + 21. So Elisha returned to his oxen and slaughtered them. He used the wood from the plow to build a fire to roast their flesh. He passed around the meat to the townspeople, and they all ate. Then he went with Elijah as his assistant. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_20.md index 81ea01a8..6fe96617 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_20.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Ben-Hadad Attacks Samaria # Chapter 20 -1. About that time King Ben-hadad of Aram mobilized his army, supported by the chariots and horses of thirty-two allied kings. They went to besiege Samaria, the capital of Israel, and launched attacks against it. +1. +About that time King Ben-hadad of Aram mobilized his army, supported by the chariots and horses of thirty-two allied kings. They went to besiege Samaria, the capital of Israel, and launched attacks against it. 2. Ben-hadad sent messengers into the city to relay this message to King Ahab of Israel: "This is what Ben-hadad says: 3. 'Your silver and gold are mine, and so are your wives and the best of your children!'" @@ -20,27 +21,37 @@ Ben-Hadad Attacks Samaria 11. The king of Israel sent back this answer: "A warrior putting on his sword for battle should not boast like a warrior who has already won." -12. Ahab's reply reached Ben-hadad and the other kings as they were drinking in their tents. "Prepare to attack!" Ben-hadad commanded his officers. So they prepared to attack the city.Ahab's Victory over Ben-Hadad +12. Ahab's reply reached Ben-hadad and the other kings as they were drinking in their tents. "Prepare to attack!" Ben-hadad commanded his officers. So they prepared to attack the city. + +Ahab's Victory over Ben-Hadad + 13. Then a certain prophet came to see King Ahab of Israel and told him, "This is what the LORD says: Do you see all these enemy forces? Today I will hand them all over to you. Then you will know that I am the LORD." 14. Ahab asked, "How will he do it?" And the prophet replied, "This is what the LORD says: The troops of the provincial commanders will do it." "Should we attack first?" Ahab asked. + "Yes," the prophet answered. + 15. So Ahab mustered the troops of the 232 provincial commanders. Then he called out the rest of the army of Israel, some 7,000 men. -16. About noontime, as Ben-hadad and the thirty-two allied kings were still in their tents drinking themselves into a stupor, +16. +About noontime, as Ben-hadad and the thirty-two allied kings were still in their tents drinking themselves into a stupor, 17. the troops of the provincial commanders marched out of the city as the first contingent. + As they approached, Ben-hadad's scouts reported to him, "Some troops are coming from Samaria." + 18. "Take them alive," Ben-hadad commanded, "whether they have come for peace or for war." 19. But Ahab's provincial commanders and the entire army had now come out to fight. 20. Each Israelite soldier killed his Aramean opponent, and suddenly the entire Aramean army panicked and fled. The Israelites chased them, but King Ben-hadad and a few of his charioteers escaped on horses. 21. However, the king of Israel destroyed the other horses and chariots and slaughtered the Arameans. -22. Afterward the prophet said to King Ahab, "Get ready for another attack. Begin making plans now, for the king of Aram will come back next spring."Ben-Hadad's Second Attack +22. Afterward the prophet said to King Ahab, "Get ready for another attack. Begin making plans now, for the king of Aram will come back next spring." +Ben-Hadad's Second Attack + 23. After their defeat, Ben-hadad's officers said to him, "The Israelite gods are gods of the hills; that is why they won. But we can beat them easily on the plains. 24. Only this time replace the kings with field commanders! @@ -59,11 +70,16 @@ As they approached, Ben-hadad's scouts reported to him, "Some troops are coming 32. So they put on burlap and ropes, and they went to the king of Israel and begged, "Your servant Ben-hadad says, 'Please let me live!'" The king of Israel responded, "Is he still alive? He is my brother!" + 33. The men took this as a good sign and quickly picked up on his words. "Yes," they said, "your brother Ben-hadad!" "Go and get him," the king of Israel told them. And when Ben-hadad arrived, Ahab invited him up into his chariot. + 34. Ben-hadad told him, "I will give back the towns my father took from your father, and you may establish places of trade in Damascus, as my father did in Samaria." -Then Ahab said, "I will release you under these conditions." So they made a new treaty, and Ben-hadad was set free.A Prophet Condemns Ahab +Then Ahab said, "I will release you under these conditions." So they made a new treaty, and Ben-hadad was set free. + +A Prophet Condemns Ahab + 35. Meanwhile, the LORD instructed one of the group of prophets to say to another man, "Hit me!" But the man refused to hit the prophet. 36. Then the prophet told him, "Because you have not obeyed the voice of the LORD, a lion will kill you as soon as you leave me." And when he had gone, a lion did attack and kill him. @@ -75,8 +91,10 @@ Then Ahab said, "I will release you under these conditions." So they made a new 40. But while I was busy doing something else, the prisoner disappeared!" "Well, it's your own fault," the king replied. "You have brought the judgment on yourself." + 41. Then the prophet quickly pulled the bandage from his eyes, and the king of Israel recognized him as one of the prophets. 42. The prophet said to him, "This is what the LORD says: Because you have spared the man I said must be destroyed, now you must die in his place, and your people will die instead of his people." 43. So the king of Israel went home to Samaria angry and sullen. + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_21.md index 17391220..799f429d 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_21.md @@ -48,3 +48,4 @@ Naboth's Vineyard 29. "Do you see how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has done this, I will not do what I promised during his lifetime. It will happen to his sons; I will destroy his dynasty." + diff --git a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_22.md index 0568d614..e8692786 100644 --- a/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/11_1 Kings/Chapter_22.md @@ -7,17 +7,22 @@ Jehoshaphat and Ahab 4. Then he turned to Jehoshaphat and asked, "Will you join me in battle to recover Ramoth-gilead?" Jehoshaphat replied to the king of Israel, "Why, of course! You and I are as one. My troops are your troops, and my horses are your horses." + 5. Then Jehoshaphat added, "But first let's find out what the LORD says." 6. So the king of Israel summoned the prophets, about 400 of them, and asked them, "Should I go to war against Ramoth-gilead, or should I hold back?" They all replied, "Yes, go right ahead! The Lord will give the king victory." + 7. But Jehoshaphat asked, "Is there not also a prophet of the LORD here? We should ask him the same question." 8. The king of Israel replied to Jehoshaphat, "There is one more man who could consult the LORD for us, but I hate him. He never prophesies anything but trouble for me! His name is Micaiah son of Imlah." Jehoshaphat replied, "That's not the way a king should talk! Let's hear what he has to say." -9. So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, "Quick! Bring Micaiah son of Imlah."Micaiah Prophesies against Ahab + +9. So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, "Quick! Bring Micaiah son of Imlah." +Micaiah Prophesies against Ahab + 10. King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah, dressed in their royal robes, were sitting on thrones at the threshing floor near the gate of Samaria. All of Ahab's prophets were prophesying there in front of them. 11. One of them, Zedekiah son of Kenaanah, made some iron horns and proclaimed, "This is what the LORD says: With these horns you will gore the Arameans to death!" @@ -40,9 +45,11 @@ Micaiah replied sarcastically, "Yes, go up and be victorious, for the LORD will 19. Then Micaiah continued, "Listen to what the LORD says! I saw the LORD sitting on his throne with all the armies of heaven around him, on his right and on his left. 20. And the LORD said, 'Who can entice Ahab to go into battle against Ramoth-gilead so he can be killed?' "There were many suggestions, + 21. and finally a spirit approached the LORD and said, 'I can do it!' 22. "'How will you do this?' the LORD asked. + "And the spirit replied, 'I will go out and inspire all of Ahab's prophets to speak lies.' "'You will succeed,' said the LORD. 'Go ahead and do it.' @@ -55,7 +62,9 @@ Micaiah replied sarcastically, "Yes, go up and be victorious, for the LORD will 26. "Arrest him!" the king of Israel ordered. "Take him back to Amon, the governor of the city, and to my son Joash. 27. Give them this order from the king: 'Put this man in prison, and feed him nothing but bread and water until I return safely from the battle!'" -28. But Micaiah replied, "If you return safely, it will mean that the LORD has not spoken through me!" Then he added to those standing around, "Everyone mark my words!"The Death of Ahab +28. But Micaiah replied, "If you return safely, it will mean that the LORD has not spoken through me!" Then he added to those standing around, "Everyone mark my words!" +The Death of Ahab + 29. So King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah led their armies against Ramoth-gilead. 30. The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, "As we go into battle, I will disguise myself so no one will recognize me, but you wear your royal robes." So the king of Israel disguised himself, and they went into battle. @@ -73,7 +82,10 @@ Micaiah replied sarcastically, "Yes, go up and be victorious, for the LORD will 38. Then his chariot was washed beside the pool of Samaria, and dogs came and licked his blood at the place where the prostitutes bathed, just as the LORD had promised. 39. The rest of the events in Ahab's reign and everything he did, including the story of the ivory palace and the towns he built, are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. -40. So Ahab died, and his son Ahaziah became the next king.Jehoshaphat Rules in Judah +40. So Ahab died, and his son Ahaziah became the next king. + +Jehoshaphat Rules in Judah + 41. Jehoshaphat son of Asa began to rule over Judah in the fourth year of King Ahab's reign in Israel. 42. Jehoshaphat was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-five years. His mother was Azubah, the daughter of Shilhi. @@ -89,10 +101,14 @@ Micaiah replied sarcastically, "Yes, go up and be victorious, for the LORD will 48. Jehoshaphat also built a fleet of trading ships to sail to Ophir for gold. But the ships never set sail, for they met with disaster in their home port of Ezion-geber. 49. At one time Ahaziah son of Ahab had proposed to Jehoshaphat, "Let my men sail with your men in the ships." But Jehoshaphat refused the request. -50. When Jehoshaphat died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. Then his son Jehoram became the next king.Ahaziah Rules in Israel +50. When Jehoshaphat died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. Then his son Jehoram became the next king. + +Ahaziah Rules in Israel + 51. Ahaziah son of Ahab began to rule over Israel in the seventeenth year of King Jehoshaphat's reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria two years. 52. But he did what was evil in the LORD's sight, following the example of his father and mother and the example of Jeroboam son of Nebat, who had led Israel to sin. 53. He served Baal and worshiped him, provoking the anger of the LORD, the God of Israel, just as his father had done. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_01.md index ddaf2817..82c1d67e 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_01.md @@ -17,6 +17,7 @@ Elijah Confronts King Ahaziah 8. They replied, "He was a hairy man, and he wore a leather belt around his waist." "Elijah from Tishbe!" the king exclaimed. + 9. Then he sent an army captain with fifty soldiers to arrest him. They found him sitting on top of a hill. The captain said to him, "Man of God, the king has commanded you to come down with us." 10. But Elijah replied to the captain, "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and destroy you and your fifty men!" Then fire fell from heaven and killed them all. @@ -37,3 +38,4 @@ Elijah Confronts King Ahaziah 18. The rest of the events in Ahaziah's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_02.md index 4b6a3241..a3f191a5 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_02.md @@ -8,12 +8,14 @@ But Elisha replied, "As surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, I will n 3. The group of prophets from Bethel came to Elisha and asked him, "Did you know that the LORD is going to take your master away from you today?" "Of course I know," Elisha answered. "But be quiet about it." + 4. Then Elijah said to Elisha, "Stay here, for the LORD has told me to go to Jericho." But Elisha replied again, "As surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, I will never leave you." So they went on together to Jericho. 5. Then the group of prophets from Jericho came to Elisha and asked him, "Did you know that the LORD is going to take your master away from you today?" "Of course I know," Elisha answered. "But be quiet about it." + 6. Then Elijah said to Elisha, "Stay here, for the LORD has told me to go to the Jordan River." But again Elisha replied, "As surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, I will never leave you." So they went on together. @@ -23,6 +25,7 @@ But again Elisha replied, "As surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, I 9. When they came to the other side, Elijah said to Elisha, "Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken away." And Elisha replied, "Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and become your successor." + 10. "You have asked a difficult thing," Elijah replied. "If you see me when I am taken from you, then you will get your request. But if not, then you won't." 11. As they were walking along and talking, suddenly a chariot of fire appeared, drawn by horses of fire. It drove between the two men, separating them, and Elijah was carried by a whirlwind into heaven. @@ -34,8 +37,12 @@ And Elisha replied, "Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and bec 15. When the group of prophets from Jericho saw from a distance what happened, they exclaimed, "Elijah's spirit rests upon Elisha!" And they went to meet him and bowed to the ground before him. 16. "Sir," they said, "just say the word and fifty of our strongest men will search the wilderness for your master. Perhaps the Spirit of the LORD has left him on some mountain or in some valley." "No," Elisha said, "don't send them." + 17. But they kept urging him until they shamed him into agreeing, and he finally said, "All right, send them." So fifty men searched for three days but did not find Elijah. -18. Elisha was still at Jericho when they returned. "Didn't I tell you not to go?" he asked.Elisha's First Miracles +18. Elisha was still at Jericho when they returned. "Didn't I tell you not to go?" he asked. + +Elisha's First Miracles + 19. One day the leaders of the town of Jericho visited Elisha. "We have a problem, my lord," they told him. "This town is located in pleasant surroundings, as you can see. But the water is bad, and the land is unproductive." @@ -48,3 +55,4 @@ And Elisha replied, "Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and bec 25. From there Elisha went to Mount Carmel and finally returned to Samaria. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_03.md index c701f9ea..7472055f 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_03.md @@ -10,9 +10,11 @@ War between Israel and Moab 6. So King Joram promptly mustered the army of Israel and marched from Samaria. 7. On the way, he sent this message to King Jehoshaphat of Judah: "The king of Moab has rebelled against me. Will you join me in battle against him?" And Jehoshaphat replied, "Why, of course! You and I are as one. My troops are your troops, and my horses are your horses." + 8. Then Jehoshaphat asked, "What route will we take?" "We will attack from the wilderness of Edom," Joram replied. + 9. The king of Edom and his troops joined them, and all three armies traveled along a roundabout route through the wilderness for seven days. But there was no water for the men or their animals. 10. "What should we do?" the king of Israel cried out. "The LORD has brought the three of us here to let the king of Moab defeat us." @@ -46,3 +48,4 @@ While the harp was being played, the power of the LORD came upon Elisha, 27. Then the king of Moab took his oldest son, who would have been the next king, and sacrificed him as a burnt offering on the wall. So there was great anger against Israel, and the Israelites withdrew and returned to their own land. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_04.md index 1df339c7..4a9c21a8 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,4 +1,5 @@ -Elisha Helps a Poor Widow +Elisha +Helps a Poor Widow # Chapter 4 1. One day the widow of a member of the group of prophets came to Elisha and cried out, "My husband who served you is dead, and you know how he feared the LORD. But now a creditor has come, threatening to take my two sons as slaves." @@ -6,15 +7,20 @@ Elisha Helps a Poor Widow 2. "What can I do to help you?" Elisha asked. "Tell me, what do you have in the house?" "Nothing at all, except a flask of olive oil," she replied. + 3. And Elisha said, "Borrow as many empty jars as you can from your friends and neighbors. 4. Then go into your house with your sons and shut the door behind you. Pour olive oil from your flask into the jars, setting each one aside when it is filled." 5. So she did as she was told. Her sons kept bringing jars to her, and she filled one after another. 6. Soon every container was full to the brim! "Bring me another jar," she said to one of her sons. + "There aren't any more!" he told her. And then the olive oil stopped flowing. -7. When she told the man of God what had happened, he said to her, "Now sell the olive oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on what is left over."Elisha and the Woman from Shunem + +7. When she told the man of God what had happened, he said to her, "Now sell the olive oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on what is left over." +Elisha and the Woman from Shunem + 8. One day Elisha went to the town of Shunem. A wealthy woman lived there, and she urged him to come to her home for a meal. After that, whenever he passed that way, he would stop there for something to eat. @@ -26,19 +32,23 @@ Elisha Helps a Poor Widow 13. Elisha said to Gehazi, "Tell her, 'We appreciate the kind concern you have shown us. What can we do for you? Can we put in a good word for you to the king or to the commander of the army?'" "No," she replied, "my family takes good care of me." + 14. Later Elisha asked Gehazi, "What can we do for her?" Gehazi replied, "She doesn't have a son, and her husband is an old man." + 15. "Call her back again," Elisha told him. When the woman returned, Elisha said to her as she stood in the doorway, 16. "Next year at this time you will be holding a son in your arms!" "No, my lord!" she cried. "O man of God, don't deceive me and get my hopes up like that." + 17. But sure enough, the woman soon became pregnant. And at that time the following year she had a son, just as Elisha had said. 18. One day when her child was older, he went out to help his father, who was working with the harvesters. 19. Suddenly he cried out, "My head hurts! My head hurts!" His father said to one of the servants, "Carry him home to his mother." + 20. So the servant took him home, and his mother held him on her lap. But around noontime he died. 21. She carried him up and laid him on the bed of the man of God, then shut the door and left him there. 22. She sent a message to her husband: "Send one of the servants and a donkey so that I can hurry to the man of God and come right back." @@ -46,12 +56,14 @@ His father said to one of the servants, "Carry him home to his mother." 23. "Why go today?" he asked. "It is neither a new moon festival nor a Sabbath." But she said, "It will be all right." + 24. So she saddled the donkey and said to the servant, "Hurry! Don't slow down unless I tell you to." 25. As she approached the man of God at Mount Carmel, Elisha saw her in the distance. He said to Gehazi, "Look, the woman from Shunem is coming. 26. Run out to meet her and ask her, 'Is everything all right with you, your husband, and your child?'" "Yes," the woman told Gehazi, "everything is fine." + 27. But when she came to the man of God at the mountain, she fell to the ground before him and caught hold of his feet. Gehazi began to push her away, but the man of God said, "Leave her alone. She is deeply troubled, but the LORD has not told me what it is." 28. Then she said, "Did I ask you for a son, my lord? And didn't I say, 'Don't deceive me and get my hopes up'?" @@ -68,7 +80,10 @@ But she said, "It will be all right." 35. Elisha got up, walked back and forth across the room once, and then stretched himself out again on the child. This time the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes! 36. Then Elisha summoned Gehazi. "Call the child's mother!" he said. And when she came in, Elisha said, "Here, take your son!" -37. She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs.Miracles during a Famine +37. She fell at his feet and bowed before him, overwhelmed with gratitude. Then she took her son in her arms and carried him downstairs. + +Miracles during a Famine + 38. Elisha now returned to Gilgal, and there was a famine in the land. One day as the group of prophets was seated before him, he said to his servant, "Put a large pot on the fire, and make some stew for the rest of the group." @@ -84,3 +99,4 @@ But Elisha repeated, "Give it to the people so they can eat, for this is what th 44. And when they gave it to the people, there was plenty for all and some left over, just as the LORD had promised. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_05.md index 586a3bea..5f8160d5 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_05.md @@ -30,12 +30,17 @@ The Healing of Naaman 17. Then Naaman said, "All right, but please allow me to load two of my mules with earth from this place, and I will take it back home with me. From now on I will never again offer burnt offerings or sacrifices to any other god except the LORD. 18. However, may the LORD pardon me in this one thing: When my master the king goes into the temple of the god Rimmon to worship there and leans on my arm, may the LORD pardon me when I bow, too." -19. "Go in peace," Elisha said. So Naaman started home again.The Greed of Gehazi +19. "Go in peace," Elisha said. So Naaman started home again. + +The Greed of Gehazi + 20. But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha, the man of God, said to himself, "My master should not have let this Aramean get away without accepting any of his gifts. As surely as the LORD lives, I will chase after him and get something from him." 21. So Gehazi set off after Naaman. + When Naaman saw Gehazi running after him, he climbed down from his chariot and went to meet him. "Is everything all right?" Naaman asked. + 22. "Yes," Gehazi said, "but my master has sent me to tell you that two young prophets from the hill country of Ephraim have just arrived. He would like 75 pounds of silver and two sets of clothing to give to them." 23. "By all means, take twice as much silver," Naaman insisted. He gave him two sets of clothing, tied up the money in two bags, and sent two of his servants to carry the gifts for Gehazi. @@ -44,7 +49,9 @@ When Naaman saw Gehazi running after him, he climbed down from his chariot and w 25. When he went in to his master, Elisha asked him, "Where have you been, Gehazi?" "I haven't been anywhere," he replied. + 26. But Elisha asked him, "Don't you realize that I was there in spirit when Naaman stepped down from his chariot to meet you? Is this the time to receive money and clothing, olive groves and vineyards, sheep and cattle, and male and female servants? 27. Because you have done this, you and your descendants will suffer from Naaman's leprosy forever." When Gehazi left the room, he was covered with leprosy; his skin was white as snow. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_06.md index 7be499de..e1770945 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_06.md @@ -5,14 +5,22 @@ The Floating Ax Head 2. Let's go down to the Jordan River, where there are plenty of logs. There we can build a new place for us to meet." "All right," he told them, "go ahead." + 3. "Please come with us," someone suggested. + "I will," he said. + 4. So he went with them. + When they arrived at the Jordan, they began cutting down trees. + 5. But as one of them was cutting a tree, his ax head fell into the river. "Oh, sir!" he cried. "It was a borrowed ax!" 6. "Where did it fall?" the man of God asked. When he showed him the place, Elisha cut a stick and threw it into the water at that spot. Then the ax head floated to the surface. -7. "Grab it," Elisha said. And the man reached out and grabbed it.Elisha Traps the Arameans +7. "Grab it," Elisha said. And the man reached out and grabbed it. + +Elisha Traps the Arameans + 8. When the king of Aram was at war with Israel, he would confer with his officers and say, "We will mobilize our forces at such and such a place." @@ -25,6 +33,7 @@ When they arrived at the Jordan, they began cutting down trees. 13. "Go and find out where he is," the king commanded, "so I can send troops to seize him." And the report came back: "Elisha is at Dothan." + 14. So one night the king of Aram sent a great army with many chariots and horses to surround the city. 15. When the servant of the man of God got up early the next morning and went outside, there were troops, horses, and chariots everywhere. "Oh, sir, what will we do now?" the young man cried to Elisha. @@ -42,7 +51,10 @@ And the report came back: "Elisha is at Dothan." 22. "Of course not!" Elisha replied. "Do we kill prisoners of war? Give them food and drink and send them home again to their master." -23. So the king made a great feast for them and then sent them home to their master. After that, the Aramean raiders stayed away from the land of Israel.Ben-Hadad Besieges Samaria +23. So the king made a great feast for them and then sent them home to their master. After that, the Aramean raiders stayed away from the land of Israel. + +Ben-Hadad Besieges Samaria + 24. Some time later, however, King Ben-hadad of Aram mustered his entire army and besieged Samaria. 25. As a result, there was a great famine in the city. The siege lasted so long that a donkey's head sold for eighty pieces of silver, and a cup of dove's dung sold for five pieces of silver. @@ -52,6 +64,7 @@ And the report came back: "Elisha is at Dothan." 27. He answered, "If the LORD doesn't help you, what can I do? I have neither food from the threshing floor nor wine from the press to give you." 28. But then the king asked, "What is the matter?" She replied, "This woman said to me: 'Come on, let's eat your son today, then we will eat my son tomorrow.' + 29. So we cooked my son and ate him. Then the next day I said to her, 'Kill your son so we can eat him,' but she has hidden her son." 30. When the king heard this, he tore his clothes in despair. And as the king walked along the wall, the people could see that he was wearing burlap under his robe next to his skin. @@ -62,3 +75,4 @@ She replied, "This woman said to me: 'Come on, let's eat your son today, then we 33. While Elisha was still saying this, the messenger arrived. And the king said, "All this misery is from the LORD! Why should I wait for the LORD any longer?" + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_07.md index d959db3b..3f45db09 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_07.md @@ -2,7 +2,9 @@ 1. Elisha replied, "Listen to this message from the LORD! This is what the LORD says: By this time tomorrow in the markets of Samaria, six quarts of choice flour will cost only one piece of silver, and twelve quarts of barley grain will cost only one piece of silver." 2. The officer assisting the king said to the man of God, "That couldn't happen even if the LORD opened the windows of heaven!" -But Elisha replied, "You will see it happen with your own eyes, but you won't be able to eat any of it!"Outcasts Visit the Enemy Camp +But Elisha replied, "You will see it happen with your own eyes, but you won't be able to eat any of it!" +Outcasts Visit the Enemy Camp + 3. Now there were four men with leprosy sitting at the entrance of the city gates. "Why should we sit here waiting to die?" they asked each other. 4. "We will starve if we stay here, but with the famine in the city, we will starve if we go back there. So we might as well go out and surrender to the Aramean army. If they let us live, so much the better. But if they kill us, we would have died anyway." @@ -15,7 +17,10 @@ But Elisha replied, "You will see it happen with your own eyes, but you won't be 9. Finally, they said to each other, "This is not right. This is a day of good news, and we aren't sharing it with anyone! If we wait until morning, some calamity will certainly fall upon us. Come on, let's go back and tell the people at the palace." 10. So they went back to the city and told the gatekeepers what had happened. "We went out to the Aramean camp," they said, "and no one was there! The horses and donkeys were tethered and the tents were all in order, but there wasn't a single person around!" -11. Then the gatekeepers shouted the news to the people in the palace.Israel Plunders the Camp +11. Then the gatekeepers shouted the news to the people in the palace. + +Israel Plunders the Camp + 12. The king got out of bed in the middle of the night and told his officers, "I know what has happened. The Arameans know we are starving, so they have left their camp and have hidden in the fields. They are expecting us to leave the city, and then they will take us alive and capture the city." @@ -25,10 +30,13 @@ But Elisha replied, "You will see it happen with your own eyes, but you won't be 15. They went all the way to the Jordan River, following a trail of clothing and equipment that the Arameans had thrown away in their mad rush to escape. The scouts returned and told the king about it. 16. Then the people of Samaria rushed out and plundered the Aramean camp. So it was true that six quarts of choice flour were sold that day for one piece of silver, and twelve quarts of barley grain were sold for one piece of silver, just as the LORD had promised. 17. The king appointed his officer to control the traffic at the gate, but he was knocked down and trampled to death as the people rushed out. + So everything happened exactly as the man of God had predicted when the king came to his house. + 18. The man of God had said to the king, "By this time tomorrow in the markets of Samaria, six quarts of choice flour will cost one piece of silver, and twelve quarts of barley grain will cost one piece of silver." 19. The king's officer had replied, "That couldn't happen even if the LORD opened the windows of heaven!" And the man of God had said, "You will see it happen with your own eyes, but you won't be able to eat any of it!" 20. And so it was, for the people trampled him to death at the gate! + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_08.md index c59e2dbe..92cb0994 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_08.md @@ -9,7 +9,10 @@ The Woman from Shunem Returns Home 5. And Gehazi was telling the king about the time Elisha had brought a boy back to life. At that very moment, the mother of the boy walked in to make her appeal to the king about her house and land. "Look, my lord the king!" Gehazi exclaimed. "Here is the woman now, and this is her son--the very one Elisha brought back to life!" -6. "Is this true?" the king asked her. And she told him the story. So he directed one of his officials to see that everything she had lost was restored to her, including the value of any crops that had been harvested during her absence.Hazael Murders Ben-Hadad +6. "Is this true?" the king asked her. And she told him the story. So he directed one of his officials to see that everything she had lost was restored to her, including the value of any crops that had been harvested during her absence. + +Hazael Murders Ben-Hadad + 7. Elisha went to Damascus, the capital of Aram, where King Ben-hadad lay sick. When someone told the king that the man of God had come, 8. the king said to Hazael, "Take a gift to the man of God. Then tell him to ask the LORD, 'Will I recover from this illness?'" @@ -20,15 +23,21 @@ The Woman from Shunem Returns Home 11. Elisha stared at Hazael with a fixed gaze until Hazael became uneasy. Then the man of God started weeping. 12. "What's the matter, my lord?" Hazael asked him. + Elisha replied, "I know the terrible things you will do to the people of Israel. You will burn their fortified cities, kill their young men with the sword, dash their little children to the ground, and rip open their pregnant women!" + 13. Hazael responded, "How could a nobody like me ever accomplish such great things?" Elisha answered, "The LORD has shown me that you are going to be the king of Aram." 14. When Hazael left Elisha and went back, the king asked him, "What did Elisha tell you?" And Hazael replied, "He told me that you will surely recover." -15. But the next day Hazael took a blanket, soaked it in water, and held it over the king's face until he died. Then Hazael became the next king of Aram.Jehoram Rules in Judah + +15. But the next day Hazael took a blanket, soaked it in water, and held it over the king's face until he died. Then Hazael became the next king of Aram. + +Jehoram Rules in Judah + 16. Jehoram son of King Jehoshaphat of Judah began to rule over Judah in the fifth year of the reign of Joram son of Ahab, king of Israel. 17. Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years. @@ -40,7 +49,10 @@ And Hazael replied, "He told me that you will surely recover." 22. So Edom has been independent from Judah to this day. The town of Libnah also revolted about that same time. 23. The rest of the events in Jehoram's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah. -24. When Jehoram died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. Then his son Ahaziah became the next king.Ahaziah Rules in Judah +24. When Jehoram died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. Then his son Ahaziah became the next king. + +Ahaziah Rules in Judah + 25. Ahaziah son of Jehoram began to rule over Judah in the twelfth year of the reign of Joram son of Ahab, king of Israel. @@ -51,3 +63,4 @@ And Hazael replied, "He told me that you will surely recover." 29. he returned to Jezreel to recover from the wounds he had received at Ramoth. Because Joram was wounded, King Ahaziah of Judah went to Jezreel to visit him. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_09.md index ab49f52c..361db427 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_09.md @@ -7,9 +7,12 @@ Jehu Anointed King of Israel 4. So the young prophet did as he was told and went to Ramoth-gilead. 5. When he arrived there, he found Jehu sitting around with the other army officers. "I have a message for you, Commander," he said. + "For which one of us?" Jehu asked. + "For you, Commander," he replied. + 6. So Jehu left the others and went into the house. Then the young prophet poured the oil over Jehu's head and said, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: I anoint you king over the LORD's people, Israel. 7. You are to destroy the family of Ahab, your master. In this way, I will avenge the murder of my prophets and all the LORD's servants who were killed by Jezebel. 8. The entire family of Ahab must be wiped out. I will destroy every one of his male descendants, slave and free alike, anywhere in Israel. @@ -19,10 +22,13 @@ Jehu Anointed King of Israel 11. Jehu went back to his fellow officers, and one of them asked him, "What did that madman want? Is everything all right?" "You know how a man like that babbles on," Jehu replied. + 12. "You're hiding something," they said. "Tell us." So Jehu told them, "He said to me, 'This is what the LORD says: I have anointed you to be king over Israel.'" -13. Then they quickly spread out their cloaks on the bare steps and blew the ram's horn, shouting, "Jehu is king!"Jehu Kills Joram and Ahaziah +13. Then they quickly spread out their cloaks on the bare steps and blew the ram's horn, shouting, "Jehu is king!" +Jehu Kills Joram and Ahaziah + 14. So Jehu son of Jehoshaphat, son of Nimshi, led a conspiracy against King Joram. (Now Joram had been with the army at Ramoth-gilead, defending Israel against the forces of King Hazael of Aram. 15. But King Joram was wounded in the fighting and returned to Jezreel to recover from his wounds.) So Jehu told the men with him, "If you want me to be king, don't let anyone leave town and go to Jezreel to report what we have done." @@ -31,20 +37,26 @@ So Jehu told them, "He said to me, 'This is what the LORD says: I have anointed 17. The watchman on the tower of Jezreel saw Jehu and his company approaching, so he shouted to Joram, "I see a company of troops coming!" "Send out a rider to ask if they are coming in peace," King Joram ordered. + 18. So a horseman went out to meet Jehu and said, "The king wants to know if you are coming in peace." Jehu replied, "What do you know about peace? Fall in behind me!" The watchman called out to the king, "The messenger has met them, but he's not returning." + 19. So the king sent out a second horseman. He rode up to them and said, "The king wants to know if you come in peace." Again Jehu answered, "What do you know about peace? Fall in behind me!" + 20. The watchman exclaimed, "The messenger has met them, but he isn't returning either! It must be Jehu son of Nimshi, for he's driving like a madman." 21. "Quick! Get my chariot ready!" King Joram commanded. + Then King Joram of Israel and King Ahaziah of Judah rode out in their chariots to meet Jehu. They met him at the plot of land that had belonged to Naboth of Jezreel. + 22. King Joram demanded, "Do you come in peace, Jehu?" Jehu replied, "How can there be peace as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of your mother, Jezebel, are all around us?" + 23. Then King Joram turned the horses around and fled, shouting to King Ahaziah, "Treason, Ahaziah!" 24. But Jehu drew his bow and shot Joram between the shoulders. The arrow pierced his heart, and he sank down dead in his chariot. @@ -53,7 +65,10 @@ Jehu replied, "How can there be peace as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of 27. When King Ahaziah of Judah saw what was happening, he fled along the road to Beth-haggan. Jehu rode after him, shouting, "Shoot him, too!" So they shot Ahaziah in his chariot at the Ascent of Gur, near Ibleam. He was able to go on as far as Megiddo, but he died there. 28. His servants took him by chariot to Jerusalem, where they buried him with his ancestors in the City of David. -29. Ahaziah had become king over Judah in the eleventh year of the reign of Joram son of Ahab.The Death of Jezebel +29. Ahaziah had become king over Judah in the eleventh year of the reign of Joram son of Ahab. + +The Death of Jezebel + 30. When Jezebel, the queen mother, heard that Jehu had come to Jezreel, she painted her eyelids and fixed her hair and sat at a window. 31. When Jehu entered the gate of the palace, she shouted at him, "Have you come in peace, you murderer? You're just like Zimri, who murdered his master!" @@ -68,3 +83,4 @@ Jehu replied, "How can there be peace as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of 37. Her remains will be scattered like dung on the plot of land in Jezreel, so that no one will be able to recognize her.'" + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_10.md index a8addc6c..25d5c054 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_10.md @@ -15,22 +15,30 @@ Jehu Kills Ahab's Family 8. A messenger went to Jehu and said, "They have brought the heads of the king's sons." So Jehu ordered, "Pile them in two heaps at the entrance of the city gate, and leave them there until morning." + 9. In the morning he went out and spoke to the crowd that had gathered around them. "You are not to blame," he told them. "I am the one who conspired against my master and killed him. But who killed all these? 10. You can be sure that the message of the LORD that was spoken concerning Ahab's family will not fail. The LORD declared through his servant Elijah that this would happen." 11. Then Jehu killed all who were left of Ahab's relatives living in Jezreel and all his important officials, his personal friends, and his priests. So Ahab was left without a single survivor. 12. Then Jehu set out for Samaria. Along the way, while he was at Beth-eked of the Shepherds, 13. he met some relatives of King Ahaziah of Judah. "Who are you?" he asked them. + And they replied, "We are relatives of King Ahaziah. We are going to visit the sons of King Ahab and the sons of the queen mother." + 14. "Take them alive!" Jehu shouted to his men. And they captured all forty-two of them and killed them at the well of Beth-eked. None of them escaped. 15. When Jehu left there, he met Jehonadab son of Recab, who was coming to meet him. After they had greeted each other, Jehu said to him, "Are you as loyal to me as I am to you?" "Yes, I am," Jehonadab replied. + "If you are," Jehu said, "then give me your hand." So Jehonadab put out his hand, and Jehu helped him into the chariot. + 16. Then Jehu said, "Now come with me, and see how devoted I am to the LORD." So Jehonadab rode along with him. -17. When Jehu arrived in Samaria, he killed everyone who was left there from Ahab's family, just as the LORD had promised through Elijah.Jehu Kills the Priests of Baal +17. When Jehu arrived in Samaria, he killed everyone who was left there from Ahab's family, just as the LORD had promised through Elijah. + +Jehu Kills the Priests of Baal + 18. Then Jehu called a meeting of all the people of the city and said to them, "Ahab's worship of Baal was nothing compared to the way I will worship him! 19. Therefore, summon all the prophets and worshipers of Baal, and call together all his priests. See to it that every one of them comes, for I am going to offer a great sacrifice to Baal. Anyone who fails to come will be put to death." But Jehu's cunning plan was to destroy all the worshipers of Baal. @@ -50,7 +58,10 @@ And they replied, "We are relatives of King Ahaziah. We are going to visit the s 29. He did not, however, destroy the gold calves at Bethel and Dan, with which Jeroboam son of Nebat had caused Israel to sin. 30. Nonetheless the LORD said to Jehu, "You have done well in following my instructions to destroy the family of Ahab. Therefore, your descendants will be kings of Israel down to the fourth generation." -31. But Jehu did not obey the Law of the LORD, the God of Israel, with all his heart. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam had led Israel to commit.The Death of Jehu +31. But Jehu did not obey the Law of the LORD, the God of Israel, with all his heart. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam had led Israel to commit. + +The Death of Jehu + 32. At about that time the LORD began to cut down the size of Israel's territory. King Hazael conquered several sections of the country 33. east of the Jordan River, including all of Gilead, Gad, Reuben, and Manasseh. He conquered the area from the town of Aroer by the Arnon Gorge to as far north as Gilead and Bashan. @@ -61,3 +72,4 @@ And they replied, "We are relatives of King Ahaziah. We are going to visit the s 36. In all, Jehu reigned over Israel from Samaria for twenty-eight years. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_11.md index 75944628..a69fd8f6 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_11.md @@ -3,7 +3,10 @@ Queen Athaliah Rules in Judah # Chapter 11 1. When Athaliah, the mother of King Ahaziah of Judah, learned that her son was dead, she began to destroy the rest of the royal family. 2. But Ahaziah's sister Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram, took Ahaziah's infant son, Joash, and stole him away from among the rest of the king's children, who were about to be killed. She put Joash and his nurse in a bedroom, and they hid him from Athaliah, so the child was not murdered. -3. Joash remained hidden in the Temple of the LORD for six years while Athaliah ruled over the land.Revolt against Athaliah +3. Joash remained hidden in the Temple of the LORD for six years while Athaliah ruled over the land. + +Revolt against Athaliah + 4. In the seventh year of Athaliah's reign, Jehoiada the priest summoned the commanders, the Carite mercenaries, and the palace guards to come to the Temple of the LORD. He made a solemn pact with them and made them swear an oath of loyalty there in the LORD's Temple; then he showed them the king's son. @@ -16,13 +19,18 @@ Queen Athaliah Rules in Judah 10. and he supplied them with the spears and small shields that had once belonged to King David and were stored in the Temple of the LORD. 11. The palace guards stationed themselves around the king, with their weapons ready. They formed a line from the south side of the Temple around to the north side and all around the altar. -12. Then Jehoiada brought out Joash, the king's son, placed the crown on his head, and presented him with a copy of God's laws. They anointed him and proclaimed him king, and everyone clapped their hands and shouted, "Long live the king!"The Death of Athaliah +12. Then Jehoiada brought out Joash, the king's son, placed the crown on his head, and presented him with a copy of God's laws. They anointed him and proclaimed him king, and everyone clapped their hands and shouted, "Long live the king!" +The Death of Athaliah + 13. When Athaliah heard the noise made by the palace guards and the people, she hurried to the LORD's Temple to see what was happening. 14. When she arrived, she saw the newly crowned king standing in his place of authority by the pillar, as was the custom at times of coronation. The commanders and trumpeters were surrounding him, and people from all over the land were rejoicing and blowing trumpets. When Athaliah saw all this, she tore her clothes in despair and shouted, "Treason! Treason!" 15. Then Jehoiada the priest ordered the commanders who were in charge of the troops, "Take her to the soldiers in front of the Temple, and kill anyone who tries to rescue her." For the priest had said, "She must not be killed in the Temple of the LORD." -16. So they seized her and led her out to the gate where horses enter the palace grounds, and she was killed there.Jehoiada's Religious Reforms +16. So they seized her and led her out to the gate where horses enter the palace grounds, and she was killed there. + +Jehoiada's Religious Reforms + 17. Then Jehoiada made a covenant between the LORD and the king and the people that they would be the LORD's people. He also made a covenant between the king and the people. 18. And all the people of the land went over to the temple of Baal and tore it down. They demolished the altars and smashed the idols to pieces, and they killed Mattan the priest of Baal in front of the altars. @@ -33,3 +41,4 @@ Jehoiada the priest stationed guards at the Temple of the LORD. 21. Joash was seven years old when he became king. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_12.md index dbe4d202..4781b416 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_12.md @@ -20,9 +20,13 @@ Joash Repairs the Temple 13. The money brought to the Temple was not used for making silver bowls, lamp snuffers, basins, trumpets, or other articles of gold or silver for the Temple of the LORD. 14. It was paid to the workmen, who used it for the Temple repairs. 15. No accounting of this money was required from the construction supervisors, because they were honest and trustworthy men. -16. However, the money that was contributed for guilt offerings and sin offerings was not brought into the LORD's Temple. It was given to the priests for their own use.The End of Joash's Reign +16. However, the money that was contributed for guilt offerings and sin offerings was not brought into the LORD's Temple. It was given to the priests for their own use. -17. About this time King Hazael of Aram went to war against Gath and captured it. Then he turned to attack Jerusalem. +The End of Joash's Reign + + +17. +About this time King Hazael of Aram went to war against Gath and captured it. Then he turned to attack Jerusalem. 18. King Joash collected all the sacred objects that Jehoshaphat, Jehoram, and Ahaziah, the previous kings of Judah, had dedicated, along with what he himself had dedicated. He sent them all to Hazael, along with all the gold in the treasuries of the LORD's Temple and the royal palace. So Hazael called off his attack on Jerusalem. 19. The rest of the events in Joash's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah. @@ -31,3 +35,4 @@ Joash Repairs the Temple 21. The assassins were Jozacar son of Shimeath and Jehozabad son of Shomer--both trusted advisers. Joash was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. Then his son Amaziah became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_13.md index 340812b8..75caeb56 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_13.md @@ -12,13 +12,19 @@ Jehoahaz Rules in Israel 7. Finally, Jehoahaz's army was reduced to 50 charioteers, 10 chariots, and 10,000 foot soldiers. The king of Aram had killed the others, trampling them like dust under his feet. 8. The rest of the events in Jehoahaz's reign--everything he did and the extent of his power--are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. -9. When Jehoahaz died, he was buried in Samaria. Then his son Jehoash became the next king.Jehoash Rules in Israel +9. When Jehoahaz died, he was buried in Samaria. Then his son Jehoash became the next king. + +Jehoash Rules in Israel + 10. Jehoash son of Jehoahaz began to rule over Israel in the thirty-seventh year of King Joash's reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria sixteen years. 11. But he did what was evil in the LORD's sight. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had led Israel to commit. 12. The rest of the events in Jehoash's reign and everything he did, including the extent of his power and his war with King Amaziah of Judah, are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. -13. When Jehoash died, he was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel. Then his son Jeroboam II became the next king.Elisha's Final Prophecy +13. When Jehoash died, he was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel. Then his son Jeroboam II became the next king. + +Elisha's Final Prophecy + 14. When Elisha was in his last illness, King Jehoash of Israel visited him and wept over him. "My father! My father! I see the chariots and charioteers of Israel!" he cried. @@ -31,7 +37,9 @@ Jehoahaz Rules in Israel 19. But the man of God was angry with him. "You should have struck the ground five or six times!" he exclaimed. "Then you would have beaten Aram until it was entirely destroyed. Now you will be victorious only three times." 20. Then Elisha died and was buried. + Groups of Moabite raiders used to invade the land each spring. + 21. Once when some Israelites were burying a man, they spied a band of these raiders. So they hastily threw the corpse into the tomb of Elisha and fled. But as soon as the body touched Elisha's bones, the dead man revived and jumped to his feet! 22. King Hazael of Aram had oppressed Israel during the entire reign of King Jehoahaz. @@ -41,3 +49,4 @@ Groups of Moabite raiders used to invade the land each spring. 25. Then Jehoash son of Jehoahaz recaptured from Ben-hadad son of Hazael the towns that had been taken from Jehoash's father, Jehoahaz. Jehoash defeated Ben-hadad on three occasions, and he recovered the Israelite towns. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_14.md index 8dc38556..381d0c8e 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_14.md @@ -32,7 +32,10 @@ Amaziah Rules in Judah 20. They brought his body back to Jerusalem on a horse, and he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. 21. All the people of Judah had crowned Amaziah's sixteen-year-old son, Uzziah, as king in place of his father, Amaziah. -22. After his father's death, Uzziah rebuilt the town of Elath and restored it to Judah.Jeroboam II Rules in Israel +22. After his father's death, Uzziah rebuilt the town of Elath and restored it to Judah. + +Jeroboam II Rules in Israel + 23. Jeroboam II, the son of Jehoash, began to rule over Israel in the fifteenth year of King Amaziah's reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria forty-one years. 24. He did what was evil in the LORD's sight. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had led Israel to commit. @@ -45,3 +48,4 @@ Amaziah Rules in Judah 29. When Jeroboam II died, he was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel. Then his son Zechariah became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_15.md index dccdc5f5..addf49d2 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_15.md @@ -9,19 +9,27 @@ Uzziah Rules in Judah 5. The LORD struck the king with leprosy, which lasted until the day he died. He lived in isolation in a separate house. The king's son Jotham was put in charge of the royal palace, and he governed the people of the land. 6. The rest of the events in Uzziah's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah. -7. When Uzziah died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. And his son Jotham became the next king.Zechariah Rules in Israel +7. When Uzziah died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. And his son Jotham became the next king. + +Zechariah Rules in Israel + 8. Zechariah son of Jeroboam II began to rule over Israel in the thirty-eighth year of King Uzziah's reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria six months. 9. Zechariah did what was evil in the LORD's sight, as his ancestors had done. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had led Israel to commit. 10. Then Shallum son of Jabesh conspired against Zechariah, assassinated him in public, and became the next king. 11. The rest of the events in Zechariah's reign are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. -12. So the LORD's message to Jehu came true: "Your descendants will be kings of Israel down to the fourth generation."Shallum Rules in Israel +12. So the LORD's message to Jehu came true: "Your descendants will be kings of Israel down to the fourth generation." +Shallum Rules in Israel + 13. Shallum son of Jabesh began to rule over Israel in the thirty-ninth year of King Uzziah's reign in Judah. Shallum reigned in Samaria only one month. 14. Then Menahem son of Gadi went to Samaria from Tirzah and assassinated him, and he became the next king. -15. The rest of the events in Shallum's reign, including his conspiracy, are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel.Menahem Rules in Israel +15. The rest of the events in Shallum's reign, including his conspiracy, are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. + +Menahem Rules in Israel + 16. At that time Menahem destroyed the town of Tappuah and all the surrounding countryside as far as Tirzah, because its citizens refused to surrender the town. He killed the entire population and ripped open the pregnant women. @@ -32,14 +40,20 @@ Uzziah Rules in Judah 20. Menahem extorted the money from the rich of Israel, demanding that each of them pay fifty pieces of silver to the king of Assyria. So the king of Assyria turned from attacking Israel and did not stay in the land. 21. The rest of the events in Menahem's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. -22. When Menahem died, his son Pekahiah became the next king.Pekahiah Rules in Israel +22. When Menahem died, his son Pekahiah became the next king. + +Pekahiah Rules in Israel + 23. Pekahiah son of Menahem began to rule over Israel in the fiftieth year of King Uzziah's reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria two years. 24. But Pekahiah did what was evil in the LORD's sight. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had led Israel to commit. 25. Then Pekah son of Remaliah, the commander of Pekahiah's army, conspired against him. With fifty men from Gilead, Pekah assassinated the king, along with Argob and Arieh, in the citadel of the palace at Samaria. And Pekah reigned in his place. -26. The rest of the events in Pekahiah's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel.Pekah Rules in Israel +26. The rest of the events in Pekahiah's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. + +Pekah Rules in Israel + 27. Pekah son of Remaliah began to rule over Israel in the fifty-second year of King Uzziah's reign in Judah. He reigned in Samaria twenty years. 28. But Pekah did what was evil in the LORD's sight. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had led Israel to commit. @@ -47,7 +61,10 @@ Uzziah Rules in Judah 29. During Pekah's reign, King Tiglath-pileser of Assyria attacked Israel again, and he captured the towns of Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, and Hazor. He also conquered the regions of Gilead, Galilee, and all of Naphtali, and he took the people to Assyria as captives. 30. Then Hoshea son of Elah conspired against Pekah and assassinated him. He began to rule over Israel in the twentieth year of Jotham son of Uzziah. -31. The rest of the events in Pekah's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel.Jotham Rules in Judah +31. The rest of the events in Pekah's reign and everything he did are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. + +Jotham Rules in Judah + 32. Jotham son of Uzziah began to rule over Judah in the second year of King Pekah's reign in Israel. 33. He was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years. His mother was Jerusha, the daughter of Zadok. @@ -60,3 +77,4 @@ Uzziah Rules in Judah 38. When Jotham died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. And his son Ahaz became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_16.md index f3b3c14e..e3c78ad9 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_16.md @@ -29,3 +29,4 @@ Ahaz Rules in Judah 20. When Ahaz died, he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. Then his son Hezekiah became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_17.md index 2cedc0a9..322a524d 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_17.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ Hoshea Rules in Israel 2. He did what was evil in the LORD's sight, but not to the same extent as the kings of Israel who ruled before him. 3. King Shalmaneser of Assyria attacked King Hoshea, so Hoshea was forced to pay heavy tribute to Assyria. -4. But Hoshea stopped paying the annual tribute and conspired against the king of Assyria by asking King So of Egypt to help him shake free of Assyria's power. When the king of Assyria discovered this treachery, he seized Hoshea and put him in prison.Samaria Falls to Assyria +4. But Hoshea stopped paying the annual tribute and conspired against the king of Assyria by asking King So of Egypt to help him shake free of Assyria's power. When the king of Assyria discovered this treachery, he seized Hoshea and put him in prison. + +Samaria Falls to Assyria + 5. Then the king of Assyria invaded the entire land, and for three years he besieged the city of Samaria. 6. Finally, in the ninth year of King Hoshea's reign, Samaria fell, and the people of Israel were exiled to Assyria. They were settled in colonies in Halah, along the banks of the Habor River in Gozan, and in the cities of the Medes. @@ -31,7 +34,10 @@ Hoshea Rules in Israel 21. For when the LORD tore Israel away from the kingdom of David, they chose Jeroboam son of Nebat as their king. But Jeroboam drew Israel away from following the LORD and made them commit a great sin. 22. And the people of Israel persisted in all the evil ways of Jeroboam. They did not turn from these sins -23. until the LORD finally swept them away from his presence, just as all his prophets had warned. So Israel was exiled from their land to Assyria, where they remain to this day.Foreigners Settle in Israel +23. until the LORD finally swept them away from his presence, just as all his prophets had warned. So Israel was exiled from their land to Assyria, where they remain to this day. + +Foreigners Settle in Israel + 24. The king of Assyria transported groups of people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and resettled them in the towns of Samaria, replacing the people of Israel. They took possession of Samaria and lived in its towns. 25. But since these foreign settlers did not worship the LORD when they first arrived, the LORD sent lions among them, which killed some of them. @@ -59,3 +65,4 @@ Hoshea Rules in Israel 41. So while these new residents worshiped the LORD, they also worshiped their idols. And to this day their descendants do the same. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_18.md index 8d15e677..aba30d02 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_18.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ Hezekiah Rules in Judah 9. During the fourth year of Hezekiah's reign, which was the seventh year of King Hoshea's reign in Israel, King Shalmaneser of Assyria attacked the city of Samaria and began a siege against it. 10. Three years later, during the sixth year of King Hezekiah's reign and the ninth year of King Hoshea's reign in Israel, Samaria fell. 11. At that time the king of Assyria exiled the Israelites to Assyria and placed them in colonies in Halah, along the banks of the Habor River in Gozan, and in the cities of the Medes. -12. For they refused to listen to the LORD their God and obey him. Instead, they violated his covenant--all the laws that Moses the LORD's servant had commanded them to obey.Assyria Invades Judah +12. For they refused to listen to the LORD their God and obey him. Instead, they violated his covenant--all the laws that Moses the LORD's servant had commanded them to obey. + +Assyria Invades Judah + 13. In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah's reign, King Sennacherib of Assyria came to attack the fortified towns of Judah and conquered them. 14. King Hezekiah sent this message to the king of Assyria at Lachish: "I have done wrong. I will pay whatever tribute money you demand if you will only withdraw." The king of Assyria then demanded a settlement of more than eleven tons of silver and one ton of gold. @@ -22,10 +25,14 @@ Hezekiah Rules in Judah 16. Hezekiah even stripped the gold from the doors of the LORD's Temple and from the doorposts he had overlaid with gold, and he gave it all to the Assyrian king. 17. Nevertheless, the king of Assyria sent his commander in chief, his field commander, and his chief of staff from Lachish with a huge army to confront King Hezekiah in Jerusalem. The Assyrians took up a position beside the aqueduct that feeds water into the upper pool, near the road leading to the field where cloth is washed. -18. They summoned King Hezekiah, but the king sent these officials to meet with them: Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator; Shebna the court secretary; and Joah son of Asaph, the royal historian.Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem +18. They summoned King Hezekiah, but the king sent these officials to meet with them: Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator; Shebna the court secretary; and Joah son of Asaph, the royal historian. + +Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem + 19. Then the Assyrian king's chief of staff told them to give this message to Hezekiah: "This is what the great king of Assyria says: What are you trusting in that makes you so confident? + 20. Do you think that mere words can substitute for military skill and strength? Who are you counting on, that you have rebelled against me? 21. On Egypt? If you lean on Egypt, it will be like a reed that splinters beneath your weight and pierces your hand. Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, is completely unreliable! @@ -55,3 +62,4 @@ Hezekiah Rules in Judah 37. Then Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator; Shebna the court secretary; and Joah son of Asaph, the royal historian, went back to Hezekiah. They tore their clothes in despair, and they went in to see the king and told him what the Assyrian chief of staff had said. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_19.md index 407a8c1b..0a1012cf 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_19.md @@ -1,4 +1,5 @@ -Hezekiah Seeks the LORD's Help +Hezekiah Seeks the LORD's +Help # Chapter 19 1. When King Hezekiah heard their report, he tore his clothes and put on burlap and went into the Temple of the LORD. @@ -25,89 +26,147 @@ Hezekiah Seeks the LORD's Help 17. "It is true, LORD, that the kings of Assyria have destroyed all these nations. 18. And they have thrown the gods of these nations into the fire and burned them. But of course the Assyrians could destroy them! They were not gods at all--only idols of wood and stone shaped by human hands. -19. Now, O LORD our God, rescue us from his power; then all the kingdoms of the earth will know that you alone, O LORD, are God."Isaiah Predicts Judah's Deliverance +19. Now, O LORD our God, rescue us from his power; then all the kingdoms of the earth will know that you alone, O LORD, are God." +Isaiah Predicts Judah's Deliverance + 20. Then Isaiah son of Amoz sent this message to Hezekiah: "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: I have heard your prayer about King Sennacherib of Assyria. 21. And the LORD has spoken this word against him: "The virgin daughter of Zion - despises you and laughs at you. + +despises you and laughs at you. + The daughter of Jerusalem - shakes her head in derision as you flee. + +shakes her head in derision as you flee. + 22. "Whom have you been defying and ridiculing? - Against whom did you raise your voice? + +Against whom did you raise your voice? At whom did you look with such haughty eyes? - It was the Holy One of Israel! + +It was the Holy One of Israel! + 23. By your messengers you have defied the Lord. - You have said, 'With my many chariots + +You have said, 'With my many chariots I have conquered the highest mountains-- - yes, the remotest peaks of Lebanon. + +yes, the remotest peaks of Lebanon. + I have cut down its tallest cedars - and its finest cypress trees. + +and its finest cypress trees. + I have reached its farthest corners - and explored its deepest forests. + +and explored its deepest forests. + 24. I have dug wells in many foreign lands - and refreshed myself with their water. + +and refreshed myself with their water. + With the sole of my foot - I stopped up all the rivers of Egypt!' + +I stopped up all the rivers of Egypt!' + 25. "But have you not heard? - I decided this long ago. + +I decided this long ago. + Long ago I planned it, - and now I am making it happen. + +and now I am making it happen. + I planned for you to crush fortified cities - into heaps of rubble. + +into heaps of rubble. + 26. That is why their people have so little power - and are so frightened and confused. + +and are so frightened and confused. + They are as weak as grass, - as easily trampled as tender green shoots. + +as easily trampled as tender green shoots. + They are like grass sprouting on a housetop, - scorched before it can grow lush and tall. + +scorched before it can grow lush and tall. + 27. "But I know you well-- - where you stay + +where you stay and when you come and go. - I know the way you have raged against me. + +I know the way you have raged against me. + 28. And because of your raging against me - and your arrogance, which I have heard for myself, + +and your arrogance, which I have heard for myself, I will put my hook in your nose - and my bit in your mouth. + +and my bit in your mouth. + I will make you return - by the same road on which you came." + +by the same road on which you came." + 29. Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, "Here is the proof that what I say is true: "This year you will eat only what grows up by itself, - and next year you will eat what springs up from that. + +and next year you will eat what springs up from that. + But in the third year you will plant crops and harvest them; - you will tend vineyards and eat their fruit. + +you will tend vineyards and eat their fruit. + 30. And you who are left in Judah, - who have escaped the ravages of the siege, + +who have escaped the ravages of the siege, will put roots down in your own soil - and will grow up and flourish. + +and will grow up and flourish. + 31. For a remnant of my people will spread out from Jerusalem, - a group of survivors from Mount Zion. + +a group of survivors from Mount Zion. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies - will make this happen! + +will make this happen! + 32. "And this is what the LORD says about the king of Assyria: "His armies will not enter Jerusalem. - They will not even shoot an arrow at it. + +They will not even shoot an arrow at it. + They will not march outside its gates with their shields - nor build banks of earth against its walls. + +nor build banks of earth against its walls. + 33. The king will return to his own country - by the same road on which he came. + +by the same road on which he came. + He will not enter this city, says the LORD. 34. For my own honor and for the sake of my servant David, - I will defend this city and protect it." + +I will defend this city and protect it." + 35. That night the angel of the LORD went out to the Assyrian camp and killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. When the surviving Assyrians woke up the next morning, they found corpses everywhere. 36. Then King Sennacherib of Assyria broke camp and returned to his own land. He went home to his capital of Nineveh and stayed there. @@ -115,3 +174,4 @@ He will not enter this city, 37. One day while he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer killed him with their swords. They then escaped to the land of Ararat, and another son, Esarhaddon, became the next king of Assyria. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_20.md index 4a3bedf1..e82231be 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_20.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Hezekiah's Sickness and Recovery # Chapter 20 -1. About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill, and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to visit him. He gave the king this message: "This is what the LORD says: Set your affairs in order, for you are going to die. You will not recover from this illness." +1. +About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill, and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to visit him. He gave the king this message: "This is what the LORD says: Set your affairs in order, for you are going to die. You will not recover from this illness." 2. When Hezekiah heard this, he turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, 3. "Remember, O LORD, how I have always been faithful to you and have served you single-mindedly, always doing what pleases you." Then he broke down and wept bitterly. @@ -17,7 +18,9 @@ Hezekiah's Sickness and Recovery 9. Isaiah replied, "This is the sign from the LORD to prove that he will do as he promised. Would you like the shadow on the sundial to go forward ten steps or backward ten steps?" 10. "The shadow always moves forward," Hezekiah replied, "so that would be easy. Make it go ten steps backward instead." -11. So Isaiah the prophet asked the LORD to do this, and he caused the shadow to move ten steps backward on the sundial of Ahaz!Envoys from Babylon +11. So Isaiah the prophet asked the LORD to do this, and he caused the shadow to move ten steps backward on the sundial of Ahaz! +Envoys from Babylon + 12. Soon after this, Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent Hezekiah his best wishes and a gift, for he had heard that Hezekiah had been very sick. 13. Hezekiah received the Babylonian envoys and showed them everything in his treasure-houses--the silver, the gold, the spices, and the aromatic oils. He also took them to see his armory and showed them everything in his royal treasuries! There was nothing in his palace or kingdom that Hezekiah did not show them. @@ -25,6 +28,7 @@ Hezekiah's Sickness and Recovery 14. Then Isaiah the prophet went to King Hezekiah and asked him, "What did those men want? Where were they from?" Hezekiah replied, "They came from the distant land of Babylon." + 15. "What did they see in your palace?" Isaiah asked. "They saw everything," Hezekiah replied. "I showed them everything I own--all my royal treasuries." @@ -38,3 +42,4 @@ Hezekiah replied, "They came from the distant land of Babylon." 21. Hezekiah died, and his son Manasseh became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_21.md index 2b8ecf0c..115c387c 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_21.md @@ -23,7 +23,10 @@ Manasseh Rules in Judah 16. Manasseh also murdered many innocent people until Jerusalem was filled from one end to the other with innocent blood. This was in addition to the sin that he caused the people of Judah to commit, leading them to do evil in the LORD's sight. 17. The rest of the events in Manasseh's reign and everything he did, including the sins he committed, are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah. -18. When Manasseh died, he was buried in the palace garden, the garden of Uzza. Then his son Amon became the next king.Amon Rules in Judah +18. When Manasseh died, he was buried in the palace garden, the garden of Uzza. Then his son Amon became the next king. + +Amon Rules in Judah + 19. Amon was twenty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem two years. His mother was Meshullemeth, the daughter of Haruz from Jotbah. 20. He did what was evil in the LORD's sight, just as his father, Manasseh, had done. @@ -37,3 +40,4 @@ Manasseh Rules in Judah 26. He was buried in his tomb in the garden of Uzza. Then his son Josiah became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_22.md index cfce25f0..06dcee3d 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_22.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ Josiah Rules in Judah 4. "Go to Hilkiah the high priest and have him count the money the gatekeepers have collected from the people at the LORD's Temple. 5. Entrust this money to the men assigned to supervise the restoration of the LORD's Temple. Then they can use it to pay workers to repair the Temple. 6. They will need to hire carpenters, builders, and masons. Also have them buy the timber and the finished stone needed to repair the Temple. -7. But don't require the construction supervisors to keep account of the money they receive, for they are honest and trustworthy men."Hilkiah Discovers God's Law +7. But don't require the construction supervisors to keep account of the money they receive, for they are honest and trustworthy men." +Hilkiah Discovers God's Law + 8. Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the court secretary, "I have found the Book of the Law in the LORD's Temple!" Then Hilkiah gave the scroll to Shaphan, and he read it. @@ -31,3 +33,4 @@ Josiah Rules in Judah So they took her message back to the king. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_23.md index 738d94bb..991e9bb9 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_23.md @@ -24,12 +24,17 @@ Josiah's Religious Reforms 16. Then Josiah turned around and noticed several tombs in the side of the hill. He ordered that the bones be brought out, and he burned them on the altar at Bethel to desecrate it. (This happened just as the LORD had promised through the man of God when Jeroboam stood beside the altar at the festival.) Then Josiah turned and looked up at the tomb of the man of God who had predicted these things. 17. "What is that monument over there?" Josiah asked. + And the people of the town told him, "It is the tomb of the man of God who came from Judah and predicted the very things that you have just done to the altar at Bethel!" + 18. Josiah replied, "Leave it alone. Don't disturb his bones." So they did not burn his bones or those of the old prophet from Samaria. 19. Then Josiah demolished all the buildings at the pagan shrines in the towns of Samaria, just as he had done at Bethel. They had been built by the various kings of Israel and had made the LORD very angry. -20. He executed the priests of the pagan shrines on their own altars, and he burned human bones on the altars to desecrate them. Finally, he returned to Jerusalem.Josiah Celebrates Passover +20. He executed the priests of the pagan shrines on their own altars, and he burned human bones on the altars to desecrate them. Finally, he returned to Jerusalem. + +Josiah Celebrates Passover + 21. King Josiah then issued this order to all the people: "You must celebrate the Passover to the LORD your God, as required in this Book of the Covenant." 22. There had not been a Passover celebration like that since the time when the judges ruled in Israel, nor throughout all the years of the kings of Israel and Judah. @@ -44,12 +49,18 @@ And the people of the town told him, "It is the tomb of the man of God who came 28. The rest of the events in Josiah's reign and all his deeds are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah. 29. While Josiah was king, Pharaoh Neco, king of Egypt, went to the Euphrates River to help the king of Assyria. King Josiah and his army marched out to fight him, but King Neco killed him when they met at Megiddo. -30. Josiah's officers took his body back in a chariot from Megiddo to Jerusalem and buried him in his own tomb. Then the people of the land anointed Josiah's son Jehoahaz and made him the next king.Jehoahaz Rules in Judah +30. Josiah's officers took his body back in a chariot from Megiddo to Jerusalem and buried him in his own tomb. Then the people of the land anointed Josiah's son Jehoahaz and made him the next king. + +Jehoahaz Rules in Judah + 31. Jehoahaz was twenty-three years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months. His mother was Hamutal, the daughter of Jeremiah from Libnah. 32. He did what was evil in the LORD's sight, just as his ancestors had done. -33. Pharaoh Neco put Jehoahaz in prison at Riblah in the land of Hamath to prevent him from ruling in Jerusalem. He also demanded that Judah pay 7,500 pounds of silver and 75 pounds of gold as tribute.Jehoiakim Rules in Judah +33. Pharaoh Neco put Jehoahaz in prison at Riblah in the land of Hamath to prevent him from ruling in Jerusalem. He also demanded that Judah pay 7,500 pounds of silver and 75 pounds of gold as tribute. + +Jehoiakim Rules in Judah + 34. Pharaoh Neco then installed Eliakim, another of Josiah's sons, to reign in place of his father, and he changed Eliakim's name to Jehoiakim. Jehoahaz was taken to Egypt as a prisoner, where he died. @@ -59,3 +70,4 @@ And the people of the town told him, "It is the tomb of the man of God who came 37. He did what was evil in the LORD's sight, just as his ancestors had done. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_24.md index ea2d28d9..13dbc9fc 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_24.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ 5. The rest of the events in Jehoiakim's reign and all his deeds are recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah. 6. When Jehoiakim died, his son Jehoiachin became the next king. -7. The king of Egypt did not venture out of his country after that, for the king of Babylon captured the entire area formerly claimed by Egypt--from the Brook of Egypt to the Euphrates River.Jehoiachin Rules in Judah +7. The king of Egypt did not venture out of his country after that, for the king of Babylon captured the entire area formerly claimed by Egypt--from the Brook of Egypt to the Euphrates River. + +Jehoiachin Rules in Judah + 8. Jehoiachin was eighteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months. His mother was Nehushta, the daughter of Elnathan from Jerusalem. 9. Jehoiachin did what was evil in the LORD's sight, just as his father had done. @@ -15,17 +18,25 @@ 10. During Jehoiachin's reign, the officers of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came up against Jerusalem and besieged it. 11. Nebuchadnezzar himself arrived at the city during the siege. 12. Then King Jehoiachin, along with the queen mother, his advisers, his commanders, and his officials, surrendered to the Babylonians. + In the eighth year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign, he took Jehoiachin prisoner. + 13. As the LORD had said beforehand, Nebuchadnezzar carried away all the treasures from the LORD's Temple and the royal palace. He stripped away all the gold objects that King Solomon of Israel had placed in the Temple. 14. King Nebuchadnezzar took all of Jerusalem captive, including all the commanders and the best of the soldiers, craftsmen, and artisans--10,000 in all. Only the poorest people were left in the land. 15. Nebuchadnezzar led King Jehoiachin away as a captive to Babylon, along with the queen mother, his wives and officials, and all Jerusalem's elite. 16. He also exiled 7,000 of the best troops and 1,000 craftsmen and artisans, all of whom were strong and fit for war. -17. Then the king of Babylon installed Mattaniah, Jehoiachin's uncle, as the next king, and he changed Mattaniah's name to Zedekiah.Zedekiah Rules in Judah +17. Then the king of Babylon installed Mattaniah, Jehoiachin's uncle, as the next king, and he changed Mattaniah's name to Zedekiah. + +Zedekiah Rules in Judah + 18. Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. His mother was Hamutal, the daughter of Jeremiah from Libnah. 19. But Zedekiah did what was evil in the LORD's sight, just as Jehoiakim had done. -20. These things happened because of the LORD's anger against the people of Jerusalem and Judah, until he finally banished them from his presence and sent them into exile.The Fall of Jerusalem +20. These things happened because of the LORD's anger against the people of Jerusalem and Judah, until he finally banished them from his presence and sent them into exile. + +The Fall of Jerusalem Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. + diff --git a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_25.md index d51cffbf..359bcfc1 100644 --- a/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/12_2 Kings/Chapter_25.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ 5. But the Babylonian troops chased the king and overtook him on the plains of Jericho, for his men had all deserted him and scattered. 6. They captured the king and took him to the king of Babylon at Riblah, where they pronounced judgment upon Zedekiah. -7. They made Zedekiah watch as they slaughtered his sons. Then they gouged out Zedekiah's eyes, bound him in bronze chains, and led him away to Babylon.The Temple Destroyed +7. They made Zedekiah watch as they slaughtered his sons. Then they gouged out Zedekiah's eyes, bound him in bronze chains, and led him away to Babylon. + +The Temple Destroyed + 8. On August 14 of that year, which was the nineteenth year of King Nebuchadnezzar's reign, Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard and an official of the Babylonian king, arrived in Jerusalem. 9. He burned down the Temple of the LORD, the royal palace, and all the houses of Jerusalem. He destroyed all the important buildings in the city. @@ -25,7 +28,10 @@ 18. Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, took with him as prisoners Seraiah the high priest, Zephaniah the priest of the second rank, and the three chief gatekeepers. 19. And from among the people still hiding in the city, he took an officer who had been in charge of the Judean army; five of the king's personal advisers; the army commander's chief secretary, who was in charge of recruitment; and sixty other citizens. 20. Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, took them all to the king of Babylon at Riblah. -21. And there at Riblah, in the land of Hamath, the king of Babylon had them all put to death. So the people of Judah were sent into exile from their land.Gedaliah Governs in Judah +21. And there at Riblah, in the land of Hamath, the king of Babylon had them all put to death. So the people of Judah were sent into exile from their land. + +Gedaliah Governs in Judah + 22. Then King Nebuchadnezzar appointed Gedaliah son of Ahikam and grandson of Shaphan as governor over the people he had left in Judah. 23. When all the army commanders and their men learned that the king of Babylon had appointed Gedaliah as governor, they went to see him at Mizpah. These included Ishmael son of Nethaniah, Johanan son of Kareah, Seraiah son of Tanhumeth the Netophathite, Jezaniah son of the Maacathite, and all their men. @@ -34,7 +40,10 @@ 25. But in midautumn of that year, Ishmael son of Nethaniah and grandson of Elishama, who was a member of the royal family, went to Mizpah with ten men and killed Gedaliah. He also killed all the Judeans and Babylonians who were with him at Mizpah. -26. Then all the people of Judah, from the least to the greatest, as well as the army commanders, fled in panic to Egypt, for they were afraid of what the Babylonians would do to them.Hope for Israel's Royal Line +26. Then all the people of Judah, from the least to the greatest, as well as the army commanders, fled in panic to Egypt, for they were afraid of what the Babylonians would do to them. + +Hope for Israel's Royal Line + 27. In the thirty-seventh year of the exile of King Jehoiachin of Judah, Evil-merodach ascended to the Babylonian throne. He was kind to Jehoiachin and released him from prison on April 2 of that year. 28. He spoke kindly to Jehoiachin and gave him a higher place than all the other exiled kings in Babylon. @@ -42,3 +51,4 @@ 30. So the king gave him a regular food allowance as long as he lived. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md index f1c89898..bb1834f6 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md @@ -5,13 +5,19 @@ From Adam to Noah's Sons 2. Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, 3. Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, 4. and Noah. -The sons of Noah were Shem, Ham, and Japheth.Descendants of Japheth +The sons of Noah were Shem, Ham, and Japheth. + +Descendants of Japheth + 5. The descendants of Japheth were Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Tubal, Meshech, and Tiras. 6. The descendants of Gomer were Ashkenaz, Riphath, and Togarmah. -7. The descendants of Javan were Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim, and Rodanim.Descendants of Ham +7. The descendants of Javan were Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim, and Rodanim. + +Descendants of Ham + 8. The descendants of Ham were Cush, Mizraim, Put, and Canaan. @@ -24,14 +30,19 @@ The sons of Noah were Shem, Ham, and Japheth.Descendants of Japheth 13. Canaan's oldest son was Sidon, the ancestor of the Sidonians. Canaan was also the ancestor of the Hittites, 14. Jebusites, Amorites, Girgashites, 15. Hivites, Arkites, Sinites, -16. Arvadites, Zemarites, and Hamathites.Descendants of Shem +16. Arvadites, Zemarites, and Hamathites. + +Descendants of Shem + 17. The descendants of Shem were Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, and Aram. The descendants of Aram were Uz, Hul, Gether, and Mash. 18. Arphaxad was the father of Shelah. + Shelah was the father of Eber. + 19. Eber had two sons. The first was named Peleg (which means "division"), for during his lifetime the people of the world were divided into different language groups. His brother's name was Joktan. 20. Joktan was the ancestor of Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, @@ -42,44 +53,66 @@ Shelah was the father of Eber. 24. So this is the family line descended from Shem: Arphaxad, Shelah, 25. Eber, Peleg, Reu, 26. Serug, Nahor, Terah, -27. and Abram, later known as Abraham.Descendants of Abraham +27. and Abram, later known as Abraham. + +Descendants of Abraham + 28. The sons of Abraham were Isaac and Ishmael. 29. These are their genealogical records: The sons of Ishmael were Nebaioth (the oldest), Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, + 30. Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Tema, 31. Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah. These were the sons of Ishmael. 32. The sons of Keturah, Abraham's concubine, were Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah. + The sons of Jokshan were Sheba and Dedan. -33. The sons of Midian were Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaah. -All these were descendants of Abraham through his concubine Keturah.Descendants of Isaac -34. Abraham was the father of Isaac. The sons of Isaac were Esau and Israel.Descendants of Esau +33. The sons of Midian were Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaah. + +All these were descendants of Abraham through his concubine Keturah. + +Descendants of Isaac + + +34. Abraham was the father of Isaac. The sons of Isaac were Esau and Israel. + +Descendants of Esau + 35. The sons of Esau were Eliphaz, Reuel, Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. 36. The descendants of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, Kenaz, and Amalek, who was born to Timna. -37. The descendants of Reuel were Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah.Original Peoples of Edom +37. The descendants of Reuel were Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. + +Original Peoples of Edom + 38. The descendants of Seir were Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. 39. The descendants of Lotan were Hori and Hemam. Lotan's sister was named Timna. 40. The descendants of Shobal were Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam. + The descendants of Zibeon were Aiah and Anah. + 41. The son of Anah was Dishon. The descendants of Dishon were Hemdan, Eshban, Ithran, and Keran. 42. The descendants of Ezer were Bilhan, Zaavan, and Akan. -The descendants of Dishan were Uz and Aran.Rulers of Edom +The descendants of Dishan were Uz and Aran. + +Rulers of Edom + 43. These are the kings who ruled in the land of Edom before any king ruled over the Israelites: Bela son of Beor, who ruled from his city of Dinhabah. + 44. When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah became king in his place. 45. When Jobab died, Husham from the land of the Temanites became king in his place. @@ -100,3 +133,4 @@ The clan leaders of Edom were Timna, Alvah, Jetheth, 54. Magdiel, and Iram. These are the clan leaders of Edom. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md index 091f5971..0e18610c 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md @@ -2,7 +2,10 @@ Descendants of Israel # Chapter 2 1. The sons of Israel were Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, -2. Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.Descendants of Judah +2. Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher. + +Descendants of Judah + 3. Judah had three sons from Bathshua, a Canaanite woman. Their names were Er, Onan, and Shelah. But the LORD saw that the oldest son, Er, was a wicked man, so he killed him. 4. Later Judah had twin sons from Tamar, his widowed daughter-in-law. Their names were Perez and Zerah. So Judah had five sons in all. @@ -13,25 +16,37 @@ Descendants of Israel 7. The son of Carmi (a descendant of Zimri) was Achan, who brought disaster on Israel by taking plunder that had been set apart for the LORD. -8. The son of Ethan was Azariah.From Judah's Grandson Hezron to David +8. The son of Ethan was Azariah. + +From Judah's Grandson Hezron to David + 9. The sons of Hezron were Jerahmeel, Ram, and Caleb. 10. Ram was the father of Amminadab. + Amminadab was the father of Nahshon, a leader of Judah. + 11. Nahshon was the father of Salmon. + Salmon was the father of Boaz. + 12. Boaz was the father of Obed. + Obed was the father of Jesse. + 13. Jesse's first son was Eliab, his second was Abinadab, his third was Shimea, 14. his fourth was Nethanel, his fifth was Raddai, 15. his sixth was Ozem, and his seventh was David. 16. Their sisters were named Zeruiah and Abigail. Zeruiah had three sons named Abishai, Joab, and Asahel. -17. Abigail married a man named Jether, an Ishmaelite, and they had a son named Amasa.Other Descendants of Hezron +17. Abigail married a man named Jether, an Ishmaelite, and they had a son named Amasa. + +Other Descendants of Hezron + 18. Hezron's son Caleb had sons from his wife Azubah and from Jerioth. Her sons were named Jesher, Shobab, and Ardon. 19. After Azubah died, Caleb married Ephrathah, and they had a son named Hur. @@ -41,7 +56,10 @@ Obed was the father of Jesse. 22. Segub was the father of Jair, who ruled twenty-three towns in the land of Gilead. 23. (But Geshur and Aram captured the Towns of Jair and also took Kenath and its sixty surrounding villages.) All these were descendants of Makir, the father of Gilead. -24. Soon after Hezron died in the town of Caleb-ephrathah, his wife Abijah gave birth to a son named Ashhur (the father of Tekoa).Descendants of Hezron's Son Jerahmeel +24. Soon after Hezron died in the town of Caleb-ephrathah, his wife Abijah gave birth to a son named Ashhur (the father of Tekoa). + +Descendants of Hezron's Son Jerahmeel + 25. The sons of Jerahmeel, the oldest son of Hezron, were Ram (the firstborn), Bunah, Oren, Ozem, and Ahijah. 26. Jerahmeel had a second wife named Atarah. She was the mother of Onam. @@ -49,8 +67,10 @@ Obed was the father of Jesse. 27. The sons of Ram, the oldest son of Jerahmeel, were Maaz, Jamin, and Eker. 28. The sons of Onam were Shammai and Jada. + The sons of Shammai were Nadab and Abishur. + 29. The sons of Abishur and his wife Abihail were Ahban and Molid. 30. The sons of Nadab were Seled and Appaim. Seled died without children, @@ -58,28 +78,44 @@ The sons of Shammai were Nadab and Abishur. 32. The sons of Jada, Shammai's brother, were Jether and Jonathan. Jether died without children, 33. but Jonathan had two sons named Peleth and Zaza. + These were all descendants of Jerahmeel. + 34. Sheshan had no sons, though he did have daughters. He also had an Egyptian servant named Jarha. 35. Sheshan gave one of his daughters to be the wife of Jarha, and they had a son named Attai. 36. Attai was the father of Nathan. + Nathan was the father of Zabad. + 37. Zabad was the father of Ephlal. + Ephlal was the father of Obed. + 38. Obed was the father of Jehu. + Jehu was the father of Azariah. + 39. Azariah was the father of Helez. + Helez was the father of Eleasah. + 40. Eleasah was the father of Sismai. + Sismai was the father of Shallum. + 41. Shallum was the father of Jekamiah. -Jekamiah was the father of Elishama.Descendants of Hezron's Son Caleb + +Jekamiah was the father of Elishama. + +Descendants of Hezron's Son Caleb + 42. The descendants of Caleb, the brother of Jerahmeel, included Mesha (the firstborn), who became the father of Ziph. Caleb's descendants also included the sons of Mareshah, the father of Hebron. @@ -94,8 +130,11 @@ Jekamiah was the father of Elishama.Descendants of Hezron's Son Caleb 48. Another of Caleb's concubines, Maacah, gave birth to Sheber and Tirhanah. 49. She also gave birth to Shaaph (the father of Madmannah) and Sheva (the father of Macbenah and Gibea). Caleb also had a daughter named Acsah. -50. These were all descendants of Caleb.Descendants of Caleb's Son Hur +50. These were all descendants of Caleb. + +Descendants of Caleb's Son Hur The sons of Hur, the oldest son of Caleb's wife Ephrathah, were Shobal (the founder of Kiriath-jearim), + 51. Salma (the founder of Bethlehem), and Hareph (the founder of Beth-gader). 52. The descendants of Shobal (the founder of Kiriath-jearim) were Haroeh, half the Manahathites, @@ -105,3 +144,4 @@ The sons of Hur, the oldest son of Caleb's wife Ephrathah, were Shobal (the foun 55. and the families of scribes living at Jabez--the Tirathites, Shimeathites, and Sucathites. All these were Kenites who descended from Hammath, the father of the family of Recab. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md index e94cf419..3f82a53f 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md @@ -3,22 +3,33 @@ Descendants of David # Chapter 3 1. These are the sons of David who were born in Hebron: The oldest was Amnon, whose mother was Ahinoam from Jezreel. + The second was Daniel, whose mother was Abigail from Carmel. + 2. The third was Absalom, whose mother was Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur. + The fourth was Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith. + 3. The fifth was Shephatiah, whose mother was Abital. + The sixth was Ithream, whose mother was Eglah, David's wife. + 4. These six sons were born to David in Hebron, where he reigned seven and a half years. + Then David reigned another thirty-three years in Jerusalem. + 5. The sons born to David in Jerusalem included Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon. Their mother was Bathsheba, the daughter of Ammiel. 6. David also had nine other sons: Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet, 7. Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, 8. Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet. -9. These were the sons of David, not including his sons born to his concubines. Their sister was named Tamar.Descendants of Solomon +9. These were the sons of David, not including his sons born to his concubines. Their sister was named Tamar. + +Descendants of Solomon + 10. The descendants of Solomon were Rehoboam, Abijah, Asa, Jehoshaphat, 11. Jehoram, Ahaziah, Joash, @@ -28,13 +39,18 @@ Then David reigned another thirty-three years in Jerusalem. 15. The sons of Josiah were Johanan (the oldest), Jehoiakim (the second), Zedekiah (the third), and Jehoahaz (the fourth). -16. The successors of Jehoiakim were his son Jehoiachin and his brother Zedekiah.Descendants of Jehoiachin +16. The successors of Jehoiakim were his son Jehoiachin and his brother Zedekiah. + +Descendants of Jehoiachin + 17. The sons of Jehoiachin, who was taken prisoner by the Babylonians, were Shealtiel, 18. Malkiram, Pedaiah, Shenazzar, Jekamiah, Hoshama, and Nedabiah. 19. The sons of Pedaiah were Zerubbabel and Shimei. + The sons of Zerubbabel were Meshullam and Hananiah. (Their sister was Shelomith.) + 20. His five other sons were Hashubah, Ohel, Berekiah, Hasadiah, and Jushab-hesed. 21. The sons of Hananiah were Pelatiah and Jeshaiah. Jeshaiah's son was Rephaiah. Rephaiah's son was Arnan. Arnan's son was Obadiah. Obadiah's son was Shecaniah. @@ -46,3 +62,4 @@ The sons of Zerubbabel were Meshullam and Hananiah. (Their sister was Shelomith. 24. The sons of Elioenai were Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah, and Anani--seven in all. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md index d51298c0..b5ea93cd 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md @@ -32,11 +32,18 @@ Other Descendants of Judah 19. Hodiah's wife was the sister of Naham. One of her sons was the father of Keilah the Garmite, and another was the father of Eshtemoa the Maacathite. 20. The sons of Shimon were Amnon, Rinnah, Ben-hanan, and Tilon. -The descendants of Ishi were Zoheth and Ben-zoheth.Descendants of Judah's Son Shelah + +The descendants of Ishi were Zoheth and Ben-zoheth. + +Descendants of Judah's Son Shelah + 21. Shelah was one of Judah's sons. The descendants of Shelah were Er (the father of Lecah); Laadah (the father of Mareshah); the families of linen workers at Beth-ashbea; 22. Jokim; the men of Cozeba; and Joash and Saraph, who ruled over Moab and Jashubi-lehem. These names all come from ancient records. -23. They were the pottery makers who lived in Netaim and Gederah. They lived there and worked for the king.Descendants of Simeon +23. They were the pottery makers who lived in Netaim and Gederah. They lived there and worked for the king. + +Descendants of Simeon + 24. The sons of Simeon were Jemuel, Jamin, Jarib, Zohar, and Shaul. @@ -61,9 +68,12 @@ The descendants of Ishi were Zoheth and Ben-zoheth.Descendants of Judah's Son Sh 38. These were the names of some of the leaders of Simeon's wealthy clans. Their families grew, 39. and they traveled to the region of Gerar, in the east part of the valley, seeking pastureland for their flocks. 40. They found lush pastures there, and the land was spacious, quiet, and peaceful. + Some of Ham's descendants had been living in that region. + 41. But during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah, these leaders of Simeon invaded the region and completely destroyed the homes of the descendants of Ham and of the Meunites. No trace of them remains today. They killed everyone who lived there and took the land for themselves, because they wanted its good pastureland for their flocks. 42. Five hundred of these invaders from the tribe of Simeon went to Mount Seir, led by Pelatiah, Neariah, Rephaiah, and Uzziel--all sons of Ishi. 43. They destroyed the few Amalekites who had survived, and they have lived there ever since. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md index 62052c65..bee1147e 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md @@ -12,10 +12,15 @@ Descendants of Reuben 7. Beerah's relatives are listed in their genealogical records by their clans: Jeiel (the leader), Zechariah, 8. and Bela son of Azaz, son of Shema, son of Joel. + The Reubenites lived in the area that stretches from Aroer to Nebo and Baal-meon. + 9. And since they had so many livestock in the land of Gilead, they spread east toward the edge of the desert that stretches to the Euphrates River. -10. During the reign of Saul, the Reubenites defeated the Hagrites in battle. Then they moved into the Hagrite settlements all along the eastern edge of Gilead.Descendants of Gad +10. During the reign of Saul, the Reubenites defeated the Hagrites in battle. Then they moved into the Hagrite settlements all along the eastern edge of Gilead. + +Descendants of Gad + 11. Next to the Reubenites, the descendants of Gad lived in the land of Bashan as far east as Salecah. 12. Joel was the leader in the land of Bashan, and Shapham was second-in-command, followed by Janai and Shaphat. @@ -25,7 +30,10 @@ The Reubenites lived in the area that stretches from Aroer to Nebo and Baal-meon 15. Ahi son of Abdiel, son of Guni, was the leader of their clans. 16. The Gadites lived in the land of Gilead, in Bashan and its villages, and throughout all the pasturelands of Sharon. -17. All of these were listed in the genealogical records during the days of King Jotham of Judah and King Jeroboam of Israel.The Tribes East of the Jordan +17. All of these were listed in the genealogical records during the days of King Jotham of Judah and King Jeroboam of Israel. + +The Tribes East of the Jordan + 18. There were 44,760 capable warriors in the armies of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. They were all skilled in combat and armed with shields, swords, and bows. 19. They waged war against the Hagrites, the Jeturites, the Naphishites, and the Nodabites. @@ -40,3 +48,4 @@ The Reubenites lived in the area that stretches from Aroer to Nebo and Baal-meon 26. So the God of Israel caused King Pul of Assyria (also known as Tiglath-pileser) to invade the land and take away the people of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh as captives. The Assyrians exiled them to Halah, Habor, Hara, and the Gozan River, where they remain to this day. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md index 42e5da35..f52869fd 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md @@ -6,40 +6,65 @@ The Priestly Line 2. The descendants of Kohath included Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. 3. The children of Amram were Aaron, Moses, and Miriam. + The sons of Aaron were Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. + 4. Eleazar was the father of Phinehas. + Phinehas was the father of Abishua. + 5. Abishua was the father of Bukki. + Bukki was the father of Uzzi. + 6. Uzzi was the father of Zerahiah. + Zerahiah was the father of Meraioth. + 7. Meraioth was the father of Amariah. + Amariah was the father of Ahitub. + 8. Ahitub was the father of Zadok. + Zadok was the father of Ahimaaz. + 9. Ahimaaz was the father of Azariah. + Azariah was the father of Johanan. + 10. Johanan was the father of Azariah, the high priest at the Temple built by Solomon in Jerusalem. 11. Azariah was the father of Amariah. + Amariah was the father of Ahitub. + 12. Ahitub was the father of Zadok. + Zadok was the father of Shallum. + 13. Shallum was the father of Hilkiah. + Hilkiah was the father of Azariah. + 14. Azariah was the father of Seraiah. + Seraiah was the father of Jehozadak, -15. who went into exile when the LORD sent the people of Judah and Jerusalem into captivity under Nebuchadnezzar.The Levite Clans + +15. who went into exile when the LORD sent the people of Judah and Jerusalem into captivity under Nebuchadnezzar. + +The Levite Clans + 16. The sons of Levi were Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. @@ -48,8 +73,10 @@ Seraiah was the father of Jehozadak, 18. The descendants of Kohath included Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. 19. The descendants of Merari included Mahli and Mushi. + The following were the Levite clans, listed according to their ancestral descent: + 20. The descendants of Gershon included Libni, Jahath, Zimmah, 21. Joah, Iddo, Zerah, and Jeatherai. @@ -64,12 +91,16 @@ The following were the Levite clans, listed according to their ancestral descent 28. The sons of Samuel were Joel (the older) and Abijah (the second). 29. The descendants of Merari included Mahli, Libni, Shimei, Uzzah, -30. Shimea, Haggiah, and Asaiah.The Temple Musicians +30. Shimea, Haggiah, and Asaiah. + +The Temple Musicians + 31. David assigned the following men to lead the music at the house of the LORD after the Ark was placed there. 32. They ministered with music at the Tabernacle until Solomon built the Temple of the LORD in Jerusalem. They carried out their work, following all the regulations handed down to them. 33. These are the men who served, along with their sons: Heman the musician was from the clan of Kohath. His genealogy was traced back through Joel, Samuel, + 34. Elkanah, Jeroham, Eliel, Toah, 35. Zuph, Elkanah, Mahath, Amasai, 36. Elkanah, Joel, Azariah, Zephaniah, @@ -87,14 +118,20 @@ Heman the musician was from the clan of Kohath. His genealogy was traced back th 46. Amzi, Bani, Shemer, 47. Mahli, Mushi, Merari, and Levi. -48. Their fellow Levites were appointed to various other tasks in the Tabernacle, the house of God.Aaron's Descendants +48. Their fellow Levites were appointed to various other tasks in the Tabernacle, the house of God. + +Aaron's Descendants + 49. Only Aaron and his descendants served as priests. They presented the offerings on the altar of burnt offering and the altar of incense, and they performed all the other duties related to the Most Holy Place. They made atonement for Israel by doing everything that Moses, the servant of God, had commanded them. 50. The descendants of Aaron were Eleazar, Phinehas, Abishua, 51. Bukki, Uzzi, Zerahiah, 52. Meraioth, Amariah, Ahitub, -53. Zadok, and Ahimaaz.Territory for the Levites +53. Zadok, and Ahimaaz. + +Territory for the Levites + 54. This is a record of the towns and territory assigned by means of sacred lots to the descendants of Aaron, who were from the clan of Kohath. 55. This territory included Hebron and its surrounding pasturelands in Judah, @@ -132,3 +169,4 @@ Heman the musician was from the clan of Kohath. His genealogy was traced back th 81. Heshbon, and Jazer, each with its pasturelands. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md index b173aca0..b18f2741 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ Descendants of Issachar 3. The son of Uzzi was Izrahiah. The sons of Izrahiah were Michael, Obadiah, Joel, and Isshiah. These five became the leaders of clans. 4. All of them had many wives and many sons, so the total number of men available for military service among their descendants was 36,000. -5. The total number of mighty warriors from all the clans of the tribe of Issachar was 87,000. All of them were listed in their genealogical records.Descendants of Benjamin +5. The total number of mighty warriors from all the clans of the tribe of Issachar was 87,000. All of them were listed in their genealogical records. + +Descendants of Benjamin + 6. Three of Benjamin's sons were Bela, Beker, and Jediael. @@ -20,9 +23,15 @@ Descendants of Issachar 10. The son of Jediael was Bilhan. The sons of Bilhan were Jeush, Benjamin, Ehud, Kenaanah, Zethan, Tarshish, and Ahishahar. 11. Each of them was the leader of an ancestral clan. From these clans the total number of mighty warriors ready for war was 17,200. -12. The sons of Ir were Shuppim and Huppim. Hushim was the son of Aher.Descendants of Naphtali +12. The sons of Ir were Shuppim and Huppim. Hushim was the son of Aher. + +Descendants of Naphtali + + +13. The sons of Naphtali were Jahzeel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem. They were all descendants of Jacob's concubine Bilhah. + +Descendants of Manasseh -13. The sons of Naphtali were Jahzeel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem. They were all descendants of Jacob's concubine Bilhah.Descendants of Manasseh 14. The descendants of Manasseh through his Aramean concubine included Asriel. She also bore Makir, the father of Gilead. 15. Makir found wives for Huppim and Shuppim. Makir had a sister named Maacah. One of his descendants was Zelophehad, who had only daughters. @@ -32,7 +41,10 @@ Descendants of Issachar 18. Makir's sister Hammoleketh gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah. -19. The sons of Shemida were Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam.Descendants of Ephraim +19. The sons of Shemida were Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam. + +Descendants of Ephraim + 20. The descendants of Ephraim were Shuthelah, Bered, Tahath, Eleadah, Tahath, 21. Zabad, Shuthelah, Ezer, and Elead. These two were killed trying to steal livestock from the local farmers near Gath. @@ -45,7 +57,10 @@ Descendants of Issachar 27. Nun, and Joshua. 28. The descendants of Ephraim lived in the territory that included Bethel and its surrounding towns to the south, Naaran to the east, Gezer and its villages to the west, and Shechem and its surrounding villages to the north as far as Ayyah and its towns. -29. Along the border of Manasseh were the towns of Beth-shan, Taanach, Megiddo, Dor, and their surrounding villages. The descendants of Joseph son of Israel lived in these towns.Descendants of Asher +29. Along the border of Manasseh were the towns of Beth-shan, Taanach, Megiddo, Dor, and their surrounding villages. The descendants of Joseph son of Israel lived in these towns. + +Descendants of Asher + 30. The sons of Asher were Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, and Beriah. They had a sister named Serah. @@ -69,3 +84,4 @@ Descendants of Issachar 40. Each of these descendants of Asher was the head of an ancestral clan. They were all select men--mighty warriors and outstanding leaders. The total number of men available for military service was 26,000, as listed in their genealogical records. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md index 093f58f9..d69aba57 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md @@ -38,7 +38,10 @@ Descendants of Benjamin 26. Shamsherai, Shehariah, Athaliah, 27. Jaareshiah, Elijah, and Zicri were the sons of Jeroham. -28. These were the leaders of the ancestral clans; they were listed in their genealogical records, and they all lived in Jerusalem.The Family of Saul +28. These were the leaders of the ancestral clans; they were listed in their genealogical records, and they all lived in Jerusalem. + +The Family of Saul + 29. Jeiel (the father of Gibeon) lived in the town of Gibeon. His wife's name was Maacah, 30. and his oldest son was named Abdon. Jeiel's other sons were Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab, @@ -46,27 +49,40 @@ Descendants of Benjamin 32. and Mikloth, who was the father of Shimeam. All these families lived near each other in Jerusalem. 33. Ner was the father of Kish. + Kish was the father of Saul. + Saul was the father of Jonathan, Malkishua, Abinadab, and Esh-baal. + 34. Jonathan was the father of Merib-baal. + Merib-baal was the father of Micah. + 35. Micah was the father of Pithon, Melech, Tahrea, and Ahaz. 36. Ahaz was the father of Jadah. + Jadah was the father of Alemeth, Azmaveth, and Zimri. + Zimri was the father of Moza. + 37. Moza was the father of Binea. Binea was the father of Rephaiah. + Rephaiah was the father of Eleasah. + Eleasah was the father of Azel. + 38. Azel had six sons: Azrikam, Bokeru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, and Hanan. These were the sons of Azel. 39. Azel's brother Eshek had three sons: the first was Ulam, the second was Jeush, and the third was Eliphelet. 40. Ulam's sons were all mighty warriors and expert archers. They had many sons and grandsons--150 in all. + All these were descendants of Benjamin. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_09.md index 29dd5eb7..496ab5cc 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_09.md @@ -1,5 +1,7 @@ # Chapter 9 -1. So all Israel was listed in the genealogical records in The Book of the Kings of Israel.The Returning Exiles +1. So all Israel was listed in the genealogical records in The Book of the Kings of Israel. + +The Returning Exiles The people of Judah were exiled to Babylon because they were unfaithful to the LORD. 2. The first of the exiles to return to their property in their former towns were priests, Levites, Temple servants, and other Israelites. 3. Some of the people from the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, Ephraim, and Manasseh came and settled in Jerusalem. @@ -9,19 +11,27 @@ The people of Judah were exiled to Babylon because they were unfaithful to the L 5. Others returned from the Shilonite clan, including Asaiah (the oldest) and his sons. 6. From the Zerahite clan, Jeuel returned with his relatives. + In all, 690 families from the tribe of Judah returned. + 7. From the tribe of Benjamin came Sallu son of Meshullam, son of Hodaviah, son of Hassenuah; 8. Ibneiah son of Jeroham; Elah son of Uzzi, son of Micri; and Meshullam son of Shephatiah, son of Reuel, son of Ibnijah. -9. These men were all leaders of clans, and they were listed in their genealogical records. In all, 956 families from the tribe of Benjamin returned.The Returning Priests +9. These men were all leaders of clans, and they were listed in their genealogical records. In all, 956 families from the tribe of Benjamin returned. + +The Returning Priests + 10. Among the priests who returned were Jedaiah, Jehoiarib, Jakin, 11. Azariah son of Hilkiah, son of Meshullam, son of Zadok, son of Meraioth, son of Ahitub. Azariah was the chief officer of the house of God. 12. Other returning priests were Adaiah son of Jeroham, son of Pashhur, son of Malkijah, and Maasai son of Adiel, son of Jahzerah, son of Meshullam, son of Meshillemith, son of Immer. -13. In all, 1,760 priests returned. They were heads of clans and very able men. They were responsible for ministering at the house of God.The Returning Levites +13. In all, 1,760 priests returned. They were heads of clans and very able men. They were responsible for ministering at the house of God. + +The Returning Levites + 14. The Levites who returned were Shemaiah son of Hasshub, son of Azrikam, son of Hashabiah, a descendant of Merari; 15. Bakbakkar; Heresh; Galal; Mattaniah son of Mica, son of Zicri, son of Asaph; @@ -49,7 +59,10 @@ In all, 690 families from the tribe of Judah returned. 32. And some members of the clan of Kohath were in charge of preparing the bread to be set on the table each Sabbath day. 33. The musicians, all prominent Levites, lived at the Temple. They were exempt from other responsibilities since they were on duty at all hours. -34. All these men lived in Jerusalem. They were the heads of Levite families and were listed as prominent leaders in their genealogical records.King Saul's Family Tree +34. All these men lived in Jerusalem. They were the heads of Levite families and were listed as prominent leaders in their genealogical records. + +King Saul's Family Tree + 35. Jeiel (the father of Gibeon) lived in the town of Gibeon. His wife's name was Maacah, 36. and his oldest son was named Abdon. Jeiel's other sons were Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab, @@ -57,23 +70,36 @@ In all, 690 families from the tribe of Judah returned. 38. Mikloth was the father of Shimeam. All these families lived near each other in Jerusalem. 39. Ner was the father of Kish. + Kish was the father of Saul. + Saul was the father of Jonathan, Malkishua, Abinadab, and Esh-baal. + 40. Jonathan was the father of Merib-baal. + Merib-baal was the father of Micah. + 41. The sons of Micah were Pithon, Melech, Tahrea, and Ahaz. 42. Ahaz was the father of Jadah. + Jadah was the father of Alemeth, Azmaveth, and Zimri. + Zimri was the father of Moza. + 43. Moza was the father of Binea. + Binea's son was Rephaiah. + Rephaiah's son was Eleasah. + Eleasah's son was Azel. + 44. Azel had six sons, whose names were Azrikam, Bokeru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, and Hanan. These were the sons of Azel. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_10.md index 6bb4a0b9..ddb17a77 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_10.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ The Death of King Saul 4. Saul groaned to his armor bearer, "Take your sword and kill me before these pagan Philistines come to taunt and torture me." But his armor bearer was afraid and would not do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it. + 5. When his armor bearer realized that Saul was dead, he fell on his own sword and died. 6. So Saul and his three sons died there together, bringing his dynasty to an end. @@ -23,3 +24,4 @@ But his armor bearer was afraid and would not do it. So Saul took his own sword 14. instead of asking the LORD for guidance. So the LORD killed him and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_11.md index ccce17fa..a6d237d8 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_11.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ David Becomes King of All Israel 1. Then all Israel gathered before David at Hebron and told him, "We are your own flesh and blood. 2. In the past, even when Saul was king, you were the one who really led the forces of Israel. And the LORD your God told you, 'You will be the shepherd of my people Israel. You will be the leader of my people Israel.'" -3. So there at Hebron, David made a covenant before the LORD with all the elders of Israel. And they anointed him king of Israel, just as the LORD had promised through Samuel.David Captures Jerusalem +3. So there at Hebron, David made a covenant before the LORD with all the elders of Israel. And they anointed him king of Israel, just as the LORD had promised through Samuel. + +David Captures Jerusalem + 4. Then David and all Israel went to Jerusalem (or Jebus, as it used to be called), where the Jebusites, the original inhabitants of the land, were living. 5. The people of Jebus taunted David, saying, "You'll never get in here!" But David captured the fortress of Zion, which is now called the City of David. @@ -13,7 +16,10 @@ David Becomes King of All Israel 7. David made the fortress his home, and that is why it is called the City of David. 8. He extended the city from the supporting terraces to the surrounding area, while Joab rebuilt the rest of Jerusalem. -9. And David became more and more powerful, because the LORD of Heaven's Armies was with him.David's Mightiest Warriors +9. And David became more and more powerful, because the LORD of Heaven's Armies was with him. + +David's Mightiest Warriors + 10. These are the leaders of David's mighty warriors. Together with all Israel, they decided to make David their king, just as the LORD had promised concerning Israel. @@ -28,7 +34,10 @@ David Becomes King of All Israel 17. David remarked longingly to his men, "Oh, how I would love some of that good water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem." 18. So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But David refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the LORD. -19. "God forbid that I should drink this!" he exclaimed. "This water is as precious as the blood of these men who risked their lives to bring it to me." So David did not drink it. These are examples of the exploits of the Three.David's Thirty Mighty Men +19. "God forbid that I should drink this!" he exclaimed. "This water is as precious as the blood of these men who risked their lives to bring it to me." So David did not drink it. These are examples of the exploits of the Three. + +David's Thirty Mighty Men + 20. Abishai, the brother of Joab, was the leader of the Thirty. He once used his spear to kill 300 enemy warriors in a single battle. It was by such feats that he became as famous as the Three. 21. Abishai was the most famous of the Thirty and was their commander, though he was not one of the Three. @@ -42,67 +51,85 @@ David Becomes King of All Israel Asahel, Joab's brother; Elhanan son of Dodo from Bethlehem; + 27. Shammah from Harod; Helez from Pelon; + 28. Ira son of Ikkesh from Tekoa; Abiezer from Anathoth; + 29. Sibbecai from Hushah; Zalmon from Ahoah; 30. Maharai from Netophah; Heled son of Baanah from Netophah; + 31. Ithai son of Ribai from Gibeah (in the land of Benjamin); Benaiah from Pirathon; + 32. Hurai from near Nahale-gaash; Abi-albon from Arabah; 33. Azmaveth from Bahurim; Eliahba from Shaalbon; + 34. the sons of Jashen from Gizon; Jonathan son of Shagee from Harar; + 35. Ahiam son of Sharar from Harar; Eliphal son of Ur; + 36. Hepher from Mekerah; Ahijah from Pelon; + 37. Hezro from Carmel; Paarai son of Ezbai; 38. Joel, the brother of Nathan; Mibhar son of Hagri; + 39. Zelek from Ammon; Naharai from Beeroth, the armor bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah; + 40. Ira from Jattir; Gareb from Jattir; + 41. Uriah the Hittite; Zabad son of Ahlai; + 42. Adina son of Shiza, the Reubenite leader who had thirty men with him; 43. Hanan son of Maacah; Joshaphat from Mithna; + 44. Uzzia from Ashtaroth; Shama and Jeiel, the sons of Hotham, from Aroer; + 45. Jediael son of Shimri; Joha, his brother, from Tiz; + 46. Eliel from Mahavah; Jeribai and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam; Ithmah from Moab; + 47. Eliel and Obed; Jaasiel from Zobah. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_12.md index 61cee56a..04da0094 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_12.md @@ -8,6 +8,7 @@ Jeziel and Pelet, sons of Azmaveth; Beracah; Jehu from Anathoth; + 4. Ishmaiah from Gibeon, a famous warrior and leader among the Thirty; Jeremiah, Jahaziel, Johanan, and Jozabad from Gederah; @@ -20,21 +21,32 @@ Jeremiah, Jahaziel, Johanan, and Jozabad from Gederah; 8. Some brave and experienced warriors from the tribe of Gad also defected to David while he was at the stronghold in the wilderness. They were expert with both shield and spear, as fierce as lions and as swift as deer on the mountains. 9. Ezer was their leader. + Obadiah was second. + Eliab was third. + 10. Mishmannah was fourth. + Jeremiah was fifth. + 11. Attai was sixth. + Eliel was seventh. + 12. Johanan was eighth. + Elzabad was ninth. + 13. Jeremiah was tenth. + Macbannai was eleventh. + 14. These warriors from Gad were army commanders. The weakest among them could take on a hundred regular troops, and the strongest could take on a thousand! 15. These were the men who crossed the Jordan River during its seasonal flooding at the beginning of the year and drove out all the people living in the lowlands on both the east and west banks. @@ -43,12 +55,17 @@ Macbannai was eleventh. 18. Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, the leader of the Thirty, and he said, "We are yours, David! - We are on your side, son of Jesse. + +We are on your side, son of Jesse. + Peace and prosperity be with you, - and success to all who help you, - for your God is the one who helps you." + +and success to all who help you, + +for your God is the one who helps you." So David let them join him, and he made them officers over his troops. + 19. Some men from Manasseh defected from the Israelite army and joined David when he set out with the Philistines to fight against Saul. But as it turned out, the Philistine rulers refused to let David and his men go with them. After much discussion, they sent them back, for they said, "It will cost us our heads if David switches loyalties to Saul and turns against us." 20. Here is a list of the men from Manasseh who defected to David as he was returning to Ziklag: Adnah, Jozabad, Jediael, Michael, Jozabad, Elihu, and Zillethai. Each commanded 1,000 troops from the tribe of Manasseh. @@ -88,3 +105,4 @@ So David let them join him, and he made them officers over his troops. 40. And people from as far away as Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali brought food on donkeys, camels, mules, and oxen. Vast supplies of flour, fig cakes, clusters of raisins, wine, olive oil, cattle, sheep, and goats were brought to the celebration. There was great joy throughout the land of Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_13.md index 625ae8c8..3b172adf 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_13.md @@ -21,3 +21,4 @@ David Attempts to Move the Ark 14. The Ark of God remained there in Obed-edom's house for three months, and the LORD blessed the household of Obed-edom and everything he owned. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_14.md index 71bf7323..6e3395e8 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_14.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ David's Palace and Family 4. These are the names of David's sons who were born in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, 5. Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet, 6. Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, -7. Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet.David Conquers the Philistines +7. Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet. + +David Conquers the Philistines + 8. When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, they mobilized all their forces to capture him. But David was told they were coming, so he marched out to meet them. 9. The Philistines arrived and made a raid in the valley of Rephaim. @@ -26,3 +29,4 @@ The LORD replied, "Yes, go ahead. I will hand them over to you." 17. So David's fame spread everywhere, and the LORD caused all the nations to fear David. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_15.md index f7b30e52..4c7d486e 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_15.md @@ -35,7 +35,10 @@ Preparing to Move the Ark 22. Kenaniah, the head Levite, was chosen as the choir leader because of his skill. 23. Berekiah and Elkanah were chosen to guard the Ark. -24. Shebaniah, Joshaphat, Nethanel, Amasai, Zechariah, Benaiah, and Eliezer--all of whom were priests--were chosen to blow the trumpets as they marched in front of the Ark of God. Obed-edom and Jehiah were chosen to guard the Ark.Moving the Ark to Jerusalem +24. Shebaniah, Joshaphat, Nethanel, Amasai, Zechariah, Benaiah, and Eliezer--all of whom were priests--were chosen to blow the trumpets as they marched in front of the Ark of God. Obed-edom and Jehiah were chosen to guard the Ark. + +Moving the Ark to Jerusalem + 25. Then David and the elders of Israel and the generals of the army went to the house of Obed-edom to bring the Ark of the LORD's Covenant up to Jerusalem with a great celebration. 26. And because God was clearly helping the Levites as they carried the Ark of the LORD's Covenant, they sacrificed seven bulls and seven rams. @@ -46,3 +49,4 @@ Preparing to Move the Ark 29. But as the Ark of the LORD's Covenant entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David skipping about and laughing with joy, she was filled with contempt for him. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_16.md index 37b7eac0..20c64495 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_16.md @@ -5,100 +5,155 @@ 4. David appointed the following Levites to lead the people in worship before the Ark of the LORD--to invoke his blessings, to give thanks, and to praise the LORD, the God of Israel. 5. Asaph, the leader of this group, sounded the cymbals. Second to him was Zechariah, followed by Jeiel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel. They played the harps and lyres. -6. The priests, Benaiah and Jahaziel, played the trumpets regularly before the Ark of God's Covenant.David's Song of Praise +6. The priests, Benaiah and Jahaziel, played the trumpets regularly before the Ark of God's Covenant. + +David's Song of Praise + 7. On that day David gave to Asaph and his fellow Levites this song of thanksgiving to the LORD: 8. Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim his greatness. - Let the whole world know what he has done. + +Let the whole world know what he has done. + 9. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. - Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. + +Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. + 10. Exult in his holy name; rejoice, you who worship the LORD. 11. Search for the LORD and for his strength; - continually seek him. + +continually seek him. + 12. Remember the wonders he has performed, - his miracles, and the rulings he has given, + +his miracles, and the rulings he has given, + 13. you children of his servant Israel, - you descendants of Jacob, his chosen ones. + +you descendants of Jacob, his chosen ones. + 14. He is the LORD our God. - His justice is seen throughout the land. + +His justice is seen throughout the land. + 15. Remember his covenant forever-- - the commitment he made to a thousand generations. + +the commitment he made to a thousand generations. + 16. This is the covenant he made with Abraham - and the oath he swore to Isaac. + +and the oath he swore to Isaac. + 17. He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, - and to the people of Israel as a never-ending covenant: + +and to the people of Israel as a never-ending covenant: + 18. "I will give you the land of Canaan - as your special possession." + +as your special possession." + 19. He said this when you were few in number, - a tiny group of strangers in Canaan. + +a tiny group of strangers in Canaan. + 20. They wandered from nation to nation, - from one kingdom to another. + +from one kingdom to another. + 21. Yet he did not let anyone oppress them. - He warned kings on their behalf: + +He warned kings on their behalf: + 22. "Do not touch my chosen people, - and do not hurt my prophets." + +and do not hurt my prophets." + 23. Let the whole earth sing to the LORD! - Each day proclaim the good news that he saves. + +Each day proclaim the good news that he saves. + 24. Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. - Tell everyone about the amazing things he does. + +Tell everyone about the amazing things he does. + 25. Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise! - He is to be feared above all gods. + +He is to be feared above all gods. + 26. The gods of other nations are mere idols, but the LORD made the heavens! 27. Honor and majesty surround him; - strength and joy fill his dwelling. + +strength and joy fill his dwelling. + 28. O nations of the world, recognize the LORD, recognize that the LORD is glorious and strong. 29. Give to the LORD the glory he deserves! - Bring your offering and come into his presence. + +Bring your offering and come into his presence. Worship the LORD in all his holy splendor. 30. Let all the earth tremble before him. - The world stands firm and cannot be shaken. + +The world stands firm and cannot be shaken. + 31. Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice! Tell all the nations, "The LORD reigns!" 32. Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise! - Let the fields and their crops burst out with joy! + +Let the fields and their crops burst out with joy! + 33. Let the trees of the forest sing for joy before the LORD, - for he is coming to judge the earth. + +for he is coming to judge the earth. + 34. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! - His faithful love endures forever. + +His faithful love endures forever. + 35. Cry out, "Save us, O God of our salvation! - Gather and rescue us from among the nations, + +Gather and rescue us from among the nations, so we can thank your holy name - and rejoice and praise you." + +and rejoice and praise you." + 36. Praise the LORD, the God of Israel, - who lives from everlasting to everlasting! -And all the people shouted "Amen!" and praised the LORD.Worship at Jerusalem and Gibeon + +who lives from everlasting to everlasting! +And all the people shouted "Amen!" and praised the LORD. + +Worship at Jerusalem and Gibeon + 37. David arranged for Asaph and his fellow Levites to serve regularly before the Ark of the LORD's Covenant, doing whatever needed to be done each day. 38. This group included Obed-edom (son of Jeduthun), Hosah, and sixty-eight other Levites as gatekeepers. @@ -111,3 +166,4 @@ And all the people shouted "Amen!" and praised the LORD.Worship at Jerusalem and 43. Then all the people returned to their homes, and David turned and went home to bless his own family. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_17.md index 393310b4..f511e80f 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_17.md @@ -21,7 +21,10 @@ The LORD's Covenant Promise to David 13. I will be his father, and he will be my son. I will never take my favor from him as I took it from the one who ruled before you. 14. I will confirm him as king over my house and my kingdom for all time, and his throne will be secure forever.'" -15. So Nathan went back to David and told him everything the LORD had said in this vision.David's Prayer of Thanks +15. So Nathan went back to David and told him everything the LORD had said in this vision. + +David's Prayer of Thanks + 16. Then King David went in and sat before the LORD and prayed, "Who am I, O LORD God, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? @@ -42,3 +45,4 @@ The LORD's Covenant Promise to David 27. And now, it has pleased you to bless the house of your servant, so that it will continue forever before you. For when you grant a blessing, O LORD, it is an eternal blessing!" + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_18.md index 76765070..27f2e636 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_18.md @@ -27,3 +27,4 @@ David's Military Victories 17. Benaiah son of Jehoiada was captain of the king's bodyguard. And David's sons served as the king's chief assistants. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_19.md index 5e581dc3..a16e4ba5 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_19.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ David Defeats the Ammonites # Chapter 19 1. Some time after this, King Nahash of the Ammonites died, and his son Hanun became king. 2. David said, "I am going to show loyalty to Hanun because his father, Nahash, was always loyal to me." So David sent messengers to express sympathy to Hanun about his father's death. + But when David's ambassadors arrived in the land of Ammon, + 3. the Ammonite commanders said to Hanun, "Do you really think these men are coming here to honor your father? No! David has sent them to spy out the land so they can come in and conquer it!" 4. So Hanun seized David's ambassadors and shaved them, cut off their robes at the buttocks, and sent them back to David in shame. @@ -29,3 +31,4 @@ But when David's ambassadors arrived in the land of Ammon, 19. When Hadadezer's allies saw that they had been defeated by Israel, they surrendered to David and became his subjects. After that, the Arameans were no longer willing to help the Ammonites. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_20.md index 1ecf803f..a93d84d2 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_20.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ David Captures Rabbah 1. In the spring of the year, when kings normally go out to war, Joab led the Israelite army in successful attacks against the land of the Ammonites. In the process he laid siege to the city of Rabbah, attacking and destroying it. However, David stayed behind in Jerusalem. 2. Then David went to Rabbah and removed the crown from the king's head, and it was placed on his own head. The crown was made of gold and set with gems, and he found that it weighed seventy-five pounds. David took a vast amount of plunder from the city. -3. He also made slaves of the people of Rabbah and forced them to labor with saws, iron picks, and iron axes. That is how David dealt with the people of all the Ammonite towns. Then David and all the army returned to Jerusalem.Battles against Philistine Giants +3. He also made slaves of the people of Rabbah and forced them to labor with saws, iron picks, and iron axes. That is how David dealt with the people of all the Ammonite towns. Then David and all the army returned to Jerusalem. + +Battles against Philistine Giants + 4. After this, war broke out with the Philistines at Gezer. As they fought, Sibbecai from Hushah killed Saph, a descendant of the giants, and so the Philistines were subdued. @@ -16,3 +19,4 @@ David Captures Rabbah 8. These Philistines were descendants of the giants of Gath, but David and his warriors killed them. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_21.md index 4b7d8359..2505ff74 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_21.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ David Takes a Census 4. But the king insisted that they take the census, so Joab traveled throughout all Israel to count the people. Then he returned to Jerusalem 5. and reported the number of people to David. There were 1,100,000 warriors in all Israel who could handle a sword, and 470,000 in Judah. -6. But Joab did not include the tribes of Levi and Benjamin in the census because he was so distressed at what the king had made him do.Judgment for David's Sin +6. But Joab did not include the tribes of Levi and Benjamin in the census because he was so distressed at what the king had made him do. + +Judgment for David's Sin + 7. God was very displeased with the census, and he punished Israel for it. 8. Then David said to God, "I have sinned greatly by taking this census. Please forgive my guilt for doing this foolish thing." @@ -25,7 +28,9 @@ David Takes a Census 15. And God sent an angel to destroy Jerusalem. But just as the angel was preparing to destroy it, the LORD relented and said to the death angel, "Stop! That is enough!" At that moment the angel of the LORD was standing by the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. 16. David looked up and saw the angel of the LORD standing between heaven and earth with his sword drawn, reaching out over Jerusalem. So David and the leaders of Israel put on burlap to show their deep distress and fell face down on the ground. -17. And David said to God, "I am the one who called for the census! I am the one who has sinned and done wrong! But these people are as innocent as sheep--what have they done? O LORD my God, let your anger fall against me and my family, but do not destroy your people."David Builds an Altar +17. And David said to God, "I am the one who called for the census! I am the one who has sinned and done wrong! But these people are as innocent as sheep--what have they done? O LORD my God, let your anger fall against me and my family, but do not destroy your people." +David Builds an Altar + 18. Then the angel of the LORD told Gad to instruct David to go up and build an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. 19. So David went up to do what the LORD had commanded him through Gad. @@ -47,3 +52,4 @@ David Takes a Census 30. But David was not able to go there to inquire of God, because he was terrified by the drawn sword of the angel of the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_22.md index 5faf41b7..84e49354 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_22.md @@ -1,5 +1,7 @@ # Chapter 22 -1. Then David said, "This will be the location for the Temple of the LORD God and the place of the altar for Israel's burnt offerings!"Preparations for the Temple +1. Then David said, "This will be the location for the Temple of the LORD God and the place of the altar for Israel's burnt offerings!" +Preparations for the Temple + 2. So David gave orders to call together the foreigners living in Israel, and he assigned them the task of preparing finished stone for building the Temple of God. 3. David provided large amounts of iron for the nails that would be needed for the doors in the gates and for the clamps, and he gave more bronze than could be weighed. @@ -26,3 +28,4 @@ 19. Now seek the LORD your God with all your heart and soul. Build the sanctuary of the LORD God so that you can bring the Ark of the LORD's Covenant and the holy vessels of God into the Temple built to honor the LORD's name." + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_23.md index da01dadd..ca1b6b5b 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_23.md @@ -6,14 +6,22 @@ Duties of the Levites 3. All the Levites who were thirty years old or older were counted, and the total came to 38,000. 4. Then David said, "From all the Levites, 24,000 will supervise the work at the Temple of the LORD. Another 6,000 will serve as officials and judges. 5. Another 4,000 will work as gatekeepers, and 4,000 will praise the LORD with the musical instruments I have made." -6. Then David divided the Levites into divisions named after the clans descended from the three sons of Levi--Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.The Gershonites +6. Then David divided the Levites into divisions named after the clans descended from the three sons of Levi--Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. + +The Gershonites + 7. The Gershonite family units were defined by their lines of descent from Libni and Shimei, the sons of Gershon. 8. Three of the descendants of Libni were Jehiel (the family leader), Zetham, and Joel. 9. These were the leaders of the family of Libni. + Three of the descendants of Shimei were Shelomoth, Haziel, and Haran. + 10. Four other descendants of Shimei were Jahath, Ziza, Jeush, and Beriah. -11. Jahath was the family leader, and Ziza was next. Jeush and Beriah were counted as a single family because neither had many sons.The Kohathites +11. Jahath was the family leader, and Ziza was next. Jeush and Beriah were counted as a single family because neither had many sons. + +The Kohathites + 12. Four of the descendants of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. @@ -28,10 +36,15 @@ Three of the descendants of Shimei were Shelomoth, Haziel, and Haran. 19. The descendants of Hebron included Jeriah (the family leader), Amariah (the second), Jahaziel (the third), and Jekameam (the fourth). -20. The descendants of Uzziel included Micah (the family leader) and Isshiah (the second).The Merarites +20. The descendants of Uzziel included Micah (the family leader) and Isshiah (the second). + +The Merarites + 21. The descendants of Merari included Mahli and Mushi. + The sons of Mahli were Eleazar and Kish. + 22. Eleazar died with no sons, only daughters. His daughters married their cousins, the sons of Kish. 23. Three of the descendants of Mushi were Mahli, Eder, and Jerimoth. @@ -49,3 +62,4 @@ The sons of Mahli were Eleazar and Kish. 32. And so, under the supervision of the priests, the Levites watched over the Tabernacle and the Temple and faithfully carried out their duties of service at the house of the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_24.md index a4261f7a..3209a316 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_24.md @@ -11,62 +11,99 @@ Duties of the Priests 6. Shemaiah son of Nethanel, a Levite, acted as secretary and wrote down the names and assignments in the presence of the king, the officials, Zadok the priest, Ahimelech son of Abiathar, and the family leaders of the priests and Levites. The descendants of Eleazar and Ithamar took turns casting lots. 7. The first lot fell to Jehoiarib. + The second lot fell to Jedaiah. + 8. The third lot fell to Harim. + The fourth lot fell to Seorim. + 9. The fifth lot fell to Malkijah. + The sixth lot fell to Mijamin. + 10. The seventh lot fell to Hakkoz. + The eighth lot fell to Abijah. + 11. The ninth lot fell to Jeshua. + The tenth lot fell to Shecaniah. + 12. The eleventh lot fell to Eliashib. + The twelfth lot fell to Jakim. + 13. The thirteenth lot fell to Huppah. + The fourteenth lot fell to Jeshebeab. + 14. The fifteenth lot fell to Bilgah. + The sixteenth lot fell to Immer. + 15. The seventeenth lot fell to Hezir. + The eighteenth lot fell to Happizzez. + 16. The nineteenth lot fell to Pethahiah. + The twentieth lot fell to Jehezkel. + 17. The twenty-first lot fell to Jakin. + The twenty-second lot fell to Gamul. + 18. The twenty-third lot fell to Delaiah. + The twenty-fourth lot fell to Maaziah. -19. Each group carried out its appointed duties in the house of the LORD according to the procedures established by their ancestor Aaron in obedience to the commands of the LORD, the God of Israel.Family Leaders among the Levites + +19. Each group carried out its appointed duties in the house of the LORD according to the procedures established by their ancestor Aaron in obedience to the commands of the LORD, the God of Israel. + +Family Leaders among the Levites + 20. These were the other family leaders descended from Levi: From the descendants of Amram, the leader was Shebuel. + From the descendants of Shebuel, the leader was Jehdeiah. + 21. From the descendants of Rehabiah, the leader was Isshiah. 22. From the descendants of Izhar, the leader was Shelomith. + From the descendants of Shelomith, the leader was Jahath. + 23. From the descendants of Hebron, Jeriah was the leader, Amariah was second, Jahaziel was third, and Jekameam was fourth. 24. From the descendants of Uzziel, the leader was Micah. + From the descendants of Micah, the leader was Shamir, + 25. along with Isshiah, the brother of Micah. + From the descendants of Isshiah, the leader was Zechariah. + 26. From the descendants of Merari, the leaders were Mahli and Mushi. + From the descendants of Jaaziah, the leader was Beno. + 27. From the descendants of Merari through Jaaziah, the leaders were Beno, Shoham, Zaccur, and Ibri. 28. From the descendants of Mahli, the leader was Eleazar, though he had no sons. @@ -74,7 +111,10 @@ From the descendants of Jaaziah, the leader was Beno. 29. From the descendants of Kish, the leader was Jerahmeel. 30. From the descendants of Mushi, the leaders were Mahli, Eder, and Jerimoth. + These were the descendants of Levi in their various families. + 31. Like the descendants of Aaron, they were assigned to their duties by means of sacred lots, without regard to age or rank. Lots were drawn in the presence of King David, Zadok, Ahimelech, and the family leaders of the priests and the Levites. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_25.md index 80f316ad..2907811a 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_25.md @@ -15,8 +15,10 @@ Duties of the Musicians 8. The musicians were appointed to their term of service by means of sacred lots, without regard to whether they were young or old, teacher or student. 9. The first lot fell to Joseph of the Asaph clan and twelve of his sons and relatives. + The second lot fell to Gedaliah and twelve of his sons and relatives. + 10. The third lot fell to Zaccur and twelve of his sons and relatives. 11. The fourth lot fell to Zeri and twelve of his sons and relatives. @@ -62,3 +64,4 @@ The second lot fell to Gedaliah and twelve of his sons and relatives. 31. The twenty-fourth lot fell to Romamti-ezer and twelve of his sons and relatives. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_26.md index 7a5ac660..4e7b59ec 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_26.md @@ -28,7 +28,10 @@ From the Korahites, there was Meshelemiah son of Kore, of the family of Abiasaph 17. Six Levites were assigned each day to the east gate, four to the north gate, four to the south gate, and two pairs at the storehouse. 18. Six were assigned each day to the west gate, four to the gateway leading up to the Temple, and two to the courtyard. -19. These were the divisions of the gatekeepers from the clans of Korah and Merari.Treasurers and Other Officials +19. These were the divisions of the gatekeepers from the clans of Korah and Merari. + +Treasurers and Other Officials + 20. Other Levites, led by Ahijah, were in charge of the treasuries of the house of God and the treasuries of the gifts dedicated to the LORD. 21. From the family of Libni in the clan of Gershon, Jehiel was the leader. @@ -51,3 +54,4 @@ From the Korahites, there was Meshelemiah son of Kore, of the family of Abiasaph 32. There were 2,700 capable men among the relatives of Jeriah. King David sent them to the east side of the Jordan River and put them in charge of the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh. They were responsible for all matters related to God and to the king. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_27.md index 6ffabd1e..631e8856 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_27.md @@ -21,42 +21,65 @@ Military Commanders and Divisions 11. Sibbecai, a descendant of Zerah from Hushah, was commander of the eighth division of 24,000 troops, which was on duty during the eighth month. -12. Abiezer from Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin was commander of the ninth division of 24,000 troops, which was on duty during the ninth month. +12. Abiezer from Anathoth in the territory of +Benjamin was commander of the ninth division of 24,000 troops, which was on duty during the ninth month. 13. Maharai, a descendant of Zerah from Netophah, was commander of the tenth division of 24,000 troops, which was on duty during the tenth month. 14. Benaiah from Pirathon in Ephraim was commander of the eleventh division of 24,000 troops, which was on duty during the eleventh month. -15. Heled, a descendant of Othniel from Netophah, was commander of the twelfth division of 24,000 troops, which was on duty during the twelfth month.Leaders of the Tribes +15. Heled, a descendant of Othniel from Netophah, was commander of the twelfth division of 24,000 troops, which was on duty during the twelfth month. + + +Leaders of the +Tribes + 16. The following were the tribes of Israel and their leaders: These were the leaders of the tribes of Israel. + 23. When David took his census, he did not count those who were younger than twenty years of age, because the LORD had promised to make the Israelites as numerous as the stars in heaven. -24. Joab son of Zeruiah began the census but never finished it because the anger of God fell on Israel. The total number was never recorded in King David's official records.Officials of David's Kingdom +24. Joab son of Zeruiah began the census but never finished it because the anger of God fell on Israel. The total number was never recorded in King David's official records. + +Officials of David's Kingdom + 25. Azmaveth son of Adiel was in charge of the palace treasuries. + Jonathan son of Uzziah was in charge of the regional treasuries throughout the towns, villages, and fortresses of Israel. + 26. Ezri son of Kelub was in charge of the field workers who farmed the king's lands. 27. Shimei from Ramah was in charge of the king's vineyards. + Zabdi from Shepham was responsible for the grapes and the supplies of wine. + 28. Baal-hanan from Geder was in charge of the king's olive groves and sycamore-fig trees in the foothills of Judah. + Joash was responsible for the supplies of olive oil. + 29. Shitrai from Sharon was in charge of the cattle on the Sharon Plain. + Shaphat son of Adlai was responsible for the cattle in the valleys. + 30. Obil the Ishmaelite was in charge of the camels. + Jehdeiah from Meronoth was in charge of the donkeys. + 31. Jaziz the Hagrite was in charge of the king's flocks of sheep and goats. + All these officials were overseers of King David's property. + 32. Jonathan, David's uncle, was a wise counselor to the king, a man of great insight, and a scribe. Jehiel the Hacmonite was responsible for teaching the king's sons. 33. Ahithophel was the royal adviser. Hushai the Arkite was the king's friend. 34. Ahithophel was succeeded by Jehoiada son of Benaiah and by Abiathar. Joab was commander of the king's army. + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_28.md index f483c056..1f58d477 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_28.md @@ -31,3 +31,4 @@ David's Instructions to Solomon 21. The various divisions of priests and Levites will serve in the Temple of God. Others with skills of every kind will volunteer, and the officials and the entire nation are at your command." + diff --git a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md index aaaf8ac0..424ce7a0 100644 --- a/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/13_1 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ Gifts for Building the Temple 6. Then the family leaders, the leaders of the tribes of Israel, the generals and captains of the army, and the king's administrative officers all gave willingly. 7. For the construction of the Temple of God, they gave about 188 tons of gold, 10,000 gold coins, 375 tons of silver, 675 tons of bronze, and 3,750 tons of iron. 8. They also contributed numerous precious stones, which were deposited in the treasury of the house of the LORD under the care of Jehiel, a descendant of Gershon. -9. The people rejoiced over the offerings, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD, and King David was filled with joy.David's Prayer of Praise +9. The people rejoiced over the offerings, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD, and King David was filled with joy. + +David's Prayer of Praise + 10. Then David praised the LORD in the presence of the whole assembly: "O LORD, the God of our ancestor Israel, may you be praised forever and ever! @@ -28,14 +31,20 @@ Gifts for Building the Temple 18. "O LORD, the God of our ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, make your people always want to obey you. See to it that their love for you never changes. 19. Give my son Solomon the wholehearted desire to obey all your commands, laws, and decrees, and to do everything necessary to build this Temple, for which I have made these preparations." -20. Then David said to the whole assembly, "Give praise to the LORD your God!" And the entire assembly praised the LORD, the God of their ancestors, and they bowed low and knelt before the LORD and the king.Solomon Named as King +20. Then David said to the whole assembly, "Give praise to the LORD your God!" And the entire assembly praised the LORD, the God of their ancestors, and they bowed low and knelt before the LORD and the king. + +Solomon Named as King + 21. The next day they brought 1,000 bulls, 1,000 rams, and 1,000 male lambs as burnt offerings to the LORD. They also brought liquid offerings and many other sacrifices on behalf of all Israel. 22. They feasted and drank in the LORD's presence with great joy that day. And again they crowned David's son Solomon as their new king. They anointed him before the LORD as their leader, and they anointed Zadok as priest. 23. So Solomon took the throne of the LORD in place of his father, David, and he succeeded in everything, and all Israel obeyed him. 24. All the officials, the warriors, and the sons of King David pledged their loyalty to King Solomon. -25. And the LORD exalted Solomon in the sight of all Israel, and he gave Solomon greater royal splendor than any king in Israel before him.Summary of David's Reign +25. And the LORD exalted Solomon in the sight of all Israel, and he gave Solomon greater royal splendor than any king in Israel before him. + +Summary of David's Reign + 26. So David son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. 27. He reigned over Israel for forty years, seven of them in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem. @@ -45,3 +54,4 @@ And again they crowned David's son Solomon as their new king. They anointed him 30. These accounts include the mighty deeds of his reign and everything that happened to him and to Israel and to all the surrounding kingdoms. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md index 0abb4667..b866ff61 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_01.md @@ -27,3 +27,4 @@ Solomon Asks for Wisdom 17. At that time chariots from Egypt could be purchased for 600 pieces of silver, and horses for 150 pieces of silver. They were then exported to the kings of the Hittites and the kings of Aram. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md index 11eb8959..43c13377 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_02.md @@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ Preparations for Building the Temple 3. Solomon also sent this message to King Hiram at Tyre: "Send me cedar logs as you did for my father, David, when he was building his palace. + 4. I am about to build a Temple to honor the name of the LORD my God. It will be a place set apart to burn fragrant incense before him, to display the special sacrificial bread, and to sacrifice burnt offerings each morning and evening, on the Sabbaths, at new moon celebrations, and at the other appointed festivals of the LORD our God. He has commanded Israel to do these things forever. 5. "This must be a magnificent Temple because our God is greater than all other gods. @@ -31,3 +32,4 @@ Preparations for Building the Temple 18. He assigned 70,000 of them as common laborers, 80,000 as quarry workers in the hill country, and 3,600 as foremen. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md index c1a242aa..447bc574 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_03.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ Solomon Builds the Temple 17. Then he set up the two pillars at the entrance of the Temple, one to the south of the entrance and the other to the north. He named the one on the south Jakin, and the one on the north Boaz. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md index 46ca3199..2ce2b36c 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_04.md @@ -18,12 +18,15 @@ Furnishings for the Temple 10. The great bronze basin called the Sea was placed near the southeast corner of the Temple. 11. Huram-abi also made the necessary washbasins, shovels, and bowls. + So at last Huram-abi completed everything King Solomon had assigned him to make for the Temple of God: + 12. the two pillars; the two bowl-shaped capitals on top of the pillars; the two networks of interwoven chains that decorated the capitals; + 13. the 400 pomegranates that hung from the chains on the capitals (two rows of pomegranates for each of the chain networks that decorated the capitals on top of the pillars); 14. the water carts holding the basins; @@ -39,6 +42,7 @@ Huram-abi made all these things of burnished bronze for the Temple of the LORD, the gold altar; the tables for the Bread of the Presence; + 20. the lampstands and their lamps of solid gold, to burn in front of the Most Holy Place as prescribed; 21. the flower decorations, lamps, and tongs--all of the purest gold; @@ -47,3 +51,4 @@ the tables for the Bread of the Presence; the doors for the entrances to the Most Holy Place and the main room of the Temple, overlaid with gold. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md index 555ec085..9367cd82 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_05.md @@ -1,5 +1,8 @@ # Chapter 5 -1. So Solomon finished all his work on the Temple of the LORD. Then he brought all the gifts his father, David, had dedicated--the silver, the gold, and the various articles--and he stored them in the treasuries of the Temple of God.The Ark Brought to the Temple +1. So Solomon finished all his work on the Temple of the LORD. Then he brought all the gifts his father, David, had dedicated--the silver, the gold, and the various articles--and he stored them in the treasuries of the Temple of God. + +The Ark Brought to the Temple + 2. Solomon then summoned to Jerusalem the elders of Israel and all the heads of tribes--the leaders of the ancestral families of Israel. They were to bring the Ark of the LORD's Covenant to the Temple from its location in the City of David, also known as Zion. 3. So all the men of Israel assembled before the king at the annual Festival of Shelters, which is held in early autumn. @@ -17,8 +20,10 @@ 12. And the Levites who were musicians--Asaph, Heman, Jeduthun, and all their sons and brothers--were dressed in fine linen robes and stood at the east side of the altar playing cymbals, lyres, and harps. They were joined by 120 priests who were playing trumpets. 13. The trumpeters and singers performed together in unison to praise and give thanks to the LORD. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals, and other instruments, they raised their voices and praised the LORD with these words: "He is good! - His faithful love endures forever!" + +His faithful love endures forever!" At that moment a thick cloud filled the Temple of the LORD. 14. The priests could not continue their service because of the cloud, for the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple of God. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md index ba1ed806..9fed5fce 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_06.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ Solomon Praises the LORD 9. but you are not the one to do it. One of your own sons will build the Temple to honor me.' 10. "And now the LORD has fulfilled the promise he made, for I have become king in my father's place, and now I sit on the throne of Israel, just as the LORD promised. I have built this Temple to honor the name of the LORD, the God of Israel. -11. There I have placed the Ark, which contains the covenant that the LORD made with the people of Israel."Solomon's Prayer of Dedication +11. There I have placed the Ark, which contains the covenant that the LORD made with the people of Israel." +Solomon's Prayer of Dedication + 12. Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the entire community of Israel, and he lifted his hands in prayer. 13. Now Solomon had made a bronze platform 7 1/2 feet long, 7 1/2 feet wide, and 4 1/2 feet high and had placed it at the center of the Temple's outer courtyard. He stood on the platform, and then he knelt in front of the entire community of Israel and lifted his hands toward heaven. @@ -58,11 +60,16 @@ Solomon Praises the LORD 40. "O my God, may your eyes be open and your ears attentive to all the prayers made to you in this place. 41. "And now arise, O LORD God, and enter your resting place, - along with the Ark, the symbol of your power. + +along with the Ark, the symbol of your power. May your priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation; - may your loyal servants rejoice in your goodness. + +may your loyal servants rejoice in your goodness. + 42. O LORD God, do not reject the king you have anointed. - Remember your unfailing love for your servant David." + +Remember your unfailing love for your servant David." + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md index 25e9106f..5213edbb 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_07.md @@ -5,11 +5,14 @@ The Dedication of the Temple 2. The priests could not enter the Temple of the LORD because the glorious presence of the LORD filled it. 3. When all the people of Israel saw the fire coming down and the glorious presence of the LORD filling the Temple, they fell face down on the ground and worshiped and praised the LORD, saying, "He is good! - His faithful love endures forever!" + +His faithful love endures forever!" + 4. Then the king and all the people offered sacrifices to the LORD. 5. King Solomon offered a sacrifice of 22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats. And so the king and all the people dedicated the Temple of God. -6. The priests took their assigned positions, and so did the Levites who were singing, "His faithful love endures forever!" They accompanied the singing with music from the instruments King David had made for praising the LORD. Across from the Levites, the priests blew the trumpets, while all Israel stood. +6. The priests took their assigned positions, and so did the Levites who were singing, " +His faithful love endures forever!" They accompanied the singing with music from the instruments King David had made for praising the LORD. Across from the Levites, the priests blew the trumpets, while all Israel stood. 7. Solomon then consecrated the central area of the courtyard in front of the LORD's Temple. He offered burnt offerings and the fat of peace offerings there, because the bronze altar he had built could not hold all the burnt offerings, grain offerings, and sacrificial fat. @@ -20,6 +23,7 @@ The Dedication of the Temple 11. So Solomon finished the Temple of the LORD, as well as the royal palace. He completed everything he had planned to do in the construction of the Temple and the palace. 12. Then one night the LORD appeared to Solomon and said, "I have heard your prayer and have chosen this Temple as the place for making sacrifices. + 13. At times I might shut up the heavens so that no rain falls, or command grasshoppers to devour your crops, or send plagues among you. 14. Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. 15. My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place. @@ -35,3 +39,4 @@ The Dedication of the Temple 22. "And the answer will be, 'Because his people abandoned the LORD, the God of their ancestors, who brought them out of Egypt, and they worshiped other gods instead and bowed down to them. That is why he has brought all these disasters on them.'" + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md index cbb75e93..7e734bbb 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_08.md @@ -28,3 +28,4 @@ Solomon's Many Achievements 18. Hiram sent him ships commanded by his own officers and manned by experienced crews of sailors. These ships sailed to Ophir with Solomon's men and brought back to Solomon almost seventeen tons of gold. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_09.md index 9b8fa28d..4b585134 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_09.md @@ -16,7 +16,10 @@ Visit of the Queen of Sheba 10. (In addition, the crews of Hiram and Solomon brought gold from Ophir, and they also brought red sandalwood and precious jewels. 11. The king used the sandalwood to make steps for the Temple of the LORD and the royal palace, and to construct lyres and harps for the musicians. Never before had such beautiful things been seen in Judah.) -12. King Solomon gave the queen of Sheba whatever she asked for--gifts of greater value than the gifts she had given him. Then she and all her attendants returned to their own land.Solomon's Wealth and Splendor +12. King Solomon gave the queen of Sheba whatever she asked for--gifts of greater value than the gifts she had given him. Then she and all her attendants returned to their own land. + +Solomon's Wealth and Splendor + 13. Each year Solomon received about 25 tons of gold. 14. This did not include the additional revenue he received from merchants and traders. All the kings of Arabia and the governors of the provinces also brought gold and silver to Solomon. @@ -39,10 +42,14 @@ Visit of the Queen of Sheba 25. Solomon had 4,000 stalls for his horses and chariots, and he had 12,000 horses. He stationed some of them in the chariot cities, and some near him in Jerusalem. 26. He ruled over all the kings from the Euphrates River in the north to the land of the Philistines and the border of Egypt in the south. 27. The king made silver as plentiful in Jerusalem as stone. And valuable cedar timber was as common as the sycamore-fig trees that grow in the foothills of Judah. -28. Solomon's horses were imported from Egypt and many other countries.Summary of Solomon's Reign +28. Solomon's horses were imported from Egypt and many other countries. + +Summary of Solomon's Reign + 29. The rest of the events of Solomon's reign, from beginning to end, are recorded in The Record of Nathan the Prophet, and The Prophecy of Ahijah from Shiloh, and also in The Visions of Iddo the Seer, concerning Jeroboam son of Nebat. 30. Solomon ruled in Jerusalem over all Israel for forty years. 31. When he died, he was buried in the City of David, named for his father. Then his son Rehoboam became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_10.md index 579d323a..39adeda3 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_10.md @@ -26,13 +26,18 @@ The Northern Tribes Revolt 16. When all Israel realized that the king had refused to listen to them, they responded, "Down with the dynasty of David! - We have no interest in the son of Jesse. + +We have no interest in the son of Jesse. + Back to your homes, O Israel! - Look out for your own house, O David!" + +Look out for your own house, O David!" So all the people of Israel returned home. + 17. But Rehoboam continued to rule over the Israelites who lived in the towns of Judah. 18. King Rehoboam sent Adoniram, who was in charge of forced labor, to restore order, but the people of Israel stoned him to death. When this news reached King Rehoboam, he quickly jumped into his chariot and fled to Jerusalem. 19. And to this day the northern tribes of Israel have refused to be ruled by a descendant of David. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_11.md index 89fc3bba..f76bd514 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_11.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ Shemaiah's Prophecy 2. But the LORD said to Shemaiah, the man of God, 3. "Say to Rehoboam son of Solomon, king of Judah, and to all the Israelites in Judah and Benjamin: -4. 'This is what the LORD says: Do not fight against your relatives. Go back home, for what has happened is my doing!'" So they obeyed the message of the LORD and did not fight against Jeroboam.Rehoboam Fortifies Judah +4. 'This is what the LORD says: Do not fight against your relatives. Go back home, for what has happened is my doing!'" So they obeyed the message of the LORD and did not fight against Jeroboam. + +Rehoboam Fortifies Judah + 5. Rehoboam remained in Jerusalem and fortified various towns for the defense of Judah. 6. He built up Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa, @@ -20,7 +23,10 @@ Shemaiah's Prophecy 14. The Levites even abandoned their pasturelands and property and moved to Judah and Jerusalem, because Jeroboam and his sons would not allow them to serve the LORD as priests. 15. Jeroboam appointed his own priests to serve at the pagan shrines, where they worshiped the goat and calf idols he had made. 16. From all the tribes of Israel, those who sincerely wanted to worship the LORD, the God of Israel, followed the Levites to Jerusalem, where they could offer sacrifices to the LORD, the God of their ancestors. -17. This strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and for three years they supported Rehoboam son of Solomon, for during those years they faithfully followed in the footsteps of David and Solomon.Rehoboam's Family +17. This strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and for three years they supported Rehoboam son of Solomon, for during those years they faithfully followed in the footsteps of David and Solomon. + +Rehoboam's Family + 18. Rehoboam married his cousin Mahalath, the daughter of David's son Jerimoth and of Abihail, the daughter of Eliab son of Jesse. 19. Mahalath had three sons--Jeush, Shemariah, and Zaham. @@ -32,3 +38,4 @@ Shemaiah's Prophecy 23. Rehoboam also wisely gave responsibilities to his other sons and stationed some of them in the fortified towns throughout the land of Judah and Benjamin. He provided them with generous provisions, and he found many wives for them. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_12.md index b3c905de..1461c10b 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_12.md @@ -16,7 +16,10 @@ Egypt Invades Judah 9. So King Shishak of Egypt came up and attacked Jerusalem. He ransacked the treasuries of the LORD's Temple and the royal palace; he stole everything, including all the gold shields Solomon had made. 10. King Rehoboam later replaced them with bronze shields as substitutes, and he entrusted them to the care of the commanders of the guard who protected the entrance to the royal palace. 11. Whenever the king went to the Temple of the LORD, the guards would also take the shields and then return them to the guardroom. -12. Because Rehoboam humbled himself, the LORD's anger was turned away, and he did not destroy him completely. There were still some good things in the land of Judah.Summary of Rehoboam's Reign +12. Because Rehoboam humbled himself, the LORD's anger was turned away, and he did not destroy him completely. There were still some good things in the land of Judah. + +Summary of Rehoboam's Reign + 13. King Rehoboam firmly established himself in Jerusalem and continued to rule. He was forty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city the LORD had chosen from among all the tribes of Israel as the place to honor his name. Rehoboam's mother was Naamah, a woman from Ammon. 14. But he was an evil king, for he did not seek the LORD with all his heart. @@ -25,3 +28,4 @@ Egypt Invades Judah 16. When Rehoboam died, he was buried in the City of David. Then his son Abijah became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_13.md index a09a4f37..ad05ba5a 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_13.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ Abijah's War with Jeroboam # Chapter 13 1. Abijah began to rule over Judah in the eighteenth year of Jeroboam's reign in Israel. 2. He reigned in Jerusalem three years. His mother was Maacah, the daughter of Uriel from Gibeah. + Then war broke out between Abijah and Jeroboam. + 3. Judah, led by King Abijah, fielded 400,000 select warriors, while Jeroboam mustered 800,000 select troops from Israel. 4. When the army of Judah arrived in the hill country of Ephraim, Abijah stood on Mount Zemaraim and shouted to Jeroboam and all Israel: "Listen to me! @@ -33,3 +35,4 @@ Then war broke out between Abijah and Jeroboam. 22. The rest of the events of Abijah's reign, including his words and deeds, are recorded in The Commentary of Iddo the Prophet. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_14.md index 6d407211..21199b03 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_14.md @@ -14,7 +14,8 @@ Early Years of Asa's Reign 9. Once an Ethiopian named Zerah attacked Judah with an army of 1,000,000 men and 300 chariots. They advanced to the town of Mareshah, 10. so Asa deployed his armies for battle in the valley north of Mareshah. -11. Then Asa cried out to the LORD his God, "O LORD, no one but you can help the powerless against the mighty! Help us, O LORD our God, for we trust in you alone. It is in your name that we have come against this vast horde. O LORD, you are our God; do not let mere men prevail against you!" +11. Then Asa cried out to the LORD his God, "O LORD, no one but you can help the powerless against the mighty! +Help us, O LORD our God, for we trust in you alone. It is in your name that we have come against this vast horde. O LORD, you are our God; do not let mere men prevail against you!" 12. So the LORD defeated the Ethiopians in the presence of Asa and the army of Judah, and the enemy fled. 13. Asa and his army pursued them as far as Gerar, and so many Ethiopians fell that they were unable to rally. They were destroyed by the LORD and his army, and the army of Judah carried off a vast amount of plunder. @@ -23,3 +24,4 @@ Early Years of Asa's Reign 15. They also attacked the camps of herdsmen and captured many sheep, goats, and camels before finally returning to Jerusalem. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_15.md index 0b882456..eeeae45c 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_15.md @@ -28,3 +28,4 @@ Asa's Religious Reforms 19. So there was no more war until the thirty-fifth year of Asa's reign. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_16.md index 66d80b3e..ca00b181 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_16.md @@ -15,7 +15,10 @@ Final Years of Asa's Reign 8. Don't you remember what happened to the Ethiopians and Libyans and their vast army, with all of their chariots and charioteers? At that time you relied on the LORD, and he handed them over to you. 9. The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. What a fool you have been! From now on you will be at war." -10. Asa became so angry with Hanani for saying this that he threw him into prison and put him in stocks. At that time Asa also began to oppress some of his people.Summary of Asa's Reign +10. Asa became so angry with Hanani for saying this that he threw him into prison and put him in stocks. At that time Asa also began to oppress some of his people. + +Summary of Asa's Reign + 11. The rest of the events of Asa's reign, from beginning to end, are recorded in The Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel. 12. In the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa developed a serious foot disease. Yet even with the severity of his disease, he did not seek the LORD's help but turned only to his physicians. @@ -23,3 +26,4 @@ Final Years of Asa's Reign 14. He was buried in the tomb he had carved out for himself in the City of David. He was laid on a bed perfumed with sweet spices and fragrant ointments, and the people built a huge funeral fire in his honor. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_17.md index 62acab27..48af8120 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_17.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ Jehoshaphat Rules in Judah 12. So Jehoshaphat became more and more powerful and built fortresses and storage cities throughout Judah. 13. He stored numerous supplies in Judah's towns and stationed an army of seasoned troops at Jerusalem. 14. His army was enrolled according to ancestral clans. + From Judah there were 300,000 troops organized in units of 1,000, under the command of Adnah. + 15. Next in command was Jehohanan, who commanded 280,000 troops. 16. Next was Amasiah son of Zicri, who volunteered for the LORD's service, with 200,000 troops under his command. @@ -29,3 +31,4 @@ From Judah there were 300,000 troops organized in units of 1,000, under the comm 19. These were the troops stationed in Jerusalem to serve the king, besides those Jehoshaphat stationed in the fortified towns throughout Judah. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_18.md index 5be63c26..ff99bc9b 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_18.md @@ -5,18 +5,24 @@ Jehoshaphat and Ahab 2. A few years later he went to Samaria to visit Ahab, who prepared a great banquet for him and his officials. They butchered great numbers of sheep, goats, and cattle for the feast. Then Ahab enticed Jehoshaphat to join forces with him to recover Ramoth-gilead. 3. "Will you go with me to Ramoth-gilead?" King Ahab of Israel asked King Jehoshaphat of Judah. + Jehoshaphat replied, "Why, of course! You and I are as one, and my troops are your troops. We will certainly join you in battle." + 4. Then Jehoshaphat added, "But first let's find out what the LORD says." 5. So the king of Israel summoned the prophets, 400 of them, and asked them, "Should we go to war against Ramoth-gilead, or should I hold back?" They all replied, "Yes, go right ahead! God will give the king victory." + 6. But Jehoshaphat asked, "Is there not also a prophet of the LORD here? We should ask him the same question." 7. The king of Israel replied to Jehoshaphat, "There is one more man who could consult the LORD for us, but I hate him. He never prophesies anything but trouble for me! His name is Micaiah son of Imlah." Jehoshaphat replied, "That's not the way a king should talk! Let's hear what he has to say." -8. So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, "Quick! Bring Micaiah son of Imlah."Micaiah Prophesies against Ahab + +8. So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, "Quick! Bring Micaiah son of Imlah." +Micaiah Prophesies against Ahab + 9. King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah, dressed in their royal robes, were sitting on thrones at the threshing floor near the gate of Samaria. All of Ahab's prophets were prophesying there in front of them. 10. One of them, Zedekiah son of Kenaanah, made some iron horns and proclaimed, "This is what the LORD says: With these horns you will gore the Arameans to death!" @@ -30,6 +36,7 @@ Jehoshaphat replied, "That's not the way a king should talk! Let's hear what he 14. When Micaiah arrived before the king, Ahab asked him, "Micaiah, should we go to war against Ramoth-gilead, or should I hold back?" Micaiah replied sarcastically, "Yes, go up and be victorious, for you will have victory over them!" + 15. But the king replied sharply, "How many times must I demand that you speak only the truth to me when you speak for the LORD?" 16. Then Micaiah told him, "In a vision I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, like sheep without a shepherd. And the LORD said, 'Their master has been killed. Send them home in peace.'" @@ -39,6 +46,7 @@ Micaiah replied sarcastically, "Yes, go up and be victorious, for you will have 18. Then Micaiah continued, "Listen to what the LORD says! I saw the LORD sitting on his throne with all the armies of heaven around him, on his right and on his left. 19. And the LORD said, 'Who can entice King Ahab of Israel to go into battle against Ramoth-gilead so he can be killed?' "There were many suggestions, + 20. and finally a spirit approached the LORD and said, 'I can do it!' "'How will you do this?' the LORD asked. @@ -54,7 +62,9 @@ Micaiah replied sarcastically, "Yes, go up and be victorious, for you will have 25. "Arrest him!" the king of Israel ordered. "Take him back to Amon, the governor of the city, and to my son Joash. 26. Give them this order from the king: 'Put this man in prison, and feed him nothing but bread and water until I return safely from the battle!'" -27. But Micaiah replied, "If you return safely, it will mean that the LORD has not spoken through me!" Then he added to those standing around, "Everyone mark my words!"The Death of Ahab +27. But Micaiah replied, "If you return safely, it will mean that the LORD has not spoken through me!" Then he added to those standing around, "Everyone mark my words!" +The Death of Ahab + 28. So King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah led their armies against Ramoth-gilead. 29. The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, "As we go into battle, I will disguise myself so no one will recognize me, but you wear your royal robes." So the king of Israel disguised himself, and they went into battle. @@ -68,3 +78,4 @@ Micaiah replied sarcastically, "Yes, go up and be victorious, for you will have 34. The battle raged all that day, and the king of Israel propped himself up in his chariot facing the Arameans. In the evening, just as the sun was setting, he died. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_19.md index 00a5590c..221c83f7 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_19.md @@ -17,3 +17,4 @@ Jehoshaphat Appoints Judges 11. "Amariah the high priest will have final say in all cases involving the LORD. Zebadiah son of Ishmael, a leader from the tribe of Judah, will have final say in all civil cases. The Levites will assist you in making sure that justice is served. Take courage as you fulfill your duties, and may the LORD be with those who do what is right." + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_20.md index c3cccdfa..6c0e52ab 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_20.md @@ -31,7 +31,9 @@ War with Surrounding Nations 21. After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the LORD and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: "Give thanks to the LORD; - his faithful love endures forever!" + +his faithful love endures forever!" + 22. At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the LORD caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves. 23. The armies of Moab and Ammon turned against their allies from Mount Seir and killed every one of them. After they had destroyed the army of Seir, they began attacking each other. @@ -44,7 +46,10 @@ War with Surrounding Nations 28. They marched into Jerusalem to the music of harps, lyres, and trumpets, and they proceeded to the Temple of the LORD. 29. When all the surrounding kingdoms heard that the LORD himself had fought against the enemies of Israel, the fear of God came over them. -30. So Jehoshaphat's kingdom was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side.Summary of Jehoshaphat's Reign +30. So Jehoshaphat's kingdom was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side. + +Summary of Jehoshaphat's Reign + 31. So Jehoshaphat ruled over the land of Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-five years. His mother was Azubah, the daughter of Shilhi. @@ -58,3 +63,4 @@ War with Surrounding Nations 37. Then Eliezer son of Dodavahu from Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat. He said, "Because you have allied yourself with King Ahaziah, the LORD will destroy your work." So the ships met with disaster and never put out to sea. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_21.md index 5c9e4c11..389ef4dc 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_21.md @@ -31,3 +31,4 @@ Jehoram Rules in Judah 20. Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years. No one was sorry when he died. They buried him in the City of David, but not in the royal cemetery. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_22.md index 0b04cc77..da80950d 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_22.md @@ -13,10 +13,14 @@ Ahaziah Rules in Judah 7. But God had decided that this visit would be Ahaziah's downfall. While he was there, Ahaziah went out with Joram to meet Jehu grandson of Nimshi, whom the LORD had appointed to destroy the dynasty of Ahab. 8. While Jehu was executing judgment against the family of Ahab, he happened to meet some of Judah's officials and Ahaziah's relatives who were traveling with Ahaziah. So Jehu killed them all. -9. Then Jehu's men searched for Ahaziah, and they found him hiding in the city of Samaria. They brought him to Jehu, who killed him. Ahaziah was given a decent burial because the people said, "He was the grandson of Jehoshaphat--a man who sought the LORD with all his heart." But none of the surviving members of Ahaziah's family was capable of ruling the kingdom.Queen Athaliah Rules in Judah +9. Then Jehu's men searched for Ahaziah, and they found him hiding in the city of Samaria. They brought him to Jehu, who killed him. Ahaziah was given a decent burial because the people said, "He was the grandson of Jehoshaphat--a man who sought the LORD with all his heart." But none of the surviving members of Ahaziah's family was capable of ruling the kingdom. + +Queen Athaliah Rules in Judah + 10. When Athaliah, the mother of King Ahaziah of Judah, learned that her son was dead, she began to destroy the rest of Judah's royal family. 11. But Ahaziah's sister Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram, took Ahaziah's infant son, Joash, and stole him away from among the rest of the king's children, who were about to be killed. She put Joash and his nurse in a bedroom. In this way, Jehosheba, wife of Jehoiada the priest and sister of Ahaziah, hid the child so that Athaliah could not murder him. 12. Joash remained hidden in the Temple of God for six years while Athaliah ruled over the land. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_23.md index 7e80bfcf..a3a226f0 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_23.md @@ -14,13 +14,18 @@ Jehoiada said to them, "Here is the king's son! The time has come for him to rei 9. Then Jehoiada supplied the commanders with the spears and the large and small shields that had once belonged to King David and were stored in the Temple of God. 10. He stationed all the people around the king, with their weapons ready. They formed a line from the south side of the Temple around to the north side and all around the altar. -11. Then Jehoiada and his sons brought out Joash, the king's son, placed the crown on his head, and presented him with a copy of God's laws. They anointed him and proclaimed him king, and everyone shouted, "Long live the king!"The Death of Athaliah +11. Then Jehoiada and his sons brought out Joash, the king's son, placed the crown on his head, and presented him with a copy of God's laws. They anointed him and proclaimed him king, and everyone shouted, "Long live the king!" +The Death of Athaliah + 12. When Athaliah heard the noise of the people running and the shouts of praise to the king, she hurried to the LORD's Temple to see what was happening. 13. When she arrived, she saw the newly crowned king standing in his place of authority by the pillar at the Temple entrance. The commanders and trumpeters were surrounding him, and people from all over the land were rejoicing and blowing trumpets. Singers with musical instruments were leading the people in a great celebration. When Athaliah saw all this, she tore her clothes in despair and shouted, "Treason! Treason!" 14. Then Jehoiada the priest ordered the commanders who were in charge of the troops, "Take her to the soldiers in front of the Temple, and kill anyone who tries to rescue her." For the priest had said, "She must not be killed in the Temple of the LORD." -15. So they seized her and led her out to the entrance of the Horse Gate on the palace grounds, and they killed her there.Jehoiada's Religious Reforms +15. So they seized her and led her out to the entrance of the Horse Gate on the palace grounds, and they killed her there. + +Jehoiada's Religious Reforms + 16. Then Jehoiada made a covenant between himself and the king and the people that they would be the LORD's people. 17. And all the people went over to the temple of Baal and tore it down. They demolished the altars and smashed the idols, and they killed Mattan the priest of Baal in front of the altars. @@ -32,3 +37,4 @@ Jehoiada said to them, "Here is the king's son! The time has come for him to rei 21. So all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was peaceful because Athaliah had been killed. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_24.md index 59ee5be7..42e5f52e 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_24.md @@ -23,7 +23,10 @@ Joash Repairs the Temple 14. When all the repairs were finished, they brought the remaining money to the king and Jehoiada. It was used to make various articles for the Temple of the LORD--articles for worship services and for burnt offerings, including ladles and other articles made of gold and silver. And the burnt offerings were sacrificed continually in the Temple of the LORD during the lifetime of Jehoiada the priest. 15. Jehoiada lived to a very old age, finally dying at 130. -16. He was buried among the kings in the City of David, because he had done so much good in Israel for God and his Temple.Jehoiada's Reforms Reversed +16. He was buried among the kings in the City of David, because he had done so much good in Israel for God and his Temple. + +Jehoiada's Reforms Reversed + 17. But after Jehoiada's death, the leaders of Judah came and bowed before King Joash and persuaded him to listen to their advice. 18. They decided to abandon the Temple of the LORD, the God of their ancestors, and they worshiped Asherah poles and idols instead! Because of this sin, divine anger fell on Judah and Jerusalem. @@ -32,7 +35,9 @@ Joash Repairs the Temple 20. Then the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said, "This is what God says: Why do you disobey the LORD's commands and keep yourselves from prospering? You have abandoned the LORD, and now he has abandoned you!" 21. Then the leaders plotted to kill Zechariah, and King Joash ordered that they stone him to death in the courtyard of the LORD's Temple. -22. That was how King Joash repaid Jehoiada for his loyalty--by killing his son. Zechariah's last words as he died were, "May the LORD see what they are doing and avenge my death!"The End of Joash's Reign +22. That was how King Joash repaid Jehoiada for his loyalty--by killing his son. Zechariah's last words as he died were, "May the LORD see what they are doing and avenge my death!" +The End of Joash's Reign + 23. In the spring of the year the Aramean army marched against Joash. They invaded Judah and Jerusalem and killed all the leaders of the nation. Then they sent all the plunder back to their king in Damascus. 24. Although the Arameans attacked with only a small army, the LORD helped them conquer the much larger army of Judah. The people of Judah had abandoned the LORD, the God of their ancestors, so judgment was carried out against Joash. @@ -43,3 +48,4 @@ Joash Repairs the Temple 27. The account of the sons of Joash, the prophecies about him, and the record of his restoration of the Temple of God are written in The Commentary on the Book of the Kings. His son Amaziah became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_25.md index a1cebccc..fe74a288 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_25.md @@ -28,6 +28,7 @@ The man of God replied, "The LORD is able to give you much more than this!" 16. But the king interrupted him and said, "Since when have I made you the king's counselor? Be quiet now before I have you killed!" So the prophet stopped with this warning: "I know that God has determined to destroy you because you have done this and have refused to accept my counsel." + 17. After consulting with his advisers, King Amaziah of Judah sent this challenge to Israel's king Jehoash, the son of Jehoahaz and grandson of Jehu: "Come and meet me in battle!" 18. But King Jehoash of Israel replied to King Amaziah of Judah with this story: "Out in the Lebanon mountains, a thistle sent a message to a mighty cedar tree: 'Give your daughter in marriage to my son.' But just then a wild animal of Lebanon came by and stepped on the thistle, crushing it! @@ -47,3 +48,4 @@ So the prophet stopped with this warning: "I know that God has determined to des 28. They brought his body back on a horse, and he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_26.md index a8d2cd23..90d0a0d1 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_26.md @@ -20,7 +20,10 @@ Uzziah Rules in Judah 13. The army consisted of 307,500 men, all elite troops. They were prepared to assist the king against any enemy. 14. Uzziah provided the entire army with shields, spears, helmets, coats of mail, bows, and sling stones. -15. And he built structures on the walls of Jerusalem, designed by experts to protect those who shot arrows and hurled large stones from the towers and the corners of the wall. His fame spread far and wide, for the LORD gave him marvelous help, and he became very powerful.Uzziah's Sin and Punishment +15. And he built structures on the walls of Jerusalem, designed by experts to protect those who shot arrows and hurled large stones from the towers and the corners of the wall. His fame spread far and wide, for the LORD gave him marvelous help, and he became very powerful. + +Uzziah's Sin and Punishment + 16. But when he had become powerful, he also became proud, which led to his downfall. He sinned against the LORD his God by entering the sanctuary of the LORD's Temple and personally burning incense on the incense altar. 17. Azariah the high priest went in after him with eighty other priests of the LORD, all brave men. @@ -34,3 +37,4 @@ Uzziah Rules in Judah 23. When Uzziah died, he was buried with his ancestors; his grave was in a nearby burial field belonging to the kings, for the people said, "He had leprosy." And his son Jotham became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_27.md index c24a1195..a82ade9b 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_27.md @@ -16,3 +16,4 @@ Jotham Rules in Judah 9. When Jotham died, he was buried in the City of David. And his son Ahaz became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_28.md index 6c25dda9..84eb7547 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_28.md @@ -19,7 +19,10 @@ Ahaz Rules in Judah 13. "You must not bring the prisoners here!" they declared. "We cannot afford to add to our sins and guilt. Our guilt is already great, and the LORD's fierce anger is already turned against Israel." 14. So the warriors released the prisoners and handed over the plunder in the sight of the leaders and all the people. -15. Then the four men just mentioned by name came forward and distributed clothes from the plunder to the prisoners who were naked. They provided clothing and sandals to wear, gave them enough food and drink, and dressed their wounds with olive oil. They put those who were weak on donkeys and took all the prisoners back to their own people in Jericho, the city of palms. Then they returned to Samaria.Ahaz Closes the Temple +15. Then the four men just mentioned by name came forward and distributed clothes from the plunder to the prisoners who were naked. They provided clothing and sandals to wear, gave them enough food and drink, and dressed their wounds with olive oil. They put those who were weak on donkeys and took all the prisoners back to their own people in Jericho, the city of palms. Then they returned to Samaria. + +Ahaz Closes the Temple + 16. At that time King Ahaz of Judah asked the king of Assyria for help. 17. The armies of Edom had again invaded Judah and taken captives. @@ -39,3 +42,4 @@ Ahaz Rules in Judah 27. When Ahaz died, he was buried in Jerusalem but not in the royal cemetery of the kings of Judah. Then his son Hezekiah became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md index ca647314..639a4c3e 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_29.md @@ -2,7 +2,10 @@ Hezekiah Rules in Judah # Chapter 29 1. Hezekiah was twenty-five years old when he became the king of Judah, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-nine years. His mother was Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah. -2. He did what was pleasing in the LORD's sight, just as his ancestor David had done.Hezekiah Reopens the Temple +2. He did what was pleasing in the LORD's sight, just as his ancestor David had done. + +Hezekiah Reopens the Temple + 3. In the very first month of the first year of his reign, Hezekiah reopened the doors of the Temple of the LORD and repaired them. 4. He summoned the priests and Levites to meet him at the courtyard east of the Temple. @@ -17,19 +20,29 @@ Hezekiah Rules in Judah 12. Then these Levites got right to work: From the clan of Kohath: Mahath son of Amasai and Joel son of Azariah. + From the clan of Merari: Kish son of Abdi and Azariah son of Jehallelel. + From the clan of Gershon: Joah son of Zimmah and Eden son of Joah. + 13. From the family of Elizaphan: Shimri and Jeiel. + From the family of Asaph: Zechariah and Mattaniah. + 14. From the family of Heman: Jehiel and Shimei. + From the family of Jeduthun: Shemaiah and Uzziel. + 15. These men called together their fellow Levites, and they all purified themselves. Then they began to cleanse the Temple of the LORD, just as the king had commanded. They were careful to follow all the LORD's instructions in their work. 16. The priests went into the sanctuary of the Temple of the LORD to cleanse it, and they took out to the Temple courtyard all the defiled things they found. From there the Levites carted it all out to the Kidron Valley. -17. They began the work in early spring, on the first day of the new year, and in eight days they had reached the entry room of the LORD's Temple. Then they purified the Temple of the LORD itself, which took another eight days. So the entire task was completed in sixteen days.The Temple Rededication +17. They began the work in early spring, on the first day of the new year, and in eight days they had reached the entry room of the LORD's Temple. Then they purified the Temple of the LORD itself, which took another eight days. So the entire task was completed in sixteen days. + +The Temple Rededication + 18. Then the Levites went to King Hezekiah and gave him this report: "We have cleansed the entire Temple of the LORD, the altar of burnt offering with all its utensils, and the table of the Bread of the Presence with all its utensils. 19. We have also recovered all the items discarded by King Ahaz when he was unfaithful and closed the Temple. They are now in front of the altar of the LORD, purified and ready for use." @@ -59,3 +72,4 @@ So the Temple of the LORD was restored to service. 36. And Hezekiah and all the people rejoiced because of what God had done for the people, for everything had been accomplished so quickly. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_30.md index e8191a2f..828c9fd9 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_30.md @@ -13,7 +13,9 @@ Preparations for Passover 7. Do not be like your ancestors and relatives who abandoned the LORD, the God of their ancestors, and became an object of derision, as you yourselves can see. 8. Do not be stubborn, as they were, but submit yourselves to the LORD. Come to his Temple, which he has set apart as holy forever. Worship the LORD your God so that his fierce anger will turn away from you. -9. "For if you return to the LORD, your relatives and your children will be treated mercifully by their captors, and they will be able to return to this land. For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful. If you return to him, he will not continue to turn his face from you."Celebration of Passover +9. "For if you return to the LORD, your relatives and your children will be treated mercifully by their captors, and they will be able to return to this land. For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful. If you return to him, he will not continue to turn his face from you." +Celebration of Passover + 10. The runners went from town to town throughout Ephraim and Manasseh and as far as the territory of Zebulun. But most of the people just laughed at the runners and made fun of them. 11. However, some people from Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem. @@ -41,3 +43,4 @@ Preparations for Passover 27. Then the priests and Levites stood and blessed the people, and God heard their prayer from his holy dwelling in heaven. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_31.md index 458bd7d3..c67175df 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_31.md @@ -32,3 +32,4 @@ Hezekiah's Religious Reforms 21. In all that he did in the service of the Temple of God and in his efforts to follow God's laws and commands, Hezekiah sought his God wholeheartedly. As a result, he was very successful. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_32.md index 1dbbcc3a..d36df1c8 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_32.md @@ -9,7 +9,10 @@ Assyria Invades Judah 5. Then Hezekiah worked hard at repairing all the broken sections of the wall, erecting towers, and constructing a second wall outside the first. He also reinforced the supporting terraces in the City of David and manufactured large numbers of weapons and shields. 6. He appointed military officers over the people and assembled them before him in the square at the city gate. Then Hezekiah encouraged them by saying: 7. "Be strong and courageous! Don't be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side! -8. He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!" Hezekiah's words greatly encouraged the people.Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem +8. He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!" Hezekiah's words greatly encouraged the people. + +Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem + 9. While King Sennacherib of Assyria was still besieging the town of Lachish, he sent his officers to Jerusalem with this message for Hezekiah and all the people in the city: @@ -30,9 +33,13 @@ Assyria Invades Judah 21. And the LORD sent an angel who destroyed the Assyrian army with all its commanders and officers. So Sennacherib was forced to return home in disgrace to his own land. And when he entered the temple of his god, some of his own sons killed him there with a sword. 22. That is how the LORD rescued Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem from King Sennacherib of Assyria and from all the others who threatened them. So there was peace throughout the land. -23. From then on King Hezekiah became highly respected among all the surrounding nations, and many gifts for the LORD arrived at Jerusalem, with valuable presents for King Hezekiah, too.Hezekiah's Sickness and Recovery +23. From then on King Hezekiah became highly respected among all the surrounding nations, and many gifts for the LORD arrived at Jerusalem, with valuable presents for King Hezekiah, too. -24. About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill. He prayed to the LORD, who healed him and gave him a miraculous sign. +Hezekiah's Sickness and Recovery + + +24. +About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill. He prayed to the LORD, who healed him and gave him a miraculous sign. 25. But Hezekiah did not respond appropriately to the kindness shown him, and he became proud. So the LORD's anger came against him and against Judah and Jerusalem. 26. Then Hezekiah humbled himself and repented of his pride, as did the people of Jerusalem. So the LORD's anger did not fall on them during Hezekiah's lifetime. @@ -41,9 +48,13 @@ Assyria Invades Judah 29. He built many towns and acquired vast flocks and herds, for God had given him great wealth. 30. He blocked up the upper spring of Gihon and brought the water down through a tunnel to the west side of the City of David. And so he succeeded in everything he did. -31. However, when ambassadors arrived from Babylon to ask about the remarkable events that had taken place in the land, God withdrew from Hezekiah in order to test him and to see what was really in his heart.Summary of Hezekiah's Reign +31. However, when ambassadors arrived from Babylon to ask about the remarkable events that had taken place in the land, God withdrew from Hezekiah in order to test him and to see what was really in his heart. + +Summary of Hezekiah's Reign + 32. The rest of the events in Hezekiah's reign and his acts of devotion are recorded in The Vision of the Prophet Isaiah Son of Amoz, which is included in The Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel. 33. When Hezekiah died, he was buried in the upper area of the royal cemetery, and all Judah and Jerusalem honored him at his death. And his son Manasseh became the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_33.md index 02914bd0..acf1295f 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_33.md @@ -25,7 +25,10 @@ Manasseh Rules in Judah 18. The rest of the events of Manasseh's reign, his prayer to God, and the words the seers spoke to him in the name of the LORD, the God of Israel, are recorded in The Book of the Kings of Israel. 19. Manasseh's prayer, the account of the way God answered him, and an account of all his sins and unfaithfulness are recorded in The Record of the Seers. It includes a list of the locations where he built pagan shrines and set up Asherah poles and idols before he humbled himself and repented. -20. When Manasseh died, he was buried in his palace. Then his son Amon became the next king.Amon Rules in Judah +20. When Manasseh died, he was buried in his palace. Then his son Amon became the next king. + +Amon Rules in Judah + 21. Amon was twenty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem two years. 22. He did what was evil in the LORD's sight, just as his father, Manasseh, had done. He worshiped and sacrificed to all the idols his father had made. @@ -35,3 +38,4 @@ Manasseh Rules in Judah 25. But the people of the land killed all those who had conspired against King Amon, and they made his son Josiah the next king. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_34.md index 3094679d..b5700db6 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_34.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ Josiah Rules in Judah 11. They hired carpenters and builders, who purchased finished stone for the walls and timber for the rafters and beams. They restored what earlier kings of Judah had allowed to fall into ruin. 12. The workers served faithfully under the leadership of Jahath and Obadiah, Levites of the Merarite clan, and Zechariah and Meshullam, Levites of the Kohathite clan. Other Levites, all of whom were skilled musicians, -13. were put in charge of the laborers of the various trades. Still others assisted as secretaries, officials, and gatekeepers.Hilkiah Discovers God's Law +13. were put in charge of the laborers of the various trades. Still others assisted as secretaries, officials, and gatekeepers. + +Hilkiah Discovers God's Law + 14. While they were bringing out the money collected at the LORD's Temple, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law of the LORD that was written by Moses. 15. Hilkiah said to Shaphan the court secretary, "I have found the Book of the Law in the LORD's Temple!" Then Hilkiah gave the scroll to Shaphan. @@ -40,7 +43,10 @@ Josiah Rules in Judah 26. "But go to the king of Judah who sent you to seek the LORD and tell him: 'This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says concerning the message you have just heard: 27. You were sorry and humbled yourself before God when you heard his words against this city and its people. You humbled yourself and tore your clothing in despair and wept before me in repentance. And I have indeed heard you, says the LORD. 28. So I will not send the promised disaster until after you have died and been buried in peace. You yourself will not see the disaster I am going to bring on this city and its people.'" -So they took her message back to the king.Josiah's Religious Reforms +So they took her message back to the king. + +Josiah's Religious Reforms + 29. Then the king summoned all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. 30. And the king went up to the Temple of the LORD with all the people of Judah and Jerusalem, along with the priests and the Levites--all the people from the greatest to the least. There the king read to them the entire Book of the Covenant that had been found in the LORD's Temple. @@ -50,3 +56,4 @@ So they took her message back to the king.Josiah's Religious Reforms 33. So Josiah removed all detestable idols from the entire land of Israel and required everyone to worship the LORD their God. And throughout the rest of his lifetime, they did not turn away from the LORD, the God of their ancestors. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_35.md index 8e213b5c..a630bb45 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_35.md @@ -25,12 +25,16 @@ Josiah Celebrates Passover 16. The entire ceremony for the LORD's Passover was completed that day. All the burnt offerings were sacrificed on the altar of the LORD, as King Josiah had commanded. 17. All the Israelites present in Jerusalem celebrated Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread for seven days. 18. Never since the time of the prophet Samuel had there been such a Passover. None of the kings of Israel had ever kept a Passover as Josiah did, involving all the priests and Levites, all the people of Jerusalem, and people from all over Judah and Israel. -19. This Passover was celebrated in the eighteenth year of Josiah's reign.Josiah Dies in Battle +19. This Passover was celebrated in the eighteenth year of Josiah's reign. + +Josiah Dies in Battle + 20. After Josiah had finished restoring the Temple, King Neco of Egypt led his army up from Egypt to do battle at Carchemish on the Euphrates River, and Josiah and his army marched out to fight him. 21. But King Neco sent messengers to Josiah with this message: "What do you want with me, king of Judah? I have no quarrel with you today! I am on my way to fight another nation, and God has told me to hurry! Do not interfere with God, who is with me, or he will destroy you." + 22. But Josiah refused to listen to Neco, to whom God had indeed spoken, and he would not turn back. Instead, he disguised himself and led his army into battle on the plain of Megiddo. 23. But the enemy archers hit King Josiah with their arrows and wounded him. He cried out to his men, "Take me from the battle, for I am badly wounded!" @@ -41,3 +45,4 @@ Josiah Celebrates Passover 27. from beginning to end--all are recorded in The Book of the Kings of Israel and Judah. + diff --git a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_36.md index ec14d60c..95fe6546 100644 --- a/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/14_2 Chronicles/Chapter_36.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ Jehoahaz Rules in Judah 2. Jehoahaz was twenty-three years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months. -3. Then he was deposed by the king of Egypt, who demanded that Judah pay 7,500 pounds of silver and 75 pounds of gold as tribute.Jehoiakim Rules in Judah +3. Then he was deposed by the king of Egypt, who demanded that Judah pay 7,500 pounds of silver and 75 pounds of gold as tribute. + +Jehoiakim Rules in Judah + 4. The king of Egypt then installed Eliakim, the brother of Jehoahaz, as the next king of Judah and Jerusalem, and he changed Eliakim's name to Jehoiakim. Then Neco took Jehoahaz to Egypt as a prisoner. @@ -14,11 +17,17 @@ Jehoahaz Rules in Judah 6. Then King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and captured it, and he bound Jehoiakim in bronze chains and led him away to Babylon. 7. Nebuchadnezzar also took some of the treasures from the Temple of the LORD, and he placed them in his palace in Babylon. -8. The rest of the events in Jehoiakim's reign, including all the evil things he did and everything found against him, are recorded in The Book of the Kings of Israel and Judah. Then his son Jehoiachin became the next king.Jehoiachin Rules in Judah +8. The rest of the events in Jehoiakim's reign, including all the evil things he did and everything found against him, are recorded in The Book of the Kings of Israel and Judah. Then his son Jehoiachin became the next king. + +Jehoiachin Rules in Judah + 9. Jehoiachin was eighteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months and ten days. Jehoiachin did what was evil in the LORD's sight. -10. In the spring of the year King Nebuchadnezzar took Jehoiachin to Babylon. Many treasures from the Temple of the LORD were also taken to Babylon at that time. And Nebuchadnezzar installed Jehoiachin's uncle, Zedekiah, as the next king in Judah and Jerusalem.Zedekiah Rules in Judah +10. In the spring of the year King Nebuchadnezzar took Jehoiachin to Babylon. Many treasures from the Temple of the LORD were also taken to Babylon at that time. And Nebuchadnezzar installed Jehoiachin's uncle, Zedekiah, as the next king in Judah and Jerusalem. + +Zedekiah Rules in Judah + 11. Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. 12. But Zedekiah did what was evil in the sight of the LORD his God, and he refused to humble himself when the prophet Jeremiah spoke to him directly from the LORD. @@ -27,14 +36,20 @@ Jehoahaz Rules in Judah 14. Likewise, all the leaders of the priests and the people became more and more unfaithful. They followed all the pagan practices of the surrounding nations, desecrating the Temple of the LORD that had been consecrated in Jerusalem. 15. The LORD, the God of their ancestors, repeatedly sent his prophets to warn them, for he had compassion on his people and his Temple. -16. But the people mocked these messengers of God and despised their words. They scoffed at the prophets until the LORD's anger could no longer be restrained and nothing could be done.The Fall of Jerusalem +16. But the people mocked these messengers of God and despised their words. They scoffed at the prophets until the LORD's anger could no longer be restrained and nothing could be done. + +The Fall of Jerusalem + 17. So the LORD brought the king of Babylon against them. The Babylonians killed Judah's young men, even chasing after them into the Temple. They had no pity on the people, killing both young men and young women, the old and the infirm. God handed all of them over to Nebuchadnezzar. 18. The king took home to Babylon all the articles, large and small, used in the Temple of God, and the treasures from both the LORD's Temple and from the palace of the king and his officials. 19. Then his army burned the Temple of God, tore down the walls of Jerusalem, burned all the palaces, and completely destroyed everything of value. 20. The few who survived were taken as exiles to Babylon, and they became servants to the king and his sons until the kingdom of Persia came to power. -21. So the message of the LORD spoken through Jeremiah was fulfilled. The land finally enjoyed its Sabbath rest, lying desolate until the seventy years were fulfilled, just as the prophet had said.Cyrus Allows the Exiles to Return +21. So the message of the LORD spoken through Jeremiah was fulfilled. The land finally enjoyed its Sabbath rest, lying desolate until the seventy years were fulfilled, just as the prophet had said. + +Cyrus Allows the Exiles to Return + 22. In the first year of King Cyrus of Persia, the LORD fulfilled the prophecy he had given through Jeremiah. He stirred the heart of Cyrus to put this proclamation in writing and to send it throughout his kingdom: @@ -42,3 +57,4 @@ Jehoahaz Rules in Judah "The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth. He has appointed me to build him a Temple at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Any of you who are his people may go there for this task. And may the LORD your God be with you!" + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_01.md index d5cb5fa7..4e77d8bc 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_01.md @@ -18,3 +18,4 @@ Cyrus Allows the Exiles to Return 11. In all, there were 5,400 articles of gold and silver. Sheshbazzar brought all of these along when the exiles went from Babylon to Jerusalem. + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_02.md index d07174b6..c1c891a9 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_02.md @@ -3,8 +3,10 @@ Exiles Who Returned with Zerubbabel # Chapter 2 1. Here is the list of the Jewish exiles of the provinces who returned from their captivity. King Nebuchadnezzar had deported them to Babylon, but now they returned to Jerusalem and the other towns in Judah where they originally lived. 2. Their leaders were Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, and Baanah. + This is the number of the men of Israel who returned from exile: + 36. These are the priests who returned from exile: 40. These are the Levites who returned from exile: @@ -12,6 +14,7 @@ This is the number of the men of Israel who returned from exile: 43. The descendants of the following Temple servants returned from exile: Ziha, Hasupha, Tabbaoth, + 44. Keros, Siaha, Padon, 45. Lebanah, Hagabah, Akkub, @@ -37,6 +40,7 @@ Ziha, Hasupha, Tabbaoth, 55. The descendants of these servants of King Solomon returned from exile: Sotai, Hassophereth, Peruda, + 56. Jaalah, Darkon, Giddel, 57. Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-hazzebaim, and Ami. @@ -61,3 +65,4 @@ Sotai, Hassophereth, Peruda, 70. So the priests, the Levites, the singers, the gatekeepers, the Temple servants, and some of the common people settled in villages near Jerusalem. The rest of the people returned to their own towns throughout Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_03.md index 3330e18b..5bbc4616 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_03.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ The Altar Is Rebuilt 4. They celebrated the Festival of Shelters as prescribed in the Law, sacrificing the number of burnt offerings specified for each day of the festival. 5. They also offered the regular burnt offerings and the offerings required for the new moon celebrations and the annual festivals as prescribed by the LORD. The people also gave voluntary offerings to the LORD. -6. Fifteen days before the Festival of Shelters began, the priests had begun to sacrifice burnt offerings to the LORD. This was even before they had started to lay the foundation of the LORD's Temple.The People Begin to Rebuild the Temple +6. Fifteen days before the Festival of Shelters began, the priests had begun to sacrifice burnt offerings to the LORD. This was even before they had started to lay the foundation of the LORD's Temple. + +The People Begin to Rebuild the Temple + 7. Then the people hired masons and carpenters and bought cedar logs from the people of Tyre and Sidon, paying them with food, wine, and olive oil. The logs were brought down from the Lebanon mountains and floated along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea to Joppa, for King Cyrus had given permission for this. @@ -17,10 +20,12 @@ The Altar Is Rebuilt 10. When the builders completed the foundation of the LORD's Temple, the priests put on their robes and took their places to blow their trumpets. And the Levites, descendants of Asaph, clashed their cymbals to praise the LORD, just as King David had prescribed. 11. With praise and thanks, they sang this song to the LORD: "He is so good! - His faithful love for Israel endures forever!" + +His faithful love for Israel endures forever!" Then all the people gave a great shout, praising the LORD because the foundation of the LORD's Temple had been laid. 12. But many of the older priests, Levites, and other leaders who had seen the first Temple wept aloud when they saw the new Temple's foundation. The others, however, were shouting for joy. 13. The joyful shouting and weeping mingled together in a loud noise that could be heard far in the distance. + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_04.md index ace735d1..d4ab7ac0 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_04.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ Enemies Oppose the Rebuilding 3. But Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the other leaders of Israel replied, "You may have no part in this work. We alone will build the Temple for the LORD, the God of Israel, just as King Cyrus of Persia commanded us." 4. Then the local residents tried to discourage and frighten the people of Judah to keep them from their work. -5. They bribed agents to work against them and to frustrate their plans. This went on during the entire reign of King Cyrus of Persia and lasted until King Darius of Persia took the throne.Later Opposition under Xerxes and Artaxerxes +5. They bribed agents to work against them and to frustrate their plans. This went on during the entire reign of King Cyrus of Persia and lasted until King Darius of Persia took the throne. + +Later Opposition under Xerxes and Artaxerxes + 6. Years later when Xerxes began his reign, the enemies of Judah wrote a letter of accusation against the people of Judah and Jerusalem. @@ -19,6 +22,7 @@ Enemies Oppose the Rebuilding 11. This is a copy of their letter: "To King Artaxerxes, from your loyal subjects in the province west of the Euphrates River. + 12. "The king should know that the Jews who came here to Jerusalem from Babylon are rebuilding this rebellious and evil city. They have already laid the foundation and will soon finish its walls. 13. And the king should know that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are completed, it will be much to your disadvantage, for the Jews will then refuse to pay their tribute, customs, and tolls to you. @@ -29,14 +33,19 @@ Enemies Oppose the Rebuilding 17. Then King Artaxerxes sent this reply: "To Rehum the governor, Shimshai the court secretary, and their colleagues living in Samaria and throughout the province west of the Euphrates River. Greetings. + 18. "The letter you sent has been translated and read to me. 19. I ordered a search of the records and have found that Jerusalem has indeed been a hotbed of insurrection against many kings. In fact, rebellion and revolt are normal there! 20. Powerful kings have ruled over Jerusalem and the entire province west of the Euphrates River, receiving tribute, customs, and tolls. 21. Therefore, issue orders to have these men stop their work. That city must not be rebuilt except at my express command. 22. Be diligent, and don't neglect this matter, for we must not permit the situation to harm the king's interests." -23. When this letter from King Artaxerxes was read to Rehum, Shimshai, and their colleagues, they hurried to Jerusalem. Then, with a show of strength, they forced the Jews to stop building.The Rebuilding Resumes +23. When this letter from King Artaxerxes was read to Rehum, Shimshai, and their colleagues, they hurried to Jerusalem. Then, with a show of strength, they forced the Jews to stop building. + +The Rebuilding Resumes + 24. So the work on the Temple of God in Jerusalem had stopped, and it remained at a standstill until the second year of the reign of King Darius of Persia. + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_05.md index 6fe36660..9c293284 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_05.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ 3. But Tattenai, governor of the province west of the Euphrates River, and Shethar-bozenai and their colleagues soon arrived in Jerusalem and asked, "Who gave you permission to rebuild this Temple and restore this structure?" 4. They also asked for the names of all the men working on the Temple. -5. But because their God was watching over them, the leaders of the Jews were not prevented from building until a report was sent to Darius and he returned his decision.Tattenai's Letter to King Darius +5. But because their God was watching over them, the leaders of the Jews were not prevented from building until a report was sent to Darius and he returned his decision. + +Tattenai's Letter to King Darius + 6. This is a copy of the letter that Tattenai the governor, Shethar-bozenai, and the other officials of the province west of the Euphrates River sent to King Darius: @@ -25,3 +28,4 @@ 17. "Therefore, if it pleases the king, we request that a search be made in the royal archives of Babylon to discover whether King Cyrus ever issued a decree to rebuild God's Temple in Jerusalem. And then let the king send us his decision in this matter." + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_06.md index d76be19a..1dc11dd4 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_06.md @@ -5,6 +5,7 @@ Darius Approves the Rebuilding 2. But it was at the fortress at Ecbatana in the province of Media that a scroll was found. This is what it said: "Memorandum: + 3. "In the first year of King Cyrus's reign, a decree was sent out concerning the Temple of God at Jerusalem. "Let the Temple be rebuilt on the site where Jews used to offer their sacrifices, using the original foundations. Its height will be ninety feet, and its width will be ninety feet. 4. Every three layers of specially prepared stones will be topped by a layer of timber. All expenses will be paid by the royal treasury. @@ -21,7 +22,10 @@ Darius Approves the Rebuilding 11. "Those who violate this decree in any way will have a beam pulled from their house. Then they will be lifted up and impaled on it, and their house will be reduced to a pile of rubble. 12. May the God who has chosen the city of Jerusalem as the place to honor his name destroy any king or nation that violates this command and destroys this Temple. -"I, Darius, have issued this decree. Let it be obeyed with all diligence."The Temple's Dedication + +"I, Darius, have issued this decree. Let it be obeyed with all diligence." +The Temple's Dedication + 13. Tattenai, governor of the province west of the Euphrates River, and Shethar-bozenai and their colleagues complied at once with the command of King Darius. 14. So the Jewish elders continued their work, and they were greatly encouraged by the preaching of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah son of Iddo. The Temple was finally finished, as had been commanded by the God of Israel and decreed by Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes, the kings of Persia. @@ -29,7 +33,10 @@ Darius Approves the Rebuilding 16. The Temple of God was then dedicated with great joy by the people of Israel, the priests, the Levites, and the rest of the people who had returned from exile. 17. During the dedication ceremony for the Temple of God, 100 young bulls, 200 rams, and 400 male lambs were sacrificed. And 12 male goats were presented as a sin offering for the twelve tribes of Israel. -18. Then the priests and Levites were divided into their various divisions to serve at the Temple of God in Jerusalem, as prescribed in the Book of Moses.Celebration of Passover +18. Then the priests and Levites were divided into their various divisions to serve at the Temple of God in Jerusalem, as prescribed in the Book of Moses. + +Celebration of Passover + 19. On April 21 the returned exiles celebrated Passover. 20. The priests and Levites had purified themselves and were ceremonially clean. So they slaughtered the Passover lamb for all the returned exiles, for their fellow priests, and for themselves. @@ -37,3 +44,4 @@ Darius Approves the Rebuilding 22. Then they celebrated the Festival of Unleavened Bread for seven days. There was great joy throughout the land because the LORD had caused the king of Assyria to be favorable to them, so that he helped them to rebuild the Temple of God, the God of Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_07.md index 0a49e5ed..47490dbc 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_07.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ Ezra Arrives in Jerusalem 8. Ezra arrived in Jerusalem in August of that year. 9. He had arranged to leave Babylon on April 8, the first day of the new year, and he arrived at Jerusalem on August 4, for the gracious hand of his God was on him. -10. This was because Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the LORD and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel.Artaxerxes' Letter to Ezra +10. This was because Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the LORD and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel. + +Artaxerxes' Letter to Ezra + 11. King Artaxerxes had given a copy of the following letter to Ezra, the priest and scribe who studied and taught the commands and decrees of the LORD to Israel: @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ Ezra Arrives in Jerusalem 28. And praise him for demonstrating such unfailing love to me by honoring me before the king, his council, and all his mighty nobles! I felt encouraged because the gracious hand of the LORD my God was on me. And I gathered some of the leaders of Israel to return with me to Jerusalem. + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_08.md index b1a92dbc..76562766 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_08.md @@ -4,11 +4,16 @@ Exiles Who Returned with Ezra 1. Here is a list of the family leaders and the genealogies of those who came with me from Babylon during the reign of King Artaxerxes: 2. From the family of Phinehas: Gershom. + From the family of Ithamar: Daniel. + From the family of David: Hattush, + 3. a descendant of Shecaniah. + From the family of Parosh: Zechariah and 150 other men were registered. + 4. From the family of Pahath-moab: Eliehoenai son of Zerahiah and 200 other men. 5. From the family of Zattu: Shecaniah son of Jahaziel and 300 other men. @@ -29,7 +34,10 @@ From the family of Parosh: Zechariah and 150 other men were registered. 13. From the family of Adonikam, who came later: Eliphelet, Jeuel, Shemaiah, and 60 other men. -14. From the family of Bigvai: Uthai, Zaccur, and 70 other men.Ezra's Journey to Jerusalem +14. From the family of Bigvai: Uthai, Zaccur, and 70 other men. + +Ezra's Journey to Jerusalem + 15. I assembled the exiles at the Ahava Canal, and we camped there for three days while I went over the lists of the people and the priests who had arrived. I found that not one Levite had volunteered to come along. 16. So I sent for Eliezer, Ariel, Shemaiah, Elnathan, Jarib, Elnathan, Nathan, Zechariah, and Meshullam, who were leaders of the people. I also sent for Joiarib and Elnathan, who were men of discernment. @@ -67,3 +75,4 @@ From the family of Parosh: Zechariah and 150 other men were registered. 36. The king's decrees were delivered to his highest officers and the governors of the province west of the Euphrates River, who then cooperated by supporting the people and the Temple of God. + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_09.md index 69fe591e..bc5ba399 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_09.md @@ -10,6 +10,7 @@ Ezra's Prayer concerning Intermarriage 5. At the time of the sacrifice, I stood up from where I had sat in mourning with my clothes torn. I fell to my knees and lifted my hands to the LORD my God. 6. I prayed, "O my God, I am utterly ashamed; I blush to lift up my face to you. For our sins are piled higher than our heads, and our guilt has reached to the heavens. + 7. From the days of our ancestors until now, we have been steeped in sin. That is why we and our kings and our priests have been at the mercy of the pagan kings of the land. We have been killed, captured, robbed, and disgraced, just as we are today. 8. "But now we have been given a brief moment of grace, for the LORD our God has allowed a few of us to survive as a remnant. He has given us security in this holy place. Our God has brightened our eyes and granted us some relief from our slavery. @@ -24,3 +25,4 @@ Ezra's Prayer concerning Intermarriage 15. O LORD, God of Israel, you are just. We come before you in our guilt as nothing but an escaped remnant, though in such a condition none of us can stand in your presence." + diff --git a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_10.md index c2bfaab1..79131d1a 100644 --- a/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/15_Ezra/Chapter_10.md @@ -23,7 +23,10 @@ The People Confess Their Sin 15. Only Jonathan son of Asahel and Jahzeiah son of Tikvah opposed this course of action, and they were supported by Meshullam and Shabbethai the Levite. 16. So this was the plan they followed. Ezra selected leaders to represent their families, designating each of the representatives by name. On December 29, the leaders sat down to investigate the matter. -17. By March 27, the first day of the new year, they had finished dealing with all the men who had married pagan wives.Those Guilty of Intermarriage +17. By March 27, the first day of the new year, they had finished dealing with all the men who had married pagan wives. + +Those Guilty of Intermarriage + 18. These are the priests who had married pagan wives: From the family of Jeshua son of Jehozadak and his brothers: Maaseiah, Eliezer, Jarib, and Gedaliah. @@ -38,8 +41,10 @@ From the family of Jeshua son of Jehozadak and his brothers: Maaseiah, Eliezer, 23. These are the Levites who were guilty: Jozabad, Shimei, Kelaiah (also called Kelita), Pethahiah, Judah, and Eliezer. 24. This is the singer who was guilty: Eliashib. + These are the gatekeepers who were guilty: Shallum, Telem, and Uri. + 25. These are the other people of Israel who were guilty: From the family of Parosh: Ramiah, Izziah, Malkijah, Mijamin, Eleazar, Hashabiah, and Benaiah. @@ -74,3 +79,4 @@ From the family of Parosh: Ramiah, Izziah, Malkijah, Mijamin, Eleazar, Hashabiah 44. Each of these men had a pagan wife, and some even had children by these wives. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_01.md index c843baf4..75fcc829 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,5 +1,7 @@ # Chapter 1 -1. These are the memoirs of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah.Nehemiah's Concern for Jerusalem +1. These are the memoirs of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah. + +Nehemiah's Concern for Jerusalem In late autumn, in the month of Kislev, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes' reign, I was at the fortress of Susa. 2. Hanani, one of my brothers, came to visit me with some other men who had just arrived from Judah. I asked them about the Jews who had returned there from captivity and about how things were going in Jerusalem. @@ -19,3 +21,4 @@ In late autumn, in the month of Kislev, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes In those days I was the king's cup-bearer. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_02.md index 9a7a3a97..10de171b 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_02.md @@ -4,10 +4,12 @@ Nehemiah Goes to Jerusalem 1. Early the following spring, in the month of Nisan, during the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes' reign, I was serving the king his wine. I had never before appeared sad in his presence. 2. So the king asked me, "Why are you looking so sad? You don't look sick to me. You must be deeply troubled." Then I was terrified, + 3. but I replied, "Long live the king! How can I not be sad? For the city where my ancestors are buried is in ruins, and the gates have been destroyed by fire." 4. The king asked, "Well, how can I help you?" With a prayer to the God of heaven, + 5. I replied, "If it please the king, and if you are pleased with me, your servant, send me to Judah to rebuild the city where my ancestors are buried." 6. The king, with the queen sitting beside him, asked, "How long will you be gone? When will you return?" After I told him how long I would be gone, the king agreed to my request. @@ -16,7 +18,10 @@ With a prayer to the God of heaven, 8. And please give me a letter addressed to Asaph, the manager of the king's forest, instructing him to give me timber. I will need it to make beams for the gates of the Temple fortress, for the city walls, and for a house for myself." And the king granted these requests, because the gracious hand of God was on me. 9. When I came to the governors of the province west of the Euphrates River, I delivered the king's letters to them. The king, I should add, had sent along army officers and horsemen to protect me. -10. But when Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard of my arrival, they were very displeased that someone had come to help the people of Israel.Nehemiah Inspects Jerusalem's Wall +10. But when Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard of my arrival, they were very displeased that someone had come to help the people of Israel. + +Nehemiah Inspects Jerusalem's Wall + 11. So I arrived in Jerusalem. Three days later, 12. I slipped out during the night, taking only a few others with me. I had not told anyone about the plans God had put in my heart for Jerusalem. We took no pack animals with us except the donkey I was riding. @@ -27,10 +32,13 @@ With a prayer to the God of heaven, 16. The city officials did not know I had been out there or what I was doing, for I had not yet said anything to anyone about my plans. I had not yet spoken to the Jewish leaders--the priests, the nobles, the officials, or anyone else in the administration. 17. But now I said to them, "You know very well what trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire. Let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem and end this disgrace!" 18. Then I told them about how the gracious hand of God had been on me, and about my conversation with the king. + They replied at once, "Yes, let's rebuild the wall!" So they began the good work. + 19. But when Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem the Arab heard of our plan, they scoffed contemptuously. "What are you doing? Are you rebelling against the king?" they asked. 20. I replied, "The God of heaven will help us succeed. We, his servants, will start rebuilding this wall. But you have no share, legal right, or historic claim in Jerusalem." + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_03.md index 64446b92..973ab344 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_03.md @@ -45,3 +45,4 @@ Rebuilding the Wall of Jerusalem 32. The other goldsmiths and merchants repaired the wall from that corner to the Sheep Gate. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_04.md index 4a39540f..f5afbb38 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_04.md @@ -37,3 +37,4 @@ Enemies Oppose the Rebuilding 23. During this time, none of us--not I, nor my relatives, nor my servants, nor the guards who were with me--ever took off our clothes. We carried our weapons with us at all times, even when we went for water. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_05.md index c41227cd..2a698e09 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_05.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Nehemiah Defends the Oppressed # Chapter 5 -1. About this time some of the men and their wives raised a cry of protest against their fellow Jews. +1. +About this time some of the men and their wives raised a cry of protest against their fellow Jews. 2. They were saying, "We have such large families. We need more food to survive." 3. Others said, "We have mortgaged our fields, vineyards, and homes to get food during the famine." @@ -33,3 +34,4 @@ The whole assembly responded, "Amen," and they praised the LORD. And the people 19. Remember, O my God, all that I have done for these people, and bless me for it. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_06.md index 622a2c56..665a8504 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_06.md @@ -3,7 +3,9 @@ Continued Opposition to Rebuilding # Chapter 6 1. Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies found out that I had finished rebuilding the wall and that no gaps remained--though we had not yet set up the doors in the gates. 2. So Sanballat and Geshem sent a message asking me to meet them at one of the villages in the plain of Ono. + But I realized they were plotting to harm me, + 3. so I replied by sending this message to them: "I am engaged in a great work, so I can't come. Why should I stop working to come and meet with you?" 4. Four times they sent the same message, and each time I gave the same reply. @@ -13,6 +15,7 @@ But I realized they were plotting to harm me, 7. He also reports that you have appointed prophets in Jerusalem to proclaim about you, 'Look! There is a king in Judah!' "You can be very sure that this report will get back to the king, so I suggest that you come and talk it over with me." + 8. I replied, "There is no truth in any part of your story. You are making up the whole thing." 9. They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work. So I continued the work with even greater determination. @@ -23,7 +26,10 @@ But I realized they were plotting to harm me, 12. I realized that God had not spoken to him, but that he had uttered this prophecy against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. 13. They were hoping to intimidate me and make me sin. Then they would be able to accuse and discredit me. -14. Remember, O my God, all the evil things that Tobiah and Sanballat have done. And remember Noadiah the prophet and all the prophets like her who have tried to intimidate me.The Builders Complete the Wall +14. Remember, O my God, all the evil things that Tobiah and Sanballat have done. And remember Noadiah the prophet and all the prophets like her who have tried to intimidate me. + +The Builders Complete the Wall + 15. So on October 2 the wall was finished--just fifty-two days after we had begun. 16. When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God. @@ -33,3 +39,4 @@ But I realized they were plotting to harm me, 19. They kept telling me about Tobiah's good deeds, and then they told him everything I said. And Tobiah kept sending threatening letters to intimidate me. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_07.md index 5bbac151..2f809d81 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_07.md @@ -1,15 +1,19 @@ # Chapter 7 1. After the wall was finished and I had set up the doors in the gates, the gatekeepers, singers, and Levites were appointed. 2. I gave the responsibility of governing Jerusalem to my brother Hanani, along with Hananiah, the commander of the fortress, for he was a faithful man who feared God more than most. -3. I said to them, "Do not leave the gates open during the hottest part of the day. And even while the gatekeepers are on duty, have them shut and bar the doors. Appoint the residents of Jerusalem to act as guards, everyone on a regular watch. Some will serve at sentry posts and some in front of their own homes."Nehemiah Registers the People +3. I said to them, "Do not leave the gates open during the hottest part of the day. And even while the gatekeepers are on duty, have them shut and bar the doors. Appoint the residents of Jerusalem to act as guards, everyone on a regular watch. Some will serve at sentry posts and some in front of their own homes." +Nehemiah Registers the People + 4. At that time the city was large and spacious, but the population was small, and none of the houses had been rebuilt. 5. So my God gave me the idea to call together all the nobles and leaders of the city, along with the ordinary citizens, for registration. I had found the genealogical record of those who had first returned to Judah. This is what was written there: 6. Here is the list of the Jewish exiles of the provinces who returned from their captivity. King Nebuchadnezzar had deported them to Babylon, but now they returned to Jerusalem and the other towns in Judah where they originally lived. 7. Their leaders were Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Nahamani, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, and Baanah. + This is the number of the men of Israel who returned from exile: + 39. These are the priests who returned from exile: 43. These are the Levites who returned from exile: @@ -17,6 +21,7 @@ This is the number of the men of Israel who returned from exile: 46. The descendants of the following Temple servants returned from exile: Ziha, Hasupha, Tabbaoth, + 47. Keros, Siaha, Padon, 48. Lebanah, Hagabah, Shalmai, @@ -62,7 +67,10 @@ Sotai, Hassophereth, Peruda, 71. The other leaders gave to the treasury a total of 20,000 gold coins and some 2,750 pounds of silver for the work. 72. The rest of the people gave 20,000 gold coins, about 2,500 pounds of silver, and 67 robes for the priests. -73. So the priests, the Levites, the gatekeepers, the singers, the Temple servants, and some of the common people settled near Jerusalem. The rest of the people returned to their own towns throughout Israel.Ezra Reads the Law +73. So the priests, the Levites, the gatekeepers, the singers, the Temple servants, and some of the common people settled near Jerusalem. The rest of the people returned to their own towns throughout Israel. + +Ezra Reads the Law In October, when the Israelites had settled in their towns, + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_08.md index 4fec81f8..05bbd95c 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_08.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ 10. And Nehemiah continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!" 11. And the Levites, too, quieted the people, telling them, "Hush! Don't weep! For this is a sacred day." -12. So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God's words and understood them.The Festival of Shelters +12. So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God's words and understood them. + +The Festival of Shelters + 13. On October 9 the family leaders of all the people, together with the priests and Levites, met with Ezra the scribe to go over the Law in greater detail. 14. As they studied the Law, they discovered that the LORD had commanded through Moses that the Israelites should live in shelters during the festival to be held that month. @@ -30,3 +33,4 @@ 18. Ezra read from the Book of the Law of God on each of the seven days of the festival. Then on the eighth day they held a solemn assembly, as was required by law. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_09.md index 920fd022..22b3c81a 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_09.md @@ -9,6 +9,7 @@ The People Confess Their Sins 5. Then the leaders of the Levites--Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah--called out to the people: "Stand up and praise the LORD your God, for he lives from everlasting to everlasting!" Then they prayed: "May your glorious name be praised! May it be exalted above all blessing and praise! + 6. "You alone are the LORD. You made the skies and the heavens and all the stars. You made the earth and the seas and everything in them. You preserve them all, and the angels of heaven worship you. 7. "You are the LORD God, who chose Abram and brought him from Ur of the Chaldeans and renamed him Abraham. @@ -53,8 +54,11 @@ The People Confess Their Sins 35. Even while they had their own kingdom, they did not serve you, though you showered your goodness on them. You gave them a large, fertile land, but they refused to turn from their wickedness. 36. "So now today we are slaves in the land of plenty that you gave our ancestors for their enjoyment! We are slaves here in this good land. -37. The lush produce of this land piles up in the hands of the kings whom you have set over us because of our sins. They have power over us and our livestock. We serve them at their pleasure, and we are in great misery."The People Agree to Obey +37. The lush produce of this land piles up in the hands of the kings whom you have set over us because of our sins. They have power over us and our livestock. We serve them at their pleasure, and we are in great misery." +The People Agree to Obey + 38. The people responded, "In view of all this, we are making a solemn promise and putting it in writing. On this sealed document are the names of our leaders and Levites and priests." + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_10.md index 8277d981..ca93c16c 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_10.md @@ -3,8 +3,10 @@ The governor: Nehemiah son of Hacaliah, and also Zedekiah. + 2. The following priests: Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah, + 3. Pashhur, Amariah, Malkijah, 4. Hattush, Shebaniah, Malluch, 5. Harim, Meremoth, Obadiah, @@ -14,6 +16,7 @@ Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah, 9. The following Levites: Jeshua son of Azaniah, Binnui from the family of Henadad, Kadmiel, + 10. and their fellow Levites: Shebaniah, Hodiah, Kelita, Pelaiah, Hanan, 11. Mica, Rehob, Hashabiah, 12. Zaccur, Sherebiah, Shebaniah, @@ -21,6 +24,7 @@ Jeshua son of Azaniah, Binnui from the family of Henadad, Kadmiel, 14. The following leaders: Parosh, Pahath-moab, Elam, Zattu, Bani, + 15. Bunni, Azgad, Bebai, 16. Adonijah, Bigvai, Adin, 17. Ater, Hezekiah, Azzur, @@ -33,7 +37,10 @@ Parosh, Pahath-moab, Elam, Zattu, Bani, 24. Hallohesh, Pilha, Shobek, 25. Rehum, Hashabnah, Maaseiah, 26. Ahiah, Hanan, Anan, -27. Malluch, Harim, and Baanah.The Vow of the People +27. Malluch, Harim, and Baanah. + +The Vow of the People + 28. Then the rest of the people--the priests, Levites, gatekeepers, singers, Temple servants, and all who had separated themselves from the pagan people of the land in order to obey the Law of God, together with their wives, sons, daughters, and all who were old enough to understand-- 29. joined their leaders and bound themselves with an oath. They swore a curse on themselves if they failed to obey the Law of God as issued by his servant Moses. They solemnly promised to carefully follow all the commands, regulations, and decrees of the LORD our Lord: @@ -53,6 +60,8 @@ Parosh, Pahath-moab, Elam, Zattu, Bani, 38. "A priest--a descendant of Aaron--will be with the Levites as they receive these tithes. And a tenth of all that is collected as tithes will be delivered by the Levites to the Temple of our God and placed in the storerooms. 39. The people and the Levites must bring these offerings of grain, new wine, and olive oil to the storerooms and place them in the sacred containers near the ministering priests, the gatekeepers, and the singers. + "We promise together not to neglect the Temple of our God." + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_11.md index 3e95117d..6876ad00 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_11.md @@ -8,16 +8,19 @@ The People Occupy Jerusalem 4. but some of the people from Judah and Benjamin resettled in Jerusalem.) From the tribe of Judah: Athaiah son of Uzziah, son of Zechariah, son of Amariah, son of Shephatiah, son of Mahalalel, of the family of Perez. + 5. Also Maaseiah son of Baruch, son of Col-hozeh, son of Hazaiah, son of Adaiah, son of Joiarib, son of Zechariah, of the family of Shelah. 6. There were 468 descendants of Perez who lived in Jerusalem--all outstanding men. 7. From the tribe of Benjamin: Sallu son of Meshullam, son of Joed, son of Pedaiah, son of Kolaiah, son of Maaseiah, son of Ithiel, son of Jeshaiah. + 8. After him were Gabbai and Sallai and a total of 928 relatives. 9. Their chief officer was Joel son of Zicri, who was assisted by Judah son of Hassenuah, second-in-command over the city. 10. From the priests: Jedaiah son of Joiarib; Jakin; + 11. and Seraiah son of Hilkiah, son of Meshullam, son of Zadok, son of Meraioth, son of Ahitub, the supervisor of the Temple of God. 12. Also 822 of their associates, who worked at the Temple. Also Adaiah son of Jeroham, son of Pelaliah, son of Amzi, son of Zechariah, son of Pashhur, son of Malkijah, 13. along with 242 of his associates, who were heads of their families. Also Amashsai son of Azarel, son of Ahzai, son of Meshillemoth, son of Immer, @@ -25,6 +28,7 @@ Jedaiah son of Joiarib; Jakin; 15. From the Levites: Shemaiah son of Hasshub, son of Azrikam, son of Hashabiah, son of Bunni. + 16. Also Shabbethai and Jozabad, who were in charge of the work outside the Temple of God. 17. Also Mattaniah son of Mica, son of Zabdi, a descendant of Asaph, who led in thanksgiving and prayer. Also Bakbukiah, who was Mattaniah's assistant, and Abda son of Shammua, son of Galal, son of Jeduthun. 18. In all, there were 284 Levites in the holy city. @@ -32,6 +36,7 @@ Shemaiah son of Hasshub, son of Azrikam, son of Hashabiah, son of Bunni. 19. From the gatekeepers: Akkub, Talmon, and 172 of their associates, who guarded the gates. + 20. The other priests, Levites, and the rest of the Israelites lived wherever their family inheritance was located in any of the towns of Judah. 21. The Temple servants, however, whose leaders were Ziha and Gishpa, all lived on the hill of Ophel. @@ -55,3 +60,4 @@ Akkub, Talmon, and 172 of their associates, who guarded the gates. 36. Some of the Levites who lived in Judah were sent to live with the tribe of Benjamin. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_12.md index 09d84ee3..68e324a6 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_12.md @@ -4,6 +4,7 @@ A History of the Priests and Levites 1. Here is the list of the priests and Levites who returned with Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua the high priest: Seraiah, Jeremiah, Ezra, + 2. Amariah, Malluch, Hattush, 3. Shecaniah, Harim, Meremoth, @@ -15,25 +16,36 @@ Seraiah, Jeremiah, Ezra, 6. Shemaiah, Joiarib, Jedaiah, 7. Sallu, Amok, Hilkiah, and Jedaiah. + These were the leaders of the priests and their associates in the days of Jeshua. + 8. The Levites who returned with them were Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, Sherebiah, Judah, and Mattaniah, who with his associates was in charge of the songs of thanksgiving. 9. Their associates, Bakbukiah and Unni, stood opposite them during the service. 10. Jeshua the high priest was the father of Joiakim. + Joiakim was the father of Eliashib. + Eliashib was the father of Joiada. + 11. Joiada was the father of Johanan. + Johanan was the father of Jaddua. + 12. Now when Joiakim was high priest, the family leaders of the priests were as follows: Meraiah was leader of the family of Seraiah. + Hananiah was leader of the family of Jeremiah. + 13. Meshullam was leader of the family of Ezra. + Jehohanan was leader of the family of Amariah. + 14. Jonathan was leader of the family of Malluch. Joseph was leader of the family of Shecaniah. @@ -41,31 +53,48 @@ Joseph was leader of the family of Shecaniah. Helkai was leader of the family of Meremoth. 16. Zechariah was leader of the family of Iddo. + Meshullam was leader of the family of Ginnethon. + 17. Zicri was leader of the family of Abijah. There was also a leader of the family of Miniamin. + Piltai was leader of the family of Moadiah. + 18. Shammua was leader of the family of Bilgah. + Jehonathan was leader of the family of Shemaiah. + 19. Mattenai was leader of the family of Joiarib. + Uzzi was leader of the family of Jedaiah. + 20. Kallai was leader of the family of Sallu. + Eber was leader of the family of Amok. + 21. Hashabiah was leader of the family of Hilkiah. + Nethanel was leader of the family of Jedaiah. + 22. A record of the Levite families was kept during the years when Eliashib, Joiada, Johanan, and Jaddua served as high priest. Another record of the priests was kept during the reign of Darius the Persian. 23. A record of the heads of the Levite families was kept in The Book of History down to the days of Johanan, the grandson of Eliashib. 24. These were the family leaders of the Levites: Hashabiah, Sherebiah, Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, and other associates, who stood opposite them during the ceremonies of praise and thanksgiving, one section responding to the other, as commanded by David, the man of God. 25. This included Mattaniah, Bakbukiah, and Obadiah. + Meshullam, Talmon, and Akkub were the gatekeepers in charge of the storerooms at the gates. -26. These all served in the days of Joiakim son of Jeshua, son of Jehozadak, and in the days of Nehemiah the governor and of Ezra the priest and scribe.Dedication of Jerusalem's Wall + +26. These all served in the days of Joiakim son of Jeshua, son of Jehozadak, and in the days of Nehemiah the governor and of Ezra the priest and scribe. + +Dedication of Jerusalem's Wall + 27. For the dedication of the new wall of Jerusalem, the Levites throughout the land were asked to come to Jerusalem to assist in the ceremonies. They were to take part in the joyous occasion with their songs of thanksgiving and with the music of cymbals, harps, and lyres. 28. The singers were brought together from the region around Jerusalem and from the villages of the Netophathites. @@ -87,7 +116,10 @@ Meshullam, Talmon, and Akkub were the gatekeepers in charge of the storerooms at 41. We went together with the trumpet-playing priests--Eliakim, Maaseiah, Miniamin, Micaiah, Elioenai, Zechariah, and Hananiah-- 42. and the singers--Maaseiah, Shemaiah, Eleazar, Uzzi, Jehohanan, Malkijah, Elam, and Ezer. They played and sang loudly under the direction of Jezrahiah the choir director. -43. Many sacrifices were offered on that joyous day, for God had given the people cause for great joy. The women and children also participated in the celebration, and the joy of the people of Jerusalem could be heard far away.Provisions for Temple Worship +43. Many sacrifices were offered on that joyous day, for God had given the people cause for great joy. The women and children also participated in the celebration, and the joy of the people of Jerusalem could be heard far away. + +Provisions for Temple Worship + 44. On that day men were appointed to be in charge of the storerooms for the offerings, the first part of the harvest, and the tithes. They were responsible to collect from the fields outside the towns the portions required by the Law for the priests and Levites. For all the people of Judah took joy in the priests and Levites and their work. 45. They performed the service of their God and the service of purification, as commanded by David and his son Solomon, and so did the singers and the gatekeepers. @@ -95,3 +127,4 @@ Meshullam, Talmon, and Akkub were the gatekeepers in charge of the storerooms at 47. So now, in the days of Zerubbabel and of Nehemiah, all Israel brought a daily supply of food for the singers, the gatekeepers, and the Levites. The Levites, in turn, gave a portion of what they received to the priests, the descendants of Aaron. + diff --git a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_13.md index 023fe205..31ead4fd 100644 --- a/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/16_Nehemiah/Chapter_13.md @@ -31,9 +31,12 @@ Nehemiah's Various Reforms 20. The merchants and tradesmen with a variety of wares camped outside Jerusalem once or twice. 21. But I spoke sharply to them and said, "What are you doing out here, camping around the wall? If you do this again, I will arrest you!" And that was the last time they came on the Sabbath. 22. Then I commanded the Levites to purify themselves and to guard the gates in order to preserve the holiness of the Sabbath. + Remember this good deed also, O my God! Have compassion on me according to your great and unfailing love. -23. About the same time I realized that some of the men of Judah had married women from Ashdod, Ammon, and Moab. + +23. +About the same time I realized that some of the men of Judah had married women from Ashdod, Ammon, and Moab. 24. Furthermore, half their children spoke the language of Ashdod or of some other people and could not speak the language of Judah at all. 25. So I confronted them and called down curses on them. I beat some of them and pulled out their hair. I made them swear in the name of God that they would not let their children intermarry with the pagan people of the land. @@ -46,6 +49,8 @@ Remember this good deed also, O my God! Have compassion on me according to your 30. So I purged out everything foreign and assigned tasks to the priests and Levites, making certain that each knew his work. 31. I also made sure that the supply of wood for the altar and the first portions of the harvest were brought at the proper times. + Remember this in my favor, O my God. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_01.md index ac4b6354..c0fcadd1 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_01.md @@ -12,7 +12,10 @@ The King's Banquet 7. Drinks were served in gold goblets of many designs, and there was an abundance of royal wine, reflecting the king's generosity. 8. By edict of the king, no limits were placed on the drinking, for the king had instructed all his palace officials to serve each man as much as he wanted. -9. At the same time, Queen Vashti gave a banquet for the women in the royal palace of King Xerxes.Queen Vashti Deposed +9. At the same time, Queen Vashti gave a banquet for the women in the royal palace of King Xerxes. + +Queen Vashti Deposed + 10. On the seventh day of the feast, when King Xerxes was in high spirits because of the wine, he told the seven eunuchs who attended him--Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas-- 11. to bring Queen Vashti to him with the royal crown on her head. He wanted the nobles and all the other men to gaze on her beauty, for she was a very beautiful woman. @@ -34,3 +37,4 @@ The King's Banquet 22. He sent letters to all parts of the empire, to each province in its own script and language, proclaiming that every man should be the ruler of his own home and should say whatever he pleases. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_02.md index f54ca17c..58ab5089 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_02.md @@ -27,10 +27,14 @@ Esther Becomes Queen 18. To celebrate the occasion, he gave a great banquet in Esther's honor for all his nobles and officials, declaring a public holiday for the provinces and giving generous gifts to everyone. 19. Even after all the young women had been transferred to the second harem and Mordecai had become a palace official, -20. Esther continued to keep her family background and nationality a secret. She was still following Mordecai's directions, just as she did when she lived in his home.Mordecai's Loyalty to the King +20. Esther continued to keep her family background and nationality a secret. She was still following Mordecai's directions, just as she did when she lived in his home. + +Mordecai's Loyalty to the King + 21. One day as Mordecai was on duty at the king's gate, two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthana and Teresh--who were guards at the door of the king's private quarters--became angry at King Xerxes and plotted to assassinate him. 22. But Mordecai heard about the plot and gave the information to Queen Esther. She then told the king about it and gave Mordecai credit for the report. 23. When an investigation was made and Mordecai's story was found to be true, the two men were impaled on a sharpened pole. This was all recorded in The Book of the History of King Xerxes' Reign. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_03.md index 2c300aeb..a691ee63 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_03.md @@ -25,3 +25,4 @@ Haman's Plot against the Jews 15. At the king's command, the decree went out by swift messengers, and it was also proclaimed in the fortress of Susa. Then the king and Haman sat down to drink, but the city of Susa fell into confusion. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_04.md index c4e2525d..2066952a 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,4 +1,5 @@ -Mordecai Requests Esther's Help +Mordecai Requests Esther's +Help # Chapter 4 1. When Mordecai learned about all that had been done, he tore his clothes, put on burlap and ashes, and went out into the city, crying with a loud and bitter wail. @@ -25,3 +26,4 @@ Mordecai Requests Esther's Help 17. So Mordecai went away and did everything as Esther had ordered him. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_05.md index 0ad0118a..350d2da9 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_05.md @@ -13,11 +13,15 @@ Esther's Request to the King 6. And while they were drinking wine, the king said to Esther, "Now tell me what you really want. What is your request? I will give it to you, even if it is half the kingdom!" 7. Esther replied, "This is my request and deepest wish. -8. If I have found favor with the king, and if it pleases the king to grant my request and do what I ask, please come with Haman tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for you. Then I will explain what this is all about."Haman's Plan to Kill Mordecai +8. If I have found favor with the king, and if it pleases the king to grant my request and do what I ask, please come with Haman tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for you. Then I will explain what this is all about." +Haman's Plan to Kill Mordecai + 9. Haman was a happy man as he left the banquet! But when he saw Mordecai sitting at the palace gate, not standing up or trembling nervously before him, Haman became furious. 10. However, he restrained himself and went on home. + Then Haman gathered together his friends and Zeresh, his wife, + 11. and boasted to them about his great wealth and his many children. He bragged about the honors the king had given him and how he had been promoted over all the other nobles and officials. 12. Then Haman added, "And that's not all! Queen Esther invited only me and the king himself to the banquet she prepared for us. And she has invited me to dine with her and the king again tomorrow!" @@ -26,3 +30,4 @@ Then Haman gathered together his friends and Zeresh, his wife, 14. So Haman's wife, Zeresh, and all his friends suggested, "Set up a sharpened pole that stands seventy-five feet tall, and in the morning ask the king to impale Mordecai on it. When this is done, you can go on your merry way to the banquet with the king." This pleased Haman, and he ordered the pole set up. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_06.md index e77fa180..685fced6 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_06.md @@ -5,14 +5,18 @@ The King Honors Mordecai 2. In those records he discovered an account of how Mordecai had exposed the plot of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the eunuchs who guarded the door to the king's private quarters. They had plotted to assassinate King Xerxes. 3. "What reward or recognition did we ever give Mordecai for this?" the king asked. + His attendants replied, "Nothing has been done for him." + 4. "Who is that in the outer court?" the king inquired. As it happened, Haman had just arrived in the outer court of the palace to ask the king to impale Mordecai on the pole he had prepared. 5. So the attendants replied to the king, "Haman is out in the court." "Bring him in," the king ordered. + 6. So Haman came in, and the king said, "What should I do to honor a man who truly pleases me?" Haman thought to himself, "Whom would the king wish to honor more than me?" + 7. So he replied, "If the king wishes to honor someone, 8. he should bring out one of the king's own royal robes, as well as a horse that the king himself has ridden--one with a royal emblem on its head. 9. Let the robes and the horse be handed over to one of the king's most noble officials. And let him see that the man whom the king wishes to honor is dressed in the king's robes and led through the city square on the king's horse. Have the official shout as they go, 'This is what the king does for someone he wishes to honor!'" @@ -27,3 +31,4 @@ Haman thought to himself, "Whom would the king wish to honor more than me?" 14. While they were still talking, the king's eunuchs arrived and quickly took Haman to the banquet Esther had prepared. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_07.md index 00280bfc..400fe773 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_07.md @@ -11,12 +11,18 @@ The King Executes Haman 6. Esther replied, "This wicked Haman is our adversary and our enemy." Haman grew pale with fright before the king and queen. 7. Then the king jumped to his feet in a rage and went out into the palace garden. + Haman, however, stayed behind to plead for his life with Queen Esther, for he knew that the king intended to kill him. + 8. In despair he fell on the couch where Queen Esther was reclining, just as the king was returning from the palace garden. + The king exclaimed, "Will he even assault the queen right here in the palace, before my very eyes?" And as soon as the king spoke, his attendants covered Haman's face, signaling his doom. + 9. Then Harbona, one of the king's eunuchs, said, "Haman has set up a sharpened pole that stands seventy-five feet tall in his own courtyard. He intended to use it to impale Mordecai, the man who saved the king from assassination." "Then impale Haman on it!" the king ordered. + 10. So they impaled Haman on the pole he had set up for Mordecai, and the king's anger subsided. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_08.md index 763d1fba..7d50bc84 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_08.md @@ -1,4 +1,5 @@ -A Decree to Help the Jews +A Decree to +Help the Jews # Chapter 8 1. On that same day King Xerxes gave the property of Haman, the enemy of the Jews, to Queen Esther. Then Mordecai was brought before the king, for Esther had told the king how they were related. @@ -27,3 +28,4 @@ A Decree to Help the Jews 17. In every province and city, wherever the king's decree arrived, the Jews rejoiced and had a great celebration and declared a public festival and holiday. And many of the people of the land became Jews themselves, for they feared what the Jews might do to them. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_09.md index 550f802f..bb4b0b5a 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_09.md @@ -24,7 +24,10 @@ The Victory of the Jews 16. Meanwhile, the other Jews throughout the king's provinces had gathered together to defend their lives. They gained relief from all their enemies, killing 75,000 of those who hated them. But they did not take any plunder. 17. This was done throughout the provinces on March 7, and on March 8 they rested, celebrating their victory with a day of feasting and gladness. 18. (The Jews at Susa killed their enemies on March 7 and again on March 8, then rested on March 9, making that their day of feasting and gladness.) -19. So to this day, rural Jews living in remote villages celebrate an annual festival and holiday on the appointed day in late winter, when they rejoice and send gifts of food to each other.The Festival of Purim +19. So to this day, rural Jews living in remote villages celebrate an annual festival and holiday on the appointed day in late winter, when they rejoice and send gifts of food to each other. + +The Festival of Purim + 20. Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to the Jews near and far, throughout all the provinces of King Xerxes, 21. calling on them to celebrate an annual festival on these two days. @@ -34,7 +37,9 @@ The Victory of the Jews 24. Haman son of Hammedatha the Agagite, the enemy of the Jews, had plotted to crush and destroy them on the date determined by casting lots (the lots were called purim). 25. But when Esther came before the king, he issued a decree causing Haman's evil plot to backfire, and Haman and his sons were impaled on a sharpened pole. 26. That is why this celebration is called Purim, because it is the ancient word for casting lots. + So because of Mordecai's letter and because of what they had experienced, + 27. the Jews throughout the realm agreed to inaugurate this tradition and to pass it on to their descendants and to all who became Jews. They declared they would never fail to celebrate these two prescribed days at the appointed time each year. 28. These days would be remembered and kept from generation to generation and celebrated by every family throughout the provinces and cities of the empire. This Festival of Purim would never cease to be celebrated among the Jews, nor would the memory of what happened ever die out among their descendants. @@ -44,3 +49,4 @@ So because of Mordecai's letter and because of what they had experienced, 32. So the command of Esther confirmed the practices of Purim, and it was all written down in the records. + diff --git a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_10.md index 1e922a13..76f6d313 100644 --- a/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/17_Esther/Chapter_10.md @@ -6,3 +6,4 @@ The Greatness of Xerxes and Mordecai 3. Mordecai the Jew became the prime minister, with authority next to that of King Xerxes himself. He was very great among the Jews, who held him in high esteem, because he continued to work for the good of his people and to speak up for the welfare of all their descendants. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_01.md index 4c32dbfd..2d3e36cd 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_01.md @@ -6,7 +6,10 @@ Prologue 3. He owned 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 teams of oxen, and 500 female donkeys. He also had many servants. He was, in fact, the richest person in that entire area. 4. Job's sons would take turns preparing feasts in their homes, and they would also invite their three sisters to celebrate with them. -5. When these celebrations ended--sometimes after several days--Job would purify his children. He would get up early in the morning and offer a burnt offering for each of them. For Job said to himself, "Perhaps my children have sinned and have cursed God in their hearts." This was Job's regular practice.Job's First Test +5. When these celebrations ended--sometimes after several days--Job would purify his children. He would get up early in the morning and offer a burnt offering for each of them. For Job said to himself, "Perhaps my children have sinned and have cursed God in their hearts." This was Job's regular practice. + +Job's First Test + 6. One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the LORD, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them. 7. "Where have you come from?" the LORD asked Satan. @@ -34,7 +37,8 @@ Satan answered the LORD, "I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything 20. Job stood up and tore his robe in grief. Then he shaved his head and fell to the ground to worship. 21. He said, "I came naked from my mother's womb, - and I will be naked when I leave. + +and I will be naked when I leave. The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD!" @@ -42,3 +46,4 @@ Praise the name of the LORD!" 22. In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_02.md index ce016430..9e2f1566 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_02.md @@ -16,10 +16,14 @@ Satan answered the LORD, "I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything 8. Job scraped his skin with a piece of broken pottery as he sat among the ashes. 9. His wife said to him, "Are you still trying to maintain your integrity? Curse God and die." -10. But Job replied, "You talk like a foolish woman. Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?" So in all this, Job said nothing wrong.Job's Three Friends Share His Anguish +10. But Job replied, "You talk like a foolish woman. Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?" So in all this, Job said nothing wrong. + +Job's Three Friends Share His Anguish + 11. When three of Job's friends heard of the tragedy he had suffered, they got together and traveled from their homes to comfort and console him. Their names were Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. 12. When they saw Job from a distance, they scarcely recognized him. Wailing loudly, they tore their robes and threw dust into the air over their heads to show their grief. 13. Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and nights. No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_03.md index 36526a78..d1943f09 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_03.md @@ -5,80 +5,132 @@ Job's First Speech 2. He said: 3. "Let the day of my birth be erased, - and the night I was conceived. + +and the night I was conceived. + 4. Let that day be turned to darkness. - Let it be lost even to God on high, - and let no light shine on it. + +Let it be lost even to God on high, + +and let no light shine on it. + 5. Let the darkness and utter gloom claim that day for its own. - Let a black cloud overshadow it, - and let the darkness terrify it. + +Let a black cloud overshadow it, + +and let the darkness terrify it. + 6. Let that night be blotted off the calendar, - never again to be counted among the days of the year, - never again to appear among the months. + +never again to be counted among the days of the year, + +never again to appear among the months. + 7. Let that night be childless. - Let it have no joy. + +Let it have no joy. + 8. Let those who are experts at cursing-- whose cursing could rouse Leviathan-- - curse that day. + +curse that day. + 9. Let its morning stars remain dark. - Let it hope for light, but in vain; - may it never see the morning light. + +Let it hope for light, but in vain; + +may it never see the morning light. + 10. Curse that day for failing to shut my mother's womb, - for letting me be born to see all this trouble. + +for letting me be born to see all this trouble. + 11. "Why wasn't I born dead? - Why didn't I die as I came from the womb? + +Why didn't I die as I came from the womb? + 12. Why was I laid on my mother's lap? - Why did she nurse me at her breasts? + +Why did she nurse me at her breasts? + 13. Had I died at birth, I would now be at peace. - I would be asleep and at rest. + +I would be asleep and at rest. + 14. I would rest with the world's kings and prime ministers, - whose great buildings now lie in ruins. + +whose great buildings now lie in ruins. + 15. I would rest with princes, rich in gold, - whose palaces were filled with silver. + +whose palaces were filled with silver. + 16. Why wasn't I buried like a stillborn child, - like a baby who never lives to see the light? + +like a baby who never lives to see the light? + 17. For in death the wicked cause no trouble, - and the weary are at rest. + +and the weary are at rest. + 18. Even captives are at ease in death, - with no guards to curse them. + +with no guards to curse them. + 19. Rich and poor are both there, - and the slave is free from his master. + +and the slave is free from his master. + 20. "Oh, why give light to those in misery, - and life to those who are bitter? + +and life to those who are bitter? + 21. They long for death, and it won't come. - They search for death more eagerly than for hidden treasure. + +They search for death more eagerly than for hidden treasure. + 22. They're filled with joy when they finally die, - and rejoice when they find the grave. + +and rejoice when they find the grave. + 23. Why is life given to those with no future, - those God has surrounded with difficulties? + +those God has surrounded with difficulties? + 24. I cannot eat for sighing; - my groans pour out like water. + +my groans pour out like water. + 25. What I always feared has happened to me. - What I dreaded has come true. + +What I dreaded has come true. + 26. I have no peace, no quietness. - I have no rest; only trouble comes." + +I have no rest; only trouble comes." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_04.md index badb0de1..d5435b6b 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_04.md @@ -4,64 +4,103 @@ Eliphaz's First Response to Job 1. Then Eliphaz the Temanite replied to Job: 2. "Will you be patient and let me say a word? - For who could keep from speaking out? + +For who could keep from speaking out? + 3. "In the past you have encouraged many people; - you have strengthened those who were weak. + +you have strengthened those who were weak. + 4. Your words have supported those who were falling; - you encouraged those with shaky knees. + +you encouraged those with shaky knees. + 5. But now when trouble strikes, you lose heart. - You are terrified when it touches you. + +You are terrified when it touches you. + 6. Doesn't your reverence for God give you confidence? - Doesn't your life of integrity give you hope? + +Doesn't your life of integrity give you hope? + 7. "Stop and think! Do the innocent die? - When have the upright been destroyed? + +When have the upright been destroyed? + 8. My experience shows that those who plant trouble - and cultivate evil will harvest the same. + +and cultivate evil will harvest the same. + 9. A breath from God destroys them. - They vanish in a blast of his anger. + +They vanish in a blast of his anger. + 10. The lion roars and the wildcat snarls, - but the teeth of strong lions will be broken. + +but the teeth of strong lions will be broken. + 11. The fierce lion will starve for lack of prey, - and the cubs of the lioness will be scattered. + +and the cubs of the lioness will be scattered. + 12. "This truth was given to me in secret, - as though whispered in my ear. + +as though whispered in my ear. + 13. It came to me in a disturbing vision at night, - when people are in a deep sleep. + +when people are in a deep sleep. + 14. Fear gripped me, - and my bones trembled. + +and my bones trembled. + 15. A spirit swept past my face, and my hair stood on end. 16. The spirit stopped, but I couldn't see its shape. - There was a form before my eyes. + +There was a form before my eyes. + In the silence I heard a voice say, + 17. 'Can a mortal be innocent before God? - Can anyone be pure before the Creator?' + +Can anyone be pure before the Creator?' + 18. "If God does not trust his own angels - and has charged his messengers with foolishness, + +and has charged his messengers with foolishness, + 19. how much less will he trust people made of clay! - They are made of dust, crushed as easily as a moth. + +They are made of dust, crushed as easily as a moth. + 20. They are alive in the morning but dead by evening, - gone forever without a trace. + +gone forever without a trace. + 21. Their tent-cords are pulled and the tent collapses, - and they die in ignorance. + +and they die in ignorance. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_05.md index d702fb7c..c383b309 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_05.md @@ -5,82 +5,132 @@ Eliphaz's Response Continues Which of the angels will help you? 2. Surely resentment destroys the fool, - and jealousy kills the simple. + +and jealousy kills the simple. + 3. I have seen that fools may be successful for the moment, - but then comes sudden disaster. + +but then comes sudden disaster. + 4. Their children are abandoned far from help; - they are crushed in court with no one to defend them. + +they are crushed in court with no one to defend them. + 5. The hungry devour their harvest, even when it is guarded by brambles. The thirsty pant after their wealth. 6. But evil does not spring from the soil, - and trouble does not sprout from the earth. + +and trouble does not sprout from the earth. + 7. People are born for trouble - as readily as sparks fly up from a fire. + +as readily as sparks fly up from a fire. + 8. "If I were you, I would go to God - and present my case to him. + +and present my case to him. + 9. He does great things too marvelous to understand. - He performs countless miracles. + +He performs countless miracles. + 10. He gives rain for the earth - and water for the fields. + +and water for the fields. + 11. He gives prosperity to the poor - and protects those who suffer. + +and protects those who suffer. + 12. He frustrates the plans of schemers - so the work of their hands will not succeed. + +so the work of their hands will not succeed. + 13. He traps the wise in their own cleverness - so their cunning schemes are thwarted. + +so their cunning schemes are thwarted. + 14. They find it is dark in the daytime, - and they grope at noon as if it were night. + +and they grope at noon as if it were night. + 15. He rescues the poor from the cutting words of the strong, - and rescues them from the clutches of the powerful. + +and rescues them from the clutches of the powerful. + 16. And so at last the poor have hope, - and the snapping jaws of the wicked are shut. + +and the snapping jaws of the wicked are shut. + 17. "But consider the joy of those corrected by God! - Do not despise the discipline of the Almighty when you sin. + +Do not despise the discipline of the Almighty when you sin. + 18. For though he wounds, he also bandages. - He strikes, but his hands also heal. + +He strikes, but his hands also heal. + 19. From six disasters he will rescue you; - even in the seventh, he will keep you from evil. + +even in the seventh, he will keep you from evil. + 20. He will save you from death in time of famine, - from the power of the sword in time of war. + +from the power of the sword in time of war. + 21. You will be safe from slander - and have no fear when destruction comes. + +and have no fear when destruction comes. + 22. You will laugh at destruction and famine; - wild animals will not terrify you. + +wild animals will not terrify you. + 23. You will be at peace with the stones of the field, - and its wild animals will be at peace with you. + +and its wild animals will be at peace with you. + 24. You will know that your home is safe. - When you survey your possessions, nothing will be missing. + +When you survey your possessions, nothing will be missing. + 25. You will have many children; - your descendants will be as plentiful as grass! + +your descendants will be as plentiful as grass! + 26. You will go to the grave at a ripe old age, - like a sheaf of grain harvested at the proper time! + +like a sheaf of grain harvested at the proper time! + 27. "We have studied life and found all this to be true. - Listen to my counsel, and apply it to yourself." + +Listen to my counsel, and apply it to yourself." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_06.md index f0005dd1..c8362295 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_06.md @@ -4,92 +4,147 @@ Job's Second Speech: A Response to Eliphaz 1. Then Job spoke again: 2. "If my misery could be weighed - and my troubles be put on the scales, + +and my troubles be put on the scales, + 3. they would outweigh all the sands of the sea. - That is why I spoke impulsively. + +That is why I spoke impulsively. + 4. For the Almighty has struck me down with his arrows. - Their poison infects my spirit. - God's terrors are lined up against me. + +Their poison infects my spirit. + +God's terrors are lined up against me. + 5. Don't I have a right to complain? - Don't wild donkeys bray when they find no grass, - and oxen bellow when they have no food? + +Don't wild donkeys bray when they find no grass, + +and oxen bellow when they have no food? + 6. Don't people complain about unsalted food? Does anyone want the tasteless white of an egg? 7. My appetite disappears when I look at it; - I gag at the thought of eating it! + +I gag at the thought of eating it! + 8. "Oh, that I might have my request, - that God would grant my desire. + +that God would grant my desire. + 9. I wish he would crush me. - I wish he would reach out his hand and kill me. + +I wish he would reach out his hand and kill me. + 10. At least I can take comfort in this: - Despite the pain, - I have not denied the words of the Holy One. + +Despite the pain, + +I have not denied the words of the Holy One. + 11. But I don't have the strength to endure. - I have nothing to live for. + +I have nothing to live for. + 12. Do I have the strength of a stone? - Is my body made of bronze? + +Is my body made of bronze? + 13. No, I am utterly helpless, - without any chance of success. + +without any chance of success. + 14. "One should be kind to a fainting friend, but you accuse me without any fear of the Almighty. 15. My brothers, you have proved as unreliable as a seasonal brook - that overflows its banks in the spring + +that overflows its banks in the spring + 16. when it is swollen with ice and melting snow. 17. But when the hot weather arrives, the water disappears. - The brook vanishes in the heat. + +The brook vanishes in the heat. + 18. The caravans turn aside to be refreshed, - but there is nothing to drink, so they die. + +but there is nothing to drink, so they die. + 19. The caravans from Tema search for this water; - the travelers from Sheba hope to find it. + +the travelers from Sheba hope to find it. + 20. They count on it but are disappointed. - When they arrive, their hopes are dashed. + +When they arrive, their hopes are dashed. + 21. You, too, have given no help. - You have seen my calamity, and you are afraid. + +You have seen my calamity, and you are afraid. + 22. But why? Have I ever asked you for a gift? - Have I begged for anything of yours for myself? + +Have I begged for anything of yours for myself? + 23. Have I asked you to rescue me from my enemies, - or to save me from ruthless people? + +or to save me from ruthless people? + 24. Teach me, and I will keep quiet. - Show me what I have done wrong. + +Show me what I have done wrong. + 25. Honest words can be painful, - but what do your criticisms amount to? + +but what do your criticisms amount to? + 26. Do you think your words are convincing - when you disregard my cry of desperation? + +when you disregard my cry of desperation? + 27. You would even send an orphan into slavery - or sell a friend. + +or sell a friend. + 28. Look at me! - Would I lie to your face? + +Would I lie to your face? + 29. Stop assuming my guilt, - for I have done no wrong. + +for I have done no wrong. + 30. Do you think I am lying? - Don't I know the difference between right and wrong? + +Don't I know the difference between right and wrong? + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_07.md index 5465518c..9e8fb1ad 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_07.md @@ -1,70 +1,113 @@ # Chapter 7 1. "Is not all human life a struggle? - Our lives are like that of a hired hand, + +Our lives are like that of a hired hand, + 2. like a worker who longs for the shade, - like a servant waiting to be paid. + +like a servant waiting to be paid. + 3. I, too, have been assigned months of futility, - long and weary nights of misery. + +long and weary nights of misery. + 4. Lying in bed, I think, 'When will it be morning?' - But the night drags on, and I toss till dawn. + +But the night drags on, and I toss till dawn. + 5. My body is covered with maggots and scabs. - My skin breaks open, oozing with pus.Job Cries Out to God + +My skin breaks open, oozing with pus. + +Job Cries Out to God + 6. "My days fly faster than a weaver's shuttle. - They end without hope. + +They end without hope. + 7. O God, remember that my life is but a breath, - and I will never again feel happiness. + +and I will never again feel happiness. + 8. You see me now, but not for long. - You will look for me, but I will be gone. + +You will look for me, but I will be gone. + 9. Just as a cloud dissipates and vanishes, those who die will not come back. 10. They are gone forever from their home-- - never to be seen again. + +never to be seen again. + 11. "I cannot keep from speaking. - I must express my anguish. - My bitter soul must complain. + +I must express my anguish. + +My bitter soul must complain. + 12. Am I a sea monster or a dragon - that you must place me under guard? + +that you must place me under guard? + 13. I think, 'My bed will comfort me, - and sleep will ease my misery,' + +and sleep will ease my misery,' + 14. but then you shatter me with dreams - and terrify me with visions. + +and terrify me with visions. + 15. I would rather be strangled-- - rather die than suffer like this. + +rather die than suffer like this. + 16. I hate my life and don't want to go on living. - Oh, leave me alone for my few remaining days. + +Oh, leave me alone for my few remaining days. + 17. "What are people, that you should make so much of us, - that you should think of us so often? + +that you should think of us so often? + 18. For you examine us every morning - and test us every moment. + +and test us every moment. + 19. Why won't you leave me alone, - at least long enough for me to swallow! + +at least long enough for me to swallow! + 20. If I have sinned, what have I done to you, - O watcher of all humanity? + +O watcher of all humanity? Why make me your target? Am I a burden to you? 21. Why not just forgive my sin - and take away my guilt? + +and take away my guilt? For soon I will lie down in the dust and die. - When you look for me, I will be gone." + +When you look for me, I will be gone." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_08.md index 7bc29135..6910ac2a 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_08.md @@ -4,66 +4,108 @@ Bildad's First Response to Job 1. Then Bildad the Shuhite replied to Job: 2. "How long will you go on like this? - You sound like a blustering wind. + +You sound like a blustering wind. + 3. Does God twist justice? - Does the Almighty twist what is right? + +Does the Almighty twist what is right? + 4. Your children must have sinned against him, - so their punishment was well deserved. + +so their punishment was well deserved. + 5. But if you pray to God - and seek the favor of the Almighty, + +and seek the favor of the Almighty, + 6. and if you are pure and live with integrity, - he will surely rise up and restore your happy home. + +he will surely rise up and restore your happy home. + 7. And though you started with little, - you will end with much. + +you will end with much. + 8. "Just ask the previous generation. - Pay attention to the experience of our ancestors. + +Pay attention to the experience of our ancestors. + 9. For we were born but yesterday and know nothing. - Our days on earth are as fleeting as a shadow. + +Our days on earth are as fleeting as a shadow. + 10. But those who came before us will teach you. - They will teach you the wisdom of old. + +They will teach you the wisdom of old. + 11. "Can papyrus reeds grow tall without a marsh? - Can marsh grass flourish without water? + +Can marsh grass flourish without water? + 12. While they are still flowering, not ready to be cut, - they begin to wither more quickly than grass. + +they begin to wither more quickly than grass. + 13. The same happens to all who forget God. - The hopes of the godless evaporate. + +The hopes of the godless evaporate. + 14. Their confidence hangs by a thread. - They are leaning on a spider's web. + +They are leaning on a spider's web. + 15. They cling to their home for security, but it won't last. - They try to hold it tight, but it will not endure. + +They try to hold it tight, but it will not endure. + 16. The godless seem like a lush plant growing in the sunshine, - its branches spreading across the garden. + +its branches spreading across the garden. + 17. Its roots grow down through a pile of stones; - it takes hold on a bed of rocks. + +it takes hold on a bed of rocks. + 18. But when it is uprooted, - it's as though it never existed! + +it's as though it never existed! + 19. That's the end of its life, - and others spring up from the earth to replace it. + +and others spring up from the earth to replace it. + 20. "But look, God will not reject a person of integrity, - nor will he lend a hand to the wicked. + +nor will he lend a hand to the wicked. + 21. He will once again fill your mouth with laughter - and your lips with shouts of joy. + +and your lips with shouts of joy. + 22. Those who hate you will be clothed with shame, - and the home of the wicked will be destroyed." + +and the home of the wicked will be destroyed." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_09.md index fd53796c..b632e67d 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_09.md @@ -4,55 +4,87 @@ Job's Third Speech: A Response to Bildad 1. Then Job spoke again: 2. "Yes, I know all this is true in principle. - But how can a person be declared innocent in God's sight? + +But how can a person be declared innocent in God's sight? + 3. If someone wanted to take God to court, - would it be possible to answer him even once in a thousand times? + +would it be possible to answer him even once in a thousand times? + 4. For God is so wise and so mighty. - Who has ever challenged him successfully? + +Who has ever challenged him successfully? + 5. "Without warning, he moves the mountains, - overturning them in his anger. + +overturning them in his anger. + 6. He shakes the earth from its place, - and its foundations tremble. + +and its foundations tremble. + 7. If he commands it, the sun won't rise - and the stars won't shine. + +and the stars won't shine. + 8. He alone has spread out the heavens - and marches on the waves of the sea. + +and marches on the waves of the sea. + 9. He made all the stars--the Bear and Orion, - the Pleiades and the constellations of the southern sky. + +the Pleiades and the constellations of the southern sky. + 10. He does great things too marvelous to understand. - He performs countless miracles. + +He performs countless miracles. + 11. "Yet when he comes near, I cannot see him. - When he moves by, I do not see him go. + +When he moves by, I do not see him go. + 12. If he snatches someone in death, who can stop him? - Who dares to ask, 'What are you doing?' + +Who dares to ask, 'What are you doing?' + 13. And God does not restrain his anger. Even the monsters of the sea are crushed beneath his feet. 14. "So who am I, that I should try to answer God - or even reason with him? + +or even reason with him? + 15. Even if I were right, I would have no defense. - I could only plead for mercy. + +I could only plead for mercy. + 16. And even if I summoned him and he responded, - I'm not sure he would listen to me. + +I'm not sure he would listen to me. + 17. For he attacks me with a storm - and repeatedly wounds me without cause. + +and repeatedly wounds me without cause. + 18. He will not let me catch my breath, - but fills me instead with bitter sorrows. + +but fills me instead with bitter sorrows. + 19. If it's a question of strength, he's the strong one. If it's a matter of justice, who dares to summon him to court? @@ -61,50 +93,82 @@ Job's Third Speech: A Response to Bildad Though I am blameless, it would prove me wicked. 21. "I am innocent, - but it makes no difference to me-- - I despise my life. + +but it makes no difference to me-- + +I despise my life. + 22. Innocent or wicked, it is all the same to God. - That's why I say, 'He destroys both the blameless and the wicked.' + +That's why I say, 'He destroys both the blameless and the wicked.' + 23. When a plague sweeps through, - he laughs at the death of the innocent. + +he laughs at the death of the innocent. + 24. The whole earth is in the hands of the wicked, - and God blinds the eyes of the judges. - If he's not the one who does it, who is? + +and God blinds the eyes of the judges. + +If he's not the one who does it, who is? + 25. "My life passes more swiftly than a runner. - It flees away without a glimpse of happiness. + +It flees away without a glimpse of happiness. + 26. It disappears like a swift papyrus boat, - like an eagle swooping down on its prey. + +like an eagle swooping down on its prey. + 27. If I decided to forget my complaints, - to put away my sad face and be cheerful, + +to put away my sad face and be cheerful, + 28. I would still dread all the pain, - for I know you will not find me innocent, O God. + +for I know you will not find me innocent, O God. + 29. Whatever happens, I will be found guilty. - So what's the use of trying? + +So what's the use of trying? + 30. Even if I were to wash myself with soap - and clean my hands with lye, + +and clean my hands with lye, + 31. you would plunge me into a muddy ditch, - and my own filthy clothing would hate me. + +and my own filthy clothing would hate me. + 32. "God is not a mortal like me, - so I cannot argue with him or take him to trial. + +so I cannot argue with him or take him to trial. + 33. If only there were a mediator between us, - someone who could bring us together. + +someone who could bring us together. + 34. The mediator could make God stop beating me, - and I would no longer live in terror of his punishment. + +and I would no longer live in terror of his punishment. + 35. Then I could speak to him without fear, - but I cannot do that in my own strength. + +but I cannot do that in my own strength. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_10.md index 88613032..f24cbf94 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_10.md @@ -2,74 +2,120 @@ Job Frames His Plea to God # Chapter 10 1. "I am disgusted with my life. - Let me complain freely. - My bitter soul must complain. + +Let me complain freely. + +My bitter soul must complain. + 2. I will say to God, 'Don't simply condemn me-- - tell me the charge you are bringing against me. + +tell me the charge you are bringing against me. + 3. What do you gain by oppressing me? - Why do you reject me, the work of your own hands, - while smiling on the schemes of the wicked? + +Why do you reject me, the work of your own hands, + +while smiling on the schemes of the wicked? + 4. Are your eyes like those of a human? - Do you see things only as people see them? + +Do you see things only as people see them? + 5. Is your lifetime only as long as ours? - Is your life so short + +Is your life so short + 6. that you must quickly probe for my guilt - and search for my sin? + +and search for my sin? + 7. Although you know I am not guilty, - no one can rescue me from your hands. + +no one can rescue me from your hands. + 8. "'You formed me with your hands; you made me, - yet now you completely destroy me. + +yet now you completely destroy me. + 9. Remember that you made me from dust-- - will you turn me back to dust so soon? + +will you turn me back to dust so soon? + 10. You guided my conception and formed me in the womb. 11. You clothed me with skin and flesh, - and you knit my bones and sinews together. + +and you knit my bones and sinews together. + 12. You gave me life and showed me your unfailing love. - My life was preserved by your care. + +My life was preserved by your care. + 13. "'Yet your real motive-- - your true intent-- + +your true intent-- 14. was to watch me, and if I sinned, - you would not forgive my guilt. + +you would not forgive my guilt. + 15. If I am guilty, too bad for me; - and even if I'm innocent, I can't hold my head high, - because I am filled with shame and misery. + +and even if I'm innocent, I can't hold my head high, + +because I am filled with shame and misery. + 16. And if I hold my head high, you hunt me like a lion - and display your awesome power against me. + +and display your awesome power against me. + 17. Again and again you witness against me. - You pour out your growing anger on me - and bring fresh armies against me. + +You pour out your growing anger on me + +and bring fresh armies against me. + 18. "'Why, then, did you deliver me from my mother's womb? - Why didn't you let me die at birth? + +Why didn't you let me die at birth? + 19. It would be as though I had never existed, - going directly from the womb to the grave. + +going directly from the womb to the grave. + 20. I have only a few days left, so leave me alone, - that I may have a moment of comfort + +that I may have a moment of comfort + 21. before I leave--never to return-- - for the land of darkness and utter gloom. + +for the land of darkness and utter gloom. + 22. It is a land as dark as midnight, - a land of gloom and confusion, - where even the light is dark as midnight.'" + +a land of gloom and confusion, + +where even the light is dark as midnight.'" + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_11.md index 01b8bc2d..f51379e1 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_11.md @@ -4,65 +4,105 @@ Zophar's First Response to Job 1. Then Zophar the Naamathite replied to Job: 2. "Shouldn't someone answer this torrent of words? - Is a person proved innocent just by a lot of talking? + +Is a person proved innocent just by a lot of talking? + 3. Should I remain silent while you babble on? - When you mock God, shouldn't someone make you ashamed? + +When you mock God, shouldn't someone make you ashamed? + 4. You claim, 'My beliefs are pure,' - and 'I am clean in the sight of God.' + +and 'I am clean in the sight of God.' + 5. If only God would speak; - if only he would tell you what he thinks! + +if only he would tell you what he thinks! + 6. If only he would tell you the secrets of wisdom, - for true wisdom is not a simple matter. + +for true wisdom is not a simple matter. + Listen! God is doubtless punishing you - far less than you deserve! + +far less than you deserve! + 7. "Can you solve the mysteries of God? - Can you discover everything about the Almighty? + +Can you discover everything about the Almighty? + 8. Such knowledge is higher than the heavens-- - and who are you? + +and who are you? It is deeper than the underworld-- - what do you know? + +what do you know? + 9. It is broader than the earth - and wider than the sea. + +and wider than the sea. + 10. If God comes and puts a person in prison - or calls the court to order, who can stop him? + +or calls the court to order, who can stop him? + 11. For he knows those who are false, - and he takes note of all their sins. + +and he takes note of all their sins. + 12. An empty-headed person won't become wise any more than a wild donkey can bear a human child. 13. "If only you would prepare your heart - and lift up your hands to him in prayer! + +and lift up your hands to him in prayer! + 14. Get rid of your sins, - and leave all iniquity behind you. + +and leave all iniquity behind you. + 15. Then your face will brighten with innocence. - You will be strong and free of fear. + +You will be strong and free of fear. + 16. You will forget your misery; - it will be like water flowing away. + +it will be like water flowing away. + 17. Your life will be brighter than the noonday. - Even darkness will be as bright as morning. + +Even darkness will be as bright as morning. + 18. Having hope will give you courage. - You will be protected and will rest in safety. + +You will be protected and will rest in safety. + 19. You will lie down unafraid, - and many will look to you for help. + +and many will look to you for help. + 20. But the wicked will be blinded. - They will have no escape. - Their only hope is death." + +They will have no escape. + +Their only hope is death." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_12.md index b88f54e7..d984a093 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_12.md @@ -4,79 +4,127 @@ Job's Fourth Speech: A Response to Zophar 1. Then Job spoke again: 2. "You people really know everything, don't you? - And when you die, wisdom will die with you! + +And when you die, wisdom will die with you! + 3. Well, I know a few things myself-- - and you're no better than I am. - Who doesn't know these things you've been saying? + +and you're no better than I am. + +Who doesn't know these things you've been saying? + 4. Yet my friends laugh at me, - for I call on God and expect an answer. + +for I call on God and expect an answer. + I am a just and blameless man, - yet they laugh at me. + +yet they laugh at me. + 5. People who are at ease mock those in trouble. - They give a push to people who are stumbling. + +They give a push to people who are stumbling. + 6. But robbers are left in peace, - and those who provoke God live in safety-- + +and those who provoke God live in safety-- though God keeps them in his power. 7. "Just ask the animals, and they will teach you. - Ask the birds of the sky, and they will tell you. + +Ask the birds of the sky, and they will tell you. + 8. Speak to the earth, and it will instruct you. - Let the fish in the sea speak to you. + +Let the fish in the sea speak to you. + 9. For they all know that my disaster has come from the hand of the LORD. 10. For the life of every living thing is in his hand, - and the breath of every human being. + +and the breath of every human being. + 11. The ear tests the words it hears - just as the mouth distinguishes between foods. + +just as the mouth distinguishes between foods. + 12. Wisdom belongs to the aged, - and understanding to the old. + +and understanding to the old. + 13. "But true wisdom and power are found in God; - counsel and understanding are his. + +counsel and understanding are his. + 14. What he destroys cannot be rebuilt. - When he puts someone in prison, there is no escape. + +When he puts someone in prison, there is no escape. + 15. If he holds back the rain, the earth becomes a desert. - If he releases the waters, they flood the earth. + +If he releases the waters, they flood the earth. + 16. Yes, strength and wisdom are his; - deceivers and deceived are both in his power. + +deceivers and deceived are both in his power. + 17. He leads counselors away, stripped of good judgment; - wise judges become fools. + +wise judges become fools. + 18. He removes the royal robe of kings. - They are led away with ropes around their waist. + +They are led away with ropes around their waist. + 19. He leads priests away, stripped of status; - he overthrows those with long years in power. + +he overthrows those with long years in power. + 20. He silences the trusted adviser - and removes the insight of the elders. + +and removes the insight of the elders. + 21. He pours disgrace upon princes - and disarms the strong. + +and disarms the strong. + 22. "He uncovers mysteries hidden in darkness; - he brings light to the deepest gloom. + +he brings light to the deepest gloom. + 23. He builds up nations, and he destroys them. - He expands nations, and he abandons them. + +He expands nations, and he abandons them. + 24. He strips kings of understanding - and leaves them wandering in a pathless wasteland. + +and leaves them wandering in a pathless wasteland. + 25. They grope in the darkness without a light. - He makes them stagger like drunkards. + +He makes them stagger like drunkards. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_13.md index 67173940..cadbef2a 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_13.md @@ -2,88 +2,147 @@ Job Wants to Argue His Case with God # Chapter 13 1. "Look, I have seen all this with my own eyes - and heard it with my own ears, and now I understand. + +and heard it with my own ears, and now I understand. + 2. I know as much as you do. - You are no better than I am. + +You are no better than I am. + 3. As for me, I would speak directly to the Almighty. - I want to argue my case with God himself. + +I want to argue my case with God himself. + 4. As for you, you smear me with lies. - As physicians, you are worthless quacks. + +As physicians, you are worthless quacks. + 5. If only you could be silent! - That's the wisest thing you could do. + +That's the wisest thing you could do. + 6. Listen to my charge; - pay attention to my arguments. + +pay attention to my arguments. + 7. "Are you defending God with lies? - Do you make your dishonest arguments for his sake? + +Do you make your dishonest arguments for his sake? + 8. Will you slant your testimony in his favor? - Will you argue God's case for him? + +Will you argue God's case for him? + 9. What will happen when he finds out what you are doing? - Can you fool him as easily as you fool people? + +Can you fool him as easily as you fool people? + 10. No, you will be in trouble with him - if you secretly slant your testimony in his favor. + +if you secretly slant your testimony in his favor. + 11. Doesn't his majesty terrify you? - Doesn't your fear of him overwhelm you? + +Doesn't your fear of him overwhelm you? + 12. Your platitudes are as valuable as ashes. - Your defense is as fragile as a clay pot. + +Your defense is as fragile as a clay pot. + 13. "Be silent now and leave me alone. - Let me speak, and I will face the consequences. + +Let me speak, and I will face the consequences. + 14. Why should I put myself in mortal danger - and take my life in my own hands? + +and take my life in my own hands? + 15. God might kill me, but I have no other hope. - I am going to argue my case with him. + +I am going to argue my case with him. + 16. But this is what will save me--I am not godless. - If I were, I could not stand before him. + +If I were, I could not stand before him. + 17. "Listen closely to what I am about to say. - Hear me out. + +Hear me out. + 18. I have prepared my case; - I will be proved innocent. + +I will be proved innocent. + 19. Who can argue with me over this? - And if you prove me wrong, I will remain silent and die.Job Asks How He Has Sinned + +And if you prove me wrong, I will remain silent and die. + +Job Asks How He Has Sinned + 20. "O God, grant me these two things, - and then I will be able to face you. + +and then I will be able to face you. + 21. Remove your heavy hand from me, - and don't terrify me with your awesome presence. + +and don't terrify me with your awesome presence. + 22. Now summon me, and I will answer! - Or let me speak to you, and you reply. + +Or let me speak to you, and you reply. + 23. Tell me, what have I done wrong? - Show me my rebellion and my sin. + +Show me my rebellion and my sin. + 24. Why do you turn away from me? - Why do you treat me as your enemy? + +Why do you treat me as your enemy? + 25. Would you terrify a leaf blown by the wind? - Would you chase dry straw? + +Would you chase dry straw? + 26. "You write bitter accusations against me - and bring up all the sins of my youth. + +and bring up all the sins of my youth. + 27. You put my feet in stocks. - You examine all my paths. - You trace all my footprints. + +You examine all my paths. + +You trace all my footprints. + 28. I waste away like rotting wood, - like a moth-eaten coat. + +like a moth-eaten coat. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_14.md index 8110e8ad..fb518333 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_14.md @@ -1,74 +1,124 @@ # Chapter 14 1. "How frail is humanity! - How short is life, how full of trouble! + +How short is life, how full of trouble! + 2. We blossom like a flower and then wither. - Like a passing shadow, we quickly disappear. + +Like a passing shadow, we quickly disappear. + 3. Must you keep an eye on such a frail creature - and demand an accounting from me? + +and demand an accounting from me? + 4. Who can bring purity out of an impure person? - No one! + +No one! + 5. You have decided the length of our lives. - You know how many months we will live, - and we are not given a minute longer. + +You know how many months we will live, + +and we are not given a minute longer. + 6. So leave us alone and let us rest! - We are like hired hands, so let us finish our work in peace. + +We are like hired hands, so let us finish our work in peace. + 7. "Even a tree has more hope! - If it is cut down, it will sprout again - and grow new branches. + +If it is cut down, it will sprout again + +and grow new branches. + 8. Though its roots have grown old in the earth - and its stump decays, + +and its stump decays, + 9. at the scent of water it will bud - and sprout again like a new seedling. + +and sprout again like a new seedling. + 10. "But when people die, their strength is gone. - They breathe their last, and then where are they? + +They breathe their last, and then where are they? + 11. As water evaporates from a lake - and a river disappears in drought, + +and a river disappears in drought, + 12. people are laid to rest and do not rise again. - Until the heavens are no more, they will not wake up - nor be roused from their sleep. + +Until the heavens are no more, they will not wake up + +nor be roused from their sleep. + 13. "I wish you would hide me in the grave - and forget me there until your anger has passed. - But mark your calendar to think of me again! + +and forget me there until your anger has passed. + +But mark your calendar to think of me again! + 14. Can the dead live again? - If so, this would give me hope through all my years of struggle, - and I would eagerly await the release of death. + +If so, this would give me hope through all my years of struggle, + +and I would eagerly await the release of death. + 15. You would call and I would answer, - and you would yearn for me, your handiwork. + +and you would yearn for me, your handiwork. + 16. For then you would guard my steps, - instead of watching for my sins. + +instead of watching for my sins. + 17. My sins would be sealed in a pouch, - and you would cover my guilt. + +and you would cover my guilt. + 18. "But instead, as mountains fall and crumble - and as rocks fall from a cliff, + +and as rocks fall from a cliff, + 19. as water wears away the stones - and floods wash away the soil, - so you destroy people's hope. + +and floods wash away the soil, + +so you destroy people's hope. + 20. You always overpower them, and they pass from the scene. - You disfigure them in death and send them away. + +You disfigure them in death and send them away. + 21. They never know if their children grow up in honor - or sink to insignificance. + +or sink to insignificance. + 22. They suffer painfully; - their life is full of trouble." + +their life is full of trouble." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_15.md index 2c22b288..aca99c82 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_15.md @@ -4,109 +4,178 @@ Eliphaz's Second Response to Job 1. Then Eliphaz the Temanite replied: 2. "A wise man wouldn't answer with such empty talk! - You are nothing but a windbag. + +You are nothing but a windbag. + 3. The wise don't engage in empty chatter. - What good are such words? + +What good are such words? + 4. Have you no fear of God, - no reverence for him? + +no reverence for him? + 5. Your sins are telling your mouth what to say. - Your words are based on clever deception. + +Your words are based on clever deception. + 6. Your own mouth condemns you, not I. - Your own lips testify against you. + +Your own lips testify against you. + 7. "Were you the first person ever born? - Were you born before the hills were made? + +Were you born before the hills were made? + 8. Were you listening at God's secret council? - Do you have a monopoly on wisdom? + +Do you have a monopoly on wisdom? + 9. What do you know that we don't? - What do you understand that we do not? + +What do you understand that we do not? + 10. On our side are aged, gray-haired men - much older than your father! + +much older than your father! + 11. "Is God's comfort too little for you? - Is his gentle word not enough? + +Is his gentle word not enough? + 12. What has taken away your reason? What has weakened your vision, 13. that you turn against God - and say all these evil things? + +and say all these evil things? + 14. Can any mortal be pure? - Can anyone born of a woman be just? + +Can anyone born of a woman be just? + 15. Look, God does not even trust the angels. - Even the heavens are not absolutely pure in his sight. + +Even the heavens are not absolutely pure in his sight. + 16. How much less pure is a corrupt and sinful person - with a thirst for wickedness! + +with a thirst for wickedness! + 17. "If you will listen, I will show you. - I will answer you from my own experience. + +I will answer you from my own experience. + 18. And it is confirmed by the reports of wise men - who have heard the same thing from their fathers-- + +who have heard the same thing from their fathers-- 19. from those to whom the land was given - long before any foreigners arrived. + +long before any foreigners arrived. + 20. "The wicked writhe in pain throughout their lives. - Years of trouble are stored up for the ruthless. + +Years of trouble are stored up for the ruthless. + 21. The sound of terror rings in their ears, - and even on good days they fear the attack of the destroyer. + +and even on good days they fear the attack of the destroyer. + 22. They dare not go out into the darkness - for fear they will be murdered. + +for fear they will be murdered. + 23. They wander around, saying, 'Where can I find bread?' - They know their day of destruction is near. + +They know their day of destruction is near. + 24. That dark day terrifies them. - They live in distress and anguish, - like a king preparing for battle. + +They live in distress and anguish, + +like a king preparing for battle. + 25. For they shake their fists at God, - defying the Almighty. + +defying the Almighty. + 26. Holding their strong shields, - they defiantly charge against him. + +they defiantly charge against him. + 27. "These wicked people are heavy and prosperous; - their waists bulge with fat. + +their waists bulge with fat. + 28. But their cities will be ruined. - They will live in abandoned houses - that are ready to tumble down. + +They will live in abandoned houses + +that are ready to tumble down. + 29. Their riches will not last, - and their wealth will not endure. - Their possessions will no longer spread across the horizon. + +and their wealth will not endure. + +Their possessions will no longer spread across the horizon. + 30. "They will not escape the darkness. - The burning sun will wither their shoots, - and the breath of God will destroy them. + +The burning sun will wither their shoots, + +and the breath of God will destroy them. + 31. Let them no longer fool themselves by trusting in empty riches, - for emptiness will be their only reward. + +for emptiness will be their only reward. + 32. They will be cut down in the prime of life; - their branches will never again be green. + +their branches will never again be green. + 33. They will be like a vine whose grapes are harvested too early, - like an olive tree that loses its blossoms before the fruit can form. + +like an olive tree that loses its blossoms before the fruit can form. + 34. For the godless are barren. - Their homes, enriched through bribery, will burn. + +Their homes, enriched through bribery, will burn. + 35. They conceive trouble and give birth to evil. - Their womb produces deceit." + +Their womb produces deceit." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_16.md index 8b78f6e6..81fe89e0 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_16.md @@ -4,70 +4,114 @@ Job's Fifth Speech: A Response to Eliphaz 1. Then Job spoke again: 2. "I have heard all this before. - What miserable comforters you are! + +What miserable comforters you are! + 3. Won't you ever stop blowing hot air? - What makes you keep on talking? + +What makes you keep on talking? + 4. I could say the same things if you were in my place. - I could spout off criticism and shake my head at you. + +I could spout off criticism and shake my head at you. + 5. But if it were me, I would encourage you. - I would try to take away your grief. + +I would try to take away your grief. + 6. Instead, I suffer if I defend myself, - and I suffer no less if I refuse to speak. + +and I suffer no less if I refuse to speak. + 7. "O God, you have ground me down - and devastated my family. + +and devastated my family. + 8. As if to prove I have sinned, you've reduced me to skin and bones. - My gaunt flesh testifies against me. + +My gaunt flesh testifies against me. + 9. God hates me and angrily tears me apart. - He snaps his teeth at me - and pierces me with his eyes. + +He snaps his teeth at me + +and pierces me with his eyes. + 10. People jeer and laugh at me. - They slap my cheek in contempt. - A mob gathers against me. + +They slap my cheek in contempt. + +A mob gathers against me. + 11. God has handed me over to sinners. - He has tossed me into the hands of the wicked. + +He has tossed me into the hands of the wicked. + 12. "I was living quietly until he shattered me. - He took me by the neck and broke me in pieces. + +He took me by the neck and broke me in pieces. + Then he set me up as his target, + 13. and now his archers surround me. + His arrows pierce me without mercy. The ground is wet with my blood. 14. Again and again he smashes against me, - charging at me like a warrior. + +charging at me like a warrior. + 15. I wear burlap to show my grief. - My pride lies in the dust. + +My pride lies in the dust. + 16. My eyes are red with weeping; - dark shadows circle my eyes. + +dark shadows circle my eyes. + 17. Yet I have done no wrong, - and my prayer is pure. + +and my prayer is pure. + 18. "O earth, do not conceal my blood. - Let it cry out on my behalf. + +Let it cry out on my behalf. + 19. Even now my witness is in heaven. - My advocate is there on high. + +My advocate is there on high. + 20. My friends scorn me, - but I pour out my tears to God. + +but I pour out my tears to God. + 21. I need someone to mediate between God and me, - as a person mediates between friends. + +as a person mediates between friends. + 22. For soon I must go down that road - from which I will never return. + +from which I will never return. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_17.md index 76da91a9..b19a8457 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_17.md @@ -2,53 +2,87 @@ Job Continues to Defend His Innocence # Chapter 17 1. "My spirit is crushed, - and my life is nearly snuffed out. - The grave is ready to receive me. + +and my life is nearly snuffed out. + +The grave is ready to receive me. + 2. I am surrounded by mockers. - I watch how bitterly they taunt me. + +I watch how bitterly they taunt me. + 3. "You must defend my innocence, O God, - since no one else will stand up for me. + +since no one else will stand up for me. + 4. You have closed their minds to understanding, - but do not let them triumph. + +but do not let them triumph. + 5. They betray their friends for their own advantage, - so let their children faint with hunger. + +so let their children faint with hunger. + 6. "God has made a mockery of me among the people; - they spit in my face. + +they spit in my face. + 7. My eyes are swollen with weeping, - and I am but a shadow of my former self. + +and I am but a shadow of my former self. + 8. The virtuous are horrified when they see me. - The innocent rise up against the ungodly. + +The innocent rise up against the ungodly. + 9. The righteous keep moving forward, - and those with clean hands become stronger and stronger. + +and those with clean hands become stronger and stronger. + 10. "As for all of you, come back with a better argument, - though I still won't find a wise man among you. + +though I still won't find a wise man among you. + 11. My days are over. - My hopes have disappeared. - My heart's desires are broken. + +My hopes have disappeared. + +My heart's desires are broken. + 12. These men say that night is day; - they claim that the darkness is light. + +they claim that the darkness is light. + 13. What if I go to the grave - and make my bed in darkness? + +and make my bed in darkness? + 14. What if I call the grave my father, - and the maggot my mother or my sister? + +and the maggot my mother or my sister? + 15. Where then is my hope? - Can anyone find it? + +Can anyone find it? + 16. No, my hope will go down with me to the grave. - We will rest together in the dust!" + +We will rest together in the dust!" + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_18.md index 7f08c9b5..b8412a9e 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_18.md @@ -4,64 +4,105 @@ Bildad's Second Response to Job 1. Then Bildad the Shuhite replied: 2. "How long before you stop talking? - Speak sense if you want us to answer! + +Speak sense if you want us to answer! + 3. Do you think we are mere animals? - Do you think we are stupid? + +Do you think we are stupid? + 4. You may tear out your hair in anger, - but will that destroy the earth? - Will it make the rocks tremble? + +but will that destroy the earth? + +Will it make the rocks tremble? + 5. "Surely the light of the wicked will be snuffed out. - The sparks of their fire will not glow. + +The sparks of their fire will not glow. + 6. The light in their tent will grow dark. - The lamp hanging above them will be quenched. + +The lamp hanging above them will be quenched. + 7. The confident stride of the wicked will be shortened. - Their own schemes will be their downfall. + +Their own schemes will be their downfall. + 8. The wicked walk into a net. - They fall into a pit. + +They fall into a pit. + 9. A trap grabs them by the heel. - A snare holds them tight. + +A snare holds them tight. + 10. A noose lies hidden on the ground. - A rope is stretched across their path. + +A rope is stretched across their path. + 11. "Terrors surround the wicked - and trouble them at every step. + +and trouble them at every step. + 12. Hunger depletes their strength, - and calamity waits for them to stumble. + +and calamity waits for them to stumble. + 13. Disease eats their skin; - death devours their limbs. + +death devours their limbs. + 14. They are torn from the security of their homes - and are brought down to the king of terrors. + +and are brought down to the king of terrors. + 15. The homes of the wicked will burn down; - burning sulfur rains on their houses. + +burning sulfur rains on their houses. + 16. Their roots will dry up, - and their branches will wither. + +and their branches will wither. + 17. All memory of their existence will fade from the earth; - no one will remember their names. + +no one will remember their names. + 18. They will be thrust from light into darkness, - driven from the world. + +driven from the world. + 19. They will have neither children nor grandchildren, - nor any survivor in the place where they lived. + +nor any survivor in the place where they lived. + 20. People in the west are appalled at their fate; - people in the east are horrified. + +people in the east are horrified. + 21. They will say, 'This was the home of a wicked person, - the place of one who rejected God.'" + +the place of one who rejected God.'" + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_19.md index 5c40002f..86d8fa5c 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_19.md @@ -4,90 +4,146 @@ Job's Sixth Speech: A Response to Bildad 1. Then Job spoke again: 2. "How long will you torture me? - How long will you try to crush me with your words? + +How long will you try to crush me with your words? + 3. You have already insulted me ten times. - You should be ashamed of treating me so badly. + +You should be ashamed of treating me so badly. + 4. Even if I have sinned, - that is my concern, not yours. + +that is my concern, not yours. + 5. You think you're better than I am, - using my humiliation as evidence of my sin. + +using my humiliation as evidence of my sin. + 6. But it is God who has wronged me, capturing me in his net. -7. "I cry out, 'Help!' but no one answers me. - I protest, but there is no justice. +7. "I cry out, ' +Help!' but no one answers me. + +I protest, but there is no justice. + 8. God has blocked my way so I cannot move. - He has plunged my path into darkness. + +He has plunged my path into darkness. + 9. He has stripped me of my honor - and removed the crown from my head. + +and removed the crown from my head. + 10. He has demolished me on every side, and I am finished. - He has uprooted my hope like a fallen tree. + +He has uprooted my hope like a fallen tree. + 11. His fury burns against me; - he counts me as an enemy. + +he counts me as an enemy. + 12. His troops advance. - They build up roads to attack me. - They camp all around my tent. + +They build up roads to attack me. + +They camp all around my tent. + 13. "My relatives stay far away, - and my friends have turned against me. + +and my friends have turned against me. + 14. My family is gone, - and my close friends have forgotten me. + +and my close friends have forgotten me. + 15. My servants and maids consider me a stranger. - I am like a foreigner to them. + +I am like a foreigner to them. + 16. When I call my servant, he doesn't come; - I have to plead with him! + +I have to plead with him! + 17. My breath is repulsive to my wife. - I am rejected by my own family. + +I am rejected by my own family. + 18. Even young children despise me. - When I stand to speak, they turn their backs on me. + +When I stand to speak, they turn their backs on me. + 19. My close friends detest me. - Those I loved have turned against me. + +Those I loved have turned against me. + 20. I have been reduced to skin and bones - and have escaped death by the skin of my teeth. + +and have escaped death by the skin of my teeth. + 21. "Have mercy on me, my friends, have mercy, - for the hand of God has struck me. + +for the hand of God has struck me. + 22. Must you also persecute me, like God does? - Haven't you chewed me up enough? + +Haven't you chewed me up enough? + 23. "Oh, that my words could be recorded. - Oh, that they could be inscribed on a monument, + +Oh, that they could be inscribed on a monument, + 24. carved with an iron chisel and filled with lead, - engraved forever in the rock. + +engraved forever in the rock. + 25. "But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, - and he will stand upon the earth at last. + +and he will stand upon the earth at last. + 26. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body I will see God! 27. I will see him for myself. - Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. - I am overwhelmed at the thought! + +Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. + +I am overwhelmed at the thought! + 28. "How dare you go on persecuting me, - saying, 'It's his own fault'? + +saying, 'It's his own fault'? + 29. You should fear punishment yourselves, - for your attitude deserves punishment. - Then you will know that there is indeed a judgment." + +for your attitude deserves punishment. + +Then you will know that there is indeed a judgment." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_20.md index 3b85167d..1b681e42 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_20.md @@ -4,91 +4,150 @@ Zophar's Second Response to Job 1. Then Zophar the Naamathite replied: 2. "I must reply - because I am greatly disturbed. + +because I am greatly disturbed. + 3. I've had to endure your insults, - but now my spirit prompts me to reply. + +but now my spirit prompts me to reply. + 4. "Don't you realize that from the beginning of time, - ever since people were first placed on the earth, + +ever since people were first placed on the earth, + 5. the triumph of the wicked has been short lived - and the joy of the godless has been only temporary? + +and the joy of the godless has been only temporary? + 6. Though the pride of the godless reaches to the heavens - and their heads touch the clouds, + +and their heads touch the clouds, + 7. yet they will vanish forever, - thrown away like their own dung. + +thrown away like their own dung. + Those who knew them will ask, - 'Where are they?' + +'Where are they?' + 8. They will fade like a dream and not be found. - They will vanish like a vision in the night. + +They will vanish like a vision in the night. + 9. Those who once saw them will see them no more. - Their families will never see them again. + +Their families will never see them again. + 10. Their children will beg from the poor, - for they must give back their stolen riches. + +for they must give back their stolen riches. + 11. Though they are young, - their bones will lie in the dust. + +their bones will lie in the dust. + 12. "They enjoyed the sweet taste of wickedness, - letting it melt under their tongue. + +letting it melt under their tongue. + 13. They savored it, - holding it long in their mouths. + +holding it long in their mouths. + 14. But suddenly the food in their bellies turns sour, - a poisonous venom in their stomach. + +a poisonous venom in their stomach. + 15. They will vomit the wealth they swallowed. - God won't let them keep it down. + +God won't let them keep it down. + 16. They will suck the poison of cobras. - The viper will kill them. + +The viper will kill them. + 17. They will never again enjoy streams of olive oil - or rivers of milk and honey. + +or rivers of milk and honey. + 18. They will give back everything they worked for. - Their wealth will bring them no joy. + +Their wealth will bring them no joy. + 19. For they oppressed the poor and left them destitute. - They foreclosed on their homes. + +They foreclosed on their homes. + 20. They were always greedy and never satisfied. - Nothing remains of all the things they dreamed about. + +Nothing remains of all the things they dreamed about. + 21. Nothing is left after they finish gorging themselves. - Therefore, their prosperity will not endure. + +Therefore, their prosperity will not endure. + 22. "In the midst of plenty, they will run into trouble - and be overcome by misery. + +and be overcome by misery. + 23. May God give them a bellyful of trouble. - May God rain down his anger upon them. + +May God rain down his anger upon them. + 24. When they try to escape an iron weapon, - a bronze-tipped arrow will pierce them. + +a bronze-tipped arrow will pierce them. + 25. The arrow is pulled from their back, and the arrowhead glistens with blood. + The terrors of death are upon them. + 26. Their treasures will be thrown into deepest darkness. + A wildfire will devour their goods, - consuming all they have left. + +consuming all they have left. + 27. The heavens will reveal their guilt, - and the earth will testify against them. + +and the earth will testify against them. + 28. A flood will sweep away their house. - God's anger will descend on them in torrents. + +God's anger will descend on them in torrents. + 29. This is the reward that God gives the wicked. - It is the inheritance decreed by God." + +It is the inheritance decreed by God." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_21.md index e058bbb8..afb8964b 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_21.md @@ -4,106 +4,174 @@ Job's Seventh Speech: A Response to Zophar 1. Then Job spoke again: 2. "Listen closely to what I am saying. - That's one consolation you can give me. + +That's one consolation you can give me. + 3. Bear with me, and let me speak. - After I have spoken, you may resume mocking me. + +After I have spoken, you may resume mocking me. + 4. "My complaint is with God, not with people. - I have good reason to be so impatient. + +I have good reason to be so impatient. + 5. Look at me and be stunned. - Put your hand over your mouth in shock. + +Put your hand over your mouth in shock. + 6. When I think about what I am saying, I shudder. - My body trembles. + +My body trembles. + 7. "Why do the wicked prosper, - growing old and powerful? + +growing old and powerful? + 8. They live to see their children grow up and settle down, - and they enjoy their grandchildren. + +and they enjoy their grandchildren. + 9. Their homes are safe from every fear, - and God does not punish them. + +and God does not punish them. + 10. Their bulls never fail to breed. - Their cows bear calves and never miscarry. + +Their cows bear calves and never miscarry. + 11. They let their children frisk about like lambs. - Their little ones skip and dance. + +Their little ones skip and dance. + 12. They sing with tambourine and harp. - They celebrate to the sound of the flute. + +They celebrate to the sound of the flute. + 13. They spend their days in prosperity, then go down to the grave in peace. 14. And yet they say to God, 'Go away. - We want no part of you and your ways. + +We want no part of you and your ways. + 15. Who is the Almighty, and why should we obey him? - What good will it do us to pray?' + +What good will it do us to pray?' + 16. (They think their prosperity is of their own doing, - but I will have nothing to do with that kind of thinking.) + +but I will have nothing to do with that kind of thinking.) + 17. "Yet the light of the wicked never seems to be extinguished. - Do they ever have trouble? - Does God distribute sorrows to them in anger? + +Do they ever have trouble? + +Does God distribute sorrows to them in anger? + 18. Are they driven before the wind like straw? - Are they carried away by the storm like chaff? - Not at all! + +Are they carried away by the storm like chaff? + +Not at all! + 19. "'Well,' you say, 'at least God will punish their children!' - But I say he should punish the ones who sin, - so that they understand his judgment. + +But I say he should punish the ones who sin, + +so that they understand his judgment. + 20. Let them see their destruction with their own eyes. - Let them drink deeply of the anger of the Almighty. + +Let them drink deeply of the anger of the Almighty. + 21. For they will not care what happens to their family - after they are dead. + +after they are dead. + 22. "But who can teach a lesson to God, - since he judges even the most powerful? + +since he judges even the most powerful? + 23. One person dies in prosperity, - completely comfortable and secure, + +completely comfortable and secure, + 24. the picture of good health, - vigorous and fit. + +vigorous and fit. + 25. Another person dies in bitter poverty, - never having tasted the good life. + +never having tasted the good life. + 26. But both are buried in the same dust, - both eaten by the same maggots. + +both eaten by the same maggots. + 27. "Look, I know what you're thinking. - I know the schemes you plot against me. + +I know the schemes you plot against me. + 28. You will tell me of rich and wicked people - whose houses have vanished because of their sins. + +whose houses have vanished because of their sins. + 29. But ask those who have been around, - and they will tell you the truth. + +and they will tell you the truth. + 30. Evil people are spared in times of calamity - and are allowed to escape disaster. + +and are allowed to escape disaster. + 31. No one criticizes them openly - or pays them back for what they have done. + +or pays them back for what they have done. + 32. When they are carried to the grave, - an honor guard keeps watch at their tomb. + +an honor guard keeps watch at their tomb. + 33. A great funeral procession goes to the cemetery. - Many pay their respects as the body is laid to rest, - and the earth gives sweet repose. - -34. "How can your empty clichés comfort me? - All your explanations are lies!" + +Many pay their respects as the body is laid to rest, + +and the earth gives sweet repose. + + +34. "How can your empty clich�s comfort me? + +All your explanations are lies!" + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_22.md index b24bcad7..38dae665 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_22.md @@ -4,91 +4,151 @@ Eliphaz's Third Response to Job 1. Then Eliphaz the Temanite replied: 2. "Can a person do anything to help God? - Can even a wise person be helpful to him? + +Can even a wise person be helpful to him? + 3. Is it any advantage to the Almighty if you are righteous? - Would it be any gain to him if you were perfect? + +Would it be any gain to him if you were perfect? + 4. Is it because you're so pious that he accuses you - and brings judgment against you? + +and brings judgment against you? + 5. No, it's because of your wickedness! - There's no limit to your sins. + +There's no limit to your sins. + 6. "For example, you must have lent money to your friend - and demanded clothing as security. - Yes, you stripped him to the bone. + +and demanded clothing as security. + +Yes, you stripped him to the bone. + 7. You must have refused water for the thirsty - and food for the hungry. + +and food for the hungry. + 8. You probably think the land belongs to the powerful - and only the privileged have a right to it! + +and only the privileged have a right to it! + 9. You must have sent widows away empty-handed - and crushed the hopes of orphans. + +and crushed the hopes of orphans. + 10. That is why you are surrounded by traps - and tremble from sudden fears. + +and tremble from sudden fears. + 11. That is why you cannot see in the darkness, - and waves of water cover you. + +and waves of water cover you. + 12. "God is so great--higher than the heavens, - higher than the farthest stars. + +higher than the farthest stars. + 13. But you reply, 'That's why God can't see what I am doing! - How can he judge through the thick darkness? + +How can he judge through the thick darkness? + 14. For thick clouds swirl about him, and he cannot see us. - He is way up there, walking on the vault of heaven.' + +He is way up there, walking on the vault of heaven.' + 15. "Will you continue on the old paths - where evil people have walked? + +where evil people have walked? + 16. They were snatched away in the prime of life, - the foundations of their lives washed away. + +the foundations of their lives washed away. + 17. For they said to God, 'Leave us alone! - What can the Almighty do to us?' + +What can the Almighty do to us?' + 18. Yet he was the one who filled their homes with good things, - so I will have nothing to do with that kind of thinking. + +so I will have nothing to do with that kind of thinking. + 19. "The righteous will be happy to see the wicked destroyed, - and the innocent will laugh in contempt. + +and the innocent will laugh in contempt. + 20. They will say, 'See how our enemies have been destroyed. - The last of them have been consumed in the fire.' + +The last of them have been consumed in the fire.' + 21. "Submit to God, and you will have peace; - then things will go well for you. + +then things will go well for you. + 22. Listen to his instructions, - and store them in your heart. + +and store them in your heart. + 23. If you return to the Almighty, you will be restored-- - so clean up your life. + +so clean up your life. + 24. If you give up your lust for money - and throw your precious gold into the river, + +and throw your precious gold into the river, + 25. the Almighty himself will be your treasure. - He will be your precious silver! + +He will be your precious silver! + 26. "Then you will take delight in the Almighty - and look up to God. + +and look up to God. + 27. You will pray to him, and he will hear you, - and you will fulfill your vows to him. + +and you will fulfill your vows to him. + 28. You will succeed in whatever you choose to do, - and light will shine on the road ahead of you. + +and light will shine on the road ahead of you. + + +29. If people are in trouble and you say, ' +Help them,' + +God will save them. -29. If people are in trouble and you say, 'Help them,' - God will save them. 30. Even sinners will be rescued; - they will be rescued because your hands are pure." + +they will be rescued because your hands are pure." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_23.md index 24eda799..1a9b6754 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_23.md @@ -4,51 +4,83 @@ Job's Eighth Speech: A Response to Eliphaz 1. Then Job spoke again: 2. "My complaint today is still a bitter one, - and I try hard not to groan aloud. + +and I try hard not to groan aloud. + 3. If only I knew where to find God, - I would go to his court. + +I would go to his court. + 4. I would lay out my case - and present my arguments. + +and present my arguments. + 5. Then I would listen to his reply - and understand what he says to me. + +and understand what he says to me. + 6. Would he use his great power to argue with me? - No, he would give me a fair hearing. + +No, he would give me a fair hearing. + 7. Honest people can reason with him, - so I would be forever acquitted by my judge. + +so I would be forever acquitted by my judge. + 8. I go east, but he is not there. - I go west, but I cannot find him. + +I go west, but I cannot find him. + 9. I do not see him in the north, for he is hidden. - I look to the south, but he is concealed. + +I look to the south, but he is concealed. + 10. "But he knows where I am going. - And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold. + +And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold. + 11. For I have stayed on God's paths; - I have followed his ways and not turned aside. + +I have followed his ways and not turned aside. + 12. I have not departed from his commands, - but have treasured his words more than daily food. + +but have treasured his words more than daily food. + 13. But once he has made his decision, who can change his mind? - Whatever he wants to do, he does. + +Whatever he wants to do, he does. + 14. So he will do to me whatever he has planned. - He controls my destiny. + +He controls my destiny. + 15. No wonder I am so terrified in his presence. - When I think of it, terror grips me. + +When I think of it, terror grips me. + 16. God has made me sick at heart; - the Almighty has terrified me. + +the Almighty has terrified me. + 17. Darkness is all around me; - thick, impenetrable darkness is everywhere. + +thick, impenetrable darkness is everywhere. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_24.md index bc9a0b55..96c8234f 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_24.md @@ -2,88 +2,148 @@ Job Asks Why the Wicked Are Not Punished # Chapter 24 1. "Why doesn't the Almighty bring the wicked to judgment? - Why must the godly wait for him in vain? + +Why must the godly wait for him in vain? + 2. Evil people steal land by moving the boundary markers. - They steal livestock and put them in their own pastures. + +They steal livestock and put them in their own pastures. + 3. They take the orphan's donkey - and demand the widow's ox as security for a loan. + +and demand the widow's ox as security for a loan. + 4. The poor are pushed off the path; - the needy must hide together for safety. + +the needy must hide together for safety. + 5. Like wild donkeys in the wilderness, - the poor must spend all their time looking for food, - searching even in the desert for food for their children. + +the poor must spend all their time looking for food, + +searching even in the desert for food for their children. + 6. They harvest a field they do not own, - and they glean in the vineyards of the wicked. + +and they glean in the vineyards of the wicked. + 7. All night they lie naked in the cold, - without clothing or covering. + +without clothing or covering. + 8. They are soaked by mountain showers, - and they huddle against the rocks for want of a home. + +and they huddle against the rocks for want of a home. + 9. "The wicked snatch a widow's child from her breast, - taking the baby as security for a loan. + +taking the baby as security for a loan. + 10. The poor must go about naked, without any clothing. - They harvest food for others while they themselves are starving. + +They harvest food for others while they themselves are starving. + 11. They press out olive oil without being allowed to taste it, - and they tread in the winepress as they suffer from thirst. + +and they tread in the winepress as they suffer from thirst. + 12. The groans of the dying rise from the city, - and the wounded cry for help, - yet God ignores their moaning. + +and the wounded cry for help, + +yet God ignores their moaning. + 13. "Wicked people rebel against the light. - They refuse to acknowledge its ways - or stay in its paths. + +They refuse to acknowledge its ways + +or stay in its paths. + 14. The murderer rises in the early dawn - to kill the poor and needy; - at night he is a thief. + +to kill the poor and needy; + +at night he is a thief. + 15. The adulterer waits for the twilight, - saying, 'No one will see me then.' - He hides his face so no one will know him. + +saying, 'No one will see me then.' + +He hides his face so no one will know him. + 16. Thieves break into houses at night - and sleep in the daytime. - They are not acquainted with the light. + +and sleep in the daytime. + +They are not acquainted with the light. + 17. The black night is their morning. - They ally themselves with the terrors of the darkness. + +They ally themselves with the terrors of the darkness. + 18. "But they disappear like foam down a river. - Everything they own is cursed, - and they are afraid to enter their own vineyards. + +Everything they own is cursed, + +and they are afraid to enter their own vineyards. + 19. The grave consumes sinners - just as drought and heat consume snow. + +just as drought and heat consume snow. + 20. Their own mothers will forget them. - Maggots will find them sweet to eat. + +Maggots will find them sweet to eat. + No one will remember them. - Wicked people are broken like a tree in the storm. + +Wicked people are broken like a tree in the storm. + 21. They cheat the woman who has no son to help her. - They refuse to help the needy widow. + +They refuse to help the needy widow. + 22. "God, in his power, drags away the rich. - They may rise high, but they have no assurance of life. + +They may rise high, but they have no assurance of life. + 23. They may be allowed to live in security, - but God is always watching them. + +but God is always watching them. + 24. And though they are great now, - in a moment they will be gone like all others, - cut off like heads of grain. + +in a moment they will be gone like all others, + +cut off like heads of grain. + 25. Can anyone claim otherwise? - Who can prove me wrong?" + +Who can prove me wrong?" + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_25.md index 63e40145..6a42d1e2 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_25.md @@ -4,18 +4,28 @@ Bildad's Third Response to Job 1. Then Bildad the Shuhite replied: 2. "God is powerful and dreadful. - He enforces peace in the heavens. + +He enforces peace in the heavens. + 3. Who is able to count his heavenly army? - Doesn't his light shine on all the earth? + +Doesn't his light shine on all the earth? + 4. How can a mortal be innocent before God? - Can anyone born of a woman be pure? + +Can anyone born of a woman be pure? + 5. God is more glorious than the moon; - he shines brighter than the stars. + +he shines brighter than the stars. + 6. In comparison, people are maggots; - we mortals are mere worms." + +we mortals are mere worms." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_26.md index 3bfa88a6..d6553cdf 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_26.md @@ -4,43 +4,66 @@ Job's Ninth Speech: A Response to Bildad 1. Then Job spoke again: 2. "How you have helped the powerless! - How you have saved the weak! + +How you have saved the weak! + 3. How you have enlightened my stupidity! - What wise advice you have offered! + +What wise advice you have offered! + 4. Where have you gotten all these wise sayings? - Whose spirit speaks through you? + +Whose spirit speaks through you? + 5. "The dead tremble-- - those who live beneath the waters. + +those who live beneath the waters. + 6. The underworld is naked in God's presence. The place of destruction is uncovered. 7. God stretches the northern sky over empty space - and hangs the earth on nothing. + +and hangs the earth on nothing. + 8. He wraps the rain in his thick clouds, - and the clouds don't burst with the weight. + +and the clouds don't burst with the weight. + 9. He covers the face of the moon, - shrouding it with his clouds. + +shrouding it with his clouds. + 10. He created the horizon when he separated the waters; - he set the boundary between day and night. + +he set the boundary between day and night. + 11. The foundations of heaven tremble; - they shudder at his rebuke. + +they shudder at his rebuke. + 12. By his power the sea grew calm. By his skill he crushed the great sea monster. 13. His Spirit made the heavens beautiful, - and his power pierced the gliding serpent. + +and his power pierced the gliding serpent. + 14. These are just the beginning of all that he does, - merely a whisper of his power. - Who, then, can comprehend the thunder of his power?" + +merely a whisper of his power. + +Who, then, can comprehend the thunder of his power?" + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_27.md index 1f6d4942..99401f18 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_27.md @@ -4,69 +4,112 @@ Job's Final Speech 1. Job continued speaking: 2. "I vow by the living God, who has taken away my rights, - by the Almighty who has embittered my soul-- + +by the Almighty who has embittered my soul-- 3. As long as I live, - while I have breath from God, + +while I have breath from God, + 4. my lips will speak no evil, - and my tongue will speak no lies. + +and my tongue will speak no lies. + 5. I will never concede that you are right; - I will defend my integrity until I die. + +I will defend my integrity until I die. + 6. I will maintain my innocence without wavering. - My conscience is clear for as long as I live. + +My conscience is clear for as long as I live. + 7. "May my enemy be punished like the wicked, - my adversary like those who do evil. + +my adversary like those who do evil. + 8. For what hope do the godless have when God cuts them off - and takes away their life? + +and takes away their life? + 9. Will God listen to their cry - when trouble comes upon them? + +when trouble comes upon them? + 10. Can they take delight in the Almighty? - Can they call to God at any time? + +Can they call to God at any time? + 11. I will teach you about God's power. - I will not conceal anything concerning the Almighty. + +I will not conceal anything concerning the Almighty. + 12. But you have seen all this, - yet you say all these useless things to me. + +yet you say all these useless things to me. + 13. "This is what the wicked will receive from God; - this is their inheritance from the Almighty. + +this is their inheritance from the Almighty. + 14. They may have many children, - but the children will die in war or starve to death. + +but the children will die in war or starve to death. + 15. Those who survive will die of a plague, - and not even their widows will mourn them. + +and not even their widows will mourn them. + 16. "Evil people may have piles of money - and may store away mounds of clothing. + +and may store away mounds of clothing. + 17. But the righteous will wear that clothing, - and the innocent will divide that money. + +and the innocent will divide that money. + 18. The wicked build houses as fragile as a spider's web, - as flimsy as a shelter made of branches. + +as flimsy as a shelter made of branches. + 19. The wicked go to bed rich - but wake to find that all their wealth is gone. + +but wake to find that all their wealth is gone. + 20. Terror overwhelms them like a flood, - and they are blown away in the storms of the night. + +and they are blown away in the storms of the night. + 21. The east wind carries them away, and they are gone. - It sweeps them away. + +It sweeps them away. + 22. It whirls down on them without mercy. - They struggle to flee from its power. + +They struggle to flee from its power. + 23. But everyone jeers at them - and mocks them. + +and mocks them. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_28.md index 77997512..81080781 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_28.md @@ -2,90 +2,148 @@ Job Speaks of Wisdom and Understanding # Chapter 28 1. "People know where to mine silver - and how to refine gold. + +and how to refine gold. + 2. They know where to dig iron from the earth - and how to smelt copper from rock. + +and how to smelt copper from rock. + 3. They know how to shine light in the darkness - and explore the farthest regions of the earth - as they search in the dark for ore. + +and explore the farthest regions of the earth + +as they search in the dark for ore. + 4. They sink a mine shaft into the earth - far from where anyone lives. - They descend on ropes, swinging back and forth. + +far from where anyone lives. + +They descend on ropes, swinging back and forth. + 5. Food is grown on the earth above, - but down below, the earth is melted as by fire. + +but down below, the earth is melted as by fire. + 6. Here the rocks contain precious lapis lazuli, - and the dust contains gold. + +and the dust contains gold. + 7. These are treasures no bird of prey can see, - no falcon's eye observe. + +no falcon's eye observe. + 8. No wild animal has walked upon these treasures; - no lion has ever set his paw there. + +no lion has ever set his paw there. + 9. People know how to tear apart flinty rocks - and overturn the roots of mountains. + +and overturn the roots of mountains. + 10. They cut tunnels in the rocks - and uncover precious stones. + +and uncover precious stones. + 11. They dam up the trickling streams - and bring to light the hidden treasures. + +and bring to light the hidden treasures. + 12. "But do people know where to find wisdom? - Where can they find understanding? + +Where can they find understanding? + 13. No one knows where to find it, - for it is not found among the living. + +for it is not found among the living. + 14. 'It is not here,' says the ocean. - 'Nor is it here,' says the sea. + +'Nor is it here,' says the sea. + 15. It cannot be bought with gold. - It cannot be purchased with silver. + +It cannot be purchased with silver. + 16. It's worth more than all the gold of Ophir, - greater than precious onyx or lapis lazuli. + +greater than precious onyx or lapis lazuli. + 17. Wisdom is more valuable than gold and crystal. - It cannot be purchased with jewels mounted in fine gold. + +It cannot be purchased with jewels mounted in fine gold. + 18. Coral and jasper are worthless in trying to get it. - The price of wisdom is far above rubies. + +The price of wisdom is far above rubies. + 19. Precious peridot from Ethiopia cannot be exchanged for it. - It's worth more than the purest gold. + +It's worth more than the purest gold. + 20. "But do people know where to find wisdom? - Where can they find understanding? + +Where can they find understanding? + 21. It is hidden from the eyes of all humanity. - Even the sharp-eyed birds in the sky cannot discover it. + +Even the sharp-eyed birds in the sky cannot discover it. + 22. Destruction and Death say, - 'We've heard only rumors of where wisdom can be found.' + +'We've heard only rumors of where wisdom can be found.' + 23. "God alone understands the way to wisdom; - he knows where it can be found, + +he knows where it can be found, + 24. for he looks throughout the whole earth - and sees everything under the heavens. + +and sees everything under the heavens. + 25. He decided how hard the winds should blow - and how much rain should fall. + +and how much rain should fall. + 26. He made the laws for the rain - and laid out a path for the lightning. + +and laid out a path for the lightning. + 27. Then he saw wisdom and evaluated it. - He set it in place and examined it thoroughly. + +He set it in place and examined it thoroughly. + 28. And this is what he says to all humanity: 'The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; - to forsake evil is real understanding.'" + +to forsake evil is real understanding.'" + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_29.md index 0d8f3b35..26e6a250 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_29.md @@ -4,77 +4,125 @@ Job Speaks of His Former Blessings 1. Job continued speaking: 2. "I long for the years gone by - when God took care of me, + +when God took care of me, + 3. when he lit up the way before me - and I walked safely through the darkness. + +and I walked safely through the darkness. + 4. When I was in my prime, - God's friendship was felt in my home. + +God's friendship was felt in my home. + 5. The Almighty was still with me, - and my children were around me. + +and my children were around me. + 6. My steps were awash in cream, - and the rocks gushed olive oil for me. + +and the rocks gushed olive oil for me. + 7. "Those were the days when I went to the city gate - and took my place among the honored leaders. + +and took my place among the honored leaders. + 8. The young stepped aside when they saw me, - and even the aged rose in respect at my coming. + +and even the aged rose in respect at my coming. + 9. The princes stood in silence - and put their hands over their mouths. + +and put their hands over their mouths. + 10. The highest officials of the city stood quietly, - holding their tongues in respect. + +holding their tongues in respect. + 11. "All who heard me praised me. - All who saw me spoke well of me. + +All who saw me spoke well of me. + 12. For I assisted the poor in their need - and the orphans who required help. + +and the orphans who required help. + 13. I helped those without hope, and they blessed me. - And I caused the widows' hearts to sing for joy. + +And I caused the widows' hearts to sing for joy. + 14. Everything I did was honest. - Righteousness covered me like a robe, - and I wore justice like a turban. + +Righteousness covered me like a robe, + +and I wore justice like a turban. + 15. I served as eyes for the blind - and feet for the lame. + +and feet for the lame. + 16. I was a father to the poor - and assisted strangers who needed help. + +and assisted strangers who needed help. + 17. I broke the jaws of godless oppressors - and plucked their victims from their teeth. + +and plucked their victims from their teeth. + 18. "I thought, 'Surely I will die surrounded by my family after a long, good life. 19. For I am like a tree whose roots reach the water, - whose branches are refreshed with the dew. + +whose branches are refreshed with the dew. + 20. New honors are constantly bestowed on me, - and my strength is continually renewed.' + +and my strength is continually renewed.' + 21. "Everyone listened to my advice. - They were silent as they waited for me to speak. + +They were silent as they waited for me to speak. + 22. And after I spoke, they had nothing to add, - for my counsel satisfied them. + +for my counsel satisfied them. + 23. They longed for me to speak as people long for rain. - They drank my words like a refreshing spring rain. + +They drank my words like a refreshing spring rain. + 24. When they were discouraged, I smiled at them. - My look of approval was precious to them. + +My look of approval was precious to them. + 25. Like a chief, I told them what to do. - I lived like a king among his troops - and comforted those who mourned. + +I lived like a king among his troops + +and comforted those who mourned. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_30.md index 805de332..2d449c26 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_30.md @@ -2,100 +2,166 @@ Job Speaks of His Anguish # Chapter 30 1. "But now I am mocked by people younger than I, - by young men whose fathers are not worthy to run with my sheepdogs. + +by young men whose fathers are not worthy to run with my sheepdogs. + 2. A lot of good they are to me-- - those worn-out wretches! + +those worn-out wretches! + 3. They are gaunt from poverty and hunger. - They claw the dry ground in desolate wastelands. + +They claw the dry ground in desolate wastelands. + 4. They pluck wild greens from among the bushes - and eat from the roots of broom trees. + +and eat from the roots of broom trees. + 5. They are driven from human society, - and people shout at them as if they were thieves. + +and people shout at them as if they were thieves. + 6. So now they live in frightening ravines, - in caves and among the rocks. + +in caves and among the rocks. + 7. They sound like animals howling among the bushes, - huddled together beneath the nettles. + +huddled together beneath the nettles. + 8. They are nameless fools, - outcasts from society. + +outcasts from society. + 9. "And now they mock me with vulgar songs! - They taunt me! + +They taunt me! + 10. They despise me and won't come near me, - except to spit in my face. + +except to spit in my face. + 11. For God has cut my bowstring. - He has humbled me, - so they have thrown off all restraint. + +He has humbled me, + +so they have thrown off all restraint. + 12. These outcasts oppose me to my face. - They send me sprawling - and lay traps in my path. + +They send me sprawling + +and lay traps in my path. + 13. They block my road - and do everything they can to destroy me. + +and do everything they can to destroy me. + They know I have no one to help me. + 14. They come at me from all directions. + They jump on me when I am down. + 15. I live in terror now. + My honor has blown away in the wind, - and my prosperity has vanished like a cloud. + +and my prosperity has vanished like a cloud. + 16. "And now my life seeps away. - Depression haunts my days. + +Depression haunts my days. + 17. At night my bones are filled with pain, - which gnaws at me relentlessly. + +which gnaws at me relentlessly. + 18. With a strong hand, God grabs my shirt. - He grips me by the collar of my coat. + +He grips me by the collar of my coat. + 19. He has thrown me into the mud. - I'm nothing more than dust and ashes. + +I'm nothing more than dust and ashes. + 20. "I cry to you, O God, but you don't answer. - I stand before you, but you don't even look. + +I stand before you, but you don't even look. + 21. You have become cruel toward me. - You use your power to persecute me. + +You use your power to persecute me. + 22. You throw me into the whirlwind - and destroy me in the storm. + +and destroy me in the storm. + 23. And I know you are sending me to my death-- - the destination of all who live. + +the destination of all who live. + 24. "Surely no one would turn against the needy - when they cry for help in their trouble. + +when they cry for help in their trouble. + 25. Did I not weep for those in trouble? - Was I not deeply grieved for the needy? + +Was I not deeply grieved for the needy? + 26. So I looked for good, but evil came instead. - I waited for the light, but darkness fell. + +I waited for the light, but darkness fell. + 27. My heart is troubled and restless. - Days of suffering torment me. + +Days of suffering torment me. + 28. I walk in gloom, without sunlight. - I stand in the public square and cry for help. + +I stand in the public square and cry for help. + 29. Instead, I am considered a brother to jackals - and a companion to owls. + +and a companion to owls. + 30. My skin has turned dark, - and my bones burn with fever. + +and my bones burn with fever. + 31. My harp plays sad music, - and my flute accompanies those who weep. + +and my flute accompanies those who weep. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_31.md index 8a429d51..abfe832b 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_31.md @@ -2,128 +2,212 @@ Job's Final Protest of Innocence # Chapter 31 1. "I made a covenant with my eyes - not to look with lust at a young woman. + +not to look with lust at a young woman. + 2. For what has God above chosen for us? - What is our inheritance from the Almighty on high? + +What is our inheritance from the Almighty on high? + 3. Isn't it calamity for the wicked - and misfortune for those who do evil? + +and misfortune for those who do evil? + 4. Doesn't he see everything I do - and every step I take? + +and every step I take? + 5. "Have I lied to anyone - or deceived anyone? + +or deceived anyone? + 6. Let God weigh me on the scales of justice, - for he knows my integrity. + +for he knows my integrity. + 7. If I have strayed from his pathway, - or if my heart has lusted for what my eyes have seen, - or if I am guilty of any other sin, + +or if my heart has lusted for what my eyes have seen, + +or if I am guilty of any other sin, + 8. then let someone else eat the crops I have planted. - Let all that I have planted be uprooted. + +Let all that I have planted be uprooted. + 9. "If my heart has been seduced by a woman, - or if I have lusted for my neighbor's wife, + +or if I have lusted for my neighbor's wife, + 10. then let my wife serve another man; - let other men sleep with her. + +let other men sleep with her. + 11. For lust is a shameful sin, - a crime that should be punished. + +a crime that should be punished. + 12. It is a fire that burns all the way to hell. - It would wipe out everything I own. + +It would wipe out everything I own. + 13. "If I have been unfair to my male or female servants - when they brought their complaints to me, + +when they brought their complaints to me, + 14. how could I face God? - What could I say when he questioned me? + +What could I say when he questioned me? + 15. For God created both me and my servants. - He created us both in the womb. + +He created us both in the womb. + 16. "Have I refused to help the poor, - or crushed the hopes of widows? + +or crushed the hopes of widows? + 17. Have I been stingy with my food - and refused to share it with orphans? + +and refused to share it with orphans? + 18. No, from childhood I have cared for orphans like a father, - and all my life I have cared for widows. + +and all my life I have cared for widows. + 19. Whenever I saw the homeless without clothes - and the needy with nothing to wear, + +and the needy with nothing to wear, + 20. did they not praise me - for providing wool clothing to keep them warm? + +for providing wool clothing to keep them warm? + 21. "If I raised my hand against an orphan, - knowing the judges would take my side, + +knowing the judges would take my side, + 22. then let my shoulder be wrenched out of place! - Let my arm be torn from its socket! + +Let my arm be torn from its socket! + 23. That would be better than facing God's judgment. - For if the majesty of God opposes me, what hope is there? + +For if the majesty of God opposes me, what hope is there? + 24. "Have I put my trust in money - or felt secure because of my gold? + +or felt secure because of my gold? + 25. Have I gloated about my wealth - and all that I own? + +and all that I own? + 26. "Have I looked at the sun shining in the skies, - or the moon walking down its silver pathway, + +or the moon walking down its silver pathway, + 27. and been secretly enticed in my heart - to throw kisses at them in worship? + +to throw kisses at them in worship? + 28. If so, I should be punished by the judges, - for it would mean I had denied the God of heaven. + +for it would mean I had denied the God of heaven. + 29. "Have I ever rejoiced when disaster struck my enemies, - or become excited when harm came their way? + +or become excited when harm came their way? + 30. No, I have never sinned by cursing anyone - or by asking for revenge. + +or by asking for revenge. + 31. "My servants have never said, - 'He let others go hungry.' + +'He let others go hungry.' + 32. I have never turned away a stranger - but have opened my doors to everyone. + +but have opened my doors to everyone. + 33. "Have I tried to hide my sins like other people do, - concealing my guilt in my heart? + +concealing my guilt in my heart? + 34. Have I feared the crowd - or the contempt of the masses, - so that I kept quiet and stayed indoors? + +or the contempt of the masses, + +so that I kept quiet and stayed indoors? + 35. "If only someone would listen to me! - Look, I will sign my name to my defense. + +Look, I will sign my name to my defense. + Let the Almighty answer me. - Let my accuser write out the charges against me. + +Let my accuser write out the charges against me. + 36. I would face the accusation proudly. - I would wear it like a crown. + +I would wear it like a crown. + 37. For I would tell him exactly what I have done. - I would come before him like a prince. + +I would come before him like a prince. + 38. "If my land accuses me - and all its furrows cry out together, + +and all its furrows cry out together, + 39. or if I have stolen its crops - or murdered its owners, + +or murdered its owners, + 40. then let thistles grow on that land instead of wheat, - and weeds instead of barley." + +and weeds instead of barley." Job's words are ended. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_32.md index a6f325d0..a6c270c5 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_32.md @@ -9,57 +9,94 @@ Elihu Responds to Job's Friends 5. But when he saw that they had no further reply, he spoke out angrily. 6. Elihu son of Barakel the Buzite said, "I am young and you are old, - so I held back from telling you what I think. + +so I held back from telling you what I think. + 7. I thought, 'Those who are older should speak, - for wisdom comes with age.' + +for wisdom comes with age.' + 8. But there is a spirit within people, - the breath of the Almighty within them, - that makes them intelligent. + +the breath of the Almighty within them, + +that makes them intelligent. + 9. Sometimes the elders are not wise. - Sometimes the aged do not understand justice. + +Sometimes the aged do not understand justice. + 10. So listen to me, - and let me tell you what I think. + +and let me tell you what I think. + 11. "I have waited all this time, - listening very carefully to your arguments, - listening to you grope for words. + +listening very carefully to your arguments, + +listening to you grope for words. + 12. I have listened, - but not one of you has refuted Job - or answered his arguments. + +but not one of you has refuted Job + +or answered his arguments. + 13. And don't tell me, 'He is too wise for us. - Only God can convince him.' + +Only God can convince him.' + 14. If Job had been arguing with me, - I would not answer with your kind of logic! + +I would not answer with your kind of logic! + 15. You sit there baffled, - with nothing more to say. + +with nothing more to say. + 16. Should I continue to wait, now that you are silent? - Must I also remain silent? + +Must I also remain silent? + 17. No, I will say my piece. - I will speak my mind. + +I will speak my mind. + 18. For I am full of pent-up words, - and the spirit within me urges me on. + +and the spirit within me urges me on. + 19. I am like a cask of wine without a vent, - like a new wineskin ready to burst! + +like a new wineskin ready to burst! + 20. I must speak to find relief, - so let me give my answers. + +so let me give my answers. + 21. I won't play favorites - or try to flatter anyone. + +or try to flatter anyone. + 22. For if I tried flattery, - my Creator would soon destroy me. + +my Creator would soon destroy me. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_33.md index 26d3de79..61064ce8 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_33.md @@ -2,108 +2,175 @@ Elihu Presents His Case against Job # Chapter 33 1. "Listen to my words, Job; - pay attention to what I have to say. + +pay attention to what I have to say. + 2. Now that I have begun to speak, - let me continue. + +let me continue. + 3. I speak with all sincerity; - I speak the truth. + +I speak the truth. + 4. For the Spirit of God has made me, - and the breath of the Almighty gives me life. + +and the breath of the Almighty gives me life. + 5. Answer me, if you can; - make your case and take your stand. + +make your case and take your stand. + 6. Look, you and I both belong to God. - I, too, was formed from clay. + +I, too, was formed from clay. + 7. So you don't need to be afraid of me. - I won't come down hard on you. + +I won't come down hard on you. + 8. "You have spoken in my hearing, - and I have heard your very words. + +and I have heard your very words. + 9. You said, 'I am pure; I am without sin; - I am innocent; I have no guilt. + +I am innocent; I have no guilt. + 10. God is picking a quarrel with me, - and he considers me his enemy. + +and he considers me his enemy. + 11. He puts my feet in the stocks - and watches my every move.' + +and watches my every move.' + 12. "But you are wrong, and I will show you why. - For God is greater than any human being. + +For God is greater than any human being. + 13. So why are you bringing a charge against him? - Why say he does not respond to people's complaints? + +Why say he does not respond to people's complaints? + 14. For God speaks again and again, - though people do not recognize it. + +though people do not recognize it. + 15. He speaks in dreams, in visions of the night, - when deep sleep falls on people - as they lie in their beds. + +when deep sleep falls on people + +as they lie in their beds. + 16. He whispers in their ears - and terrifies them with warnings. + +and terrifies them with warnings. + 17. He makes them turn from doing wrong; - he keeps them from pride. + +he keeps them from pride. + 18. He protects them from the grave, - from crossing over the river of death. + +from crossing over the river of death. + 19. "Or God disciplines people with pain on their sickbeds, - with ceaseless aching in their bones. + +with ceaseless aching in their bones. + 20. They lose their appetite - for even the most delicious food. + +for even the most delicious food. + 21. Their flesh wastes away, - and their bones stick out. + +and their bones stick out. + 22. They are at death's door; - the angels of death wait for them. + +the angels of death wait for them. + 23. "But if an angel from heaven appears-- - a special messenger to intercede for a person - and declare that he is upright-- + +a special messenger to intercede for a person + +and declare that he is upright-- 24. he will be gracious and say, 'Rescue him from the grave, - for I have found a ransom for his life.' + +for I have found a ransom for his life.' + 25. Then his body will become as healthy as a child's, - firm and youthful again. + +firm and youthful again. + 26. When he prays to God, - he will be accepted. + +he will be accepted. + And God will receive him with joy - and restore him to good standing. + +and restore him to good standing. + 27. He will declare to his friends, 'I sinned and twisted the truth, but it was not worth it. 28. God rescued me from the grave, - and now my life is filled with light.' + +and now my life is filled with light.' + 29. "Yes, God does these things - again and again for people. + +again and again for people. + 30. He rescues them from the grave - so they may enjoy the light of life. + +so they may enjoy the light of life. + 31. Mark this well, Job. Listen to me, - for I have more to say. + +for I have more to say. + 32. But if you have anything to say, go ahead. - Speak, for I am anxious to see you justified. + +Speak, for I am anxious to see you justified. + 33. But if not, then listen to me. - Keep silent and I will teach you wisdom!" + +Keep silent and I will teach you wisdom!" + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_34.md index 174eb716..97ca412b 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_34.md @@ -4,119 +4,197 @@ Elihu Accuses Job of Arrogance 1. Then Elihu said: 2. "Listen to me, you wise men. - Pay attention, you who have knowledge. + +Pay attention, you who have knowledge. + 3. Job said, 'The ear tests the words it hears - just as the mouth distinguishes between foods.' + +just as the mouth distinguishes between foods.' + 4. So let us discern for ourselves what is right; - let us learn together what is good. + +let us learn together what is good. + 5. For Job also said, 'I am innocent, - but God has taken away my rights. + +but God has taken away my rights. + 6. I am innocent, but they call me a liar. - My suffering is incurable, though I have not sinned.' + +My suffering is incurable, though I have not sinned.' + 7. "Tell me, has there ever been a man like Job, - with his thirst for irreverent talk? + +with his thirst for irreverent talk? + 8. He chooses evil people as companions. - He spends his time with wicked men. + +He spends his time with wicked men. + 9. He has even said, 'Why waste time - trying to please God?' + +trying to please God?' + 10. "Listen to me, you who have understanding. - Everyone knows that God doesn't sin! - The Almighty can do no wrong. + +Everyone knows that God doesn't sin! + +The Almighty can do no wrong. + 11. He repays people according to their deeds. - He treats people as they deserve. + +He treats people as they deserve. + 12. Truly, God will not do wrong. - The Almighty will not twist justice. + +The Almighty will not twist justice. + 13. Did someone else put the world in his care? - Who set the whole world in place? + +Who set the whole world in place? + 14. If God were to take back his spirit - and withdraw his breath, + +and withdraw his breath, + 15. all life would cease, - and humanity would turn again to dust. + +and humanity would turn again to dust. + 16. "Now listen to me if you are wise. - Pay attention to what I say. + +Pay attention to what I say. + 17. Could God govern if he hated justice? - Are you going to condemn the almighty judge? + +Are you going to condemn the almighty judge? + 18. For he says to kings, 'You are wicked,' - and to nobles, 'You are unjust.' + +and to nobles, 'You are unjust.' + 19. He doesn't care how great a person may be, - and he pays no more attention to the rich than to the poor. - He made them all. + +and he pays no more attention to the rich than to the poor. + +He made them all. + 20. In a moment they die. - In the middle of the night they pass away; - the mighty are removed without human hand. + +In the middle of the night they pass away; + +the mighty are removed without human hand. + 21. "For God watches how people live; - he sees everything they do. + +he sees everything they do. + 22. No darkness is thick enough - to hide the wicked from his eyes. + +to hide the wicked from his eyes. + 23. We don't set the time - when we will come before God in judgment. + +when we will come before God in judgment. + 24. He brings the mighty to ruin without asking anyone, - and he sets up others in their place. + +and he sets up others in their place. + 25. He knows what they do, - and in the night he overturns and destroys them. + +and in the night he overturns and destroys them. + 26. He strikes them down because they are wicked, - doing it openly for all to see. + +doing it openly for all to see. + 27. For they turned away from following him. - They have no respect for any of his ways. + +They have no respect for any of his ways. + 28. They cause the poor to cry out, catching God's attention. - He hears the cries of the needy. + +He hears the cries of the needy. + 29. But if he chooses to remain quiet, - who can criticize him? + +who can criticize him? When he hides his face, no one can find him, - whether an individual or a nation. + +whether an individual or a nation. + 30. He prevents the godless from ruling - so they cannot be a snare to the people. + +so they cannot be a snare to the people. + 31. "Why don't people say to God, 'I have sinned, - but I will sin no more'? + +but I will sin no more'? + 32. Or 'I don't know what evil I have done--tell me. - If I have done wrong, I will stop at once'? + +If I have done wrong, I will stop at once'? + 33. "Must God tailor his justice to your demands? - But you have rejected him! + +But you have rejected him! The choice is yours, not mine. - Go ahead, share your wisdom with us. + +Go ahead, share your wisdom with us. + 34. After all, bright people will tell me, - and wise people will hear me say, + +and wise people will hear me say, + 35. 'Job speaks out of ignorance; - his words lack insight.' + +his words lack insight.' + 36. Job, you deserve the maximum penalty - for the wicked way you have talked. + +for the wicked way you have talked. + 37. For you have added rebellion to your sin; - you show no respect, - and you speak many angry words against God." + +you show no respect, + +and you speak many angry words against God." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_35.md index ca4111ee..8a6c3cb4 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_35.md @@ -4,41 +4,66 @@ Elihu Reminds Job of God's Justice 1. Then Elihu said: 2. "Do you think it is right for you to claim, - 'I am righteous before God'? + +'I am righteous before God'? + 3. For you also ask, 'What's in it for me? - What's the use of living a righteous life?' + +What's the use of living a righteous life?' + 4. "I will answer you - and all your friends, too. + +and all your friends, too. + 5. Look up into the sky, - and see the clouds high above you. + +and see the clouds high above you. + 6. If you sin, how does that affect God? - Even if you sin again and again, - what effect will it have on him? + +Even if you sin again and again, + +what effect will it have on him? + 7. If you are good, is this some great gift to him? - What could you possibly give him? + +What could you possibly give him? + 8. No, your sins affect only people like yourself, - and your good deeds also affect only humans. + +and your good deeds also affect only humans. + 9. "People cry out when they are oppressed. - They groan beneath the power of the mighty. + +They groan beneath the power of the mighty. + 10. Yet they don't ask, 'Where is God my Creator, - the one who gives songs in the night? + +the one who gives songs in the night? + 11. Where is the one who makes us smarter than the animals - and wiser than the birds of the sky?' + +and wiser than the birds of the sky?' + 12. And when they cry out, God does not answer - because of their pride. + +because of their pride. + 13. But it is wrong to say God doesn't listen, - to say the Almighty isn't concerned. + +to say the Almighty isn't concerned. + 14. You say you can't see him, but he will bring justice if you will only wait. @@ -47,6 +72,8 @@ Elihu Reminds Job of God's Justice and is not greatly concerned about wickedness. 16. But you are talking nonsense, Job. - You have spoken like a fool." + +You have spoken like a fool." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_36.md index e3688089..f2740d5c 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_36.md @@ -2,106 +2,176 @@ 1. Elihu continued speaking: 2. "Let me go on, and I will show you the truth. - For I have not finished defending God! + +For I have not finished defending God! + 3. I will present profound arguments - for the righteousness of my Creator. + +for the righteousness of my Creator. + 4. I am telling you nothing but the truth, - for I am a man of great knowledge. + +for I am a man of great knowledge. + 5. "God is mighty, but he does not despise anyone! - He is mighty in both power and understanding. + +He is mighty in both power and understanding. + 6. He does not let the wicked live - but gives justice to the afflicted. + +but gives justice to the afflicted. + 7. He never takes his eyes off the innocent, - but he sets them on thrones with kings - and exalts them forever. + +but he sets them on thrones with kings + +and exalts them forever. + 8. If they are bound in chains - and caught up in a web of trouble, + +and caught up in a web of trouble, + 9. he shows them the reason. - He shows them their sins of pride. + +He shows them their sins of pride. + 10. He gets their attention - and commands that they turn from evil. + +and commands that they turn from evil. + 11. "If they listen and obey God, - they will be blessed with prosperity throughout their lives. - All their years will be pleasant. + +they will be blessed with prosperity throughout their lives. + +All their years will be pleasant. + 12. But if they refuse to listen to him, - they will cross over the river of death, - dying from lack of understanding. + +they will cross over the river of death, + +dying from lack of understanding. + 13. For the godless are full of resentment. - Even when he punishes them, - they refuse to cry out to him for help. + +Even when he punishes them, + +they refuse to cry out to him for help. + 14. They die when they are young, - after wasting their lives in immoral living. + +after wasting their lives in immoral living. + 15. But by means of their suffering, he rescues those who suffer. - For he gets their attention through adversity. + +For he gets their attention through adversity. + 16. "God is leading you away from danger, Job, - to a place free from distress. - He is setting your table with the best food. + +to a place free from distress. + +He is setting your table with the best food. + 17. But you are obsessed with whether the godless will be judged. - Don't worry, judgment and justice will be upheld. + +Don't worry, judgment and justice will be upheld. + 18. But watch out, or you may be seduced by wealth. - Don't let yourself be bribed into sin. + +Don't let yourself be bribed into sin. + 19. Could all your wealth - or all your mighty efforts - keep you from distress? + +or all your mighty efforts + +keep you from distress? + 20. Do not long for the cover of night, for that is when people will be destroyed. 21. Be on guard! Turn back from evil, - for God sent this suffering - to keep you from a life of evil.Elihu Reminds Job of God's Power + +for God sent this suffering + +to keep you from a life of evil. + +Elihu Reminds Job of God's Power + 22. "Look, God is all-powerful. - Who is a teacher like him? + +Who is a teacher like him? + 23. No one can tell him what to do, - or say to him, 'You have done wrong.' + +or say to him, 'You have done wrong.' + 24. Instead, glorify his mighty works, - singing songs of praise. + +singing songs of praise. + 25. Everyone has seen these things, - though only from a distance. + +though only from a distance. + 26. "Look, God is greater than we can understand. - His years cannot be counted. + +His years cannot be counted. + 27. He draws up the water vapor - and then distills it into rain. + +and then distills it into rain. + 28. The rain pours down from the clouds, - and everyone benefits. + +and everyone benefits. + 29. Who can understand the spreading of the clouds - and the thunder that rolls forth from heaven? + +and the thunder that rolls forth from heaven? + 30. See how he spreads the lightning around him - and how it lights up the depths of the sea. + +and how it lights up the depths of the sea. + 31. By these mighty acts he nourishes the people, - giving them food in abundance. + +giving them food in abundance. + 32. He fills his hands with lightning bolts - and hurls each at its target. + +and hurls each at its target. + 33. The thunder announces his presence; the storm announces his indignant anger. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_37.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_37.md index 2cbb0cb4..7508fc12 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_37.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_37.md @@ -1,77 +1,125 @@ # Chapter 37 1. "My heart pounds as I think of this. - It trembles within me. + +It trembles within me. + 2. Listen carefully to the thunder of God's voice - as it rolls from his mouth. + +as it rolls from his mouth. + 3. It rolls across the heavens, - and his lightning flashes in every direction. + +and his lightning flashes in every direction. + 4. Then comes the roaring of the thunder-- - the tremendous voice of his majesty. - He does not restrain it when he speaks. + +the tremendous voice of his majesty. + +He does not restrain it when he speaks. + 5. God's voice is glorious in the thunder. - We can't even imagine the greatness of his power. + +We can't even imagine the greatness of his power. + 6. "He directs the snow to fall on the earth - and tells the rain to pour down. + +and tells the rain to pour down. + 7. Then everyone stops working - so they can watch his power. + +so they can watch his power. + 8. The wild animals take cover - and stay inside their dens. + +and stay inside their dens. + 9. The stormy wind comes from its chamber, - and the driving winds bring the cold. + +and the driving winds bring the cold. + 10. God's breath sends the ice, - freezing wide expanses of water. + +freezing wide expanses of water. + 11. He loads the clouds with moisture, - and they flash with his lightning. + +and they flash with his lightning. + 12. The clouds churn about at his direction. - They do whatever he commands throughout the earth. + +They do whatever he commands throughout the earth. + 13. He makes these things happen either to punish people - or to show his unfailing love. + +or to show his unfailing love. + 14. "Pay attention to this, Job. - Stop and consider the wonderful miracles of God! + +Stop and consider the wonderful miracles of God! + 15. Do you know how God controls the storm - and causes the lightning to flash from his clouds? + +and causes the lightning to flash from his clouds? + 16. Do you understand how he moves the clouds - with wonderful perfection and skill? + +with wonderful perfection and skill? + 17. When you are sweltering in your clothes - and the south wind dies down and everything is still, + +and the south wind dies down and everything is still, + 18. he makes the skies reflect the heat like a bronze mirror. - Can you do that? + +Can you do that? + 19. "So teach the rest of us what to say to God. - We are too ignorant to make our own arguments. + +We are too ignorant to make our own arguments. + 20. Should God be notified that I want to speak? Can people even speak when they are confused? 21. We cannot look at the sun, - for it shines brightly in the sky - when the wind clears away the clouds. + +for it shines brightly in the sky + +when the wind clears away the clouds. + 22. So also, golden splendor comes from the mountain of God. - He is clothed in dazzling splendor. + +He is clothed in dazzling splendor. + 23. We cannot imagine the power of the Almighty; - but even though he is just and righteous, - he does not destroy us. + +but even though he is just and righteous, + +he does not destroy us. + 24. No wonder people everywhere fear him. All who are wise show him reverence." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_38.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_38.md index 50c47dd3..fdf8f1a2 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_38.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_38.md @@ -4,128 +4,208 @@ The LORD Challenges Job 1. Then the LORD answered Job from the whirlwind: 2. "Who is this that questions my wisdom - with such ignorant words? + +with such ignorant words? + 3. Brace yourself like a man, - because I have some questions for you, - and you must answer them. + +because I have some questions for you, + +and you must answer them. + 4. "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? - Tell me, if you know so much. + +Tell me, if you know so much. + 5. Who determined its dimensions - and stretched out the surveying line? + +and stretched out the surveying line? + 6. What supports its foundations, - and who laid its cornerstone + +and who laid its cornerstone + 7. as the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy? 8. "Who kept the sea inside its boundaries - as it burst from the womb, + +as it burst from the womb, + 9. and as I clothed it with clouds - and wrapped it in thick darkness? + +and wrapped it in thick darkness? + 10. For I locked it behind barred gates, - limiting its shores. + +limiting its shores. + 11. I said, 'This far and no farther will you come. - Here your proud waves must stop!' + +Here your proud waves must stop!' + 12. "Have you ever commanded the morning to appear - and caused the dawn to rise in the east? + +and caused the dawn to rise in the east? + 13. Have you made daylight spread to the ends of the earth, - to bring an end to the night's wickedness? + +to bring an end to the night's wickedness? + 14. As the light approaches, - the earth takes shape like clay pressed beneath a seal; + +the earth takes shape like clay pressed beneath a seal; it is robed in brilliant colors. 15. The light disturbs the wicked - and stops the arm that is raised in violence. + +and stops the arm that is raised in violence. + 16. "Have you explored the springs from which the seas come? - Have you explored their depths? + +Have you explored their depths? + 17. Do you know where the gates of death are located? - Have you seen the gates of utter gloom? + +Have you seen the gates of utter gloom? + 18. Do you realize the extent of the earth? - Tell me about it if you know! + +Tell me about it if you know! + 19. "Where does light come from, - and where does darkness go? + +and where does darkness go? + 20. Can you take each to its home? - Do you know how to get there? + +Do you know how to get there? + 21. But of course you know all this! For you were born before it was all created, - and you are so very experienced! + +and you are so very experienced! + 22. "Have you visited the storehouses of the snow - or seen the storehouses of hail? + +or seen the storehouses of hail? + 23. (I have reserved them as weapons for the time of trouble, - for the day of battle and war.) + +for the day of battle and war.) + 24. Where is the path to the source of light? - Where is the home of the east wind? + +Where is the home of the east wind? + 25. "Who created a channel for the torrents of rain? - Who laid out the path for the lightning? + +Who laid out the path for the lightning? + 26. Who makes the rain fall on barren land, - in a desert where no one lives? + +in a desert where no one lives? + 27. Who sends rain to satisfy the parched ground - and make the tender grass spring up? + +and make the tender grass spring up? + 28. "Does the rain have a father? - Who gives birth to the dew? + +Who gives birth to the dew? + 29. Who is the mother of the ice? - Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens? + +Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens? + 30. For the water turns to ice as hard as rock, - and the surface of the water freezes. + +and the surface of the water freezes. + 31. "Can you direct the movement of the stars-- - binding the cluster of the Pleiades - or loosening the cords of Orion? + +binding the cluster of the Pleiades + +or loosening the cords of Orion? + 32. Can you direct the constellations through the seasons - or guide the Bear with her cubs across the heavens? + +or guide the Bear with her cubs across the heavens? + 33. Do you know the laws of the universe? - Can you use them to regulate the earth? + +Can you use them to regulate the earth? + 34. "Can you shout to the clouds - and make it rain? + +and make it rain? + 35. Can you make lightning appear - and cause it to strike as you direct? + +and cause it to strike as you direct? + 36. Who gives intuition to the heart - and instinct to the mind? + +and instinct to the mind? + 37. Who is wise enough to count all the clouds? - Who can tilt the water jars of heaven + +Who can tilt the water jars of heaven + 38. when the parched ground is dry - and the soil has hardened into clods? + +and the soil has hardened into clods? + 39. "Can you stalk prey for a lioness - and satisfy the young lions' appetites + +and satisfy the young lions' appetites + 40. as they lie in their dens - or crouch in the thicket? + +or crouch in the thicket? + 41. Who provides food for the ravens - when their young cry out to God - and wander about in hunger? + +when their young cry out to God + +and wander about in hunger? + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_39.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_39.md index bd085863..fb54266b 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_39.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_39.md @@ -2,95 +2,157 @@ The LORD's Challenge Continues # Chapter 39 1. "Do you know when the wild goats give birth? - Have you watched as deer are born in the wild? + +Have you watched as deer are born in the wild? + 2. Do you know how many months they carry their young? - Are you aware of the time of their delivery? + +Are you aware of the time of their delivery? + 3. They crouch down to give birth to their young - and deliver their offspring. + +and deliver their offspring. + 4. Their young grow up in the open fields, - then leave home and never return. + +then leave home and never return. + 5. "Who gives the wild donkey its freedom? - Who untied its ropes? + +Who untied its ropes? + 6. I have placed it in the wilderness; - its home is the wasteland. + +its home is the wasteland. + 7. It hates the noise of the city - and has no driver to shout at it. + +and has no driver to shout at it. + 8. The mountains are its pastureland, - where it searches for every blade of grass. + +where it searches for every blade of grass. + 9. "Will the wild ox consent to being tamed? - Will it spend the night in your stall? + +Will it spend the night in your stall? + 10. Can you hitch a wild ox to a plow? - Will it plow a field for you? + +Will it plow a field for you? + 11. Given its strength, can you trust it? - Can you leave and trust the ox to do your work? + +Can you leave and trust the ox to do your work? + 12. Can you rely on it to bring home your grain - and deliver it to your threshing floor? + +and deliver it to your threshing floor? + 13. "The ostrich flaps her wings grandly, - but they are no match for the feathers of the stork. + +but they are no match for the feathers of the stork. + 14. She lays her eggs on top of the earth, - letting them be warmed in the dust. + +letting them be warmed in the dust. + 15. She doesn't worry that a foot might crush them - or a wild animal might destroy them. + +or a wild animal might destroy them. + 16. She is harsh toward her young, - as if they were not her own. - She doesn't care if they die. + +as if they were not her own. + +She doesn't care if they die. + 17. For God has deprived her of wisdom. - He has given her no understanding. + +He has given her no understanding. + 18. But whenever she jumps up to run, - she passes the swiftest horse with its rider. + +she passes the swiftest horse with its rider. + 19. "Have you given the horse its strength - or clothed its neck with a flowing mane? + +or clothed its neck with a flowing mane? + 20. Did you give it the ability to leap like a locust? - Its majestic snorting is terrifying! + +Its majestic snorting is terrifying! + 21. It paws the earth and rejoices in its strength - when it charges out to battle. + +when it charges out to battle. + 22. It laughs at fear and is unafraid. - It does not run from the sword. + +It does not run from the sword. + 23. The arrows rattle against it, - and the spear and javelin flash. + +and the spear and javelin flash. + 24. It paws the ground fiercely - and rushes forward into battle when the ram's horn blows. + +and rushes forward into battle when the ram's horn blows. + 25. It snorts at the sound of the horn. - It senses the battle in the distance. - It quivers at the captain's commands and the noise of battle. + +It senses the battle in the distance. + +It quivers at the captain's commands and the noise of battle. + 26. "Is it your wisdom that makes the hawk soar - and spread its wings toward the south? + +and spread its wings toward the south? + 27. Is it at your command that the eagle rises - to the heights to make its nest? + +to the heights to make its nest? + 28. It lives on the cliffs, - making its home on a distant, rocky crag. + +making its home on a distant, rocky crag. + 29. From there it hunts its prey, - keeping watch with piercing eyes. + +keeping watch with piercing eyes. + 30. Its young gulp down blood. - Where there's a carcass, there you'll find it." + +Where there's a carcass, there you'll find it." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_40.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_40.md index 57352a8d..8fc018bf 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_40.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_40.md @@ -2,72 +2,114 @@ 1. Then the LORD said to Job, 2. "Do you still want to argue with the Almighty? - You are God's critic, but do you have the answers?"Job Responds to the LORD + +You are God's critic, but do you have the answers?"Job Responds to the LORD 3. Then Job replied to the LORD, 4. "I am nothing--how could I ever find the answers? - I will cover my mouth with my hand. + +I will cover my mouth with my hand. + 5. I have said too much already. - I have nothing more to say."The LORD Challenges Job Again + +I have nothing more to say."The LORD Challenges Job Again 6. Then the LORD answered Job from the whirlwind: 7. "Brace yourself like a man, - because I have some questions for you, - and you must answer them. + +because I have some questions for you, + +and you must answer them. + 8. "Will you discredit my justice - and condemn me just to prove you are right? + +and condemn me just to prove you are right? + 9. Are you as strong as God? - Can you thunder with a voice like his? + +Can you thunder with a voice like his? + 10. All right, put on your glory and splendor, - your honor and majesty. + +your honor and majesty. + 11. Give vent to your anger. - Let it overflow against the proud. + +Let it overflow against the proud. + 12. Humiliate the proud with a glance; - walk on the wicked where they stand. + +walk on the wicked where they stand. + 13. Bury them in the dust. - Imprison them in the world of the dead. + +Imprison them in the world of the dead. + 14. Then even I would praise you, - for your own strength would save you. + +for your own strength would save you. + 15. "Take a look at Behemoth, - which I made, just as I made you. - It eats grass like an ox. + +which I made, just as I made you. + +It eats grass like an ox. + 16. See its powerful loins - and the muscles of its belly. + +and the muscles of its belly. + 17. Its tail is as strong as a cedar. - The sinews of its thighs are knit tightly together. + +The sinews of its thighs are knit tightly together. + 18. Its bones are tubes of bronze. - Its limbs are bars of iron. + +Its limbs are bars of iron. + 19. It is a prime example of God's handiwork, - and only its Creator can threaten it. + +and only its Creator can threaten it. + 20. The mountains offer it their best food, - where all the wild animals play. + +where all the wild animals play. + 21. It lies under the lotus plants, - hidden by the reeds in the marsh. + +hidden by the reeds in the marsh. + 22. The lotus plants give it shade - among the willows beside the stream. + +among the willows beside the stream. + 23. It is not disturbed by the raging river, - not concerned when the swelling Jordan rushes around it. + +not concerned when the swelling Jordan rushes around it. + 24. No one can catch it off guard - or put a ring in its nose and lead it away. + +or put a ring in its nose and lead it away. + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_41.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_41.md index b6d856e2..d2335463 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_41.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_41.md @@ -2,106 +2,175 @@ The LORD's Challenge Continues # Chapter 41 1. "Can you catch Leviathan with a hook - or put a noose around its jaw? + +or put a noose around its jaw? + 2. Can you tie it with a rope through the nose - or pierce its jaw with a spike? + +or pierce its jaw with a spike? + 3. Will it beg you for mercy - or implore you for pity? + +or implore you for pity? + 4. Will it agree to work for you, - to be your slave for life? + +to be your slave for life? + 5. Can you make it a pet like a bird, - or give it to your little girls to play with? + +or give it to your little girls to play with? + 6. Will merchants try to buy it - to sell it in their shops? + +to sell it in their shops? + 7. Will its hide be hurt by spears - or its head by a harpoon? + +or its head by a harpoon? + 8. If you lay a hand on it, - you will certainly remember the battle that follows. - You won't try that again! + +you will certainly remember the battle that follows. + +You won't try that again! + 9. No, it is useless to try to capture it. - The hunter who attempts it will be knocked down. + +The hunter who attempts it will be knocked down. + 10. And since no one dares to disturb it, - who then can stand up to me? + +who then can stand up to me? + 11. Who has given me anything that I need to pay back? - Everything under heaven is mine. + +Everything under heaven is mine. + 12. "I want to emphasize Leviathan's limbs - and its enormous strength and graceful form. + +and its enormous strength and graceful form. + 13. Who can strip off its hide, and who can penetrate its double layer of armor? 14. Who could pry open its jaws? - For its teeth are terrible! + +For its teeth are terrible! + 15. The scales on its back are like rows of shields - tightly sealed together. + +tightly sealed together. + 16. They are so close together - that no air can get between them. + +that no air can get between them. + 17. Each scale sticks tight to the next. - They interlock and cannot be penetrated. + +They interlock +and cannot be penetrated. + + 18. "When it sneezes, it flashes light! - Its eyes are like the red of dawn. + +Its eyes are like the red of dawn. + 19. Lightning leaps from its mouth; - flames of fire flash out. + +flames of fire flash out. + 20. Smoke streams from its nostrils - like steam from a pot heated over burning rushes. + +like steam from a pot heated over burning rushes. + 21. Its breath would kindle coals, - for flames shoot from its mouth. + +for flames shoot from its mouth. + 22. "The tremendous strength in Leviathan's neck - strikes terror wherever it goes. + +strikes terror wherever it goes. + 23. Its flesh is hard and firm - and cannot be penetrated. + +and cannot be penetrated. + 24. Its heart is hard as rock, - hard as a millstone. + +hard as a millstone. + 25. When it rises, the mighty are afraid, - gripped by terror. + +gripped by terror. + 26. No sword can stop it, - no spear, dart, or javelin. + +no spear, dart, or javelin. + 27. Iron is nothing but straw to that creature, - and bronze is like rotten wood. + +and bronze is like rotten wood. + 28. Arrows cannot make it flee. - Stones shot from a sling are like bits of grass. + +Stones shot from a sling are like bits of grass. + 29. Clubs are like a blade of grass, - and it laughs at the swish of javelins. + +and it laughs at the swish of javelins. + 30. Its belly is covered with scales as sharp as glass. - It plows up the ground as it drags through the mud. + +It plows up the ground as it drags through the mud. + 31. "Leviathan makes the water boil with its commotion. - It stirs the depths like a pot of ointment. + +It stirs the depths like a pot of ointment. + 32. The water glistens in its wake, - making the sea look white. + +making the sea look white. + 33. Nothing on earth is its equal, - no other creature so fearless. + +no other creature so fearless. + 34. Of all the creatures, it is the proudest. - It is the king of beasts." + +It is the king of beasts." + diff --git a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_42.md b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_42.md index cbe44077..f51f9620 100644 --- a/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_42.md +++ b/NLT/18_Job/Chapter_42.md @@ -4,21 +4,31 @@ Job Responds to the LORD 1. Then Job replied to the LORD: 2. "I know that you can do anything, - and no one can stop you. + +and no one can stop you. + 3. You asked, 'Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance?' It is I--and I was talking about things I knew nothing about, - things far too wonderful for me. + +things far too wonderful for me. + 4. You said, 'Listen and I will speak! - I have some questions for you, - and you must answer them.' + +I have some questions for you, + +and you must answer them.' + 5. I had only heard about you before, - but now I have seen you with my own eyes. + +but now I have seen you with my own eyes. + 6. I take back everything I said, - and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance."Conclusion: The LORD Blesses Job + +and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance."Conclusion: The LORD Blesses Job 7. After the LORD had finished speaking to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite: "I am angry with you and your two friends, for you have not spoken accurately about me, as my servant Job has. 8. So take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and offer a burnt offering for yourselves. My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer on your behalf. I will not treat you as you deserve, for you have not spoken accurately about me, as my servant Job has." @@ -36,3 +46,4 @@ Job Responds to the LORD 17. Then he died, an old man who had lived a long, full life. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_01.md index 8ec19746..d65598aa 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,25 +1,42 @@ Psalm 1 + 1. Oh, the joys of those who do not - follow the advice of the wicked, - or stand around with sinners, - or join in with mockers. + +follow the advice of the wicked, + +or stand around with sinners, + +or join in with mockers. + 2. But they delight in the law of the LORD, - meditating on it day and night. + +meditating on it day and night. + 3. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, - bearing fruit each season. + +bearing fruit each season. + Their leaves never wither, - and they prosper in all they do. + +and they prosper in all they do. + 4. But not the wicked! - They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind. + +They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind. + 5. They will be condemned at the time of judgment. - Sinners will have no place among the godly. + +Sinners will have no place among the godly. + 6. For the LORD watches over the path of the godly, - but the path of the wicked leads to destruction. + +but the path of the wicked leads to destruction. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_02.md index 542ce260..c9f8c1f7 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,21 +1,33 @@ Psalm 2 + 1. Why are the nations so angry? - Why do they waste their time with futile plans? + +Why do they waste their time with futile plans? + 2. The kings of the earth prepare for battle; - the rulers plot together + +the rulers plot together against the LORD - and against his anointed one. + +and against his anointed one. + 3. "Let us break their chains," they cry, - "and free ourselves from slavery to God." + +"and free ourselves from slavery to God." + 4. But the one who rules in heaven laughs. - The Lord scoffs at them. + +The Lord scoffs at them. + 5. Then in anger he rebukes them, - terrifying them with his fierce fury. + +terrifying them with his fierce fury. + 6. For the Lord declares, "I have placed my chosen king on the throne in Jerusalem, on my holy mountain." @@ -25,20 +37,31 @@ against the LORD Today I have become your Father. 8. Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, - the whole earth as your possession. + +the whole earth as your possession. + 9. You will break them with an iron rod - and smash them like clay pots.'" + +and smash them like clay pots.'" + 10. Now then, you kings, act wisely! - Be warned, you rulers of the earth! + +Be warned, you rulers of the earth! + 11. Serve the LORD with reverent fear, - and rejoice with trembling. + +and rejoice with trembling. + 12. Submit to God's royal son, or he will become angry, - and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities-- + +and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities-- for his anger flares up in an instant. - But what joy for all who take refuge in him! + +But what joy for all who take refuge in him! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_03.md index ef702431..a8168ae1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_03.md @@ -1,30 +1,45 @@ Psalm 3 + 1. O LORD, I have so many enemies; - so many are against me. + +so many are against me. + 2. So many are saying, "God will never rescue him!" Interlude 3. But you, O LORD, are a shield around me; - you are my glory, the one who holds my head high. + +you are my glory, the one who holds my head high. + 4. I cried out to the LORD, - and he answered me from his holy mountain. Interlude + +and he answered me from his holy mountain. Interlude + 5. I lay down and slept, - yet I woke up in safety, + +yet I woke up in safety, for the LORD was watching over me. 6. I am not afraid of ten thousand enemies - who surround me on every side. + +who surround me on every side. + 7. Arise, O LORD! - Rescue me, my God! + +Rescue me, my God! Slap all my enemies in the face! - Shatter the teeth of the wicked! + +Shatter the teeth of the wicked! + 8. Victory comes from you, O LORD. - May you bless your people. Interlude + +May you bless your people. Interlude + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_04.md index fba846e5..0bccc438 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,20 +1,30 @@ Psalm 4 + 1. Answer me when I call to you, - O God who declares me innocent. + +O God who declares me innocent. + Free me from my troubles. - Have mercy on me and hear my prayer. + +Have mercy on me and hear my prayer. + 2. How long will you people ruin my reputation? - How long will you make groundless accusations? - How long will you continue your lies? Interlude + +How long will you make groundless accusations? + +How long will you continue your lies? Interlude + 3. You can be sure of this: The LORD set apart the godly for himself. The LORD will answer when I call to him. 4. Don't sin by letting anger control you. - Think about it overnight and remain silent. Interlude + +Think about it overnight and remain silent. Interlude + 5. Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust the LORD. @@ -23,9 +33,12 @@ Free me from my troubles. Let your face smile on us, LORD. 7. You have given me greater joy - than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. + +than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. + 8. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_05.md index 093d78ac..90c255b6 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_05.md @@ -1,46 +1,74 @@ Psalm 5 + 1. O LORD, hear me as I pray; - pay attention to my groaning. + +pay attention to my groaning. + 2. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, - for I pray to no one but you. + +for I pray to no one but you. + 3. Listen to my voice in the morning, LORD. - Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly. + +Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly. + 4. O God, you take no pleasure in wickedness; - you cannot tolerate the sins of the wicked. + +you cannot tolerate the sins of the wicked. + 5. Therefore, the proud may not stand in your presence, - for you hate all who do evil. + +for you hate all who do evil. + 6. You will destroy those who tell lies. The LORD detests murderers and deceivers. 7. Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house; - I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe. + +I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe. + 8. Lead me in the right path, O LORD, - or my enemies will conquer me. + +or my enemies will conquer me. + Make your way plain for me to follow. + 9. My enemies cannot speak a truthful word. - Their deepest desire is to destroy others. + +Their deepest desire is to destroy others. + Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with flattery. 10. O God, declare them guilty. - Let them be caught in their own traps. + +Let them be caught in their own traps. + Drive them away because of their many sins, - for they have rebelled against you. + +for they have rebelled against you. + 11. But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; - let them sing joyful praises forever. + +let them sing joyful praises forever. + Spread your protection over them, - that all who love your name may be filled with joy. + +that all who love your name may be filled with joy. + 12. For you bless the godly, O LORD; - you surround them with your shield of love. + +you surround them with your shield of love. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_06.md index 819b3492..5712b282 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_06.md @@ -1,7 +1,10 @@ Psalm 6 + 1. O LORD, don't rebuke me in your anger - or discipline me in your rage. + +or discipline me in your rage. + 2. Have compassion on me, LORD, for I am weak. Heal me, LORD, for my bones are in agony. @@ -10,17 +13,24 @@ Psalm 6 How long, O LORD, until you restore me? 4. Return, O LORD, and rescue me. - Save me because of your unfailing love. + +Save me because of your unfailing love. + 5. For the dead do not remember you. Who can praise you from the grave? 6. I am worn out from sobbing. - All night I flood my bed with weeping, - drenching it with my tears. + +All night I flood my bed with weeping, + +drenching it with my tears. + 7. My vision is blurred by grief; - my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies. + +my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies. + 8. Go away, all you who do evil, for the LORD has heard my weeping. @@ -29,6 +39,8 @@ Psalm 6 the LORD will answer my prayer. 10. May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified. - May they suddenly turn back in shame. + +May they suddenly turn back in shame. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_07.md index 04b19cca..d7a44a31 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_07.md @@ -1,61 +1,98 @@ Psalm 7 + 1. I come to you for protection, O LORD my God. Save me from my persecutors--rescue me! 2. If you don't, they will maul me like a lion, - tearing me to pieces with no one to rescue me. + +tearing me to pieces with no one to rescue me. + 3. O LORD my God, if I have done wrong - or am guilty of injustice, + +or am guilty of injustice, + 4. if I have betrayed a friend - or plundered my enemy without cause, + +or plundered my enemy without cause, + 5. then let my enemies capture me. - Let them trample me into the ground - and drag my honor in the dust. Interlude + +Let them trample me into the ground + +and drag my honor in the dust. Interlude + 6. Arise, O LORD, in anger! - Stand up against the fury of my enemies! - Wake up, my God, and bring justice! + +Stand up against the fury of my enemies! + +Wake up, my God, and bring justice! + 7. Gather the nations before you. - Rule over them from on high. + +Rule over them from on high. + 8. The LORD judges the nations. Declare me righteous, O LORD, - for I am innocent, O Most High! + +for I am innocent, O Most High! + 9. End the evil of those who are wicked, - and defend the righteous. + +and defend the righteous. + For you look deep within the mind and heart, - O righteous God. + +O righteous God. + 10. God is my shield, - saving those whose hearts are true and right. + +saving those whose hearts are true and right. + 11. God is an honest judge. - He is angry with the wicked every day. + +He is angry with the wicked every day. + 12. If a person does not repent, God will sharpen his sword; - he will bend and string his bow. + +he will bend and string his bow. + 13. He will prepare his deadly weapons - and shoot his flaming arrows. + +and shoot his flaming arrows. + 14. The wicked conceive evil; - they are pregnant with trouble - and give birth to lies. + +they are pregnant with trouble + +and give birth to lies. + 15. They dig a deep pit to trap others, - then fall into it themselves. + +then fall into it themselves. + 16. The trouble they make for others backfires on them. - The violence they plan falls on their own heads. + +The violence they plan falls on their own heads. + 17. I will thank the LORD because he is just; I will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_08.md index 2f952690..a8f420c6 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_08.md @@ -1,15 +1,21 @@ Psalm 8 + 1. O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! - Your glory is higher than the heavens. + +Your glory is higher than the heavens. + 2. You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies - and all who oppose you. + +and all who oppose you. + 3. When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers-- - the moon and the stars you set in place-- + +the moon and the stars you set in place-- 4. what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them? @@ -18,14 +24,20 @@ silencing your enemies and crowned them with glory and honor. 6. You gave them charge of everything you made, - putting all things under their authority-- + +putting all things under their authority-- 7. the flocks and the herds - and all the wild animals, + +and all the wild animals, + 8. the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea, - and everything that swims the ocean currents. + +and everything that swims the ocean currents. + 9. O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_09.md index 8b6eb593..4bdbb7b7 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_09.md @@ -1,65 +1,104 @@ Psalm 9 + 1. I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart; - I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. + +I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. + 2. I will be filled with joy because of you. - I will sing praises to your name, O Most High. + +I will sing praises to your name, O Most High. + 3. My enemies retreated; - they staggered and died when you appeared. + +they staggered and died when you appeared. + 4. For you have judged in my favor; - from your throne you have judged with fairness. + +from your throne you have judged with fairness. + 5. You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; - you have erased their names forever. + +you have erased their names forever. + 6. The enemy is finished, in endless ruins; - the cities you uprooted are now forgotten. + +the cities you uprooted are now forgotten. + 7. But the LORD reigns forever, - executing judgment from his throne. + +executing judgment from his throne. + 8. He will judge the world with justice - and rule the nations with fairness. + +and rule the nations with fairness. + 9. The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, - a refuge in times of trouble. + +a refuge in times of trouble. + 10. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you. 11. Sing praises to the LORD who reigns in Jerusalem. - Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds. + +Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds. + 12. For he who avenges murder cares for the helpless. - He does not ignore the cries of those who suffer. + +He does not ignore the cries of those who suffer. + 13. LORD, have mercy on me. - See how my enemies torment me. - Snatch me back from the jaws of death. + +See how my enemies torment me. + +Snatch me back from the jaws of death. + 14. Save me so I can praise you publicly at Jerusalem's gates, - so I can rejoice that you have rescued me. + +so I can rejoice that you have rescued me. + 15. The nations have fallen into the pit they dug for others. - Their own feet have been caught in the trap they set. + +Their own feet have been caught in the trap they set. + 16. The LORD is known for his justice. The wicked are trapped by their own deeds. Quiet Interlude 17. The wicked will go down to the grave. - This is the fate of all the nations who ignore God. + +This is the fate of all the nations who ignore God. + 18. But the needy will not be ignored forever; - the hopes of the poor will not always be crushed. + +the hopes of the poor will not always be crushed. + 19. Arise, O LORD! - Do not let mere mortals defy you! - Judge the nations! + +Do not let mere mortals defy you! + +Judge the nations! + 20. Make them tremble in fear, O LORD. - Let the nations know they are merely human. Interlude + +Let the nations know they are merely human. Interlude + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_10.md index 46045832..745b6654 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_10.md @@ -1,64 +1,106 @@ Psalm 10 + 1. O LORD, why do you stand so far away? - Why do you hide when I am in trouble? + +Why do you hide when I am in trouble? + 2. The wicked arrogantly hunt down the poor. - Let them be caught in the evil they plan for others. + +Let them be caught in the evil they plan for others. + 3. For they brag about their evil desires; they praise the greedy and curse the LORD. 4. The wicked are too proud to seek God. - They seem to think that God is dead. + +They seem to think that God is dead. + 5. Yet they succeed in everything they do. - They do not see your punishment awaiting them. - They sneer at all their enemies. + +They do not see your punishment awaiting them. + +They sneer at all their enemies. + 6. They think, "Nothing bad will ever happen to us! - We will be free of trouble forever!" + +We will be free of trouble forever!" + 7. Their mouths are full of cursing, lies, and threats. - Trouble and evil are on the tips of their tongues. + +Trouble and evil are on the tips of their tongues. + 8. They lurk in ambush in the villages, - waiting to murder innocent people. - They are always searching for helpless victims. + +waiting to murder innocent people. + +They are always searching for helpless victims. + 9. Like lions crouched in hiding, - they wait to pounce on the helpless. + +they wait to pounce on the helpless. + Like hunters they capture the helpless - and drag them away in nets. + +and drag them away in nets. + 10. Their helpless victims are crushed; - they fall beneath the strength of the wicked. + +they fall beneath the strength of the wicked. + 11. The wicked think, "God isn't watching us! - He has closed his eyes and won't even see what we do!" + +He has closed his eyes and won't even see what we do!" + 12. Arise, O LORD! - Punish the wicked, O God! - Do not ignore the helpless! + +Punish the wicked, O God! + +Do not ignore the helpless! + 13. Why do the wicked get away with despising God? - They think, "God will never call us to account." + +They think, "God will never call us to account." + 14. But you see the trouble and grief they cause. - You take note of it and punish them. + +You take note of it and punish them. + The helpless put their trust in you. - You defend the orphans. + +You defend the orphans. + 15. Break the arms of these wicked, evil people! - Go after them until the last one is destroyed. + +Go after them until the last one is destroyed. + 16. The LORD is king forever and ever! - The godless nations will vanish from the land. + +The godless nations will vanish from the land. + 17. LORD, you know the hopes of the helpless. - Surely you will hear their cries and comfort them. + +Surely you will hear their cries and comfort them. + 18. You will bring justice to the orphans and the oppressed, - so mere people can no longer terrify them. + +so mere people can no longer terrify them. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_100.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_100.md index f738fcbf..34c009ed 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_100.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_100.md @@ -1,20 +1,31 @@ Psalm 100 + 1. Shout with joy to the LORD, all the earth! 2. Worship the LORD with gladness. - Come before him, singing with joy. + +Come before him, singing with joy. + 3. Acknowledge that the LORD is God! He made us, and we are his. - We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. + +We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. + 4. Enter his gates with thanksgiving; - go into his courts with praise. - Give thanks to him and praise his name. + +go into his courts with praise. + +Give thanks to him and praise his name. + 5. For the LORD is good. - His unfailing love continues forever, - and his faithfulness continues to each generation. + +His unfailing love continues forever, + +and his faithfulness continues to each generation. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_101.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_101.md index 70a11565..02c03580 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_101.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_101.md @@ -1,33 +1,54 @@ Psalm 101 + 1. I will sing of your love and justice, LORD. - I will praise you with songs. + +I will praise you with songs. + 2. I will be careful to live a blameless life-- - when will you come to help me? + +when will you come to help me? I will lead a life of integrity - in my own home. + +in my own home. + 3. I will refuse to look at - anything vile and vulgar. + +anything vile and vulgar. + I hate all who deal crookedly; - I will have nothing to do with them. + +I will have nothing to do with them. + 4. I will reject perverse ideas - and stay away from every evil. + +and stay away from every evil. + 5. I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. - I will not endure conceit and pride. + +I will not endure conceit and pride. + 6. I will search for faithful people - to be my companions. + +to be my companions. + Only those who are above reproach - will be allowed to serve me. + +will be allowed to serve me. + 7. I will not allow deceivers to serve in my house, - and liars will not stay in my presence. + +and liars will not stay in my presence. + 8. My daily task will be to ferret out the wicked and free the city of the LORD from their grip. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_102.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_102.md index 9ddd1513..55f6dd3d 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_102.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_102.md @@ -1,95 +1,156 @@ Psalm 102 + 1. LORD, hear my prayer! - Listen to my plea! + +Listen to my plea! + 2. Don't turn away from me - in my time of distress. + +in my time of distress. + Bend down to listen, - and answer me quickly when I call to you. + +and answer me quickly when I call to you. + 3. For my days disappear like smoke, - and my bones burn like red-hot coals. + +and my bones burn like red-hot coals. + 4. My heart is sick, withered like grass, - and I have lost my appetite. + +and I have lost my appetite. + 5. Because of my groaning, - I am reduced to skin and bones. + +I am reduced to skin and bones. + 6. I am like an owl in the desert, - like a little owl in a far-off wilderness. + +like a little owl in a far-off wilderness. + 7. I lie awake, - lonely as a solitary bird on the roof. + +lonely as a solitary bird on the roof. + 8. My enemies taunt me day after day. - They mock and curse me. + +They mock and curse me. + 9. I eat ashes for food. - My tears run down into my drink + +My tears run down into my drink + 10. because of your anger and wrath. - For you have picked me up and thrown me out. + +For you have picked me up and thrown me out. + 11. My life passes as swiftly as the evening shadows. - I am withering away like grass. + +I am withering away like grass. + 12. But you, O LORD, will sit on your throne forever. - Your fame will endure to every generation. + +Your fame will endure to every generation. + 13. You will arise and have mercy on Jerusalem-- - and now is the time to pity her, - now is the time you promised to help. + +and now is the time to pity her, + +now is the time you promised to help. + 14. For your people love every stone in her walls - and cherish even the dust in her streets. + +and cherish even the dust in her streets. + 15. Then the nations will tremble before the LORD. - The kings of the earth will tremble before his glory. + +The kings of the earth will tremble before his glory. + 16. For the LORD will rebuild Jerusalem. - He will appear in his glory. + +He will appear in his glory. + 17. He will listen to the prayers of the destitute. - He will not reject their pleas. + +He will not reject their pleas. + 18. Let this be recorded for future generations, so that a people not yet born will praise the LORD. 19. Tell them the LORD looked down - from his heavenly sanctuary. + +from his heavenly sanctuary. + He looked down to earth from heaven + 20. to hear the groans of the prisoners, - to release those condemned to die. + +to release those condemned to die. + 21. And so the LORD's fame will be celebrated in Zion, - his praises in Jerusalem, + +his praises in Jerusalem, + 22. when multitudes gather together and kingdoms come to worship the LORD. 23. He broke my strength in midlife, - cutting short my days. + +cutting short my days. + 24. But I cried to him, "O my God, who lives forever, - don't take my life while I am so young! + +don't take my life while I am so young! + 25. Long ago you laid the foundation of the earth - and made the heavens with your hands. + +and made the heavens with your hands. + 26. They will perish, but you remain forever; - they will wear out like old clothing. + +they will wear out like old clothing. + You will change them like a garment - and discard them. + +and discard them. + 27. But you are always the same; - you will live forever. + +you will live forever. + 28. The children of your people - will live in security. + +will live in security. + Their children's children - will thrive in your presence." + +will thrive in your presence." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_103.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_103.md index f9e80474..0468e6bc 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_103.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_103.md @@ -1,72 +1,119 @@ Psalm 103 + 1. Let all that I am praise the LORD; - with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. + +with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. + 2. Let all that I am praise the LORD; - may I never forget the good things he does for me. + +may I never forget the good things he does for me. + 3. He forgives all my sins - and heals all my diseases. + +and heals all my diseases. + 4. He redeems me from death - and crowns me with love and tender mercies. + +and crowns me with love and tender mercies. + 5. He fills my life with good things. - My youth is renewed like the eagle's! + +My youth is renewed like the eagle's! + 6. The LORD gives righteousness - and justice to all who are treated unfairly. + +and justice to all who are treated unfairly. + 7. He revealed his character to Moses - and his deeds to the people of Israel. + +and his deeds to the people of Israel. + 8. The LORD is compassionate and merciful, - slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. + +slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. + 9. He will not constantly accuse us, - nor remain angry forever. + +nor remain angry forever. + 10. He does not punish us for all our sins; - he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. + +he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. + 11. For his unfailing love toward those who fear him - is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. + +is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. + 12. He has removed our sins as far from us - as the east is from the west. + +as the east is from the west. + 13. The LORD is like a father to his children, - tender and compassionate to those who fear him. + +tender and compassionate to those who fear him. + 14. For he knows how weak we are; - he remembers we are only dust. + +he remembers we are only dust. + 15. Our days on earth are like grass; - like wildflowers, we bloom and die. + +like wildflowers, we bloom and die. + 16. The wind blows, and we are gone-- - as though we had never been here. + +as though we had never been here. + 17. But the love of the LORD remains forever - with those who fear him. + +with those who fear him. + His salvation extends to the children's children + 18. of those who are faithful to his covenant, - of those who obey his commandments! + +of those who obey his commandments! + 19. The LORD has made the heavens his throne; - from there he rules over everything. + +from there he rules over everything. + 20. Praise the LORD, you angels, - you mighty ones who carry out his plans, - listening for each of his commands. + +you mighty ones who carry out his plans, + +listening for each of his commands. + 21. Yes, praise the LORD, you armies of angels - who serve him and do his will! + +who serve him and do his will! + 22. Praise the LORD, everything he has created, - everything in all his kingdom. + +everything in all his kingdom. Let all that I am praise the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_104.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_104.md index a4c124d8..630488ff 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_104.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_104.md @@ -1,118 +1,184 @@ Psalm 104 + 1. Let all that I am praise the LORD. O LORD my God, how great you are! - You are robed with honor and majesty. + +You are robed with honor and majesty. + 2. You are dressed in a robe of light. + You stretch out the starry curtain of the heavens; + 3. you lay out the rafters of your home in the rain clouds. + You make the clouds your chariot; - you ride upon the wings of the wind. + +you ride upon the wings of the wind. + 4. The winds are your messengers; flames of fire are your servants. 5. You placed the world on its foundation - so it would never be moved. + +so it would never be moved. + 6. You clothed the earth with floods of water, - water that covered even the mountains. + +water that covered even the mountains. + 7. At your command, the water fled; - at the sound of your thunder, it hurried away. + +at the sound of your thunder, it hurried away. + 8. Mountains rose and valleys sank - to the levels you decreed. + +to the levels you decreed. + 9. Then you set a firm boundary for the seas, - so they would never again cover the earth. + +so they would never again cover the earth. + 10. You make springs pour water into the ravines, - so streams gush down from the mountains. + +so streams gush down from the mountains. + 11. They provide water for all the animals, - and the wild donkeys quench their thirst. + +and the wild donkeys quench their thirst. + 12. The birds nest beside the streams - and sing among the branches of the trees. + +and sing among the branches of the trees. + 13. You send rain on the mountains from your heavenly home, - and you fill the earth with the fruit of your labor. + +and you fill the earth with the fruit of your labor. + 14. You cause grass to grow for the livestock - and plants for people to use. + +and plants for people to use. + You allow them to produce food from the earth-- 15. wine to make them glad, olive oil to soothe their skin, - and bread to give them strength. + +and bread to give them strength. + 16. The trees of the LORD are well cared for-- - the cedars of Lebanon that he planted. + +the cedars of Lebanon that he planted. + 17. There the birds make their nests, - and the storks make their homes in the cypresses. + +and the storks make their homes in the cypresses. + 18. High in the mountains live the wild goats, and the rocks form a refuge for the hyraxes. 19. You made the moon to mark the seasons, - and the sun knows when to set. + +and the sun knows when to set. + 20. You send the darkness, and it becomes night, - when all the forest animals prowl about. + +when all the forest animals prowl about. + 21. Then the young lions roar for their prey, - stalking the food provided by God. + +stalking the food provided by God. + 22. At dawn they slink back - into their dens to rest. + +into their dens to rest. + 23. Then people go off to their work, - where they labor until evening. + +where they labor until evening. + 24. O LORD, what a variety of things you have made! - In wisdom you have made them all. - The earth is full of your creatures. + +In wisdom you have made them all. + +The earth is full of your creatures. + 25. Here is the ocean, vast and wide, - teeming with life of every kind, - both large and small. + +teeming with life of every kind, + +both large and small. + 26. See the ships sailing along, and Leviathan, which you made to play in the sea. 27. They all depend on you - to give them food as they need it. + +to give them food as they need it. + 28. When you supply it, they gather it. - You open your hand to feed them, - and they are richly satisfied. + +You open your hand to feed them, + +and they are richly satisfied. + 29. But if you turn away from them, they panic. - When you take away their breath, - they die and turn again to dust. + +When you take away their breath, + +they die and turn again to dust. + 30. When you give them your breath, life is created, - and you renew the face of the earth. + +and you renew the face of the earth. + 31. May the glory of the LORD continue forever! The LORD takes pleasure in all he has made! 32. The earth trembles at his glance; - the mountains smoke at his touch. + +the mountains smoke at his touch. + 33. I will sing to the LORD as long as I live. - I will praise my God to my last breath! + +I will praise my God to my last breath! + 34. May all my thoughts be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the LORD. 35. Let all sinners vanish from the face of the earth; - let the wicked disappear forever. + +let the wicked disappear forever. Let all that I am praise the LORD. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_105.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_105.md index ed2ed740..26518085 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_105.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_105.md @@ -1,139 +1,220 @@ Psalm 105 + 1. Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim his greatness. - Let the whole world know what he has done. + +Let the whole world know what he has done. + 2. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. - Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. + +Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. + 3. Exult in his holy name; rejoice, you who worship the LORD. 4. Search for the LORD and for his strength; - continually seek him. + +continually seek him. + 5. Remember the wonders he has performed, - his miracles, and the rulings he has given, + +his miracles, and the rulings he has given, + 6. you children of his servant Abraham, - you descendants of Jacob, his chosen ones. + +you descendants of Jacob, his chosen ones. + 7. He is the LORD our God. - His justice is seen throughout the land. + +His justice is seen throughout the land. + 8. He always stands by his covenant-- - the commitment he made to a thousand generations. + +the commitment he made to a thousand generations. + 9. This is the covenant he made with Abraham - and the oath he swore to Isaac. + +and the oath he swore to Isaac. + 10. He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, - and to the people of Israel as a never-ending covenant: + +and to the people of Israel as a never-ending covenant: + 11. "I will give you the land of Canaan - as your special possession." + +as your special possession." + 12. He said this when they were few in number, - a tiny group of strangers in Canaan. + +a tiny group of strangers in Canaan. + 13. They wandered from nation to nation, - from one kingdom to another. + +from one kingdom to another. + 14. Yet he did not let anyone oppress them. - He warned kings on their behalf: + +He warned kings on their behalf: + 15. "Do not touch my chosen people, - and do not hurt my prophets." + +and do not hurt my prophets." + 16. He called for a famine on the land of Canaan, - cutting off its food supply. + +cutting off its food supply. + 17. Then he sent someone to Egypt ahead of them-- - Joseph, who was sold as a slave. + +Joseph, who was sold as a slave. + 18. They bruised his feet with fetters - and placed his neck in an iron collar. + +and placed his neck in an iron collar. + 19. Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the LORD tested Joseph's character. 20. Then Pharaoh sent for him and set him free; - the ruler of the nation opened his prison door. + +the ruler of the nation opened his prison door. + 21. Joseph was put in charge of all the king's household; - he became ruler over all the king's possessions. + +he became ruler over all the king's possessions. + 22. He could instruct the king's aides as he pleased - and teach the king's advisers. + +and teach the king's advisers. + 23. Then Israel arrived in Egypt; - Jacob lived as a foreigner in the land of Ham. + +Jacob lived as a foreigner in the land of Ham. + 24. And the LORD multiplied the people of Israel - until they became too mighty for their enemies. + +until they became too mighty for their enemies. + 25. Then he turned the Egyptians against the Israelites, and they plotted against the LORD's servants. 26. But the LORD sent his servant Moses, - along with Aaron, whom he had chosen. + +along with Aaron, whom he had chosen. + 27. They performed miraculous signs among the Egyptians, - and wonders in the land of Ham. + +and wonders in the land of Ham. + 28. The LORD blanketed Egypt in darkness, for they had defied his commands to let his people go. 29. He turned their water into blood, - poisoning all the fish. + +poisoning all the fish. + 30. Then frogs overran the land - and even invaded the king's bedrooms. + +and even invaded the king's bedrooms. + 31. When the LORD spoke, flies descended on the Egyptians, - and gnats swarmed across Egypt. + +and gnats swarmed across Egypt. + 32. He sent them hail instead of rain, - and lightning flashed over the land. + +and lightning flashed over the land. + 33. He ruined their grapevines and fig trees - and shattered all the trees. + +and shattered all the trees. + 34. He spoke, and hordes of locusts came-- - young locusts beyond number. + +young locusts beyond number. + 35. They ate up everything green in the land, - destroying all the crops in their fields. + +destroying all the crops in their fields. + 36. Then he killed the oldest son in each Egyptian home, - the pride and joy of each family. + +the pride and joy of each family. + 37. The LORD brought his people out of Egypt, loaded with silver and gold; - and not one among the tribes of Israel even stumbled. + +and not one among the tribes of Israel even stumbled. + 38. Egypt was glad when they were gone, - for they feared them greatly. + +for they feared them greatly. + 39. The LORD spread a cloud above them as a covering - and gave them a great fire to light the darkness. + +and gave them a great fire to light the darkness. + 40. They asked for meat, and he sent them quail; he satisfied their hunger with manna--bread from heaven. 41. He split open a rock, and water gushed out - to form a river through the dry wasteland. + +to form a river through the dry wasteland. + 42. For he remembered his sacred promise - to his servant Abraham. + +to his servant Abraham. + 43. So he brought his people out of Egypt with joy, - his chosen ones with rejoicing. + +his chosen ones with rejoicing. + 44. He gave his people the lands of pagan nations, - and they harvested crops that others had planted. + +and they harvested crops that others had planted. + 45. All this happened so they would follow his decrees - and obey his instructions. + +and obey his instructions. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_106.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_106.md index f9d4cf74..5665b010 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_106.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_106.md @@ -1,161 +1,255 @@ Psalm 106 + 1. Praise the LORD! Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! - His faithful love endures forever. + +His faithful love endures forever. + 2. Who can list the glorious miracles of the LORD? - Who can ever praise him enough? + +Who can ever praise him enough? + 3. There is joy for those who deal justly with others - and always do what is right. + +and always do what is right. + 4. Remember me, LORD, when you show favor to your people; - come near and rescue me. + +come near and rescue me. + 5. Let me share in the prosperity of your chosen ones. - Let me rejoice in the joy of your people; - let me praise you with those who are your heritage. + +Let me rejoice in the joy of your people; + +let me praise you with those who are your heritage. + 6. Like our ancestors, we have sinned. - We have done wrong! We have acted wickedly! + +We have done wrong! We have acted wickedly! + 7. Our ancestors in Egypt were not impressed by the LORD's miraculous deeds. + They soon forgot his many acts of kindness to them. Instead, they rebelled against him at the Red Sea. 8. Even so, he saved them-- - to defend the honor of his name - and to demonstrate his mighty power. + +to defend the honor of his name + +and to demonstrate his mighty power. + 9. He commanded the Red Sea to dry up. - He led Israel across the sea as if it were a desert. + +He led Israel across the sea as if it were a desert. + 10. So he rescued them from their enemies - and redeemed them from their foes. + +and redeemed them from their foes. + 11. Then the water returned and covered their enemies; - not one of them survived. + +not one of them survived. + 12. Then his people believed his promises. - Then they sang his praise. + +Then they sang his praise. + 13. Yet how quickly they forgot what he had done! - They wouldn't wait for his counsel! + +They wouldn't wait for his counsel! + 14. In the wilderness their desires ran wild, - testing God's patience in that dry wasteland. + +testing God's patience in that dry wasteland. + 15. So he gave them what they asked for, - but he sent a plague along with it. + +but he sent a plague along with it. + 16. The people in the camp were jealous of Moses and envious of Aaron, the LORD's holy priest. 17. Because of this, the earth opened up; - it swallowed Dathan - and buried Abiram and the other rebels. + +it swallowed Dathan + +and buried Abiram and the other rebels. + 18. Fire fell upon their followers; - a flame consumed the wicked. + +a flame consumed the wicked. + 19. The people made a calf at Mount Sinai; - they bowed before an image made of gold. + +they bowed before an image made of gold. + 20. They traded their glorious God - for a statue of a grass-eating bull. + +for a statue of a grass-eating bull. + 21. They forgot God, their savior, - who had done such great things in Egypt-- + +who had done such great things in Egypt-- 22. such wonderful things in the land of Ham, - such awesome deeds at the Red Sea. + +such awesome deeds at the Red Sea. + 23. So he declared he would destroy them. But Moses, his chosen one, stepped between the LORD and the people. - He begged him to turn from his anger and not destroy them. + +He begged him to turn from his anger and not destroy them. + 24. The people refused to enter the pleasant land, - for they wouldn't believe his promise to care for them. + +for they wouldn't believe his promise to care for them. + 25. Instead, they grumbled in their tents and refused to obey the LORD. 26. Therefore, he solemnly swore - that he would kill them in the wilderness, + +that he would kill them in the wilderness, + 27. that he would scatter their descendants among the nations, - exiling them to distant lands. + +exiling them to distant lands. + 28. Then our ancestors joined in the worship of Baal at Peor; - they even ate sacrifices offered to the dead! + +they even ate sacrifices offered to the dead! + 29. They angered the LORD with all these things, - so a plague broke out among them. + +so a plague broke out among them. + 30. But Phinehas had the courage to intervene, - and the plague was stopped. + +and the plague was stopped. + 31. So he has been regarded as a righteous man - ever since that time. + +ever since that time. + 32. At Meribah, too, they angered the LORD, - causing Moses serious trouble. + +causing Moses serious trouble. + 33. They made Moses angry, - and he spoke foolishly. + +and he spoke foolishly. + 34. Israel failed to destroy the nations in the land, as the LORD had commanded them. 35. Instead, they mingled among the pagans - and adopted their evil customs. + +and adopted their evil customs. + 36. They worshiped their idols, - which led to their downfall. + +which led to their downfall. + 37. They even sacrificed their sons - and their daughters to the demons. + +and their daughters to the demons. + 38. They shed innocent blood, - the blood of their sons and daughters. + +the blood of their sons and daughters. + By sacrificing them to the idols of Canaan, - they polluted the land with murder. + +they polluted the land with murder. + 39. They defiled themselves by their evil deeds, and their love of idols was adultery in the LORD's sight. 40. That is why the LORD's anger burned against his people, - and he abhorred his own special possession. + +and he abhorred his own special possession. + 41. He handed them over to pagan nations, - and they were ruled by those who hated them. + +and they were ruled by those who hated them. + 42. Their enemies crushed them - and brought them under their cruel power. + +and brought them under their cruel power. + 43. Again and again he rescued them, - but they chose to rebel against him, - and they were finally destroyed by their sin. + +but they chose to rebel against him, + +and they were finally destroyed by their sin. + 44. Even so, he pitied them in their distress - and listened to their cries. + +and listened to their cries. + 45. He remembered his covenant with them - and relented because of his unfailing love. + +and relented because of his unfailing love. + 46. He even caused their captors - to treat them with kindness. + +to treat them with kindness. + 47. Save us, O LORD our God! - Gather us back from among the nations, + +Gather us back from among the nations, so we can thank your holy name - and rejoice and praise you. + +and rejoice and praise you. + 48. Praise the LORD, the God of Israel, - who lives from everlasting to everlasting! + +who lives from everlasting to everlasting! Let all the people say, "Amen!" Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_107.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_107.md index a47c8c3a..7e32bcbe 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_107.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_107.md @@ -1,135 +1,222 @@ Psalm 107 + 1. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! - His faithful love endures forever. + +His faithful love endures forever. + 2. Has the LORD redeemed you? Then speak out! - Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies. + +Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies. + 3. For he has gathered the exiles from many lands, - from east and west, + +from east and west, from north and south. 4. Some wandered in the wilderness, - lost and homeless. + +lost and homeless. + 5. Hungry and thirsty, - they nearly died. + +they nearly died. + 6. "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, - and he rescued them from their distress. + +and he rescued them from their distress. + 7. He led them straight to safety, - to a city where they could live. + +to a city where they could live. + 8. Let them praise the LORD for his great love - and for the wonderful things he has done for them. + +and for the wonderful things he has done for them. + 9. For he satisfies the thirsty - and fills the hungry with good things. + +and fills the hungry with good things. + 10. Some sat in darkness and deepest gloom, - imprisoned in iron chains of misery. + +imprisoned in iron chains of misery. + 11. They rebelled against the words of God, - scorning the counsel of the Most High. + +scorning the counsel of the Most High. + 12. That is why he broke them with hard labor; - they fell, and no one was there to help them. + +they fell, and no one was there to help them. + 13. "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, - and he saved them from their distress. + +and he saved them from their distress. + 14. He led them from the darkness and deepest gloom; - he snapped their chains. + +he snapped their chains. + 15. Let them praise the LORD for his great love - and for the wonderful things he has done for them. + +and for the wonderful things he has done for them. + 16. For he broke down their prison gates of bronze; - he cut apart their bars of iron. + +he cut apart their bars of iron. + 17. Some were fools; they rebelled - and suffered for their sins. + +and suffered for their sins. + 18. They couldn't stand the thought of food, - and they were knocking on death's door. + +and they were knocking on death's door. + 19. "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, - and he saved them from their distress. + +and he saved them from their distress. + 20. He sent out his word and healed them, - snatching them from the door of death. + +snatching them from the door of death. + 21. Let them praise the LORD for his great love - and for the wonderful things he has done for them. + +and for the wonderful things he has done for them. + 22. Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving - and sing joyfully about his glorious acts. + +and sing joyfully about his glorious acts. + 23. Some went off to sea in ships, - plying the trade routes of the world. + +plying the trade routes of the world. + 24. They, too, observed the LORD's power in action, - his impressive works on the deepest seas. + +his impressive works on the deepest seas. + 25. He spoke, and the winds rose, - stirring up the waves. + +stirring up the waves. + 26. Their ships were tossed to the heavens - and plunged again to the depths; - the sailors cringed in terror. + +and plunged again to the depths; + +the sailors cringed in terror. + 27. They reeled and staggered like drunkards - and were at their wits' end. + +and were at their wits' end. + 28. "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, - and he saved them from their distress. + +and he saved them from their distress. + 29. He calmed the storm to a whisper - and stilled the waves. + +and stilled the waves. + 30. What a blessing was that stillness - as he brought them safely into harbor! + +as he brought them safely into harbor! + 31. Let them praise the LORD for his great love - and for the wonderful things he has done for them. + +and for the wonderful things he has done for them. + 32. Let them exalt him publicly before the congregation - and before the leaders of the nation. + +and before the leaders of the nation. + 33. He changes rivers into deserts, - and springs of water into dry, thirsty land. + +and springs of water into dry, thirsty land. + 34. He turns the fruitful land into salty wastelands, - because of the wickedness of those who live there. + +because of the wickedness of those who live there. + 35. But he also turns deserts into pools of water, - the dry land into springs of water. + +the dry land into springs of water. + 36. He brings the hungry to settle there - and to build their cities. + +and to build their cities. + 37. They sow their fields, plant their vineyards, - and harvest their bumper crops. + +and harvest their bumper crops. + 38. How he blesses them! - They raise large families there, - and their herds of livestock increase. + +They raise large families there, + +and their herds of livestock increase. + 39. When they decrease in number and become impoverished - through oppression, trouble, and sorrow, + +through oppression, trouble, and sorrow, + 40. the LORD pours contempt on their princes, - causing them to wander in trackless wastelands. + +causing them to wander in trackless wastelands. + 41. But he rescues the poor from trouble - and increases their families like flocks of sheep. + +and increases their families like flocks of sheep. + 42. The godly will see these things and be glad, - while the wicked are struck silent. + +while the wicked are struck silent. + 43. Those who are wise will take all this to heart; they will see in our history the faithful love of the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_108.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_108.md index b76a726b..8e5bf47f 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_108.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_108.md @@ -1,46 +1,76 @@ Psalm 108 + 1. My heart is confident in you, O God; - no wonder I can sing your praises with all my heart! + +no wonder I can sing your praises with all my heart! + 2. Wake up, lyre and harp! - I will wake the dawn with my song. + +I will wake the dawn with my song. + 3. I will thank you, LORD, among all the people. - I will sing your praises among the nations. + +I will sing your praises among the nations. + 4. For your unfailing love is higher than the heavens. - Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. + +Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. + 5. Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. - May your glory shine over all the earth. + +May your glory shine over all the earth. + 6. Now rescue your beloved people. - Answer and save us by your power. + +Answer and save us by your power. + 7. God has promised this by his holiness: "I will divide up Shechem with joy. - I will measure out the valley of Succoth. + +I will measure out the valley of Succoth. + 8. Gilead is mine, - and Manasseh, too. + +and Manasseh, too. + Ephraim, my helmet, will produce my warriors, - and Judah, my scepter, will produce my kings. + +and Judah, my scepter, will produce my kings. + 9. But Moab, my washbasin, will become my servant, - and I will wipe my feet on Edom - and shout in triumph over Philistia." + +and I will wipe my feet on Edom + +and shout in triumph over Philistia." + 10. Who will bring me into the fortified city? - Who will bring me victory over Edom? + +Who will bring me victory over Edom? + 11. Have you rejected us, O God? - Will you no longer march with our armies? + +Will you no longer march with our armies? + 12. Oh, please help us against our enemies, - for all human help is useless. + +for all human help is useless. + 13. With God's help we will do mighty things, - for he will trample down our foes. + +for he will trample down our foes. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_109.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_109.md index be764ad9..37afbbd6 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_109.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_109.md @@ -1,105 +1,172 @@ Psalm 109 + 1. O God, whom I praise, - don't stand silent and aloof + +don't stand silent and aloof + 2. while the wicked slander me - and tell lies about me. + +and tell lies about me. + 3. They surround me with hateful words - and fight against me for no reason. + +and fight against me for no reason. + 4. I love them, but they try to destroy me with accusations - even as I am praying for them! + +even as I am praying for them! + 5. They repay evil for good, - and hatred for my love. + +and hatred for my love. + 6. They say, "Get an evil person to turn against him. - Send an accuser to bring him to trial. + +Send an accuser to bring him to trial. + 7. When his case comes up for judgment, - let him be pronounced guilty. - Count his prayers as sins. + +let him be pronounced guilty. + +Count his prayers as sins. + 8. Let his years be few; - let someone else take his position. + +let someone else take his position. + 9. May his children become fatherless, - and his wife a widow. + +and his wife a widow. + 10. May his children wander as beggars and be driven from their ruined homes. 11. May creditors seize his entire estate, - and strangers take all he has earned. + +and strangers take all he has earned. + 12. Let no one be kind to him; - let no one pity his fatherless children. + +let no one pity his fatherless children. + 13. May all his offspring die. - May his family name be blotted out in the next generation. + +May his family name be blotted out in the next generation. + 14. May the LORD never forget the sins of his fathers; - may his mother's sins never be erased from the record. + +may his mother's sins never be erased from the record. + 15. May the LORD always remember these sins, - and may his name disappear from human memory. + +and may his name disappear from human memory. + 16. For he refused all kindness to others; - he persecuted the poor and needy, - and he hounded the brokenhearted to death. + +he persecuted the poor and needy, + +and he hounded the brokenhearted to death. + 17. He loved to curse others; - now you curse him. + +now you curse him. + He never blessed others; - now don't you bless him. + +now don't you bless him. + 18. Cursing is as natural to him as his clothing, - or the water he drinks, - or the rich food he eats. + +or the water he drinks, + +or the rich food he eats. + 19. Now may his curses return and cling to him like clothing; - may they be tied around him like a belt." + +may they be tied around him like a belt." + 20. May those curses become the LORD's punishment - for my accusers who speak evil of me. + +for my accusers who speak evil of me. + 21. But deal well with me, O Sovereign LORD, - for the sake of your own reputation! + +for the sake of your own reputation! Rescue me - because you are so faithful and good. + +because you are so faithful and good. + 22. For I am poor and needy, - and my heart is full of pain. + +and my heart is full of pain. + 23. I am fading like a shadow at dusk; - I am brushed off like a locust. + +I am brushed off like a locust. + 24. My knees are weak from fasting, - and I am skin and bones. + +and I am skin and bones. + 25. I am a joke to people everywhere; - when they see me, they shake their heads in scorn. + +when they see me, they shake their heads in scorn. + + +26. +Help me, O LORD my God! + +Save me because of your unfailing love. -26. Help me, O LORD my God! - Save me because of your unfailing love. 27. Let them see that this is your doing, that you yourself have done it, LORD. 28. Then let them curse me if they like, - but you will bless me! + +but you will bless me! When they attack me, they will be disgraced! - But I, your servant, will go right on rejoicing! + +But I, your servant, will go right on rejoicing! + 29. May my accusers be clothed with disgrace; - may their humiliation cover them like a cloak. + +may their humiliation cover them like a cloak. + 30. But I will give repeated thanks to the LORD, - praising him to everyone. + +praising him to everyone. + 31. For he stands beside the needy, - ready to save them from those who condemn them. + +ready to save them from those who condemn them. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_11.md index 1266b4ce..e64c6251 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_11.md @@ -1,29 +1,48 @@ Psalm 11 + 1. I trust in the LORD for protection. + So why do you say to me, - "Fly like a bird to the mountains for safety! + +"Fly like a bird to the mountains for safety! + 2. The wicked are stringing their bows - and fitting their arrows on the bowstrings. + +and fitting their arrows on the bowstrings. + They shoot from the shadows - at those whose hearts are right. + +at those whose hearts are right. + 3. The foundations of law and order have collapsed. - What can the righteous do?" + +What can the righteous do?" + 4. But the LORD is in his holy Temple; the LORD still rules from heaven. + He watches everyone closely, - examining every person on earth. + +examining every person on earth. + 5. The LORD examines both the righteous and the wicked. - He hates those who love violence. + +He hates those who love violence. + 6. He will rain down blazing coals and burning sulfur on the wicked, - punishing them with scorching winds. + +punishing them with scorching winds. + 7. For the righteous LORD loves justice. - The virtuous will see his face. + +The virtuous will see his face. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_110.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_110.md index a85309f2..fac466ed 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_110.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_110.md @@ -1,29 +1,48 @@ Psalm 110 + 1. The LORD said to my Lord, - "Sit in the place of honor at my right hand + +"Sit in the place of honor at my right hand until I humble your enemies, - making them a footstool under your feet." + +making them a footstool under your feet." + 2. The LORD will extend your powerful kingdom from Jerusalem; - you will rule over your enemies. + +you will rule over your enemies. + 3. When you go to war, - your people will serve you willingly. + +your people will serve you willingly. + You are arrayed in holy garments, - and your strength will be renewed each day like the morning dew. + +and your strength will be renewed each day like the morning dew. + 4. The LORD has taken an oath and will not break his vow: - "You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek." + +"You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek." + 5. The Lord stands at your right hand to protect you. - He will strike down many kings when his anger erupts. + +He will strike down many kings when his anger erupts. + 6. He will punish the nations - and fill their lands with corpses; - he will shatter heads over the whole earth. + +and fill their lands with corpses; + +he will shatter heads over the whole earth. + 7. But he himself will be refreshed from brooks along the way. - He will be victorious. + +He will be victorious. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_111.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_111.md index ae332065..9366ce3a 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_111.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_111.md @@ -2,35 +2,55 @@ Psalm 111 1. Praise the LORD! I will thank the LORD with all my heart - as I meet with his godly people. + +as I meet with his godly people. + 2. How amazing are the deeds of the LORD! - All who delight in him should ponder them. + +All who delight in him should ponder them. + 3. Everything he does reveals his glory and majesty. - His righteousness never fails. + +His righteousness never fails. + 4. He causes us to remember his wonderful works. How gracious and merciful is our LORD! 5. He gives food to those who fear him; - he always remembers his covenant. + +he always remembers his covenant. + 6. He has shown his great power to his people - by giving them the lands of other nations. + +by giving them the lands of other nations. + 7. All he does is just and good, - and all his commandments are trustworthy. + +and all his commandments are trustworthy. + 8. They are forever true, - to be obeyed faithfully and with integrity. + +to be obeyed faithfully and with integrity. + 9. He has paid a full ransom for his people. - He has guaranteed his covenant with them forever. - What a holy, awe-inspiring name he has! + +He has guaranteed his covenant with them forever. + +What a holy, awe-inspiring name he has! + 10. Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true wisdom. - All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. + +All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. + Praise him forever! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_112.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_112.md index 9b61017b..ca36cb48 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_112.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_112.md @@ -2,35 +2,55 @@ Psalm 112 1. Praise the LORD! How joyful are those who fear the LORD - and delight in obeying his commands. + +and delight in obeying his commands. + 2. Their children will be successful everywhere; - an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. + +an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. + 3. They themselves will be wealthy, - and their good deeds will last forever. + +and their good deeds will last forever. + 4. Light shines in the darkness for the godly. - They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. + +They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. + 5. Good comes to those who lend money generously - and conduct their business fairly. + +and conduct their business fairly. + 6. Such people will not be overcome by evil. - Those who are righteous will be long remembered. + +Those who are righteous will be long remembered. + 7. They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. 8. They are confident and fearless - and can face their foes triumphantly. + +and can face their foes triumphantly. + 9. They share freely and give generously to those in need. - Their good deeds will be remembered forever. - They will have influence and honor. + +Their good deeds will be remembered forever. + +They will have influence and honor. + 10. The wicked will see this and be infuriated. - They will grind their teeth in anger; - they will slink away, their hopes thwarted. + +They will grind their teeth in anger; + +they will slink away, their hopes thwarted. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_113.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_113.md index 83337073..7251a9d6 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_113.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_113.md @@ -1,32 +1,47 @@ Psalm 113 + 1. Praise the LORD! Yes, give praise, O servants of the LORD. Praise the name of the LORD! 2. Blessed be the name of the LORD - now and forever. + +now and forever. + 3. Everywhere--from east to west-- praise the name of the LORD. 4. For the LORD is high above the nations; - his glory is higher than the heavens. + +his glory is higher than the heavens. + 5. Who can be compared with the LORD our God, - who is enthroned on high? + +who is enthroned on high? + 6. He stoops to look down - on heaven and on earth. + +on heaven and on earth. + 7. He lifts the poor from the dust - and the needy from the garbage dump. + +and the needy from the garbage dump. + 8. He sets them among princes, - even the princes of his own people! + +even the princes of his own people! + 9. He gives the childless woman a family, - making her a happy mother. + +making her a happy mother. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_114.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_114.md index 4c281a8c..079ed240 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_114.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_114.md @@ -1,27 +1,43 @@ Psalm 114 + 1. When the Israelites escaped from Egypt-- - when the family of Jacob left that foreign land-- + +when the family of Jacob left that foreign land-- 2. the land of Judah became God's sanctuary, - and Israel became his kingdom. + +and Israel became his kingdom. + 3. The Red Sea saw them coming and hurried out of their way! - The water of the Jordan River turned away. + +The water of the Jordan River turned away. + 4. The mountains skipped like rams, - the hills like lambs! + +the hills like lambs! + 5. What's wrong, Red Sea, that made you hurry out of their way? - What happened, Jordan River, that you turned away? + +What happened, Jordan River, that you turned away? + 6. Why, mountains, did you skip like rams? - Why, hills, like lambs? + +Why, hills, like lambs? + 7. Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, - at the presence of the God of Jacob. + +at the presence of the God of Jacob. + 8. He turned the rock into a pool of water; - yes, a spring of water flowed from solid rock. + +yes, a spring of water flowed from solid rock. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_115.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_115.md index ff2a3c26..a0b940e8 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_115.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_115.md @@ -1,61 +1,101 @@ Psalm 115 + 1. Not to us, O LORD, not to us, - but to your name goes all the glory - for your unfailing love and faithfulness. + +but to your name goes all the glory + +for your unfailing love and faithfulness. + 2. Why let the nations say, - "Where is their God?" + +"Where is their God?" + 3. Our God is in the heavens, - and he does as he wishes. + +and he does as he wishes. + 4. Their idols are merely things of silver and gold, - shaped by human hands. + +shaped by human hands. + 5. They have mouths but cannot speak, - and eyes but cannot see. + +and eyes but cannot see. + 6. They have ears but cannot hear, - and noses but cannot smell. + +and noses but cannot smell. + 7. They have hands but cannot feel, - and feet but cannot walk, - and throats but cannot make a sound. + +and feet but cannot walk, + +and throats but cannot make a sound. + 8. And those who make idols are just like them, - as are all who trust in them. + +as are all who trust in them. + 9. O Israel, trust the LORD! - He is your helper and your shield. + +He is your helper and your shield. + 10. O priests, descendants of Aaron, trust the LORD! - He is your helper and your shield. + +He is your helper and your shield. + 11. All you who fear the LORD, trust the LORD! - He is your helper and your shield. + +He is your helper and your shield. + 12. The LORD remembers us and will bless us. - He will bless the people of Israel - and bless the priests, the descendants of Aaron. + +He will bless the people of Israel + +and bless the priests, the descendants of Aaron. + 13. He will bless those who fear the LORD, - both great and lowly. + +both great and lowly. + 14. May the LORD richly bless - both you and your children. + +both you and your children. + 15. May you be blessed by the LORD, - who made heaven and earth. + +who made heaven and earth. + 16. The heavens belong to the LORD, - but he has given the earth to all humanity. + +but he has given the earth to all humanity. + 17. The dead cannot sing praises to the LORD, - for they have gone into the silence of the grave. + +for they have gone into the silence of the grave. + 18. But we can praise the LORD - both now and forever! + +both now and forever! Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_116.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_116.md index 6ddb863f..b0884a44 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_116.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_116.md @@ -1,64 +1,94 @@ Psalm 116 + 1. I love the LORD because he hears my voice - and my prayer for mercy. + +and my prayer for mercy. + 2. Because he bends down to listen, - I will pray as long as I have breath! + +I will pray as long as I have breath! + 3. Death wrapped its ropes around me; the terrors of the grave overtook me. - I saw only trouble and sorrow. + +I saw only trouble and sorrow. + 4. Then I called on the name of the LORD: "Please, LORD, save me!" 5. How kind the LORD is! How good he is! - So merciful, this God of ours! + +So merciful, this God of ours! + 6. The LORD protects those of childlike faith; - I was facing death, and he saved me. + +I was facing death, and he saved me. + 7. Let my soul be at rest again, for the LORD has been good to me. 8. He has saved me from death, - my eyes from tears, - my feet from stumbling. + +my eyes from tears, + +my feet from stumbling. + 9. And so I walk in the LORD's presence - as I live here on earth! + +as I live here on earth! + 10. I believed in you, so I said, "I am deeply troubled, LORD." 11. In my anxiety I cried out to you, - "These people are all liars!" + +"These people are all liars!" + 12. What can I offer the LORD - for all he has done for me? + +for all he has done for me? + 13. I will lift up the cup of salvation and praise the LORD's name for saving me. 14. I will keep my promises to the LORD - in the presence of all his people. + +in the presence of all his people. + 15. The LORD cares deeply - when his loved ones die. + +when his loved ones die. + 16. O LORD, I am your servant; - yes, I am your servant, born into your household; - you have freed me from my chains. + +yes, I am your servant, born into your household; + +you have freed me from my chains. + 17. I will offer you a sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the LORD. 18. I will fulfill my vows to the LORD - in the presence of all his people-- + +in the presence of all his people-- 19. in the house of the LORD - in the heart of Jerusalem. + +in the heart of Jerusalem. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_117.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_117.md index ddad68fb..6c57c6e1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_117.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_117.md @@ -1,10 +1,14 @@ Psalm 117 + 1. Praise the LORD, all you nations. - Praise him, all you people of the earth. + +Praise him, all you people of the earth. + 2. For his unfailing love for us is powerful; the LORD's faithfulness endures forever. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_118.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_118.md index 19371226..cf0d37e2 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_118.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_118.md @@ -1,31 +1,45 @@ Psalm 118 + 1. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! - His faithful love endures forever. + +His faithful love endures forever. + 2. Let all Israel repeat: - "His faithful love endures forever." + " +His faithful love endures forever." 3. Let Aaron's descendants, the priests, repeat: - "His faithful love endures forever." + " +His faithful love endures forever." 4. Let all who fear the LORD repeat: - "His faithful love endures forever." + " +His faithful love endures forever." 5. In my distress I prayed to the LORD, and the LORD answered me and set me free. 6. The LORD is for me, so I will have no fear. - What can mere people do to me? + +What can mere people do to me? + 7. Yes, the LORD is for me; he will help me. - I will look in triumph at those who hate me. + +I will look in triumph at those who hate me. + 8. It is better to take refuge in the LORD - than to trust in people. + +than to trust in people. + 9. It is better to take refuge in the LORD - than to trust in princes. + +than to trust in princes. + 10. Though hostile nations surrounded me, I destroyed them all with the authority of the LORD. @@ -34,14 +48,17 @@ Psalm 118 but I destroyed them all with the authority of the LORD. 12. They swarmed around me like bees; - they blazed against me like a crackling fire. + +they blazed against me like a crackling fire. But I destroyed them all with the authority of the LORD. 13. My enemies did their best to kill me, but the LORD rescued me. 14. The LORD is my strength and my song; - he has given me victory. + +he has given me victory. + 15. Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly. The strong right arm of the LORD has done glorious things! @@ -53,25 +70,37 @@ Psalm 118 to tell what the LORD has done. 18. The LORD has punished me severely, - but he did not let me die. + +but he did not let me die. + 19. Open for me the gates where the righteous enter, and I will go in and thank the LORD. 20. These gates lead to the presence of the LORD, - and the godly enter there. + +and the godly enter there. + 21. I thank you for answering my prayer - and giving me victory! + +and giving me victory! + 22. The stone that the builders rejected - has now become the cornerstone. + +has now become the cornerstone. + 23. This is the LORD's doing, - and it is wonderful to see. + +and it is wonderful to see. + 24. This is the day the LORD has made. - We will rejoice and be glad in it. + +We will rejoice and be glad in it. + 25. Please, LORD, please save us. Please, LORD, please give us success. @@ -80,12 +109,18 @@ Psalm 118 We bless you from the house of the LORD. 27. The LORD is God, shining upon us. - Take the sacrifice and bind it with cords on the altar. + +Take the sacrifice and bind it with cords on the altar. + 28. You are my God, and I will praise you! - You are my God, and I will exalt you! + +You are my God, and I will exalt you! + 29. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! - His faithful love endures forever. + +His faithful love endures forever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_119.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_119.md index d4f0f40b..3a61da2d 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_119.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_119.md @@ -4,529 +4,879 @@ Psalm 119 who follow the instructions of the LORD. 2. Joyful are those who obey his laws - and search for him with all their hearts. + +and search for him with all their hearts. + 3. They do not compromise with evil, - and they walk only in his paths. + +and they walk only in his paths. + 4. You have charged us - to keep your commandments carefully. + +to keep your commandments carefully. + 5. Oh, that my actions would consistently - reflect your decrees! + +reflect your decrees! + 6. Then I will not be ashamed - when I compare my life with your commands. + +when I compare my life with your commands. + 7. As I learn your righteous regulations, - I will thank you by living as I should! + +I will thank you by living as I should! + + +8. +I will obey your decrees. + +Please don't give up on me! -8. I will obey your decrees. - Please don't give up on me! 9. How can a young person stay pure? - By obeying your word. + +By obeying your word. + 10. I have tried hard to find you-- - don't let me wander from your commands. + +don't let me wander from your commands. + 11. I have hidden your word in my heart, - that I might not sin against you. + +that I might not sin against you. + 12. I praise you, O LORD; - teach me your decrees. + +teach me your decrees. + 13. I have recited aloud - all the regulations you have given us. + +all the regulations you have given us. + 14. I have rejoiced in your laws - as much as in riches. + +as much as in riches. + 15. I will study your commandments - and reflect on your ways. + +and reflect on your ways. + 16. I will delight in your decrees - and not forget your word. + +and not forget your word. + 17. Be good to your servant, - that I may live and obey your word. + +that I may live and obey your word. + 18. Open my eyes to see - the wonderful truths in your instructions. + +the wonderful truths in your instructions. + 19. I am only a foreigner in the land. - Don't hide your commands from me! + +Don't hide your commands from me! + 20. I am always overwhelmed - with a desire for your regulations. + +with a desire for your regulations. + 21. You rebuke the arrogant; - those who wander from your commands are cursed. + +those who wander from your commands are cursed. + 22. Don't let them scorn and insult me, - for I have obeyed your laws. + +for I have obeyed your laws. + 23. Even princes sit and speak against me, - but I will meditate on your decrees. + +but I will meditate on your decrees. + 24. Your laws please me; - they give me wise advice. + +they give me wise advice. + 25. I lie in the dust; - revive me by your word. + +revive me by your word. + 26. I told you my plans, and you answered. - Now teach me your decrees. + Now +teach me your decrees. + + +27. + +Help me understand the meaning of your commandments, + +and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds. -27. Help me understand the meaning of your commandments, - and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds. 28. I weep with sorrow; - encourage me by your word. + +encourage me by your word. + 29. Keep me from lying to myself; - give me the privilege of knowing your instructions. + +give me the privilege of knowing your instructions. + 30. I have chosen to be faithful; - I have determined to live by your regulations. + +I have determined to live by your regulations. + 31. I cling to your laws. LORD, don't let me be put to shame! 32. I will pursue your commands, - for you expand my understanding. + +for you expand my understanding. + 33. Teach me your decrees, O LORD; - I will keep them to the end. + +I will keep them to the end. + 34. Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; - I will put them into practice with all my heart. + +I will put them into practice with all my heart. + 35. Make me walk along the path of your commands, - for that is where my happiness is found. + +for that is where my happiness is found. + 36. Give me an eagerness for your laws - rather than a love for money! + +rather than a love for money! + 37. Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word. 38. Reassure me of your promise, - made to those who fear you. + +made to those who fear you. + + +39. + +Help me abandon my shameful ways; + +for your regulations are good. -39. Help me abandon my shameful ways; - for your regulations are good. 40. I long to obey your commandments! - Renew my life with your goodness. + +Renew my life with your goodness. + 41. LORD, give me your unfailing love, - the salvation that you promised me. + +the salvation that you promised me. + 42. Then I can answer those who taunt me, - for I trust in your word. + +for I trust in your word. + 43. Do not snatch your word of truth from me, - for your regulations are my only hope. + +for your regulations are my only hope. + 44. I will keep on obeying your instructions - forever and ever. + +forever and ever. + 45. I will walk in freedom, - for I have devoted myself to your commandments. + +for I have devoted myself to your commandments. + 46. I will speak to kings about your laws, - and I will not be ashamed. + +and I will not be ashamed. + 47. How I delight in your commands! - How I love them! + +How I love them! + 48. I honor and love your commands. - I meditate on your decrees. + +I meditate on your decrees. + 49. Remember your promise to me; - it is my only hope. + +it is my only hope. + 50. Your promise revives me; - it comforts me in all my troubles. + +it comforts me in all my troubles. + 51. The proud hold me in utter contempt, - but I do not turn away from your instructions. + +but I do not turn away from your instructions. + 52. I meditate on your age-old regulations; O LORD, they comfort me. 53. I become furious with the wicked, - because they reject your instructions. + +because they reject your instructions. + 54. Your decrees have been the theme of my songs - wherever I have lived. + +wherever I have lived. + 55. I reflect at night on who you are, O LORD; - therefore, I obey your instructions. + +therefore, I obey your instructions. + 56. This is how I spend my life: - obeying your commandments. + +obeying your commandments. + 57. LORD, you are mine! - I promise to obey your words! + +I promise to obey your words! + 58. With all my heart I want your blessings. - Be merciful as you promised. + +Be merciful as you promised. + 59. I pondered the direction of my life, - and I turned to follow your laws. + +and I turned to follow your laws. + 60. I will hurry, without delay, - to obey your commands. + +to obey your commands. + 61. Evil people try to drag me into sin, - but I am firmly anchored to your instructions. + +but I am firmly anchored to your instructions. + 62. I rise at midnight to thank you - for your just regulations. + +for your just regulations. + 63. I am a friend to anyone who fears you-- - anyone who obeys your commandments. + +anyone who obeys your commandments. + 64. O LORD, your unfailing love fills the earth; - teach me your decrees. + +teach me your decrees. + 65. You have done many good things for me, LORD, - just as you promised. + +just as you promised. + 66. I believe in your commands; - now teach me good judgment and knowledge. + +now teach me good judgment and knowledge. + 67. I used to wander off until you disciplined me; - but now I closely follow your word. + +but now I closely follow your word. + 68. You are good and do only good; - teach me your decrees. + +teach me your decrees. + 69. Arrogant people smear me with lies, - but in truth I obey your commandments with all my heart. + +but in truth I obey your commandments with all my heart. + 70. Their hearts are dull and stupid, - but I delight in your instructions. + +but I delight in your instructions. + 71. My suffering was good for me, - for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees. + +for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees. + 72. Your instructions are more valuable to me - than millions in gold and silver. + +than millions in gold and silver. + 73. You made me; you created me. - Now give me the sense to follow your commands. + +Now give me the sense to follow your commands. + 74. May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy, - for I have put my hope in your word. + +for I have put my hope in your word. + 75. I know, O LORD, that your regulations are fair; - you disciplined me because I needed it. + +you disciplined me because I needed it. + 76. Now let your unfailing love comfort me, - just as you promised me, your servant. + +just as you promised me, your servant. + 77. Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live, - for your instructions are my delight. + +for your instructions are my delight. + 78. Bring disgrace upon the arrogant people who lied about me; - meanwhile, I will concentrate on your commandments. + +meanwhile, I will concentrate on your commandments. + 79. Let me be united with all who fear you, - with those who know your laws. + +with those who know your laws. + 80. May I be blameless in keeping your decrees; - then I will never be ashamed. + +then I will never be ashamed. + 81. I am worn out waiting for your rescue, - but I have put my hope in your word. + +but I have put my hope in your word. + 82. My eyes are straining to see your promises come true. - When will you comfort me? + +When will you comfort me? + 83. I am shriveled like a wineskin in the smoke, - but I have not forgotten to obey your decrees. + +but I have not forgotten to obey your decrees. + 84. How long must I wait? - When will you punish those who persecute me? + +When will you punish those who persecute me? + 85. These arrogant people who hate your instructions - have dug deep pits to trap me. + +have dug deep pits to trap me. + 86. All your commands are trustworthy. - Protect me from those who hunt me down without cause. + +Protect me from those who hunt me down without cause. + 87. They almost finished me off, - but I refused to abandon your commandments. + +but I refused to abandon your commandments. + 88. In your unfailing love, spare my life; - then I can continue to obey your laws. + +then I can continue to obey your laws. + 89. Your eternal word, O LORD, - stands firm in heaven. + +stands firm in heaven. + 90. Your faithfulness extends to every generation, - as enduring as the earth you created. + +as enduring as the earth you created. + 91. Your regulations remain true to this day, - for everything serves your plans. + +for everything serves your plans. + 92. If your instructions hadn't sustained me with joy, - I would have died in my misery. + +I would have died in my misery. + 93. I will never forget your commandments, - for by them you give me life. + +for by them you give me life. + 94. I am yours; rescue me! - For I have worked hard at obeying your commandments. + For I have worked hard at +obeying your commandments. + 95. Though the wicked hide along the way to kill me, - I will quietly keep my mind on your laws. + +I will quietly keep my mind on your laws. + 96. Even perfection has its limits, - but your commands have no limit. + +but your commands have no limit. + 97. Oh, how I love your instructions! - I think about them all day long. + +I think about them all day long. + 98. Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, - for they are my constant guide. + +for they are my constant guide. + 99. Yes, I have more insight than my teachers, - for I am always thinking of your laws. + +for I am always thinking of your laws. + 100. I am even wiser than my elders, - for I have kept your commandments. + +for I have kept your commandments. + 101. I have refused to walk on any evil path, - so that I may remain obedient to your word. + +so that I may remain obedient to your word. + 102. I haven't turned away from your regulations, - for you have taught me well. + +for you have taught me well. + 103. How sweet your words taste to me; - they are sweeter than honey. + +they are sweeter than honey. + 104. Your commandments give me understanding; - no wonder I hate every false way of life. + +no wonder I hate every false way of life. + 105. Your word is a lamp to guide my feet - and a light for my path. + +and a light for my path. + 106. I've promised it once, and I'll promise it again: - I will obey your righteous regulations. + +I will obey your righteous regulations. + 107. I have suffered much, O LORD; - restore my life again as you promised. + +restore my life again as you promised. + 108. LORD, accept my offering of praise, - and teach me your regulations. + +and teach me your regulations. + 109. My life constantly hangs in the balance, - but I will not stop obeying your instructions. + +but I will not stop obeying your instructions. + 110. The wicked have set their traps for me, - but I will not turn from your commandments. + +but I will not turn from your commandments. + 111. Your laws are my treasure; - they are my heart's delight. + +they are my heart's delight. + 112. I am determined to keep your decrees - to the very end. + +to the very end. + 113. I hate those with divided loyalties, - but I love your instructions. + +but I love your instructions. + 114. You are my refuge and my shield; - your word is my source of hope. + +your word is my source of hope. + 115. Get out of my life, you evil-minded people, - for I intend to obey the commands of my God. + +for I intend to obey the commands of my God. + 116. LORD, sustain me as you promised, that I may live! - Do not let my hope be crushed. + +Do not let my hope be crushed. + 117. Sustain me, and I will be rescued; - then I will meditate continually on your decrees. + +then I will meditate continually on your decrees. + 118. But you have rejected all who stray from your decrees. - They are only fooling themselves. + +They are only fooling themselves. + 119. You skim off the wicked of the earth like scum; - no wonder I love to obey your laws! + +no wonder I love to obey your laws! + 120. I tremble in fear of you; - I stand in awe of your regulations. + +I stand in awe of your regulations. + 121. Don't leave me to the mercy of my enemies, - for I have done what is just and right. + +for I have done what is just and right. + 122. Please guarantee a blessing for me. - Don't let the arrogant oppress me! + +Don't let the arrogant oppress me! + 123. My eyes strain to see your rescue, - to see the truth of your promise fulfilled. + +to see the truth of your promise fulfilled. + 124. I am your servant; deal with me in unfailing love, - and teach me your decrees. + and +teach me your decrees. + 125. Give discernment to me, your servant; - then I will understand your laws. + +then I will understand your laws. + 126. LORD, it is time for you to act, - for these evil people have violated your instructions. + +for these evil people have violated your instructions. + 127. Truly, I love your commands - more than gold, even the finest gold. + +more than gold, even the finest gold. + 128. Each of your commandments is right. - That is why I hate every false way. + +That is why I hate every false way. + 129. Your laws are wonderful. - No wonder I obey them! + +No wonder I obey them! + 130. The teaching of your word gives light, - so even the simple can understand. + +so even the simple can understand. + 131. I pant with expectation, - longing for your commands. + +longing for your commands. + 132. Come and show me your mercy, - as you do for all who love your name. + +as you do for all who love your name. + 133. Guide my steps by your word, - so I will not be overcome by evil. + +so I will not be overcome by evil. + 134. Ransom me from the oppression of evil people; - then I can obey your commandments. + +then I can obey your commandments. + 135. Look upon me with love; - teach me your decrees. + +teach me your decrees. + 136. Rivers of tears gush from my eyes - because people disobey your instructions. + +because people disobey your instructions. + 137. O LORD, you are righteous, - and your regulations are fair. + +and your regulations are fair. + 138. Your laws are perfect - and completely trustworthy. + +and completely trustworthy. + 139. I am overwhelmed with indignation, - for my enemies have disregarded your words. + +for my enemies have disregarded your words. + 140. Your promises have been thoroughly tested; - that is why I love them so much. + +that is why I love them so much. + 141. I am insignificant and despised, - but I don't forget your commandments. + +but I don't forget your commandments. + 142. Your justice is eternal, - and your instructions are perfectly true. + +and your instructions are perfectly true. + 143. As pressure and stress bear down on me, - I find joy in your commands. + +I find joy in your commands. + 144. Your laws are always right; - help me to understand them so I may live. + +help me to understand them so I may live. + 145. I pray with all my heart; answer me, LORD! - I will obey your decrees. + +I will obey your decrees. + 146. I cry out to you; rescue me, - that I may obey your laws. + +that I may obey your laws. + 147. I rise early, before the sun is up; - I cry out for help and put my hope in your words. + +I cry out for help and put my hope in your words. + 148. I stay awake through the night, - thinking about your promise. + +thinking about your promise. + 149. In your faithful love, O LORD, hear my cry; - let me be revived by following your regulations. + +let me be revived by following your regulations. + 150. Lawless people are coming to attack me; - they live far from your instructions. + +they live far from your instructions. + 151. But you are near, O LORD, - and all your commands are true. + +and all your commands are true. + 152. I have known from my earliest days - that your laws will last forever. + +that your laws will last forever. + 153. Look upon my suffering and rescue me, - for I have not forgotten your instructions. + +for I have not forgotten your instructions. + 154. Argue my case; take my side! - Protect my life as you promised. + +Protect my life as you promised. + 155. The wicked are far from rescue, - for they do not bother with your decrees. + +for they do not bother with your decrees. + 156. LORD, how great is your mercy; - let me be revived by following your regulations. + +let me be revived by following your regulations. + 157. Many persecute and trouble me, - yet I have not swerved from your laws. + +yet I have not swerved from your laws. + 158. Seeing these traitors makes me sick at heart, - because they care nothing for your word. + +because they care nothing for your word. + 159. See how I love your commandments, LORD. - Give back my life because of your unfailing love. + +Give back my life because of your unfailing love. + 160. The very essence of your words is truth; - all your just regulations will stand forever. + +all your just regulations will stand forever. + 161. Powerful people harass me without cause, - but my heart trembles only at your word. + +but my heart trembles only at your word. + 162. I rejoice in your word - like one who discovers a great treasure. + +like one who discovers a great treasure. + 163. I hate and abhor all falsehood, - but I love your instructions. + +but I love your instructions. + 164. I will praise you seven times a day - because all your regulations are just. + +because all your regulations are just. + 165. Those who love your instructions have great peace - and do not stumble. + +and do not stumble. + 166. I long for your rescue, LORD, - so I have obeyed your commands. + +so I have obeyed your commands. + 167. I have obeyed your laws, - for I love them very much. + +for I love them very much. + 168. Yes, I obey your commandments and laws - because you know everything I do. + +because you know everything I do. + 169. O LORD, listen to my cry; - give me the discerning mind you promised. + +give me the discerning mind you promised. + 170. Listen to my prayer; - rescue me as you promised. + +rescue me as you promised. + 171. Let praise flow from my lips, - for you have taught me your decrees. + +for you have taught me your decrees. + 172. Let my tongue sing about your word, - for all your commands are right. + +for all your commands are right. + 173. Give me a helping hand, - for I have chosen to follow your commandments. + +for I have chosen to follow your commandments. + 174. O LORD, I have longed for your rescue, - and your instructions are my delight. + +and your instructions are my delight. + 175. Let me live so I can praise you, - and may your regulations help me. + +and may your regulations help me. + 176. I have wandered away like a lost sheep; - come and find me, - for I have not forgotten your commands. + +come and find me, + +for I have not forgotten your commands. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_12.md index 5b643f39..16be9072 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_12.md @@ -1,30 +1,49 @@ Psalm 12 -1. Help, O LORD, for the godly are fast disappearing! - The faithful have vanished from the earth! + +1. +Help, O LORD, for the godly are fast disappearing! + +The faithful have vanished from the earth! + 2. Neighbors lie to each other, - speaking with flattering lips and deceitful hearts. + +speaking with flattering lips and deceitful hearts. + 3. May the LORD cut off their flattering lips - and silence their boastful tongues. + +and silence their boastful tongues. + 4. They say, "We will lie to our hearts' content. Our lips are our own--who can stop us?" 5. The LORD replies, "I have seen violence done to the helpless, - and I have heard the groans of the poor. + +and I have heard the groans of the poor. + Now I will rise up to rescue them, - as they have longed for me to do." + +as they have longed for me to do." + 6. The LORD's promises are pure, - like silver refined in a furnace, - purified seven times over. + +like silver refined in a furnace, + +purified seven times over. + 7. Therefore, LORD, we know you will protect the oppressed, - preserving them forever from this lying generation, + +preserving them forever from this lying generation, + 8. even though the wicked strut about, - and evil is praised throughout the land. + +and evil is praised throughout the land. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_120.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_120.md index 6086d9e5..0d979747 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_120.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_120.md @@ -1,24 +1,39 @@ Psalm 120 + 1. I took my troubles to the LORD; - I cried out to him, and he answered my prayer. + +I cried out to him, and he answered my prayer. + 2. Rescue me, O LORD, from liars - and from all deceitful people. + +and from all deceitful people. + 3. O deceptive tongue, what will God do to you? - How will he increase your punishment? + +How will he increase your punishment? + 4. You will be pierced with sharp arrows - and burned with glowing coals. + +and burned with glowing coals. + 5. How I suffer in far-off Meshech. - It pains me to live in distant Kedar. + +It pains me to live in distant Kedar. + 6. I am tired of living - among people who hate peace. + +among people who hate peace. + 7. I search for peace; - but when I speak of peace, they want war! + +but when I speak of peace, they want war! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_121.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_121.md index 15b920fe..aed2b18c 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_121.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_121.md @@ -1,27 +1,42 @@ Psalm 121 + 1. I look up to the mountains-- - does my help come from there? + +does my help come from there? + 2. My help comes from the LORD, - who made heaven and earth! + +who made heaven and earth! + 3. He will not let you stumble; - the one who watches over you will not slumber. + +the one who watches over you will not slumber. + 4. Indeed, he who watches over Israel - never slumbers or sleeps. + +never slumbers or sleeps. + 5. The LORD himself watches over you! The LORD stands beside you as your protective shade. 6. The sun will not harm you by day, - nor the moon at night. + +nor the moon at night. + 7. The LORD keeps you from all harm - and watches over your life. + +and watches over your life. + 8. The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go, - both now and forever. + +both now and forever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_122.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_122.md index 9be8993f..49521b90 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_122.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_122.md @@ -1,32 +1,50 @@ Psalm 122 + 1. I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD." 2. And now here we are, - standing inside your gates, O Jerusalem. + +standing inside your gates, O Jerusalem. + 3. Jerusalem is a well-built city; - its seamless walls cannot be breached. + +its seamless walls cannot be breached. + 4. All the tribes of Israel--the LORD's people-- - make their pilgrimage here. + +make their pilgrimage here. They come to give thanks to the name of the LORD, - as the law requires of Israel. + +as the law requires of Israel. + 5. Here stand the thrones where judgment is given, - the thrones of the dynasty of David. + +the thrones of the dynasty of David. + 6. Pray for peace in Jerusalem. - May all who love this city prosper. + +May all who love this city prosper. + 7. O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls - and prosperity in your palaces. + +and prosperity in your palaces. + 8. For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, - "May you have peace." + +"May you have peace." + 9. For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, - I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem. + +I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_123.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_123.md index 6190b96e..d4173c02 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_123.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_123.md @@ -1,16 +1,26 @@ Psalm 123 + 1. I lift my eyes to you, - O God, enthroned in heaven. + +O God, enthroned in heaven. + 2. We keep looking to the LORD our God for his mercy, - just as servants keep their eyes on their master, - as a slave girl watches her mistress for the slightest signal. + +just as servants keep their eyes on their master, + +as a slave girl watches her mistress for the slightest signal. + 3. Have mercy on us, LORD, have mercy, - for we have had our fill of contempt. + +for we have had our fill of contempt. + 4. We have had more than our fill of the scoffing of the proud - and the contempt of the arrogant. + +and the contempt of the arrogant. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_124.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_124.md index d7ec1ff8..cd008ed9 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_124.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_124.md @@ -1,27 +1,44 @@ Psalm 124 + 1. What if the LORD had not been on our side? - Let all Israel repeat: + +Let all Israel repeat: + 2. What if the LORD had not been on our side - when people attacked us? + +when people attacked us? + 3. They would have swallowed us alive - in their burning anger. + +in their burning anger. + 4. The waters would have engulfed us; - a torrent would have overwhelmed us. + +a torrent would have overwhelmed us. + 5. Yes, the raging waters of their fury - would have overwhelmed our very lives. + +would have overwhelmed our very lives. + 6. Praise the LORD, - who did not let their teeth tear us apart! + +who did not let their teeth tear us apart! + 7. We escaped like a bird from a hunter's trap. - The trap is broken, and we are free! + +The trap is broken, and we are free! + 8. Our help is from the LORD, - who made heaven and earth. + +who made heaven and earth. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_125.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_125.md index a3465901..75a179ee 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_125.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_125.md @@ -1,19 +1,29 @@ Psalm 125 + 1. Those who trust in the LORD are as secure as Mount Zion; - they will not be defeated but will endure forever. + +they will not be defeated but will endure forever. + 2. Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, both now and forever. 3. The wicked will not rule the land of the godly, - for then the godly might be tempted to do wrong. + +for then the godly might be tempted to do wrong. + 4. O LORD, do good to those who are good, - whose hearts are in tune with you. + +whose hearts are in tune with you. + 5. But banish those who turn to crooked ways, O LORD. - Take them away with those who do evil. + +Take them away with those who do evil. + May Israel have peace! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_126.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_126.md index f3b64132..9ba55275 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_126.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_126.md @@ -1,23 +1,36 @@ Psalm 126 + 1. When the LORD brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, - it was like a dream! + +it was like a dream! + 2. We were filled with laughter, - and we sang for joy. + +and we sang for joy. + And the other nations said, "What amazing things the LORD has done for them." 3. Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us! - What joy! + +What joy! + 4. Restore our fortunes, LORD, - as streams renew the desert. + +as streams renew the desert. + 5. Those who plant in tears - will harvest with shouts of joy. + +will harvest with shouts of joy. + 6. They weep as they go to plant their seed, - but they sing as they return with the harvest. + +but they sing as they return with the harvest. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_127.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_127.md index de460a11..7f2badd4 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_127.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_127.md @@ -1,22 +1,35 @@ Psalm 127 + 1. Unless the LORD builds a house, - the work of the builders is wasted. + +the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the LORD protects a city, - guarding it with sentries will do no good. + +guarding it with sentries will do no good. + 2. It is useless for you to work so hard - from early morning until late at night, + +from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; - for God gives rest to his loved ones. + +for God gives rest to his loved ones. + 3. Children are a gift from the LORD; - they are a reward from him. + +they are a reward from him. + 4. Children born to a young man - are like arrows in a warrior's hands. + +are like arrows in a warrior's hands. + 5. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! - He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates. + +He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_128.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_128.md index ebb44408..e88b431a 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_128.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_128.md @@ -1,23 +1,38 @@ Psalm 128 + 1. How joyful are those who fear the LORD-- - all who follow his ways! + +all who follow his ways! + 2. You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. - How joyful and prosperous you will be! + +How joyful and prosperous you will be! + 3. Your wife will be like a fruitful grapevine, - flourishing within your home. + +flourishing within your home. + Your children will be like vigorous young olive trees - as they sit around your table. + +as they sit around your table. + 4. That is the LORD's blessing - for those who fear him. + +for those who fear him. + 5. May the LORD continually bless you from Zion. - May you see Jerusalem prosper as long as you live. + +May you see Jerusalem prosper as long as you live. + 6. May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. - May Israel have peace! + +May Israel have peace! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_129.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_129.md index 24240a69..a6a10743 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_129.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_129.md @@ -1,29 +1,46 @@ Psalm 129 + 1. From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me. - Let all Israel repeat this: + +Let all Israel repeat this: + 2. From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me, - but they have never defeated me. + +but they have never defeated me. + 3. My back is covered with cuts, - as if a farmer had plowed long furrows. + +as if a farmer had plowed long furrows. + 4. But the LORD is good; - he has cut me free from the ropes of the ungodly. + +he has cut me free from the ropes of the ungodly. + 5. May all who hate Jerusalem - be turned back in shameful defeat. + +be turned back in shameful defeat. + 6. May they be as useless as grass on a rooftop, - turning yellow when only half grown, + +turning yellow when only half grown, + 7. ignored by the harvester, - despised by the binder. + +despised by the binder. + 8. And may those who pass by - refuse to give them this blessing: + +refuse to give them this blessing: "The LORD bless you; we bless you in the LORD's name." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_13.md index b19d35f1..51ce6991 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_13.md @@ -1,22 +1,36 @@ Psalm 13 + 1. O LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever? - How long will you look the other way? + +How long will you look the other way? + 2. How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, - with sorrow in my heart every day? - How long will my enemy have the upper hand? + +with sorrow in my heart every day? + +How long will my enemy have the upper hand? + 3. Turn and answer me, O LORD my God! - Restore the sparkle to my eyes, or I will die. + +Restore the sparkle to my eyes, or I will die. + 4. Don't let my enemies gloat, saying, "We have defeated him!" - Don't let them rejoice at my downfall. + +Don't let them rejoice at my downfall. + 5. But I trust in your unfailing love. - I will rejoice because you have rescued me. + +I will rejoice because you have rescued me. + 6. I will sing to the LORD - because he is good to me. + +because he is good to me. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_130.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_130.md index 8dc1406f..803aaae8 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_130.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_130.md @@ -1,30 +1,49 @@ Psalm 130 + 1. From the depths of despair, O LORD, - I call for your help. + +I call for your help. + 2. Hear my cry, O Lord. - Pay attention to my prayer. + +Pay attention to my prayer. + 3. LORD, if you kept a record of our sins, - who, O Lord, could ever survive? + +who, O Lord, could ever survive? + 4. But you offer forgiveness, - that we might learn to fear you. + +that we might learn to fear you. + 5. I am counting on the LORD; - yes, I am counting on him. - I have put my hope in his word. + +yes, I am counting on him. + +I have put my hope in his word. + 6. I long for the Lord - more than sentries long for the dawn, - yes, more than sentries long for the dawn. + +more than sentries long for the dawn, + +yes, more than sentries long for the dawn. + 7. O Israel, hope in the LORD; for with the LORD there is unfailing love. - His redemption overflows. + +His redemption overflows. + 8. He himself will redeem Israel - from every kind of sin. + +from every kind of sin. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_131.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_131.md index 9c5c1578..1115b784 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_131.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_131.md @@ -1,15 +1,25 @@ Psalm 131 + 1. LORD, my heart is not proud; - my eyes are not haughty. + +my eyes are not haughty. + I don't concern myself with matters too great - or too awesome for me to grasp. + +or too awesome for me to grasp. + 2. Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself, - like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother's milk. - Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me. + +like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother's milk. + +Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me. + 3. O Israel, put your hope in the LORD-- - now and always. + +now and always. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_132.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_132.md index 19d21335..9630a8f7 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_132.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_132.md @@ -1,61 +1,98 @@ Psalm 132 + 1. LORD, remember David - and all that he suffered. + +and all that he suffered. + 2. He made a solemn promise to the LORD. He vowed to the Mighty One of Israel, 3. "I will not go home; - I will not let myself rest. + +I will not let myself rest. + 4. I will not let my eyes sleep - nor close my eyelids in slumber + +nor close my eyelids in slumber + 5. until I find a place to build a house for the LORD, - a sanctuary for the Mighty One of Israel." + +a sanctuary for the Mighty One of Israel." + 6. We heard that the Ark was in Ephrathah; - then we found it in the distant countryside of Jaar. + +then we found it in the distant countryside of Jaar. + 7. Let us go to the sanctuary of the LORD; - let us worship at the footstool of his throne. + +let us worship at the footstool of his throne. + 8. Arise, O LORD, and enter your resting place, - along with the Ark, the symbol of your power. + +along with the Ark, the symbol of your power. + 9. May your priests be clothed in godliness; - may your loyal servants sing for joy. + +may your loyal servants sing for joy. + 10. For the sake of your servant David, - do not reject the king you have anointed. + +do not reject the king you have anointed. + 11. The LORD swore an oath to David - with a promise he will never take back: + +with a promise he will never take back: "I will place one of your descendants - on your throne. + +on your throne. + 12. If your descendants obey the terms of my covenant - and the laws that I teach them, + +and the laws that I teach them, then your royal line - will continue forever and ever." + +will continue forever and ever." + 13. For the LORD has chosen Jerusalem; - he has desired it for his home. + +he has desired it for his home. + 14. "This is my resting place forever," he said. - "I will live here, for this is the home I desired. + +"I will live here, for this is the home I desired. + 15. I will bless this city and make it prosperous; - I will satisfy its poor with food. + +I will satisfy its poor with food. + 16. I will clothe its priests with godliness; - its faithful servants will sing for joy. + +its faithful servants will sing for joy. + 17. Here I will increase the power of David; - my anointed one will be a light for my people. + +my anointed one will be a light for my people. + 18. I will clothe his enemies with shame, - but he will be a glorious king." + +but he will be a glorious king." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_133.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_133.md index 9e2979e5..a66aa377 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_133.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_133.md @@ -1,16 +1,26 @@ Psalm 133 + 1. How wonderful and pleasant it is - when brothers live together in harmony! + +when brothers live together in harmony! + 2. For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil - that was poured over Aaron's head, - that ran down his beard - and onto the border of his robe. + +that was poured over Aaron's head, + +that ran down his beard + +and onto the border of his robe. + 3. Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon - that falls on the mountains of Zion. + +that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the LORD has pronounced his blessing, - even life everlasting. + +even life everlasting. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_134.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_134.md index 2f5e5241..ef217768 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_134.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_134.md @@ -1,5 +1,6 @@ Psalm 134 + 1. Oh, praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, you who serve at night in the house of the LORD. @@ -10,3 +11,4 @@ Psalm 134 bless you from Jerusalem. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_135.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_135.md index 05d55d8e..9f9683a1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_135.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_135.md @@ -1,62 +1,97 @@ Psalm 135 + 1. Praise the LORD! Praise the name of the LORD! Praise him, you who serve the LORD, 2. you who serve in the house of the LORD, - in the courts of the house of our God. + +in the courts of the house of our God. + 3. Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good; - celebrate his lovely name with music. + +celebrate his lovely name with music. + 4. For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself, - Israel for his own special treasure. + +Israel for his own special treasure. + 5. I know the greatness of the LORD-- - that our Lord is greater than any other god. + +that our Lord is greater than any other god. + 6. The LORD does whatever pleases him - throughout all heaven and earth, - and on the seas and in their depths. + +throughout all heaven and earth, + +and on the seas and in their depths. + 7. He causes the clouds to rise over the whole earth. - He sends the lightning with the rain - and releases the wind from his storehouses. + +He sends the lightning with the rain + +and releases the wind from his storehouses. + 8. He destroyed the firstborn in each Egyptian home, - both people and animals. + +both people and animals. + 9. He performed miraculous signs and wonders in Egypt - against Pharaoh and all his people. + +against Pharaoh and all his people. + 10. He struck down great nations - and slaughtered mighty kings-- + +and slaughtered mighty kings-- 11. Sihon king of the Amorites, - Og king of Bashan, - and all the kings of Canaan. + +Og king of Bashan, + +and all the kings of Canaan. + 12. He gave their land as an inheritance, - a special possession to his people Israel. + +a special possession to his people Israel. + 13. Your name, O LORD, endures forever; your fame, O LORD, is known to every generation. 14. For the LORD will give justice to his people - and have compassion on his servants. + +and have compassion on his servants. + 15. The idols of the nations are merely things of silver and gold, - shaped by human hands. + +shaped by human hands. + 16. They have mouths but cannot speak, - and eyes but cannot see. + +and eyes but cannot see. + 17. They have ears but cannot hear, - and mouths but cannot breathe. + +and mouths but cannot breathe. + 18. And those who make idols are just like them, - as are all who trust in them. + +as are all who trust in them. + 19. O Israel, praise the LORD! O priests--descendants of Aaron--praise the LORD! @@ -65,7 +100,9 @@ Praise the name of the LORD! All you who fear the LORD, praise the LORD! 21. The LORD be praised from Zion, - for he lives here in Jerusalem. + +for he lives here in Jerusalem. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_136.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_136.md index d7cad052..83ab4f3a 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_136.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_136.md @@ -1,81 +1,127 @@ Psalm 136 + 1. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. + 2. Give thanks to the God of gods. + His faithful love endures forever. + 3. Give thanks to the Lord of lords. + His faithful love endures forever. + 4. Give thanks to him who alone does mighty miracles. + His faithful love endures forever. + 5. Give thanks to him who made the heavens so skillfully. + His faithful love endures forever. + 6. Give thanks to him who placed the earth among the waters. + His faithful love endures forever. + 7. Give thanks to him who made the heavenly lights-- His faithful love endures forever. + 8. the sun to rule the day, His faithful love endures forever. + 9. and the moon and stars to rule the night. + His faithful love endures forever. + 10. Give thanks to him who killed the firstborn of Egypt. + His faithful love endures forever. + 11. He brought Israel out of Egypt. + His faithful love endures forever. + 12. He acted with a strong hand and powerful arm. + His faithful love endures forever. + 13. Give thanks to him who parted the Red Sea. + His faithful love endures forever. + 14. He led Israel safely through, His faithful love endures forever. + 15. but he hurled Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea. + His faithful love endures forever. + 16. Give thanks to him who led his people through the wilderness. + His faithful love endures forever. + 17. Give thanks to him who struck down mighty kings. + His faithful love endures forever. + 18. He killed powerful kings-- His faithful love endures forever. + 19. Sihon king of the Amorites, His faithful love endures forever. + 20. and Og king of Bashan. + His faithful love endures forever. + 21. God gave the land of these kings as an inheritance-- His faithful love endures forever. + 22. a special possession to his servant Israel. + His faithful love endures forever. + 23. He remembered us in our weakness. + His faithful love endures forever. + 24. He saved us from our enemies. + His faithful love endures forever. + 25. He gives food to every living thing. + His faithful love endures forever. + 26. Give thanks to the God of heaven. + His faithful love endures forever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_137.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_137.md index 59217533..f5df7a5c 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_137.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_137.md @@ -1,35 +1,57 @@ Psalm 137 + 1. Beside the rivers of Babylon, we sat and wept as we thought of Jerusalem. 2. We put away our harps, - hanging them on the branches of poplar trees. + +hanging them on the branches of poplar trees. + 3. For our captors demanded a song from us. - Our tormentors insisted on a joyful hymn: - "Sing us one of those songs of Jerusalem!" + +Our tormentors insisted on a joyful hymn: + +"Sing us one of those songs of Jerusalem!" + 4. But how can we sing the songs of the LORD - while in a pagan land? + +while in a pagan land? + 5. If I forget you, O Jerusalem, - let my right hand forget how to play the harp. + +let my right hand forget how to play the harp. + 6. May my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth - if I fail to remember you, - if I don't make Jerusalem my greatest joy. + +if I fail to remember you, + +if I don't make Jerusalem my greatest joy. + 7. O LORD, remember what the Edomites did - on the day the armies of Babylon captured Jerusalem. + +on the day the armies of Babylon captured Jerusalem. + "Destroy it!" they yelled. - "Level it to the ground!" + +"Level it to the ground!" + 8. O Babylon, you will be destroyed. - Happy is the one who pays you back - for what you have done to us. + +Happy is the one who pays you back + +for what you have done to us. + 9. Happy is the one who takes your babies - and smashes them against the rocks! + +and smashes them against the rocks! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_138.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_138.md index baf6d0e9..5f4eed6b 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_138.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_138.md @@ -1,32 +1,50 @@ Psalm 138 + 1. I give you thanks, O LORD, with all my heart; - I will sing your praises before the gods. + +I will sing your praises before the gods. + 2. I bow before your holy Temple as I worship. - I praise your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness; + +I praise your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness; for your promises are backed - by all the honor of your name. + +by all the honor of your name. + 3. As soon as I pray, you answer me; - you encourage me by giving me strength. + +you encourage me by giving me strength. + 4. Every king in all the earth will thank you, LORD, - for all of them will hear your words. + +for all of them will hear your words. + 5. Yes, they will sing about the LORD's ways, for the glory of the LORD is very great. 6. Though the LORD is great, he cares for the humble, - but he keeps his distance from the proud. + +but he keeps his distance from the proud. + 7. Though I am surrounded by troubles, - you will protect me from the anger of my enemies. + +you will protect me from the anger of my enemies. + You reach out your hand, - and the power of your right hand saves me. + +and the power of your right hand saves me. + 8. The LORD will work out his plans for my life-- for your faithful love, O LORD, endures forever. - Don't abandon me, for you made me. + +Don't abandon me, for you made me. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_139.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_139.md index e0ced32a..32b98ea1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_139.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_139.md @@ -1,81 +1,128 @@ Psalm 139 + 1. O LORD, you have examined my heart - and know everything about me. + +and know everything about me. + 2. You know when I sit down or stand up. - You know my thoughts even when I'm far away. + +You know my thoughts even when I'm far away. + 3. You see me when I travel - and when I rest at home. - You know everything I do. + +and when I rest at home. + +You know everything I do. + 4. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. 5. You go before me and follow me. - You place your hand of blessing on my head. + +You place your hand of blessing on my head. + 6. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, - too great for me to understand! + +too great for me to understand! + 7. I can never escape from your Spirit! - I can never get away from your presence! + +I can never get away from your presence! + 8. If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. 9. If I ride the wings of the morning, - if I dwell by the farthest oceans, + +if I dwell by the farthest oceans, + 10. even there your hand will guide me, - and your strength will support me. + +and your strength will support me. + 11. I could ask the darkness to hide me - and the light around me to become night-- + +and the light around me to become night-- 12. but even in darkness I cannot hide from you. + To you the night shines as bright as day. - Darkness and light are the same to you. + +Darkness and light are the same to you. + 13. You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body - and knit me together in my mother's womb. + +and knit me together in my mother's womb. + 14. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous--how well I know it. 15. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, - as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. + +as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. + 16. You saw me before I was born. - Every day of my life was recorded in your book. + +Every day of my life was recorded in your book. + Every moment was laid out - before a single day had passed. + +before a single day had passed. + 17. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. - They cannot be numbered! + +They cannot be numbered! + 18. I can't even count them; - they outnumber the grains of sand! + +they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, - you are still with me! + +you are still with me! + 19. O God, if only you would destroy the wicked! - Get out of my life, you murderers! + +Get out of my life, you murderers! + 20. They blaspheme you; - your enemies misuse your name. + +your enemies misuse your name. + 21. O LORD, shouldn't I hate those who hate you? - Shouldn't I despise those who oppose you? + +Shouldn't I despise those who oppose you? + 22. Yes, I hate them with total hatred, - for your enemies are my enemies. + +for your enemies are my enemies. + 23. Search me, O God, and know my heart; - test me and know my anxious thoughts. + +test me and know my anxious thoughts. + 24. Point out anything in me that offends you, - and lead me along the path of everlasting life. + +and lead me along the path of everlasting life. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_14.md index 3a5a36d9..70f1db7d 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_14.md @@ -1,32 +1,47 @@ Psalm 14 + 1. Only fools say in their hearts, - "There is no God." + +"There is no God." They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; - not one of them does good! + +not one of them does good! + 2. The LORD looks down from heaven - on the entire human race; + +on the entire human race; he looks to see if anyone is truly wise, - if anyone seeks God. + +if anyone seeks God. + 3. But no, all have turned away; all have become corrupt. + No one does good, - not a single one! + +not a single one! + 4. Will those who do evil never learn? - They eat up my people like bread + +They eat up my people like bread and wouldn't think of praying to the LORD. 5. Terror will grip them, - for God is with those who obey him. + +for God is with those who obey him. + 6. The wicked frustrate the plans of the oppressed, but the LORD will protect his people. 7. Who will come from Mount Zion to rescue Israel? When the LORD restores his people, - Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice. + +Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_140.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_140.md index 0c39329f..4436b38c 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_140.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_140.md @@ -1,46 +1,75 @@ Psalm 140 + 1. O LORD, rescue me from evil people. - Protect me from those who are violent, + +Protect me from those who are violent, + 2. those who plot evil in their hearts - and stir up trouble all day long. + +and stir up trouble all day long. + 3. Their tongues sting like a snake; - the venom of a viper drips from their lips. Interlude + +the venom of a viper drips from their lips. Interlude + 4. O LORD, keep me out of the hands of the wicked. - Protect me from those who are violent, - for they are plotting against me. + +Protect me from those who are violent, + +for they are plotting against me. + 5. The proud have set a trap to catch me; - they have stretched out a net; - they have placed traps all along the way. Interlude + +they have stretched out a net; + +they have placed traps all along the way. Interlude + 6. I said to the LORD, "You are my God!" Listen, O LORD, to my cries for mercy! 7. O Sovereign LORD, the strong one who rescued me, - you protected me on the day of battle. + +you protected me on the day of battle. + 8. LORD, do not let evil people have their way. - Do not let their evil schemes succeed, - or they will become proud. Interlude + +Do not let their evil schemes succeed, + +or they will become proud. Interlude + 9. Let my enemies be destroyed - by the very evil they have planned for me. + +by the very evil they have planned for me. + 10. Let burning coals fall down on their heads. - Let them be thrown into the fire - or into watery pits from which they can't escape. + +Let them be thrown into the fire + +or into watery pits from which they can't escape. + 11. Don't let liars prosper here in our land. - Cause great disasters to fall on the violent. + +Cause great disasters to fall on the violent. + 12. But I know the LORD will help those they persecute; - he will give justice to the poor. + +he will give justice to the poor. + 13. Surely righteous people are praising your name; - the godly will live in your presence. + +the godly will live in your presence. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_141.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_141.md index 48fd3aa7..3462e849 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_141.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_141.md @@ -1,39 +1,63 @@ Psalm 141 + 1. O LORD, I am calling to you. Please hurry! - Listen when I cry to you for help! + +Listen when I cry to you for help! + 2. Accept my prayer as incense offered to you, - and my upraised hands as an evening offering. + +and my upraised hands as an evening offering. + 3. Take control of what I say, O LORD, - and guard my lips. + +and guard my lips. + 4. Don't let me drift toward evil - or take part in acts of wickedness. + +or take part in acts of wickedness. + Don't let me share in the delicacies - of those who do wrong. + +of those who do wrong. + 5. Let the godly strike me! - It will be a kindness! + +It will be a kindness! If they correct me, it is soothing medicine. - Don't let me refuse it. + +Don't let me refuse it. + But I pray constantly - against the wicked and their deeds. + +against the wicked and their deeds. + 6. When their leaders are thrown down from a cliff, - the wicked will listen to my words and find them true. + +the wicked will listen to my words and find them true. + 7. Like rocks brought up by a plow, the bones of the wicked will lie scattered without burial. 8. I look to you for help, O Sovereign LORD. - You are my refuge; don't let them kill me. + +You are my refuge; don't let them kill me. + 9. Keep me from the traps they have set for me, - from the snares of those who do wrong. + from the snares +of those who do wrong. + 10. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, - but let me escape. + +but let me escape. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_142.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_142.md index 1f4633e0..4974e041 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_142.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_142.md @@ -1,33 +1,54 @@ Psalm 142 + 1. I cry out to the LORD; I plead for the LORD's mercy. 2. I pour out my complaints before him - and tell him all my troubles. + +and tell him all my troubles. + 3. When I am overwhelmed, - you alone know the way I should turn. + +you alone know the way I should turn. + Wherever I go, - my enemies have set traps for me. + +my enemies have set traps for me. + 4. I look for someone to come and help me, - but no one gives me a passing thought! + +but no one gives me a passing thought! No one will help me; - no one cares a bit what happens to me. + +no one cares a bit what happens to me. + 5. Then I pray to you, O LORD. - I say, "You are my place of refuge. - You are all I really want in life. + +I say, "You are my place of refuge. + +You are all I really want in life. + 6. Hear my cry, - for I am very low. + +for I am very low. + Rescue me from my persecutors, - for they are too strong for me. + +for they are too strong for me. + 7. Bring me out of prison - so I can thank you. + +so I can thank you. + The godly will crowd around me, - for you are good to me." + +for you are good to me." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_143.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_143.md index 0025ab53..197aeda1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_143.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_143.md @@ -1,49 +1,84 @@ Psalm 143 + 1. Hear my prayer, O LORD; - listen to my plea! - Answer me because you are faithful and righteous. + +listen to my plea! + +Answer me because you are faithful and righteous. + 2. Don't put your servant on trial, - for no one is innocent before you. + +for no one is innocent before you. + 3. My enemy has chased me. - He has knocked me to the ground - and forces me to live in darkness like those in the grave. + +He has knocked me to the ground + +and forces me to live in darkness like those in the grave. + 4. I am losing all hope; - I am paralyzed with fear. + +I am paralyzed with fear. + 5. I remember the days of old. - I ponder all your great works - and think about what you have done. + +I ponder all your great works + +and think about what you have done. + 6. I lift my hands to you in prayer. - I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Interlude + +I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Interlude + 7. Come quickly, LORD, and answer me, - for my depression deepens. + +for my depression deepens. + Don't turn away from me, - or I will die. + +or I will die. + 8. Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, - for I am trusting you. + +for I am trusting you. + Show me where to walk, - for I give myself to you. + +for I give myself to you. + 9. Rescue me from my enemies, LORD; - I run to you to hide me. + +I run to you to hide me. + 10. Teach me to do your will, - for you are my God. + +for you are my God. + May your gracious Spirit lead me forward - on a firm footing. + +on a firm footing. + 11. For the glory of your name, O LORD, preserve my life. - Because of your faithfulness, bring me out of this distress. + +Because of your faithfulness, bring me out of this distress. + 12. In your unfailing love, silence all my enemies - and destroy all my foes, - for I am your servant. + +and destroy all my foes, + +for I am your servant. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_144.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_144.md index 2bc87b41..e4817c88 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_144.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_144.md @@ -1,60 +1,101 @@ Psalm 144 + 1. Praise the LORD, who is my rock. - He trains my hands for war - and gives my fingers skill for battle. + +He trains my hands for war + +and gives my fingers skill for battle. + 2. He is my loving ally and my fortress, - my tower of safety, my rescuer. + +my tower of safety, my rescuer. + He is my shield, and I take refuge in him. He makes the nations submit to me. 3. O LORD, what are human beings that you should notice them, - mere mortals that you should think about them? + +mere mortals that you should think about them? + 4. For they are like a breath of air; - their days are like a passing shadow. + +their days are like a passing shadow. + 5. Open the heavens, LORD, and come down. - Touch the mountains so they billow smoke. + +Touch the mountains so they billow smoke. + 6. Hurl your lightning bolts and scatter your enemies! - Shoot your arrows and confuse them! + +Shoot your arrows and confuse them! + 7. Reach down from heaven and rescue me; - rescue me from deep waters, - from the power of my enemies. + +rescue me from deep waters, + +from the power of my enemies. + + +8. +Their mouths are full of lies; + +they swear to tell the truth, but they lie instead. -8. Their mouths are full of lies; - they swear to tell the truth, but they lie instead. 9. I will sing a new song to you, O God! - I will sing your praises with a ten-stringed harp. + +I will sing your praises with a ten-stringed harp. + 10. For you grant victory to kings! - You rescued your servant David from the fatal sword. + +You rescued your servant David from the fatal sword. + 11. Save me! - Rescue me from the power of my enemies. + Rescue me +from the power of my enemies. + Their mouths are full of lies; - they swear to tell the truth, but they lie instead. + +they swear to tell the truth, but they lie instead. + 12. May our sons flourish in their youth - like well-nurtured plants. + +like well-nurtured plants. + May our daughters be like graceful pillars, - carved to beautify a palace. + +carved to beautify a palace. + 13. May our barns be filled - with crops of every kind. + +with crops of every kind. + May the flocks in our fields multiply by the thousands, - even tens of thousands, + +even tens of thousands, + 14. and may our oxen be loaded down with produce. + May there be no enemy breaking through our walls, - no going into captivity, - no cries of alarm in our town squares. + +no going into captivity, + +no cries of alarm in our town squares. + 15. Yes, joyful are those who live like this! Joyful indeed are those whose God is the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_145.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_145.md index e5123c14..78af0de4 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_145.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_145.md @@ -1,69 +1,113 @@ Psalm 145 1. I will exalt you, my God and King, - and praise your name forever and ever. + +and praise your name +forever and ever. + + 2. I will praise you every day; - yes, I will praise you forever. + +yes, I will praise you forever. + 3. Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise! - No one can measure his greatness. + +No one can measure his greatness. + 4. Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; - let them proclaim your power. + +let them proclaim your power. + 5. I will meditate on your majestic, glorious splendor - and your wonderful miracles. + +and your wonderful miracles. + 6. Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue; - I will proclaim your greatness. + +I will proclaim your greatness. + 7. Everyone will share the story of your wonderful goodness; - they will sing with joy about your righteousness. + +they will sing with joy about your righteousness. + 8. The LORD is merciful and compassionate, - slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. + +slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. + 9. The LORD is good to everyone. - He showers compassion on all his creation. + +He showers compassion on all his creation. + 10. All of your works will thank you, LORD, - and your faithful followers will praise you. + +and your faithful followers will praise you. + 11. They will speak of the glory of your kingdom; - they will give examples of your power. + +they will give examples of your power. + 12. They will tell about your mighty deeds - and about the majesty and glory of your reign. + +and about the majesty and glory of your reign. + 13. For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. - You rule throughout all generations. + +You rule throughout all generations. The LORD always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. 14. The LORD helps the fallen - and lifts those bent beneath their loads. + +and lifts those bent beneath their loads. + 15. The eyes of all look to you in hope; - you give them their food as they need it. + +you give them their food as they need it. + 16. When you open your hand, - you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing. + +you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing. + 17. The LORD is righteous in everything he does; - he is filled with kindness. + +he is filled with kindness. + 18. The LORD is close to all who call on him, - yes, to all who call on him in truth. + +yes, to all who call on him in truth. + 19. He grants the desires of those who fear him; - he hears their cries for help and rescues them. + +he hears their cries for help and rescues them. + 20. The LORD protects all those who love him, - but he destroys the wicked. + +but he destroys the wicked. + 21. I will praise the LORD, - and may everyone on earth bless his holy name - forever and ever. + +and may everyone on earth bless his holy name + +forever and ever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_146.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_146.md index c1607b2c..34eaa455 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_146.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_146.md @@ -1,26 +1,37 @@ Psalm 146 + 1. Praise the LORD! Let all that I am praise the LORD. 2. I will praise the LORD as long as I live. - I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath. + +I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath. + 3. Don't put your confidence in powerful people; - there is no help for you there. + +there is no help for you there. + 4. When they breathe their last, they return to the earth, - and all their plans die with them. + +and all their plans die with them. + 5. But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the LORD their God. 6. He made heaven and earth, - the sea, and everything in them. - He keeps every promise forever. + +the sea, and everything in them. + +He keeps every promise forever. + 7. He gives justice to the oppressed - and food to the hungry. + +and food to the hungry. The LORD frees the prisoners. 8. The LORD opens the eyes of the blind. @@ -28,11 +39,15 @@ The LORD lifts up those who are weighed down. The LORD loves the godly. 9. The LORD protects the foreigners among us. - He cares for the orphans and widows, - but he frustrates the plans of the wicked. + +He cares for the orphans and widows, + +but he frustrates the plans of the wicked. + 10. The LORD will reign forever. He will be your God, O Jerusalem, throughout the generations. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_147.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_147.md index f62e2e4a..3b85c7ae 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_147.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_147.md @@ -1,66 +1,108 @@ Psalm 147 + 1. Praise the LORD! How good to sing praises to our God! - How delightful and how fitting! + +How delightful and how fitting! + 2. The LORD is rebuilding Jerusalem - and bringing the exiles back to Israel. + +and bringing the exiles back to Israel. + 3. He heals the brokenhearted - and bandages their wounds. + +and bandages their wounds. + 4. He counts the stars - and calls them all by name. + +and calls them all by name. + 5. How great is our Lord! His power is absolute! - His understanding is beyond comprehension! + +His understanding is beyond comprehension! + 6. The LORD supports the humble, - but he brings the wicked down into the dust. + +but he brings the wicked down into the dust. + 7. Sing out your thanks to the LORD; - sing praises to our God with a harp. + +sing praises to our God with a harp. + 8. He covers the heavens with clouds, - provides rain for the earth, - and makes the grass grow in mountain pastures. + +provides rain for the earth, + +and makes the grass grow in mountain pastures. + 9. He gives food to the wild animals - and feeds the young ravens when they cry. + +and feeds the young ravens when they cry. + 10. He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse - or in human might. + +or in human might. + 11. No, the LORD's delight is in those who fear him, - those who put their hope in his unfailing love. + +those who put their hope in his unfailing love. + 12. Glorify the LORD, O Jerusalem! - Praise your God, O Zion! + +Praise your God, O Zion! + 13. For he has strengthened the bars of your gates - and blessed your children within your walls. + +and blessed your children within your walls. + 14. He sends peace across your nation - and satisfies your hunger with the finest wheat. + +and satisfies your hunger with the finest wheat. + 15. He sends his orders to the world-- - how swiftly his word flies! + +how swiftly his word flies! + 16. He sends the snow like white wool; - he scatters frost upon the ground like ashes. + +he scatters frost upon the ground like ashes. + 17. He hurls the hail like stones. - Who can stand against his freezing cold? + +Who can stand against his freezing cold? + 18. Then, at his command, it all melts. - He sends his winds, and the ice thaws. + +He sends his winds, and the ice thaws. + 19. He has revealed his words to Jacob, - his decrees and regulations to Israel. + +his decrees and regulations to Israel. + 20. He has not done this for any other nation; - they do not know his regulations. + +they do not know his regulations. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_148.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_148.md index 8091eb0d..ceb07192 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_148.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_148.md @@ -1,49 +1,80 @@ Psalm 148 + 1. Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens! - Praise him from the skies! + +Praise him from the skies! + 2. Praise him, all his angels! - Praise him, all the armies of heaven! + +Praise him, all the armies of heaven! + 3. Praise him, sun and moon! - Praise him, all you twinkling stars! + +Praise him, all you twinkling stars! + 4. Praise him, skies above! - Praise him, vapors high above the clouds! + +Praise him, vapors high above the clouds! + 5. Let every created thing give praise to the LORD, - for he issued his command, and they came into being. + +for he issued his command, and they came into being. + 6. He set them in place forever and ever. - His decree will never be revoked. + +His decree will never be revoked. + 7. Praise the LORD from the earth, - you creatures of the ocean depths, + +you creatures of the ocean depths, + 8. fire and hail, snow and clouds, - wind and weather that obey him, + +wind and weather that obey him, + 9. mountains and all hills, - fruit trees and all cedars, + +fruit trees and all cedars, + 10. wild animals and all livestock, - small scurrying animals and birds, + +small scurrying animals and birds, + 11. kings of the earth and all people, - rulers and judges of the earth, + +rulers and judges of the earth, + 12. young men and young women, - old men and children. + +old men and children. + 13. Let them all praise the name of the LORD. - For his name is very great; - his glory towers over the earth and heaven! + +For his name is very great; + +his glory towers over the earth and heaven! + 14. He has made his people strong, - honoring his faithful ones-- - the people of Israel who are close to him. + +honoring his faithful ones-- + +the people of Israel who are close to him. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_149.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_149.md index 920b8565..3df583bb 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_149.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_149.md @@ -1,32 +1,48 @@ Psalm 149 + 1. Praise the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song. - Sing his praises in the assembly of the faithful. + +Sing his praises in the assembly of the faithful. + 2. O Israel, rejoice in your Maker. O people of Jerusalem, exult in your King. 3. Praise his name with dancing, - accompanied by tambourine and harp. + +accompanied by tambourine and harp. + 4. For the LORD delights in his people; - he crowns the humble with victory. + +he crowns the humble with victory. + 5. Let the faithful rejoice that he honors them. - Let them sing for joy as they lie on their beds. + +Let them sing for joy as they lie on their beds. + 6. Let the praises of God be in their mouths, - and a sharp sword in their hands-- + +and a sharp sword in their hands-- 7. to execute vengeance on the nations - and punishment on the peoples, + +and punishment on the peoples, + 8. to bind their kings with shackles - and their leaders with iron chains, + +and their leaders with iron chains, + 9. to execute the judgment written against them. - This is the glorious privilege of his faithful ones. + +This is the glorious privilege of his faithful ones. Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_15.md index 5722676d..045a9ab6 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_15.md @@ -1,21 +1,34 @@ Psalm 15 + 1. Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? - Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? + +Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? + 2. Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, - speaking the truth from sincere hearts. + +speaking the truth from sincere hearts. + 3. Those who refuse to gossip - or harm their neighbors - or speak evil of their friends. + +or harm their neighbors + +or speak evil of their friends. + 4. Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the LORD, - and keep their promises even when it hurts. + +and keep their promises even when it hurts. + 5. Those who lend money without charging interest, - and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent. + +and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent. + Such people will stand firm forever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_150.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_150.md index 8f8ae204..2f47ea6c 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_150.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_150.md @@ -1,22 +1,34 @@ Psalm 150 + 1. Praise the LORD! Praise God in his sanctuary; - praise him in his mighty heaven! + +praise him in his mighty heaven! + 2. Praise him for his mighty works; - praise his unequaled greatness! + +praise his unequaled greatness! + 3. Praise him with a blast of the ram's horn; - praise him with the lyre and harp! + +praise him with the lyre and harp! + 4. Praise him with the tambourine and dancing; - praise him with strings and flutes! + +praise him with strings and flutes! + 5. Praise him with a clash of cymbals; - praise him with loud clanging cymbals. + +praise him with loud clanging cymbals. + 6. Let everything that breathes sing praises to the LORD! Praise the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_16.md index 0a24b510..679324a6 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_16.md @@ -1,39 +1,62 @@ Psalm 16 + 1. Keep me safe, O God, - for I have come to you for refuge. + +for I have come to you for refuge. + 2. I said to the LORD, "You are my Master! - Every good thing I have comes from you." + +Every good thing I have comes from you." + 3. The godly people in the land - are my true heroes! - I take pleasure in them! + +are my true heroes! + +I take pleasure in them! + 4. Troubles multiply for those who chase after other gods. - I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood - or even speak the names of their gods. + +I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood + +or even speak the names of their gods. + 5. LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. - You guard all that is mine. + +You guard all that is mine. + 6. The land you have given me is a pleasant land. - What a wonderful inheritance! + +What a wonderful inheritance! + 7. I will bless the LORD who guides me; - even at night my heart instructs me. + +even at night my heart instructs me. + 8. I know the LORD is always with me. - I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. + +I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. + 9. No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. - My body rests in safety. + +My body rests in safety. + 10. For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave. 11. You will show me the way of life, - granting me the joy of your presence + +granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_17.md index fefc1afb..dc325376 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_17.md @@ -1,56 +1,95 @@ Psalm 17 + 1. O LORD, hear my plea for justice. - Listen to my cry for help. + +Listen to my cry for help. + Pay attention to my prayer, - for it comes from honest lips. + +for it comes from honest lips. + 2. Declare me innocent, - for you see those who do right. + +for you see those who do right. + 3. You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night. - You have scrutinized me and found nothing wrong. - I am determined not to sin in what I say. + +You have scrutinized me and found nothing wrong. + +I am determined not to sin in what I say. + 4. I have followed your commands, - which keep me from following cruel and evil people. + +which keep me from following cruel and evil people. + 5. My steps have stayed on your path; - I have not wavered from following you. + +I have not wavered from following you. + 6. I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. - Bend down and listen as I pray. + +Bend down and listen as I pray. + 7. Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. - By your mighty power you rescue - those who seek refuge from their enemies. + +By your mighty power you rescue + +those who seek refuge from their enemies. + 8. Guard me as you would guard your own eyes. - Hide me in the shadow of your wings. + +Hide me in the shadow of your wings. + 9. Protect me from wicked people who attack me, - from murderous enemies who surround me. + +from murderous enemies who surround me. + 10. They are without pity. - Listen to their boasting! + +Listen to their boasting! + 11. They track me down and surround me, - watching for the chance to throw me to the ground. + +watching for the chance to throw me to the ground. + 12. They are like hungry lions, eager to tear me apart-- - like young lions hiding in ambush. + +like young lions hiding in ambush. + 13. Arise, O LORD! - Stand against them, and bring them to their knees! - Rescue me from the wicked with your sword! + +Stand against them, and bring them to their knees! + +Rescue me from the wicked with your sword! + 14. By the power of your hand, O LORD, - destroy those who look to this world for their reward. + +destroy those who look to this world for their reward. + But satisfy the hunger of your treasured ones. - May their children have plenty, - leaving an inheritance for their descendants. + +May their children have plenty, + +leaving an inheritance for their descendants. + 15. Because I am righteous, I will see you. - When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied. + +When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_18.md index d0c31aa8..15642271 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_18.md @@ -1,167 +1,270 @@ Psalm 18 + 1. I love you, LORD; - you are my strength. + +you are my strength. + 2. The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; - my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. + +my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. + He is my shield, the power that saves me, - and my place of safety. + +and my place of safety. + 3. I called on the LORD, who is worthy of praise, - and he saved me from my enemies. + +and he saved me from my enemies. + 4. The ropes of death entangled me; - floods of destruction swept over me. + +floods of destruction swept over me. + 5. The grave wrapped its ropes around me; - death laid a trap in my path. + +death laid a trap in my path. + 6. But in my distress I cried out to the LORD; - yes, I prayed to my God for help. + +yes, I prayed to my God for help. + He heard me from his sanctuary; - my cry to him reached his ears. + +my cry to him reached his ears. + 7. Then the earth quaked and trembled. - The foundations of the mountains shook; - they quaked because of his anger. + +The foundations of the mountains shook; + +they quaked because of his anger. + 8. Smoke poured from his nostrils; - fierce flames leaped from his mouth. - Glowing coals blazed forth from him. + +fierce flames leaped from his mouth. + +Glowing coals blazed forth from him. + 9. He opened the heavens and came down; - dark storm clouds were beneath his feet. + +dark storm clouds were beneath his feet. + 10. Mounted on a mighty angelic being, he flew, - soaring on the wings of the wind. + +soaring on the wings of the wind. + 11. He shrouded himself in darkness, - veiling his approach with dark rain clouds. + +veiling his approach with dark rain clouds. + 12. Thick clouds shielded the brightness around him and rained down hail and burning coals. 13. The LORD thundered from heaven; - the voice of the Most High resounded - amid the hail and burning coals. + +the voice of the Most High resounded + +amid the hail and burning coals. + 14. He shot his arrows and scattered his enemies; - great bolts of lightning flashed, and they were confused. + +great bolts of lightning flashed, and they were confused. + 15. Then at your command, O LORD, - at the blast of your breath, + +at the blast of your breath, the bottom of the sea could be seen, - and the foundations of the earth were laid bare. + +and the foundations of the earth were laid bare. + 16. He reached down from heaven and rescued me; - he drew me out of deep waters. + +he drew me out of deep waters. + 17. He rescued me from my powerful enemies, - from those who hated me and were too strong for me. + +from those who hated me and were too strong for me. + 18. They attacked me at a moment when I was in distress, but the LORD supported me. 19. He led me to a place of safety; - he rescued me because he delights in me. + +he rescued me because he delights in me. + 20. The LORD rewarded me for doing right; - he restored me because of my innocence. + +he restored me because of my innocence. + 21. For I have kept the ways of the LORD; - I have not turned from my God to follow evil. + +I have not turned from my God to follow evil. + 22. I have followed all his regulations; - I have never abandoned his decrees. + +I have never abandoned his decrees. + 23. I am blameless before God; - I have kept myself from sin. + +I have kept myself from sin. + 24. The LORD rewarded me for doing right. - He has seen my innocence. + +He has seen my innocence. + 25. To the faithful you show yourself faithful; - to those with integrity you show integrity. + +to those with integrity you show integrity. + 26. To the pure you show yourself pure, - but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd. + +but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd. + 27. You rescue the humble, - but you humiliate the proud. + +but you humiliate the proud. + 28. You light a lamp for me. The LORD, my God, lights up my darkness. 29. In your strength I can crush an army; - with my God I can scale any wall. + +with my God I can scale any wall. + 30. God's way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. - He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. + +He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. + 31. For who is God except the LORD? - Who but our God is a solid rock? + +Who but our God is a solid rock? + 32. God arms me with strength, - and he makes my way perfect. + +and he makes my way perfect. + 33. He makes me as surefooted as a deer, - enabling me to stand on mountain heights. + +enabling me to stand on mountain heights. + 34. He trains my hands for battle; - he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow. + +he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow. + 35. You have given me your shield of victory. - Your right hand supports me; + +Your right hand supports me; your help has made me great. 36. You have made a wide path for my feet - to keep them from slipping. + +to keep them from slipping. + 37. I chased my enemies and caught them; - I did not stop until they were conquered. + +I did not stop until they were conquered. + 38. I struck them down so they could not get up; - they fell beneath my feet. + +they fell beneath my feet. + 39. You have armed me with strength for the battle; - you have subdued my enemies under my feet. + +you have subdued my enemies under my feet. + 40. You placed my foot on their necks. - I have destroyed all who hated me. + +I have destroyed all who hated me. + 41. They called for help, but no one came to their rescue. They even cried to the LORD, but he refused to answer. 42. I ground them as fine as dust in the wind. - I swept them into the gutter like dirt. + +I swept them into the gutter like dirt. + 43. You gave me victory over my accusers. - You appointed me ruler over nations; - people I don't even know now serve me. + +You appointed me ruler over nations; + +people I don't even know now serve me. + 44. As soon as they hear of me, they submit; - foreign nations cringe before me. + +foreign nations cringe before me. + 45. They all lose their courage - and come trembling from their strongholds. + +and come trembling from their strongholds. + 46. The LORD lives! Praise to my Rock! - May the God of my salvation be exalted! + +May the God of my salvation be exalted! + 47. He is the God who pays back those who harm me; - he subdues the nations under me + +he subdues the nations under me + 48. and rescues me from my enemies. + You hold me safe beyond the reach of my enemies; - you save me from violent opponents. + +you save me from violent opponents. + 49. For this, O LORD, I will praise you among the nations; - I will sing praises to your name. + +I will sing praises to your name. + 50. You give great victories to your king; - you show unfailing love to your anointed, - to David and all his descendants forever. + +you show unfailing love to your anointed, + +to David and all his descendants forever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_19.md index 173e0a43..8c8d289d 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_19.md @@ -1,59 +1,95 @@ Psalm 19 + 1. The heavens proclaim the glory of God. - The skies display his craftsmanship. + +The skies display his craftsmanship. + 2. Day after day they continue to speak; - night after night they make him known. + +night after night they make him known. + 3. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. 4. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, - and their words to all the world. + +and their words to all the world. + God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. + 5. It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. - It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. + +It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. + 6. The sun rises at one end of the heavens - and follows its course to the other end. - Nothing can hide from its heat. + +and follows its course to the other end. + +Nothing can hide from its heat. + 7. The instructions of the LORD are perfect, - reviving the soul. + +reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, - making wise the simple. + +making wise the simple. + 8. The commandments of the LORD are right, - bringing joy to the heart. + +bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, - giving insight for living. + +giving insight for living. + 9. Reverence for the LORD is pure, - lasting forever. + +lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; - each one is fair. + +each one is fair. + 10. They are more desirable than gold, - even the finest gold. + +even the finest gold. + They are sweeter than honey, - even honey dripping from the comb. + +even honey dripping from the comb. + 11. They are a warning to your servant, - a great reward for those who obey them. + +a great reward for those who obey them. + 12. How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? - Cleanse me from these hidden faults. + +Cleanse me from these hidden faults. + 13. Keep your servant from deliberate sins! - Don't let them control me. + +Don't let them control me. + Then I will be free of guilt - and innocent of great sin. + +and innocent of great sin. + 14. May the words of my mouth - and the meditation of my heart + +and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_20.md index 62303754..a3d447c5 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_20.md @@ -1,32 +1,47 @@ Psalm 20 + 1. In times of trouble, may the LORD answer your cry. - May the name of the God of Jacob keep you safe from all harm. + +May the name of the God of Jacob keep you safe from all harm. + 2. May he send you help from his sanctuary and strengthen you from Jerusalem. 3. May he remember all your gifts - and look favorably on your burnt offerings. Interlude + +and look favorably on your burnt offerings. Interlude + 4. May he grant your heart's desires - and make all your plans succeed. + +and make all your plans succeed. + 5. May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory - and raise a victory banner in the name of our God. + +and raise a victory banner in the name of our God. May the LORD answer all your prayers. 6. Now I know that the LORD rescues his anointed king. - He will answer him from his holy heaven - and rescue him by his great power. + +He will answer him from his holy heaven + +and rescue him by his great power. + 7. Some nations boast of their chariots and horses, but we boast in the name of the LORD our God. 8. Those nations will fall down and collapse, - but we will rise up and stand firm. + +but we will rise up and stand firm. + 9. Give victory to our king, O LORD! - Answer our cry for help. + +Answer our cry for help. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_21.md index ae7d032f..468ea726 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_21.md @@ -1,45 +1,74 @@ Psalm 21 + 1. How the king rejoices in your strength, O LORD! - He shouts with joy because you give him victory. + +He shouts with joy because you give him victory. + 2. For you have given him his heart's desire; - you have withheld nothing he requested. Interlude + +you have withheld nothing he requested. Interlude + 3. You welcomed him back with success and prosperity. - You placed a crown of finest gold on his head. + +You placed a crown of finest gold on his head. + 4. He asked you to preserve his life, - and you granted his request. - The days of his life stretch on forever. + +and you granted his request. + +The days of his life stretch on forever. + 5. Your victory brings him great honor, - and you have clothed him with splendor and majesty. + +and you have clothed him with splendor and majesty. + 6. You have endowed him with eternal blessings - and given him the joy of your presence. + +and given him the joy of your presence. + 7. For the king trusts in the LORD. - The unfailing love of the Most High will keep him from stumbling. + +The unfailing love of the Most High will keep him from stumbling. + 8. You will capture all your enemies. - Your strong right hand will seize all who hate you. + +Your strong right hand will seize all who hate you. + 9. You will throw them in a flaming furnace - when you appear. + +when you appear. The LORD will consume them in his anger; - fire will devour them. + +fire will devour them. + 10. You will wipe their children from the face of the earth; - they will never have descendants. + +they will never have descendants. + 11. Although they plot against you, - their evil schemes will never succeed. + +their evil schemes will never succeed. + 12. For they will turn and run - when they see your arrows aimed at them. + +when they see your arrows aimed at them. + 13. Rise up, O LORD, in all your power. - With music and singing we celebrate your mighty acts. + +With music and singing we celebrate your mighty acts. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_22.md index b1b4073f..5424204e 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_22.md @@ -1,25 +1,40 @@ Psalm 22 + 1. My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? - Why are you so far away when I groan for help? + +Why are you so far away when I groan for help? + 2. Every day I call to you, my God, but you do not answer. - Every night I lift my voice, but I find no relief. + +Every night I lift my voice, but I find no relief. + 3. Yet you are holy, - enthroned on the praises of Israel. + +enthroned on the praises of Israel. + 4. Our ancestors trusted in you, - and you rescued them. + +and you rescued them. + 5. They cried out to you and were saved. - They trusted in you and were never disgraced. + +They trusted in you and were never disgraced. + 6. But I am a worm and not a man. - I am scorned and despised by all! + +I am scorned and despised by all! + 7. Everyone who sees me mocks me. - They sneer and shake their heads, saying, + +They sneer and shake their heads, saying, + 8. "Is this the one who relies on the LORD? Then let the LORD save him! @@ -27,81 +42,131 @@ If the LORD loves him so much, let the LORD rescue him!" 9. Yet you brought me safely from my mother's womb - and led me to trust you at my mother's breast. + +and led me to trust you at my mother's breast. + 10. I was thrust into your arms at my birth. - You have been my God from the moment I was born. + +You have been my God from the moment I was born. + 11. Do not stay so far from me, - for trouble is near, - and no one else can help me. + +for trouble is near, + +and no one else can help me. + 12. My enemies surround me like a herd of bulls; - fierce bulls of Bashan have hemmed me in! + +fierce bulls of Bashan have hemmed me in! + 13. Like lions they open their jaws against me, - roaring and tearing into their prey. + +roaring and tearing into their prey. + 14. My life is poured out like water, - and all my bones are out of joint. + +and all my bones are out of joint. + My heart is like wax, - melting within me. + +melting within me. + 15. My strength has dried up like sunbaked clay. - My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. - You have laid me in the dust and left me for dead. + +My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. + +You have laid me in the dust and left me for dead. + 16. My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; - an evil gang closes in on me. + +an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet. 17. I can count all my bones. - My enemies stare at me and gloat. + +My enemies stare at me and gloat. + 18. They divide my garments among themselves and throw dice for my clothing. 19. O LORD, do not stay far away! - You are my strength; come quickly to my aid! + +You are my strength; come quickly to my aid! + 20. Save me from the sword; - spare my precious life from these dogs. + +spare my precious life from these dogs. + 21. Snatch me from the lion's jaws - and from the horns of these wild oxen. + +and from the horns of these wild oxen. + 22. I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters. - I will praise you among your assembled people. + +I will praise you among your assembled people. + 23. Praise the LORD, all you who fear him! - Honor him, all you descendants of Jacob! - Show him reverence, all you descendants of Israel! + +Honor him, all you descendants of Jacob! + +Show him reverence, all you descendants of Israel! + 24. For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. - He has not turned his back on them, - but has listened to their cries for help. + +He has not turned his back on them, + +but has listened to their cries for help. + 25. I will praise you in the great assembly. - I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you. + +I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you. + 26. The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the LORD will praise him. - Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. + +Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. + 27. The whole earth will acknowledge the LORD and return to him. - All the families of the nations will bow down before him. + +All the families of the nations will bow down before him. + 28. For royal power belongs to the LORD. - He rules all the nations. + +He rules all the nations. + 29. Let the rich of the earth feast and worship. - Bow before him, all who are mortal, - all whose lives will end as dust. + +Bow before him, all who are mortal, + +all whose lives will end as dust. + 30. Our children will also serve him. - Future generations will hear about the wonders of the Lord. + +Future generations will hear about the wonders of the Lord. + 31. His righteous acts will be told to those not yet born. - They will hear about everything he has done. + +They will hear about everything he has done. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_23.md index 3e2b79ca..0bad162f 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_23.md @@ -1,30 +1,49 @@ Psalm 23 + 1. The LORD is my shepherd; - I have all that I need. + +I have all that I need. + 2. He lets me rest in green meadows; - he leads me beside peaceful streams. + +he leads me beside peaceful streams. + 3. He renews my strength. + He guides me along right paths, - bringing honor to his name. + +bringing honor to his name. + 4. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, - for you are close beside me. + +for you are close beside me. + Your rod and your staff - protect and comfort me. + +protect and comfort me. + 5. You prepare a feast for me - in the presence of my enemies. + +in the presence of my enemies. + You honor me by anointing my head with oil. - My cup overflows with blessings. + +My cup overflows with blessings. + 6. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me - all the days of my life, + +all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD - forever. + +forever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_24.md index 98cc8b94..55f77bc4 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_24.md @@ -1,38 +1,58 @@ Psalm 24 + 1. The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it. - The world and all its people belong to him. + +The world and all its people belong to him. + 2. For he laid the earth's foundation on the seas - and built it on the ocean depths. + +and built it on the ocean depths. + 3. Who may climb the mountain of the LORD? - Who may stand in his holy place? + +Who may stand in his holy place? + 4. Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, - who do not worship idols - and never tell lies. + +who do not worship idols + +and never tell lies. + 5. They will receive the LORD's blessing - and have a right relationship with God their savior. + +and have a right relationship with God their savior. + 6. Such people may seek you and worship in your presence, O God of Jacob. Interlude 7. Open up, ancient gates! - Open up, ancient doors, - and let the King of glory enter. + +Open up, ancient doors, + +and let the King of glory enter. + 8. Who is the King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty; the LORD, invincible in battle. 9. Open up, ancient gates! - Open up, ancient doors, - and let the King of glory enter. + +Open up, ancient doors, + +and let the King of glory enter. + 10. Who is the King of glory? The LORD of Heaven's Armies-- - he is the King of glory. Interlude + +he is the King of glory. Interlude + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_25.md index 2841f1e6..bd615f9e 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_25.md @@ -4,68 +4,110 @@ Psalm 25 2. I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, - or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. + +or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. + 3. No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, - but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others. + +but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others. + 4. Show me the right path, O LORD; - point out the road for me to follow. + +point out the road for me to follow. + 5. Lead me by your truth and teach me, - for you are the God who saves me. - All day long I put my hope in you. + +for you are the God who saves me. + +All day long I put my hope in you. + 6. Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, - which you have shown from long ages past. + +which you have shown from long ages past. + 7. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. - Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, + +Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD. 8. The LORD is good and does what is right; - he shows the proper path to those who go astray. + +he shows the proper path to those who go astray. + 9. He leads the humble in doing right, - teaching them his way. + +teaching them his way. + 10. The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness - all who keep his covenant and obey his demands. + +all who keep his covenant and obey his demands. + 11. For the honor of your name, O LORD, - forgive my many, many sins. + +forgive my many, many sins. + 12. Who are those who fear the LORD? - He will show them the path they should choose. + +He will show them the path they should choose. + 13. They will live in prosperity, - and their children will inherit the land. + +and their children will inherit the land. + 14. The LORD is a friend to those who fear him. - He teaches them his covenant. + +He teaches them his covenant. + 15. My eyes are always on the LORD, - for he rescues me from the traps of my enemies. + +for he rescues me from the traps of my enemies. + 16. Turn to me and have mercy, - for I am alone and in deep distress. + +for I am alone and in deep distress. + 17. My problems go from bad to worse. - Oh, save me from them all! + +Oh, save me from them all! + 18. Feel my pain and see my trouble. - Forgive all my sins. + +Forgive all my sins. + 19. See how many enemies I have - and how viciously they hate me! + +and how viciously they hate me! + 20. Protect me! Rescue my life from them! - Do not let me be disgraced, for in you I take refuge. + +Do not let me be disgraced, for in you I take refuge. + 21. May integrity and honesty protect me, - for I put my hope in you. + +for I put my hope in you. + 22. O God, ransom Israel - from all its troubles. + +from all its troubles. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_26.md index af1851fd..eb7d9c06 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_26.md @@ -1,40 +1,61 @@ Psalm 26 + 1. Declare me innocent, O LORD, - for I have acted with integrity; + +for I have acted with integrity; I have trusted in the LORD without wavering. 2. Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. - Test my motives and my heart. + +Test my motives and my heart. + 3. For I am always aware of your unfailing love, - and I have lived according to your truth. + +and I have lived according to your truth. + 4. I do not spend time with liars - or go along with hypocrites. + +or go along with hypocrites. + 5. I hate the gatherings of those who do evil, - and I refuse to join in with the wicked. + +and I refuse to join in with the wicked. + 6. I wash my hands to declare my innocence. I come to your altar, O LORD, 7. singing a song of thanksgiving - and telling of all your wonders. + +and telling of all your wonders. + 8. I love your sanctuary, LORD, - the place where your glorious presence dwells. + +the place where your glorious presence dwells. + 9. Don't let me suffer the fate of sinners. - Don't condemn me along with murderers. + +Don't condemn me along with murderers. + 10. Their hands are dirty with evil schemes, - and they constantly take bribes. + +and they constantly take bribes. + 11. But I am not like that; I live with integrity. - So redeem me and show me mercy. + +So redeem me and show me mercy. + 12. Now I stand on solid ground, and I will publicly praise the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_27.md index a3a411d8..59d6b643 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_27.md @@ -1,62 +1,98 @@ Psalm 27 + 1. The LORD is my light and my salvation-- - so why should I be afraid? + +so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, - so why should I tremble? + +so why should I tremble? + 2. When evil people come to devour me, - when my enemies and foes attack me, - they will stumble and fall. + +when my enemies and foes attack me, + +they will stumble and fall. + 3. Though a mighty army surrounds me, - my heart will not be afraid. + +my heart will not be afraid. + Even if I am attacked, - I will remain confident. + +I will remain confident. + 4. The one thing I ask of the LORD-- - the thing I seek most-- + +the thing I seek most-- is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD's perfections - and meditating in his Temple. + +and meditating in his Temple. + 5. For he will conceal me there when troubles come; - he will hide me in his sanctuary. - He will place me out of reach on a high rock. + +he will hide me in his sanctuary. + +He will place me out of reach on a high rock. + 6. Then I will hold my head high - above my enemies who surround me. + +above my enemies who surround me. + At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy, singing and praising the LORD with music. 7. Hear me as I pray, O LORD. - Be merciful and answer me! + +Be merciful and answer me! + 8. My heart has heard you say, "Come and talk with me." And my heart responds, "LORD, I am coming." 9. Do not turn your back on me. - Do not reject your servant in anger. - You have always been my helper. + +Do not reject your servant in anger. + +You have always been my helper. + Don't leave me now; don't abandon me, - O God of my salvation! + +O God of my salvation! + 10. Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will hold me close. 11. Teach me how to live, O LORD. - Lead me along the right path, - for my enemies are waiting for me. + +Lead me along the right path, + +for my enemies are waiting for me. + 12. Do not let me fall into their hands. - For they accuse me of things I've never done; - with every breath they threaten me with violence. + +For they accuse me of things I've never done; + +with every breath they threaten me with violence. + 13. Yet I am confident I will see the LORD's goodness - while I am here in the land of the living. + +while I am here in the land of the living. + 14. Wait patiently for the LORD. - Be brave and courageous. + +Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_28.md index ebc0b5fc..40c25b08 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_28.md @@ -1,43 +1,73 @@ Psalm 28 + 1. I pray to you, O LORD, my rock. - Do not turn a deaf ear to me. + +Do not turn a deaf ear to me. + For if you are silent, - I might as well give up and die. + +I might as well give up and die. + 2. Listen to my prayer for mercy - as I cry out to you for help, - as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary. + +as I cry out to you for help, + +as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary. + 3. Do not drag me away with the wicked-- - with those who do evil-- + +with those who do evil-- those who speak friendly words to their neighbors - while planning evil in their hearts. + +while planning evil in their hearts. + 4. Give them the punishment they so richly deserve! - Measure it out in proportion to their wickedness. + +Measure it out in proportion to their wickedness. + Pay them back for all their evil deeds! - Give them a taste of what they have done to others. + +Give them a taste of what they have done to others. + 5. They care nothing for what the LORD has done - or for what his hands have made. + +or for what his hands have made. + So he will tear them down, - and they will never be rebuilt! + +and they will never be rebuilt! + 6. Praise the LORD! - For he has heard my cry for mercy. + +For he has heard my cry for mercy. + 7. The LORD is my strength and shield. - I trust him with all my heart. + +I trust him with all my heart. + He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. - I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. + +I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. + 8. The LORD gives his people strength. - He is a safe fortress for his anointed king. + +He is a safe fortress for his anointed king. + 9. Save your people! Bless Israel, your special possession. + Lead them like a shepherd, - and carry them in your arms forever. + +and carry them in your arms forever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_29.md index 23f4b8b4..efb79dd2 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_29.md @@ -1,5 +1,6 @@ Psalm 29 + 1. Honor the LORD, you heavenly beings; honor the LORD for his glory and strength. @@ -7,7 +8,8 @@ Psalm 29 Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. 3. The voice of the LORD echoes above the sea. - The God of glory thunders. + +The God of glory thunders. The LORD thunders over the mighty sea. 4. The voice of the LORD is powerful; @@ -20,15 +22,20 @@ Psalm 29 he makes Mount Hermon leap like a young wild ox. 7. The voice of the LORD strikes - with bolts of lightning. + +with bolts of lightning. + 8. The voice of the LORD makes the barren wilderness quake; the LORD shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. 9. The voice of the LORD twists mighty oaks - and strips the forests bare. + +and strips the forests bare. + In his Temple everyone shouts, "Glory!" + 10. The LORD rules over the floodwaters. The LORD reigns as king forever. @@ -36,3 +43,4 @@ In his Temple everyone shouts, "Glory!" The LORD blesses them with peace. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_30.md index a4dab514..89d44a97 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_30.md @@ -1,43 +1,68 @@ Psalm 30 + 1. I will exalt you, LORD, for you rescued me. - You refused to let my enemies triumph over me. + +You refused to let my enemies triumph over me. + 2. O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, - and you restored my health. + +and you restored my health. + 3. You brought me up from the grave, O LORD. - You kept me from falling into the pit of death. + +You kept me from falling into the pit of death. + 4. Sing to the LORD, all you godly ones! - Praise his holy name. + +Praise his holy name. + 5. For his anger lasts only a moment, - but his favor lasts a lifetime! + +but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, - but joy comes with the morning. + +but joy comes with the morning. + 6. When I was prosperous, I said, - "Nothing can stop me now!" + +"Nothing can stop me now!" + 7. Your favor, O LORD, made me as secure as a mountain. - Then you turned away from me, and I was shattered. + +Then you turned away from me, and I was shattered. + 8. I cried out to you, O LORD. - I begged the Lord for mercy, saying, + +I begged the Lord for mercy, saying, + 9. "What will you gain if I die, - if I sink into the grave? + +if I sink into the grave? Can my dust praise you? - Can it tell of your faithfulness? + +Can it tell of your faithfulness? + 10. Hear me, LORD, and have mercy on me. - Help me, O LORD." + +Help me, O LORD." 11. You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. - You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, + +You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, + 12. that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_31.md index f024de2a..727fda11 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_31.md @@ -1,19 +1,31 @@ Psalm 31 + 1. O LORD, I have come to you for protection; - don't let me be disgraced. - Save me, for you do what is right. + +don't let me be disgraced. + +Save me, for you do what is right. + 2. Turn your ear to listen to me; - rescue me quickly. + +rescue me quickly. + Be my rock of protection, - a fortress where I will be safe. + +a fortress where I will be safe. + 3. You are my rock and my fortress. - For the honor of your name, lead me out of this danger. + +For the honor of your name, lead me out of this danger. + 4. Pull me from the trap my enemies set for me, - for I find protection in you alone. + +for I find protection in you alone. + 5. I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, LORD, for you are a faithful God. @@ -22,76 +34,125 @@ Be my rock of protection, I trust in the LORD. 7. I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, - for you have seen my troubles, - and you care about the anguish of my soul. + +for you have seen my troubles, + +and you care about the anguish of my soul. + 8. You have not handed me over to my enemies - but have set me in a safe place. + +but have set me in a safe place. + 9. Have mercy on me, LORD, for I am in distress. - Tears blur my eyes. - My body and soul are withering away. + +Tears blur my eyes. + +My body and soul are withering away. + 10. I am dying from grief; - my years are shortened by sadness. + +my years are shortened by sadness. + Sin has drained my strength; - I am wasting away from within. + +I am wasting away from within. + 11. I am scorned by all my enemies - and despised by my neighbors-- - even my friends are afraid to come near me. + +and despised by my neighbors-- + +even my friends are afraid to come near me. + When they see me on the street, - they run the other way. + +they run the other way. + 12. I am ignored as if I were dead, - as if I were a broken pot. + +as if I were a broken pot. + 13. I have heard the many rumors about me, - and I am surrounded by terror. + +and I am surrounded by terror. + My enemies conspire against me, - plotting to take my life. + +plotting to take my life. + 14. But I am trusting you, O LORD, - saying, "You are my God!" + +saying, "You are my God!" + 15. My future is in your hands. - Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly. + +Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly. + 16. Let your favor shine on your servant. - In your unfailing love, rescue me. + +In your unfailing love, rescue me. + 17. Don't let me be disgraced, O LORD, - for I call out to you for help. + +for I call out to you for help. + Let the wicked be disgraced; let them lie silent in the grave. 18. Silence their lying lips-- - those proud and arrogant lips that accuse the godly. + +those proud and arrogant lips that accuse the godly. + 19. How great is the goodness - you have stored up for those who fear you. + +you have stored up for those who fear you. + You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, - blessing them before the watching world. + +blessing them before the watching world. + 20. You hide them in the shelter of your presence, - safe from those who conspire against them. + +safe from those who conspire against them. + You shelter them in your presence, - far from accusing tongues. + +far from accusing tongues. + 21. Praise the LORD, - for he has shown me the wonders of his unfailing love. - He kept me safe when my city was under attack. + +for he has shown me the wonders of his unfailing love. + +He kept me safe when my city was under attack. + 22. In panic I cried out, "I am cut off from the LORD!" But you heard my cry for mercy - and answered my call for help. + +and answered my call for help. + 23. Love the LORD, all you godly ones! For the LORD protects those who are loyal to him, - but he harshly punishes the arrogant. + +but he harshly punishes the arrogant. + 24. So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_32.md index 434edc1c..5824d47b 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_32.md @@ -1,42 +1,67 @@ Psalm 32 + 1. Oh, what joy for those - whose disobedience is forgiven, - whose sin is put out of sight! + +whose disobedience is forgiven, + +whose sin is put out of sight! + 2. Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of guilt, - whose lives are lived in complete honesty! + +whose lives are lived in complete honesty! + 3. When I refused to confess my sin, - my body wasted away, - and I groaned all day long. + +my body wasted away, + +and I groaned all day long. + 4. Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me. - My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat. Interlude + +My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat. Interlude + 5. Finally, I confessed all my sins to you - and stopped trying to hide my guilt. + +and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD." - And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone. Interlude + +And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone. Interlude + 6. Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time, - that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment. + +that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment. + 7. For you are my hiding place; - you protect me from trouble. - You surround me with songs of victory. Interlude + +you protect me from trouble. + +You surround me with songs of victory. Interlude + 8. The LORD says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. - I will advise you and watch over you. + +I will advise you and watch over you. + 9. Do not be like a senseless horse or mule - that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control." + +that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control." + 10. Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the LORD. 11. So rejoice in the LORD and be glad, all you who obey him! - Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure! + +Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_33.md index 0fb2c99c..e7d265fe 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_33.md @@ -1,71 +1,116 @@ Psalm 33 + 1. Let the godly sing for joy to the LORD; - it is fitting for the pure to praise him. + +it is fitting for the pure to praise him. + 2. Praise the LORD with melodies on the lyre; - make music for him on the ten-stringed harp. + +make music for him on the ten-stringed harp. + 3. Sing a new song of praise to him; - play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy. + +play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy. + 4. For the word of the LORD holds true, - and we can trust everything he does. + +and we can trust everything he does. + 5. He loves whatever is just and good; the unfailing love of the LORD fills the earth. 6. The LORD merely spoke, - and the heavens were created. + +and the heavens were created. + He breathed the word, - and all the stars were born. + +and all the stars were born. + 7. He assigned the sea its boundaries - and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs. + +and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs. + 8. Let the whole world fear the LORD, - and let everyone stand in awe of him. + +and let everyone stand in awe of him. + 9. For when he spoke, the world began! - It appeared at his command. + +It appeared at his command. + 10. The LORD frustrates the plans of the nations - and thwarts all their schemes. + +and thwarts all their schemes. + 11. But the LORD's plans stand firm forever; - his intentions can never be shaken. + +his intentions can never be shaken. + 12. What joy for the nation whose God is the LORD, - whose people he has chosen as his inheritance. + +whose people he has chosen as his inheritance. + 13. The LORD looks down from heaven - and sees the whole human race. + +and sees the whole human race. + 14. From his throne he observes - all who live on the earth. + +all who live on the earth. + 15. He made their hearts, - so he understands everything they do. + +so he understands everything they do. + 16. The best-equipped army cannot save a king, - nor is great strength enough to save a warrior. + +nor is great strength enough to save a warrior. + 17. Don't count on your warhorse to give you victory-- - for all its strength, it cannot save you. + +for all its strength, it cannot save you. + 18. But the LORD watches over those who fear him, - those who rely on his unfailing love. + +those who rely on his unfailing love. + 19. He rescues them from death - and keeps them alive in times of famine. + +and keeps them alive in times of famine. + 20. We put our hope in the LORD. - He is our help and our shield. + +He is our help and our shield. + 21. In him our hearts rejoice, - for we trust in his holy name. + +for we trust in his holy name. + 22. Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, - for our hope is in you alone. + +for our hope is in you alone. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_34.md index 03ce07e5..7323e284 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_34.md @@ -1,31 +1,49 @@ Psalm 34 1. I will praise the LORD at all times. - I will constantly speak his praises. + +I will constantly speak his praises. + 2. I will boast only in the LORD; - let all who are helpless take heart. + +let all who are helpless take heart. + 3. Come, let us tell of the LORD's greatness; - let us exalt his name together. + +let us exalt his name together. + 4. I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me. - He freed me from all my fears. + +He freed me from all my fears. + 5. Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; - no shadow of shame will darken their faces. + +no shadow of shame will darken their faces. + 6. In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; - he saved me from all my troubles. + +he saved me from all my troubles. + 7. For the angel of the LORD is a guard; - he surrounds and defends all who fear him. + +he surrounds and defends all who fear him. + 8. Taste and see that the LORD is good. - Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! + +Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! + 9. Fear the LORD, you his godly people, - for those who fear him will have all they need. + +for those who fear him will have all they need. + 10. Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the LORD will lack no good thing. @@ -34,36 +52,56 @@ Psalm 34 and I will teach you to fear the LORD. 12. Does anyone want to live a life - that is long and prosperous? + +that is long and prosperous? + 13. Then keep your tongue from speaking evil - and your lips from telling lies! + +and your lips from telling lies! + 14. Turn away from evil and do good. - Search for peace, and work to maintain it. + +Search for peace, and work to maintain it. + 15. The eyes of the LORD watch over those who do right; - his ears are open to their cries for help. + +his ears are open to their cries for help. + 16. But the LORD turns his face against those who do evil; - he will erase their memory from the earth. + +he will erase their memory from the earth. + 17. The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help. - He rescues them from all their troubles. + +He rescues them from all their troubles. + 18. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; - he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. + +he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. + 19. The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time. 20. For the LORD protects the bones of the righteous; - not one of them is broken! + +not one of them is broken! + 21. Calamity will surely destroy the wicked, - and those who hate the righteous will be punished. + +and those who hate the righteous will be punished. + 22. But the LORD will redeem those who serve him. - No one who takes refuge in him will be condemned. + +No one who takes refuge in him will be condemned. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_35.md index da112976..23189715 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_35.md @@ -1,18 +1,29 @@ Psalm 35 + 1. O LORD, oppose those who oppose me. - Fight those who fight against me. + +Fight those who fight against me. + 2. Put on your armor, and take up your shield. - Prepare for battle, and come to my aid. + +Prepare for battle, and come to my aid. + 3. Lift up your spear and javelin - against those who pursue me. + +against those who pursue me. + Let me hear you say, - "I will give you victory!" + +"I will give you victory!" + 4. Bring shame and disgrace on those trying to kill me; - turn them back and humiliate those who want to harm me. + +turn them back and humiliate those who want to harm me. + 5. Blow them away like chaff in the wind-- a wind sent by the angel of the LORD. @@ -21,80 +32,132 @@ Let me hear you say, with the angel of the LORD pursuing them. 7. I did them no wrong, but they laid a trap for me. - I did them no wrong, but they dug a pit to catch me. + +I did them no wrong, but they dug a pit to catch me. + 8. So let sudden ruin come upon them! - Let them be caught in the trap they set for me! - Let them be destroyed in the pit they dug for me. + +Let them be caught in the trap they set for me! + +Let them be destroyed in the pit they dug for me. + 9. Then I will rejoice in the LORD. - I will be glad because he rescues me. + +I will be glad because he rescues me. + 10. With every bone in my body I will praise him: "LORD, who can compare with you? Who else rescues the helpless from the strong? - Who else protects the helpless and poor from those who rob them?" + +Who else protects the helpless and poor from those who rob them?" + 11. Malicious witnesses testify against me. - They accuse me of crimes I know nothing about. + +They accuse me of crimes I know nothing about. + 12. They repay me evil for good. - I am sick with despair. + +I am sick with despair. + 13. Yet when they were ill, I grieved for them. - I denied myself by fasting for them, - but my prayers returned unanswered. + +I denied myself by fasting for them, + +but my prayers returned unanswered. + 14. I was sad, as though they were my friends or family, - as if I were grieving for my own mother. + +as if I were grieving for my own mother. + 15. But they are glad now that I am in trouble; - they gleefully join together against me. + +they gleefully join together against me. + I am attacked by people I don't even know; - they slander me constantly. + +they slander me constantly. + 16. They mock me and call me names; - they snarl at me. + +they snarl at me. + 17. How long, O Lord, will you look on and do nothing? - Rescue me from their fierce attacks. - Protect my life from these lions! + +Rescue me from their fierce attacks. + +Protect my life from these lions! + 18. Then I will thank you in front of the great assembly. - I will praise you before all the people. + +I will praise you before all the people. + 19. Don't let my treacherous enemies rejoice over my defeat. - Don't let those who hate me without cause gloat over my sorrow. + +Don't let those who hate me without cause gloat over my sorrow. + 20. They don't talk of peace; - they plot against innocent people who mind their own business. + +they plot against innocent people who mind their own business. + 21. They shout, "Aha! Aha! - With our own eyes we saw him do it!" + +With our own eyes we saw him do it!" + 22. O LORD, you know all about this. - Do not stay silent. - Do not abandon me now, O Lord. + +Do not stay silent. + +Do not abandon me now, O Lord. + 23. Wake up! Rise to my defense! - Take up my case, my God and my Lord. + +Take up my case, my God and my Lord. + 24. Declare me not guilty, O LORD my God, for you give justice. - Don't let my enemies laugh about me in my troubles. + +Don't let my enemies laugh about me in my troubles. + 25. Don't let them say, "Look, we got what we wanted! - Now we will eat him alive!" + +Now we will eat him alive!" + 26. May those who rejoice at my troubles - be humiliated and disgraced. + +be humiliated and disgraced. + May those who triumph over me - be covered with shame and dishonor. + +be covered with shame and dishonor. + 27. But give great joy to those who came to my defense. Let them continually say, "Great is the LORD, - who delights in blessing his servant with peace!" + +who delights in blessing his servant with peace!" + 28. Then I will proclaim your justice, - and I will praise you all day long. + +and I will praise you all day long. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_36.md index e7440968..70aa50ae 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_36.md @@ -1,42 +1,67 @@ Psalm 36 + 1. Sin whispers to the wicked, deep within their hearts. - They have no fear of God at all. + +They have no fear of God at all. + 2. In their blind conceit, - they cannot see how wicked they really are. + +they cannot see how wicked they really are. + 3. Everything they say is crooked and deceitful. - They refuse to act wisely or do good. + +They refuse to act wisely or do good. + 4. They lie awake at night, hatching sinful plots. - Their actions are never good. - They make no attempt to turn from evil. + +Their actions are never good. + +They make no attempt to turn from evil. + 5. Your unfailing love, O LORD, is as vast as the heavens; - your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds. + +your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds. + 6. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, - your justice like the ocean depths. + +your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike, O LORD. 7. How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter - in the shadow of your wings. + +in the shadow of your wings. + 8. You feed them from the abundance of your own house, - letting them drink from your river of delights. + +letting them drink from your river of delights. + 9. For you are the fountain of life, - the light by which we see. + +the light by which we see. + 10. Pour out your unfailing love on those who love you; - give justice to those with honest hearts. + +give justice to those with honest hearts. + 11. Don't let the proud trample me - or the wicked push me around. + +or the wicked push me around. + 12. Look! Those who do evil have fallen! - They are thrown down, never to rise again. + +They are thrown down, never to rise again. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_37.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_37.md index cc098708..85f42d11 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_37.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_37.md @@ -1,137 +1,222 @@ Psalm 37 1. Don't worry about the wicked - or envy those who do wrong. + +or envy those who do wrong. + 2. For like grass, they soon fade away. - Like spring flowers, they soon wither. + +Like spring flowers, they soon wither. + 3. Trust in the LORD and do good. - Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. + +Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. + 4. Take delight in the LORD, - and he will give you your heart's desires. + +and he will give you your heart's desires. + 5. Commit everything you do to the LORD. - Trust him, and he will help you. + +Trust him, and he will help you. + 6. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, - and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun. + +and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun. + 7. Be still in the presence of the LORD, - and wait patiently for him to act. + +and wait patiently for him to act. + Don't worry about evil people who prosper - or fret about their wicked schemes. + +or fret about their wicked schemes. + 8. Stop being angry! - Turn from your rage! + +Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper-- - it only leads to harm. + +it only leads to harm. + 9. For the wicked will be destroyed, but those who trust in the LORD will possess the land. 10. Soon the wicked will disappear. - Though you look for them, they will be gone. + +Though you look for them, they will be gone. + 11. The lowly will possess the land - and will live in peace and prosperity. + +and will live in peace and prosperity. + 12. The wicked plot against the godly; - they snarl at them in defiance. + +they snarl at them in defiance. + 13. But the Lord just laughs, - for he sees their day of judgment coming. + +for he sees their day of judgment coming. + 14. The wicked draw their swords - and string their bows + +and string their bows to kill the poor and the oppressed, - to slaughter those who do right. + +to slaughter those who do right. + 15. But their swords will stab their own hearts, - and their bows will be broken. + +and their bows will be broken. + 16. It is better to be godly and have little - than to be evil and rich. + +than to be evil and rich. + 17. For the strength of the wicked will be shattered, but the LORD takes care of the godly. 18. Day by day the LORD takes care of the innocent, - and they will receive an inheritance that lasts forever. + +and they will receive an inheritance that lasts forever. + 19. They will not be disgraced in hard times; - even in famine they will have more than enough. + +even in famine they will have more than enough. + 20. But the wicked will die. The LORD's enemies are like flowers in a field-- - they will disappear like smoke. + +they will disappear like smoke. + 21. The wicked borrow and never repay, - but the godly are generous givers. + +but the godly are generous givers. + 22. Those the LORD blesses will possess the land, - but those he curses will die. + +but those he curses will die. + 23. The LORD directs the steps of the godly. - He delights in every detail of their lives. + +He delights in every detail of their lives. + 24. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand. 25. Once I was young, and now I am old. - Yet I have never seen the godly abandoned - or their children begging for bread. + +Yet I have never seen the godly abandoned + +or their children begging for bread. + 26. The godly always give generous loans to others, - and their children are a blessing. + +and their children are a blessing. + 27. Turn from evil and do good, - and you will live in the land forever. + +and you will live in the land forever. + 28. For the LORD loves justice, - and he will never abandon the godly. + +and he will never abandon the godly. + He will keep them safe forever, - but the children of the wicked will die. + +but the children of the wicked will die. + 29. The godly will possess the land - and will live there forever. + +and will live there forever. + 30. The godly offer good counsel; - they teach right from wrong. + +they teach right from wrong. + 31. They have made God's law their own, - so they will never slip from his path. + +so they will never slip from his path. + 32. The wicked wait in ambush for the godly, - looking for an excuse to kill them. + +looking for an excuse to kill them. + 33. But the LORD will not let the wicked succeed - or let the godly be condemned when they are put on trial. + +or let the godly be condemned when they are put on trial. + 34. Put your hope in the LORD. - Travel steadily along his path. + +Travel steadily along his path. + He will honor you by giving you the land. - You will see the wicked destroyed. + +You will see the wicked destroyed. + 35. I have seen wicked and ruthless people - flourishing like a tree in its native soil. + +flourishing like a tree in its native soil. + 36. But when I looked again, they were gone! - Though I searched for them, I could not find them! + +Though I searched for them, I could not find them! + 37. Look at those who are honest and good, - for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace. + +for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace. + 38. But the rebellious will be destroyed; - they have no future. + +they have no future. + 39. The LORD rescues the godly; - he is their fortress in times of trouble. + +he is their fortress in times of trouble. + 40. The LORD helps them, - rescuing them from the wicked. + +rescuing them from the wicked. + He saves them, - and they find shelter in him. + +and they find shelter in him. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_38.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_38.md index 870dce5e..7bbd8c5f 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_38.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_38.md @@ -1,70 +1,116 @@ Psalm 38 + 1. O LORD, don't rebuke me in your anger - or discipline me in your rage! + +or discipline me in your rage! + 2. Your arrows have struck deep, - and your blows are crushing me. + +and your blows are crushing me. + 3. Because of your anger, my whole body is sick; - my health is broken because of my sins. + +my health is broken because of my sins. + 4. My guilt overwhelms me-- - it is a burden too heavy to bear. + +it is a burden too heavy to bear. + 5. My wounds fester and stink - because of my foolish sins. + +because of my foolish sins. + 6. I am bent over and racked with pain. - All day long I walk around filled with grief. + +All day long I walk around filled with grief. + 7. A raging fever burns within me, - and my health is broken. + +and my health is broken. + 8. I am exhausted and completely crushed. - My groans come from an anguished heart. + +My groans come from an anguished heart. + 9. You know what I long for, Lord; - you hear my every sigh. + +you hear my every sigh. + 10. My heart beats wildly, my strength fails, - and I am going blind. + +and I am going blind. + 11. My loved ones and friends stay away, fearing my disease. - Even my own family stands at a distance. + +Even my own family stands at a distance. + 12. Meanwhile, my enemies lay traps to kill me. - Those who wish me harm make plans to ruin me. - All day long they plan their treachery. + +Those who wish me harm make plans to ruin me. + +All day long they plan their treachery. + 13. But I am deaf to all their threats. - I am silent before them as one who cannot speak. + +I am silent before them as one who cannot speak. + 14. I choose to hear nothing, - and I make no reply. + +and I make no reply. + 15. For I am waiting for you, O LORD. - You must answer for me, O Lord my God. + +You must answer for me, O Lord my God. + 16. I prayed, "Don't let my enemies gloat over me - or rejoice at my downfall." + +or rejoice at my downfall." + 17. I am on the verge of collapse, - facing constant pain. + +facing constant pain. + 18. But I confess my sins; - I am deeply sorry for what I have done. + +I am deeply sorry for what I have done. + 19. I have many aggressive enemies; - they hate me without reason. + +they hate me without reason. + 20. They repay me evil for good - and oppose me for pursuing good. + +and oppose me for pursuing good. + 21. Do not abandon me, O LORD. - Do not stand at a distance, my God. + +Do not stand at a distance, my God. + 22. Come quickly to help me, - O Lord my savior. + +O Lord my savior. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_39.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_39.md index 319d3d73..c5fd41b1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_39.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_39.md @@ -1,55 +1,95 @@ Psalm 39 + 1. I said to myself, "I will watch what I do - and not sin in what I say. + +and not sin in what I say. + I will hold my tongue - when the ungodly are around me." + +when the ungodly are around me." + 2. But as I stood there in silence-- - not even speaking of good things-- - the turmoil within me grew worse. + +not even speaking of good things-- + +the turmoil within me grew worse. + 3. The more I thought about it, - the hotter I got, - igniting a fire of words: + +the hotter I got, + +igniting a fire of words: + 4. "LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. - Remind me that my days are numbered-- - how fleeting my life is. + +Remind me that my days are numbered-- + +how fleeting my life is. + 5. You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand. - My entire lifetime is just a moment to you; - at best, each of us is but a breath." Interlude + +My entire lifetime is just a moment to you; + +at best, each of us is but a breath." Interlude + 6. We are merely moving shadows, - and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. + +and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. + We heap up wealth, - not knowing who will spend it. + +not knowing who will spend it. + 7. And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? - My only hope is in you. + +My only hope is in you. + 8. Rescue me from my rebellion. - Do not let fools mock me. + +Do not let fools mock me. + 9. I am silent before you; I won't say a word, - for my punishment is from you. + +for my punishment is from you. + 10. But please stop striking me! - I am exhausted by the blows from your hand. + +I am exhausted by the blows from your hand. + 11. When you discipline us for our sins, - you consume like a moth what is precious to us. - Each of us is but a breath. Interlude + +you consume like a moth what is precious to us. + +Each of us is but a breath. Interlude + 12. Hear my prayer, O LORD! - Listen to my cries for help! - Don't ignore my tears. + +Listen to my cries for help! + +Don't ignore my tears. + For I am your guest-- - a traveler passing through, - as my ancestors were before me. + +a traveler passing through, + +as my ancestors were before me. + 13. Leave me alone so I can smile again - before I am gone and exist no more. + +before I am gone and exist no more. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_40.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_40.md index f437f429..4220ea06 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_40.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_40.md @@ -1,76 +1,123 @@ Psalm 40 + 1. I waited patiently for the LORD to help me, - and he turned to me and heard my cry. + +and he turned to me and heard my cry. + 2. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, - out of the mud and the mire. + +out of the mud and the mire. + He set my feet on solid ground - and steadied me as I walked along. + +and steadied me as I walked along. + 3. He has given me a new song to sing, - a hymn of praise to our God. + +a hymn of praise to our God. + Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the LORD. 4. Oh, the joys of those who trust the LORD, - who have no confidence in the proud - or in those who worship idols. + +who have no confidence in the proud + +or in those who worship idols. + 5. O LORD my God, you have performed many wonders for us. - Your plans for us are too numerous to list. - You have no equal. + +Your plans for us are too numerous to list. + +You have no equal. + If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds, - I would never come to the end of them. + +I would never come to the end of them. + 6. You take no delight in sacrifices or offerings. Now that you have made me listen, I finally understand-- - you don't require burnt offerings or sin offerings. + +you don't require burnt offerings or sin offerings. + 7. Then I said, "Look, I have come. - As is written about me in the Scriptures: + +As is written about me in the Scriptures: + 8. I take joy in doing your will, my God, - for your instructions are written on my heart." + +for your instructions are written on my heart." + 9. I have told all your people about your justice. - I have not been afraid to speak out, + +I have not been afraid to speak out, as you, O LORD, well know. 10. I have not kept the good news of your justice hidden in my heart; - I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. + +I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. + I have told everyone in the great assembly - of your unfailing love and faithfulness. + +of your unfailing love and faithfulness. + 11. LORD, don't hold back your tender mercies from me. - Let your unfailing love and faithfulness always protect me. + +Let your unfailing love and faithfulness always protect me. + 12. For troubles surround me-- - too many to count! + +too many to count! My sins pile up so high - I can't see my way out. + +I can't see my way out. + They outnumber the hairs on my head. - I have lost all courage. + +I have lost all courage. + 13. Please, LORD, rescue me! Come quickly, LORD, and help me. 14. May those who try to destroy me - be humiliated and put to shame. + +be humiliated and put to shame. + May those who take delight in my trouble - be turned back in disgrace. + +be turned back in disgrace. + 15. Let them be horrified by their shame, - for they said, "Aha! We've got him now!" + +for they said, "Aha! We've got him now!" + 16. But may all who search for you - be filled with joy and gladness in you. + +be filled with joy and gladness in you. + May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "The LORD is great!" 17. As for me, since I am poor and needy, - let the Lord keep me in his thoughts. + +let the Lord keep me in his thoughts. + You are my helper and my savior. - O my God, do not delay. + +O my God, do not delay. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_41.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_41.md index af2ba051..6fb1cbc1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_41.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_41.md @@ -1,46 +1,75 @@ Psalm 41 + 1. Oh, the joys of those who are kind to the poor! The LORD rescues them when they are in trouble. 2. The LORD protects them - and keeps them alive. + +and keeps them alive. + He gives them prosperity in the land - and rescues them from their enemies. + +and rescues them from their enemies. + 3. The LORD nurses them when they are sick - and restores them to health. + +and restores them to health. + 4. "O LORD," I prayed, "have mercy on me. - Heal me, for I have sinned against you." + +Heal me, for I have sinned against you." + 5. But my enemies say nothing but evil about me. - "How soon will he die and be forgotten?" they ask. + +"How soon will he die and be forgotten?" they ask. + 6. They visit me as if they were my friends, - but all the while they gather gossip, - and when they leave, they spread it everywhere. + +but all the while they gather gossip, + +and when they leave, they spread it everywhere. + 7. All who hate me whisper about me, - imagining the worst. + +imagining the worst. + 8. "He has some fatal disease," they say. - "He will never get out of that bed!" + +"He will never get out of that bed!" + 9. Even my best friend, the one I trusted completely, - the one who shared my food, has turned against me. + +the one who shared my food, has turned against me. + 10. LORD, have mercy on me. - Make me well again, so I can pay them back! + +Make me well again, so I can pay them back! + 11. I know you are pleased with me, - for you have not let my enemies triumph over me. + +for you have not let my enemies triumph over me. + 12. You have preserved my life because I am innocent; - you have brought me into your presence forever. + +you have brought me into your presence forever. + 13. Praise the LORD, the God of Israel, - who lives from everlasting to everlasting. + +who lives from everlasting to everlasting. + Amen and amen! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_42.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_42.md index 73f198a2..96cba76d 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_42.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_42.md @@ -1,52 +1,85 @@ Psalm 42 + 1. As the deer longs for streams of water, - so I long for you, O God. + +so I long for you, O God. + 2. I thirst for God, the living God. - When can I go and stand before him? + +When can I go and stand before him? + 3. Day and night I have only tears for food, - while my enemies continually taunt me, saying, - "Where is this God of yours?" + +while my enemies continually taunt me, saying, + +"Where is this God of yours?" + 4. My heart is breaking - as I remember how it used to be: + +as I remember how it used to be: I walked among the crowds of worshipers, - leading a great procession to the house of God, + +leading a great procession to the house of God, singing for joy and giving thanks - amid the sound of a great celebration! + +amid the sound of a great celebration! + 5. Why am I discouraged? - Why is my heart so sad? + +Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! - I will praise him again-- - my Savior and + +I will praise him again-- + +my Savior and + 6. my God! Now I am deeply discouraged, - but I will remember you-- + +but I will remember you-- even from distant Mount Hermon, the source of the Jordan, - from the land of Mount Mizar. + +from the land of Mount Mizar. + 7. I hear the tumult of the raging seas - as your waves and surging tides sweep over me. + +as your waves and surging tides sweep over me. + 8. But each day the LORD pours his unfailing love upon me, - and through each night I sing his songs, - praying to God who gives me life. + +and through each night I sing his songs, + +praying to God who gives me life. + 9. "O God my rock," I cry, - "Why have you forgotten me? + +"Why have you forgotten me? Why must I wander around in grief, - oppressed by my enemies?" + +oppressed by my enemies?" + 10. Their taunts break my bones. - They scoff, "Where is this God of yours?" + They scoff, +"Where is this God of yours?" + 11. Why am I discouraged? - Why is my heart so sad? + +Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! - I will praise him again-- - my Savior and my God! + +I will praise him again-- + +my Savior and my God! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_43.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_43.md index c9b113ab..1043de7f 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_43.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_43.md @@ -1,28 +1,46 @@ Psalm 43 + 1. Declare me innocent, O God! - Defend me against these ungodly people. - Rescue me from these unjust liars. + +Defend me against these ungodly people. + +Rescue me from these unjust liars. + 2. For you are God, my only safe haven. - Why have you tossed me aside? + +Why have you tossed me aside? Why must I wander around in grief, - oppressed by my enemies? + +oppressed by my enemies? + 3. Send out your light and your truth; - let them guide me. + +let them guide me. + Let them lead me to your holy mountain, - to the place where you live. + +to the place where you live. + 4. There I will go to the altar of God, to God--the source of all my joy. + I will praise you with my harp, - O God, my God! + +O God, my God! + 5. Why am I discouraged? - Why is my heart so sad? + +Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! - I will praise him again-- - my Savior and my God! + +I will praise him again-- + +my Savior and my God! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_44.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_44.md index c295f25e..07192fed 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_44.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_44.md @@ -1,88 +1,146 @@ Psalm 44 + 1. O God, we have heard it with our own ears-- - our ancestors have told us + +our ancestors have told us of all you did in their day, - in days long ago: + +in days long ago: + 2. You drove out the pagan nations by your power - and gave all the land to our ancestors. + +and gave all the land to our ancestors. + You crushed their enemies - and set our ancestors free. + +and set our ancestors free. + 3. They did not conquer the land with their swords; - it was not their own strong arm that gave them victory. + +it was not their own strong arm that gave them victory. + It was your right hand and strong arm - and the blinding light from your face that helped them, - for you loved them. + +and the blinding light from your face that helped them, + +for you loved them. + 4. You are my King and my God. You command victories for Israel. 5. Only by your power can we push back our enemies; - only in your name can we trample our foes. + +only in your name can we trample our foes. + 6. I do not trust in my bow; - I do not count on my sword to save me. + +I do not count on my sword to save me. + 7. You are the one who gives us victory over our enemies; - you disgrace those who hate us. + +you disgrace those who hate us. + 8. O God, we give glory to you all day long - and constantly praise your name. Interlude + +and constantly praise your name. Interlude + 9. But now you have tossed us aside in dishonor. - You no longer lead our armies to battle. + +You no longer lead our armies to battle. + 10. You make us retreat from our enemies - and allow those who hate us to plunder our land. + +and allow those who hate us to plunder our land. + 11. You have butchered us like sheep - and scattered us among the nations. + +and scattered us among the nations. + 12. You sold your precious people for a pittance, - making nothing on the sale. + +making nothing on the sale. + 13. You let our neighbors mock us. - We are an object of scorn and derision to those around us. + +We are an object of scorn and derision to those around us. + 14. You have made us the butt of their jokes; - they shake their heads at us in scorn. + +they shake their heads at us in scorn. + 15. We can't escape the constant humiliation; - shame is written across our faces. + +shame is written across our faces. + 16. All we hear are the taunts of our mockers. - All we see are our vengeful enemies. + +All we see are our vengeful enemies. + 17. All this has happened though we have not forgotten you. - We have not violated your covenant. + +We have not violated your covenant. + 18. Our hearts have not deserted you. - We have not strayed from your path. + +We have not strayed from your path. + 19. Yet you have crushed us in the jackal's desert home. - You have covered us with darkness and death. + +You have covered us with darkness and death. + 20. If we had forgotten the name of our God - or spread our hands in prayer to foreign gods, + +or spread our hands in prayer to foreign gods, + 21. God would surely have known it, - for he knows the secrets of every heart. + +for he knows the secrets of every heart. + 22. But for your sake we are killed every day; - we are being slaughtered like sheep. + +we are being slaughtered like sheep. + 23. Wake up, O Lord! Why do you sleep? - Get up! Do not reject us forever. + +Get up! Do not reject us forever. + 24. Why do you look the other way? - Why do you ignore our suffering and oppression? + +Why do you ignore our suffering and oppression? + 25. We collapse in the dust, - lying face down in the dirt. - -26. Rise up! Help us! - Ransom us because of your unfailing love. + +lying face down in the dirt. + + +26. Rise up! +Help us! + +Ransom us because of your unfailing love. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_45.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_45.md index 57f12097..5bae3b5d 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_45.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_45.md @@ -1,59 +1,99 @@ Psalm 45 + 1. Beautiful words stir my heart. - I will recite a lovely poem about the king, - for my tongue is like the pen of a skillful poet. + +I will recite a lovely poem about the king, + +for my tongue is like the pen of a skillful poet. + 2. You are the most handsome of all. - Gracious words stream from your lips. - God himself has blessed you forever. + +Gracious words stream from your lips. + +God himself has blessed you forever. + 3. Put on your sword, O mighty warrior! - You are so glorious, so majestic! + +You are so glorious, so majestic! + 4. In your majesty, ride out to victory, - defending truth, humility, and justice. - Go forth to perform awe-inspiring deeds! + +defending truth, humility, and justice. + +Go forth to perform awe-inspiring deeds! + 5. Your arrows are sharp, piercing your enemies' hearts. - The nations fall beneath your feet. + +The nations fall beneath your feet. + 6. Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever. - You rule with a scepter of justice. + +You rule with a scepter of justice. + 7. You love justice and hate evil. - Therefore God, your God, has anointed you, - pouring out the oil of joy on you more than on anyone else. + +Therefore God, your God, has anointed you, + +pouring out the oil of joy on you more than on anyone else. + 8. Myrrh, aloes, and cassia perfume your robes. - In ivory palaces the music of strings entertains you. + +In ivory palaces the music of strings entertains you. + 9. Kings' daughters are among your noble women. - At your right side stands the queen, - wearing jewelry of finest gold from Ophir! + +At your right side stands the queen, + +wearing jewelry of finest gold from Ophir! + 10. Listen to me, O royal daughter; take to heart what I say. - Forget your people and your family far away. + +Forget your people and your family far away. + 11. For your royal husband delights in your beauty; - honor him, for he is your lord. + +honor him, for he is your lord. + 12. The princess of Tyre will shower you with gifts. - The wealthy will beg your favor. + +The wealthy will beg your favor. + 13. The bride, a princess, looks glorious - in her golden gown. + +in her golden gown. + 14. In her beautiful robes, she is led to the king, - accompanied by her bridesmaids. + +accompanied by her bridesmaids. + 15. What a joyful and enthusiastic procession - as they enter the king's palace! + +as they enter the king's palace! + 16. Your sons will become kings like their father. - You will make them rulers over many lands. + +You will make them rulers over many lands. + 17. I will bring honor to your name in every generation. - Therefore, the nations will praise you forever and ever. + +Therefore, the nations will praise you forever and ever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_46.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_46.md index 5008940b..3f3d7be1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_46.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_46.md @@ -1,40 +1,66 @@ Psalm 46 + 1. God is our refuge and strength, - always ready to help in times of trouble. + +always ready to help in times of trouble. + 2. So we will not fear when earthquakes come - and the mountains crumble into the sea. + +and the mountains crumble into the sea. + 3. Let the oceans roar and foam. - Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! Interlude + +Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! Interlude + 4. A river brings joy to the city of our God, - the sacred home of the Most High. + +the sacred home of the Most High. + 5. God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed. - From the very break of day, God will protect it. + +From the very break of day, God will protect it. + 6. The nations are in chaos, - and their kingdoms crumble! + +and their kingdoms crumble! God's voice thunders, - and the earth melts! + +and the earth melts! + 7. The LORD of Heaven's Armies is here among us; - the God of Israel is our fortress. Interlude + +the God of Israel is our fortress. Interlude + 8. Come, see the glorious works of the LORD: - See how he brings destruction upon the world. + +See how he brings destruction upon the world. + 9. He causes wars to end throughout the earth. - He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; - he burns the shields with fire. + +He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; + +he burns the shields with fire. + 10. "Be still, and know that I am God! - I will be honored by every nation. - I will be honored throughout the world." + +I will be honored by every nation. + +I will be honored throughout the world." + 11. The LORD of Heaven's Armies is here among us; - the God of Israel is our fortress. Interlude + +the God of Israel is our fortress. Interlude + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_47.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_47.md index 2679c947..3d2f77c5 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_47.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_47.md @@ -1,32 +1,49 @@ Psalm 47 + 1. Come, everyone! Clap your hands! - Shout to God with joyful praise! + +Shout to God with joyful praise! + 2. For the LORD Most High is awesome. - He is the great King of all the earth. + +He is the great King of all the earth. + 3. He subdues the nations before us, - putting our enemies beneath our feet. + +putting our enemies beneath our feet. + 4. He chose the Promised Land as our inheritance, - the proud possession of Jacob's descendants, whom he loves. Interlude + +the proud possession of Jacob's descendants, whom he loves. Interlude + 5. God has ascended with a mighty shout. The LORD has ascended with trumpets blaring. 6. Sing praises to God, sing praises; - sing praises to our King, sing praises! + +sing praises to our King, sing praises! + 7. For God is the King over all the earth. Praise him with a psalm. 8. God reigns above the nations, - sitting on his holy throne. + +sitting on his holy throne. + 9. The rulers of the world have gathered together - with the people of the God of Abraham. + +with the people of the God of Abraham. + For all the kings of the earth belong to God. - He is highly honored everywhere. + +He is highly honored everywhere. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_48.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_48.md index abf0e9e1..1e70df39 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_48.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_48.md @@ -1,57 +1,94 @@ Psalm 48 + 1. How great is the LORD, - how deserving of praise, + +how deserving of praise, in the city of our God, - which sits on his holy mountain! + +which sits on his holy mountain! + 2. It is high and magnificent; - the whole earth rejoices to see it! + +the whole earth rejoices to see it! Mount Zion, the holy mountain, - is the city of the great King! + +is the city of the great King! + 3. God himself is in Jerusalem's towers, - revealing himself as its defender. + +revealing himself as its defender. + 4. The kings of the earth joined forces - and advanced against the city. + +and advanced against the city. + 5. But when they saw it, they were stunned; - they were terrified and ran away. + +they were terrified and ran away. + 6. They were gripped with terror - and writhed in pain like a woman in labor. + +and writhed in pain like a woman in labor. + 7. You destroyed them like the mighty ships of Tarshish - shattered by a powerful east wind. + +shattered by a powerful east wind. + 8. We had heard of the city's glory, - but now we have seen it ourselves-- + +but now we have seen it ourselves-- the city of the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + It is the city of our God; - he will make it safe forever. Interlude + +he will make it safe forever. Interlude + 9. O God, we meditate on your unfailing love - as we worship in your Temple. + +as we worship in your Temple. + 10. As your name deserves, O God, - you will be praised to the ends of the earth. - Your strong right hand is filled with victory. + +you will be praised to the ends of the earth. + +Your strong right hand is filled with victory. + 11. Let the people on Mount Zion rejoice. - Let all the towns of Judah be glad - because of your justice. + +Let all the towns of Judah be glad + +because of your justice. + 12. Go, inspect the city of Jerusalem. - Walk around and count the many towers. + +Walk around and count the many towers. + 13. Take note of the fortified walls, - and tour all the citadels, + +and tour all the citadels, that you may describe them - to future generations. + +to future generations. + 14. For that is what God is like. - He is our God forever and ever, - and he will guide us until we die. + +He is our God forever and ever, + +and he will guide us until we die. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_49.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_49.md index 1c0e07a7..aa741836 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_49.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_49.md @@ -1,68 +1,109 @@ Psalm 49 + 1. Listen to this, all you people! - Pay attention, everyone in the world! + +Pay attention, everyone in the world! + 2. High and low, rich and poor--listen! 3. For my words are wise, - and my thoughts are filled with insight. + +and my thoughts are filled with insight. + 4. I listen carefully to many proverbs - and solve riddles with inspiration from a harp. + +and solve riddles with inspiration from a harp. + 5. Why should I fear when trouble comes, - when enemies surround me? + +when enemies surround me? + 6. They trust in their wealth - and boast of great riches. + +and boast of great riches. + 7. Yet they cannot redeem themselves from death - by paying a ransom to God. + +by paying a ransom to God. + 8. Redemption does not come so easily, - for no one can ever pay enough + +for no one can ever pay enough + 9. to live forever - and never see the grave. + +and never see the grave. + 10. Those who are wise must finally die, - just like the foolish and senseless, - leaving all their wealth behind. + +just like the foolish and senseless, + +leaving all their wealth behind. + 11. The grave is their eternal home, - where they will stay forever. + +where they will stay forever. + They may name their estates after themselves, + 12. but their fame will not last. - They will die, just like animals. + +They will die, just like animals. + 13. This is the fate of fools, though they are remembered as being wise. Interlude 14. Like sheep, they are led to the grave, - where death will be their shepherd. + +where death will be their shepherd. + In the morning the godly will rule over them. - Their bodies will rot in the grave, - far from their grand estates. + +Their bodies will rot in the grave, + +far from their grand estates. + 15. But as for me, God will redeem my life. - He will snatch me from the power of the grave. Interlude + +He will snatch me from the power of the grave. Interlude + 16. So don't be dismayed when the wicked grow rich - and their homes become ever more splendid. + +and their homes become ever more splendid. + 17. For when they die, they take nothing with them. - Their wealth will not follow them into the grave. + +Their wealth will not follow them into the grave. + 18. In this life they consider themselves fortunate - and are applauded for their success. + +and are applauded for their success. + 19. But they will die like all before them - and never again see the light of day. + +and never again see the light of day. + 20. People who boast of their wealth don't understand; they will die, just like animals. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_50.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_50.md index b4b9977a..32d5c05f 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_50.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_50.md @@ -1,83 +1,139 @@ Psalm 50 + 1. The LORD, the Mighty One, is God, - and he has spoken; + +and he has spoken; he has summoned all humanity - from where the sun rises to where it sets. + +from where the sun rises to where it sets. + 2. From Mount Zion, the perfection of beauty, - God shines in glorious radiance. + +God shines in glorious radiance. + 3. Our God approaches, - and he is not silent. + +and he is not silent. + Fire devours everything in his way, - and a great storm rages around him. + +and a great storm rages around him. + 4. He calls on the heavens above and earth below - to witness the judgment of his people. + +to witness the judgment of his people. + 5. "Bring my faithful people to me-- - those who made a covenant with me by giving sacrifices." + +those who made a covenant with me by giving sacrifices." + 6. Then let the heavens proclaim his justice, - for God himself will be the judge. Interlude + +for God himself will be the judge. Interlude + 7. "O my people, listen as I speak. - Here are my charges against you, O Israel: - I am God, your God! + +Here are my charges against you, O Israel: + +I am God, your God! + 8. I have no complaint about your sacrifices - or the burnt offerings you constantly offer. + +or the burnt offerings you constantly offer. + 9. But I do not need the bulls from your barns - or the goats from your pens. + +or the goats from your pens. + 10. For all the animals of the forest are mine, - and I own the cattle on a thousand hills. + +and I own the cattle on a thousand hills. + 11. I know every bird on the mountains, - and all the animals of the field are mine. + +and all the animals of the field are mine. + 12. If I were hungry, I would not tell you, - for all the world is mine and everything in it. + +for all the world is mine and everything in it. + 13. Do I eat the meat of bulls? - Do I drink the blood of goats? + +Do I drink the blood of goats? + 14. Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, - and keep the vows you made to the Most High. + +and keep the vows you made to the Most High. + 15. Then call on me when you are in trouble, - and I will rescue you, - and you will give me glory." + +and I will rescue you, + +and you will give me glory." + 16. But God says to the wicked: "Why bother reciting my decrees - and pretending to obey my covenant? + +and pretending to obey my covenant? + 17. For you refuse my discipline - and treat my words like trash. + +and treat my words like trash. + 18. When you see thieves, you approve of them, - and you spend your time with adulterers. + +and you spend your time with adulterers. + 19. Your mouth is filled with wickedness, - and your tongue is full of lies. + +and your tongue is full of lies. + 20. You sit around and slander your brother-- - your own mother's son. + +your own mother's son. + 21. While you did all this, I remained silent, - and you thought I didn't care. + +and you thought I didn't care. + But now I will rebuke you, - listing all my charges against you. + +listing all my charges against you. + 22. Repent, all of you who forget me, - or I will tear you apart, - and no one will help you. + +or I will tear you apart, + +and no one will help you. + 23. But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me. - If you keep to my path, - I will reveal to you the salvation of God." + +If you keep to my path, + +I will reveal to you the salvation of God." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_51.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_51.md index bec12a98..fdb79c70 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_51.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_51.md @@ -1,66 +1,107 @@ Psalm 51 + 1. Have mercy on me, O God, - because of your unfailing love. + +because of your unfailing love. + Because of your great compassion, - blot out the stain of my sins. + +blot out the stain of my sins. + 2. Wash me clean from my guilt. - Purify me from my sin. + +Purify me from my sin. + 3. For I recognize my rebellion; - it haunts me day and night. + +it haunts me day and night. + 4. Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; - I have done what is evil in your sight. + +I have done what is evil in your sight. + You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just. 5. For I was born a sinner-- - yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. + +yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. + 6. But you desire honesty from the womb, - teaching me wisdom even there. + +teaching me wisdom even there. + 7. Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; - wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. + +wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. + 8. Oh, give me back my joy again; - you have broken me-- - now let me rejoice. + +you have broken me-- + +now let me rejoice. + 9. Don't keep looking at my sins. - Remove the stain of my guilt. + +Remove the stain of my guilt. + 10. Create in me a clean heart, O God. - Renew a loyal spirit within me. + +Renew a loyal spirit within me. + 11. Do not banish me from your presence, and don't take your Holy Spirit from me. 12. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, - and make me willing to obey you. + +and make me willing to obey you. + 13. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, - and they will return to you. + +and they will return to you. + 14. Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves; - then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness. + +then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness. + 15. Unseal my lips, O Lord, - that my mouth may praise you. + +that my mouth may praise you. + 16. You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. - You do not want a burnt offering. + +You do not want a burnt offering. + 17. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. - You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. + +You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. + 18. Look with favor on Zion and help her; - rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. + +rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. + 19. Then you will be pleased with sacrifices offered in the right spirit-- - with burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings. - Then bulls will again be sacrificed on your altar. + +with burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings. + +Then bulls will again be sacrificed on your altar. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_52.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_52.md index f3853393..b80da7b4 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_52.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_52.md @@ -1,36 +1,61 @@ Psalm 52 + 1. Why do you boast about your crimes, great warrior? - Don't you realize God's justice continues forever? + +Don't you realize God's justice continues forever? + 2. All day long you plot destruction. - Your tongue cuts like a sharp razor; - you're an expert at telling lies. + +Your tongue cuts like a sharp razor; + +you're an expert at telling lies. + 3. You love evil more than good - and lies more than truth. Interlude + +and lies more than truth. Interlude + 4. You love to destroy others with your words, - you liar! + +you liar! + 5. But God will strike you down once and for all. - He will pull you from your home - and uproot you from the land of the living. Interlude + +He will pull you from your home + +and uproot you from the land of the living. Interlude + 6. The righteous will see it and be amazed. - They will laugh and say, + +They will laugh and say, + 7. "Look what happens to mighty warriors - who do not trust in God. + +who do not trust in God. + They trust their wealth instead - and grow more and more bold in their wickedness." + +and grow more and more bold in their wickedness." + 8. But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. - I will always trust in God's unfailing love. + +I will always trust in God's unfailing love. + 9. I will praise you forever, O God, - for what you have done. + +for what you have done. + I will trust in your good name - in the presence of your faithful people. + +in the presence of your faithful people. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_53.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_53.md index 9a68ba83..1242ecde 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_53.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_53.md @@ -1,31 +1,51 @@ Psalm 53 + 1. Only fools say in their hearts, - "There is no God." + +"There is no God." They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; - not one of them does good! + +not one of them does good! + 2. God looks down from heaven - on the entire human race; + +on the entire human race; he looks to see if anyone is truly wise, - if anyone seeks God. + +if anyone seeks God. + 3. But no, all have turned away; all have become corrupt. + No one does good, - not a single one! + +not a single one! + 4. Will those who do evil never learn? - They eat up my people like bread - and wouldn't think of praying to God. + +They eat up my people like bread + +and wouldn't think of praying to God. + 5. Terror will grip them, - terror like they have never known before. + +terror like they have never known before. + God will scatter the bones of your enemies. - You will put them to shame, for God has rejected them. + +You will put them to shame, for God has rejected them. + 6. Who will come from Mount Zion to rescue Israel? - When God restores his people, - Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice. + +When God restores his people, + +Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_54.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_54.md index 942f9cf8..cd6beb28 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_54.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_54.md @@ -1,26 +1,42 @@ Psalm 54 + 1. Come with great power, O God, and rescue me! - Defend me with your might. + +Defend me with your might. + 2. Listen to my prayer, O God. - Pay attention to my plea. + +Pay attention to my plea. + 3. For strangers are attacking me; - violent people are trying to kill me. - They care nothing for God. Interlude + +violent people are trying to kill me. + +They care nothing for God. Interlude + 4. But God is my helper. - The Lord keeps me alive! + +The Lord keeps me alive! + 5. May the evil plans of my enemies be turned against them. - Do as you promised and put an end to them. + +Do as you promised and put an end to them. + 6. I will sacrifice a voluntary offering to you; I will praise your name, O LORD, - for it is good. + +for it is good. + 7. For you have rescued me from my troubles - and helped me to triumph over my enemies. + +and helped me to triumph over my enemies. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_55.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_55.md index bf673102..9b71e11f 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_55.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_55.md @@ -1,86 +1,141 @@ Psalm 55 + 1. Listen to my prayer, O God. - Do not ignore my cry for help! + +Do not ignore my cry for help! + 2. Please listen and answer me, - for I am overwhelmed by my troubles. + +for I am overwhelmed by my troubles. + 3. My enemies shout at me, - making loud and wicked threats. + +making loud and wicked threats. + They bring trouble on me - and angrily hunt me down. + +and angrily hunt me down. + 4. My heart pounds in my chest. - The terror of death assaults me. + +The terror of death assaults me. + 5. Fear and trembling overwhelm me, - and I can't stop shaking. + +and I can't stop shaking. + 6. Oh, that I had wings like a dove; - then I would fly away and rest! + +then I would fly away and rest! + 7. I would fly far away - to the quiet of the wilderness. Interlude + +to the quiet of the wilderness. Interlude + 8. How quickly I would escape-- - far from this wild storm of hatred. + +far from this wild storm of hatred. + 9. Confuse them, Lord, and frustrate their plans, - for I see violence and conflict in the city. + +for I see violence and conflict in the city. + 10. Its walls are patrolled day and night against invaders, - but the real danger is wickedness within the city. + +but the real danger is wickedness within the city. + 11. Everything is falling apart; - threats and cheating are rampant in the streets. + +threats and cheating are rampant in the streets. + 12. It is not an enemy who taunts me-- - I could bear that. + +I could bear that. + It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me-- - I could have hidden from them. + +I could have hidden from them. + 13. Instead, it is you--my equal, - my companion and close friend. + +my companion and close friend. + 14. What good fellowship we once enjoyed - as we walked together to the house of God. + +as we walked together to the house of God. + 15. Let death stalk my enemies; let the grave swallow them alive, - for evil makes its home within them. + +for evil makes its home within them. + 16. But I will call on God, and the LORD will rescue me. 17. Morning, noon, and night - I cry out in my distress, + +I cry out in my distress, and the LORD hears my voice. 18. He ransoms me and keeps me safe - from the battle waged against me, - though many still oppose me. + +from the battle waged against me, + +though many still oppose me. + 19. God, who has ruled forever, - will hear me and humble them. Interlude + +will hear me and humble them. Interlude For my enemies refuse to change their ways; - they do not fear God. + +they do not fear God. + 20. As for my companion, he betrayed his friends; - he broke his promises. + +he broke his promises. + 21. His words are as smooth as butter, - but in his heart is war. + +but in his heart is war. + His words are as soothing as lotion, - but underneath are daggers! + +but underneath are daggers! + 22. Give your burdens to the LORD, - and he will take care of you. - He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. + +and he will take care of you. + +He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. + 23. But you, O God, will send the wicked - down to the pit of destruction. + +down to the pit of destruction. + Murderers and liars will die young, - but I am trusting you to save me. + +but I am trusting you to save me. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_56.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_56.md index 21078c86..8b64438a 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_56.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_56.md @@ -1,47 +1,78 @@ Psalm 56 + 1. O God, have mercy on me, - for people are hounding me. - My foes attack me all day long. + +for people are hounding me. + +My foes attack me all day long. + 2. I am constantly hounded by those who slander me, - and many are boldly attacking me. + +and many are boldly attacking me. + 3. But when I am afraid, - I will put my trust in you. + +I will put my trust in you. + 4. I praise God for what he has promised. - I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? - What can mere mortals do to me? + +I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? + +What can mere mortals do to me? + 5. They are always twisting what I say; - they spend their days plotting to harm me. + +they spend their days plotting to harm me. + 6. They come together to spy on me-- - watching my every step, eager to kill me. + +watching my every step, eager to kill me. + 7. Don't let them get away with their wickedness; - in your anger, O God, bring them down. + +in your anger, O God, bring them down. + 8. You keep track of all my sorrows. - You have collected all my tears in your bottle. - You have recorded each one in your book. + +You have collected all my tears in your bottle. + +You have recorded each one in your book. + 9. My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help. - This I know: God is on my side! + +This I know: God is on my side! + 10. I praise God for what he has promised; yes, I praise the LORD for what he has promised. -11. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? - What can mere mortals do to me? +11. +I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? + +What can mere mortals do to me? + 12. I will fulfill my vows to you, O God, - and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help. + +and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help. + 13. For you have rescued me from death; - you have kept my feet from slipping. + +you have kept my feet from slipping. + So now I can walk in your presence, O God, - in your life-giving light. + +in your life-giving light. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_57.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_57.md index fb6e890d..ef0dffd6 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_57.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_57.md @@ -1,45 +1,75 @@ Psalm 57 + 1. Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy! - I look to you for protection. + +I look to you for protection. + I will hide beneath the shadow of your wings - until the danger passes by. + +until the danger passes by. + 2. I cry out to God Most High, - to God who will fulfill his purpose for me. + +to God who will fulfill his purpose for me. + 3. He will send help from heaven to rescue me, - disgracing those who hound me. Interlude + +disgracing those who hound me. Interlude My God will send forth his unfailing love and faithfulness. + 4. I am surrounded by fierce lions - who greedily devour human prey-- + +who greedily devour human prey-- whose teeth pierce like spears and arrows, - and whose tongues cut like swords. + +and whose tongues cut like swords. + 5. Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens! - May your glory shine over all the earth. + +May your glory shine over all the earth. + 6. My enemies have set a trap for me. - I am weary from distress. + +I am weary from distress. + They have dug a deep pit in my path, - but they themselves have fallen into it. Interlude + +but they themselves have fallen into it. Interlude + 7. My heart is confident in you, O God; - my heart is confident. - No wonder I can sing your praises! + +my heart is confident. + +No wonder I can sing your praises! + 8. Wake up, my heart! - Wake up, O lyre and harp! - I will wake the dawn with my song. + +Wake up, O lyre and harp! + +I will wake the dawn with my song. + 9. I will thank you, Lord, among all the people. - I will sing your praises among the nations. + +I will sing your praises among the nations. + 10. For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. - Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. + +Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. + 11. Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. - May your glory shine over all the earth. + +May your glory shine over all the earth. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_58.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_58.md index f1436454..5e368605 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_58.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_58.md @@ -1,19 +1,30 @@ Psalm 58 + 1. Justice--do you rulers know the meaning of the word? - Do you judge the people fairly? + +Do you judge the people fairly? + 2. No! You plot injustice in your hearts. - You spread violence throughout the land. + +You spread violence throughout the land. + 3. These wicked people are born sinners; - even from birth they have lied and gone their own way. + +even from birth they have lied and gone their own way. + 4. They spit venom like deadly snakes; - they are like cobras that refuse to listen, + +they are like cobras that refuse to listen, + 5. ignoring the tunes of the snake charmers, - no matter how skillfully they play. + +no matter how skillfully they play. + 6. Break off their fangs, O God! Smash the jaws of these lions, O LORD! @@ -22,16 +33,25 @@ Psalm 58 Make their weapons useless in their hands. 8. May they be like snails that dissolve into slime, - like a stillborn child who will never see the sun. + +like a stillborn child who will never see the sun. + 9. God will sweep them away, both young and old, - faster than a pot heats over burning thorns. + +faster than a pot heats over burning thorns. + 10. The godly will rejoice when they see injustice avenged. - They will wash their feet in the blood of the wicked. + +They will wash their feet in the blood of the wicked. + 11. Then at last everyone will say, - "There truly is a reward for those who live for God; - surely there is a God who judges justly here on earth." + +"There truly is a reward for those who live for God; + +surely there is a God who judges justly here on earth." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_59.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_59.md index befa4364..8a6074b7 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_59.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_59.md @@ -1,68 +1,110 @@ Psalm 59 + 1. Rescue me from my enemies, O God. - Protect me from those who have come to destroy me. + +Protect me from those who have come to destroy me. + 2. Rescue me from these criminals; - save me from these murderers. + +save me from these murderers. + 3. They have set an ambush for me. Fierce enemies are out there waiting, LORD, - though I have not sinned or offended them. + +though I have not sinned or offended them. + 4. I have done nothing wrong, - yet they prepare to attack me. - Wake up! See what is happening and help me! + +yet they prepare to attack me. + +Wake up! See what is happening and help me! + 5. O LORD God of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, - wake up and punish those hostile nations. - Show no mercy to wicked traitors. Interlude + +wake up and punish those hostile nations. + +Show no mercy to wicked traitors. Interlude + 6. They come out at night, - snarling like vicious dogs - as they prowl the streets. + +snarling like vicious dogs + +as they prowl the streets. + 7. Listen to the filth that comes from their mouths; - their words cut like swords. - "After all, who can hear us?" they sneer. + +their words cut like swords. + +"After all, who can hear us?" they sneer. + 8. But LORD, you laugh at them. - You scoff at all the hostile nations. + +You scoff at all the hostile nations. + 9. You are my strength; I wait for you to rescue me, - for you, O God, are my fortress. + +for you, O God, are my fortress. + 10. In his unfailing love, my God will stand with me. - He will let me look down in triumph on all my enemies. + +He will let me look down in triumph on all my enemies. + 11. Don't kill them, for my people soon forget such lessons; - stagger them with your power, and bring them to their knees, - O Lord our shield. + +stagger them with your power, and bring them to their knees, + +O Lord our shield. + 12. Because of the sinful things they say, - because of the evil that is on their lips, + +because of the evil that is on their lips, let them be captured by their pride, - their curses, and their lies. + +their curses, and their lies. + 13. Destroy them in your anger! - Wipe them out completely! + +Wipe them out completely! Then the whole world will know that God reigns in Israel. Interlude 14. My enemies come out at night, - snarling like vicious dogs - as they prowl the streets. + +snarling like vicious dogs + +as they prowl the streets. + 15. They scavenge for food but go to sleep unsatisfied. 16. But as for me, I will sing about your power. - Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. + +Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. + For you have been my refuge, - a place of safety when I am in distress. + +a place of safety when I am in distress. + 17. O my Strength, to you I sing praises, - for you, O God, are my refuge, - the God who shows me unfailing love. + +for you, O God, are my refuge, + +the God who shows me unfailing love. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_60.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_60.md index c3a83b7e..d4acddd5 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_60.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_60.md @@ -1,43 +1,71 @@ Psalm 60 + 1. You have rejected us, O God, and broken our defenses. - You have been angry with us; now restore us to your favor. + +You have been angry with us; now restore us to your favor. + 2. You have shaken our land and split it open. - Seal the cracks, for the land trembles. + +Seal the cracks, for the land trembles. + 3. You have been very hard on us, - making us drink wine that sent us reeling. + +making us drink wine that sent us reeling. + 4. But you have raised a banner for those who fear you-- - a rallying point in the face of attack. Interlude + +a rallying point in the face of attack. Interlude + 5. Now rescue your beloved people. - Answer and save us by your power. + +Answer and save us by your power. + 6. God has promised this by his holiness: "I will divide up Shechem with joy. - I will measure out the valley of Succoth. + +I will measure out the valley of Succoth. + 7. Gilead is mine, - and Manasseh, too. + +and Manasseh, too. + Ephraim, my helmet, will produce my warriors, - and Judah, my scepter, will produce my kings. + +and Judah, my scepter, will produce my kings. + 8. But Moab, my washbasin, will become my servant, - and I will wipe my feet on Edom - and shout in triumph over Philistia." + +and I will wipe my feet on Edom + +and shout in triumph over Philistia." + 9. Who will bring me into the fortified city? - Who will bring me victory over Edom? + +Who will bring me victory over Edom? + 10. Have you rejected us, O God? - Will you no longer march with our armies? + +Will you no longer march with our armies? + 11. Oh, please help us against our enemies, - for all human help is useless. + +for all human help is useless. + 12. With God's help we will do mighty things, - for he will trample down our foes. + +for he will trample down our foes. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_61.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_61.md index 33447e3c..3852a5e5 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_61.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_61.md @@ -1,29 +1,48 @@ Psalm 61 + 1. O God, listen to my cry! - Hear my prayer! + +Hear my prayer! + 2. From the ends of the earth, - I cry to you for help - when my heart is overwhelmed. + +I cry to you for help + +when my heart is overwhelmed. + Lead me to the towering rock of safety, + 3. for you are my safe refuge, - a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me. + +a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me. + 4. Let me live forever in your sanctuary, - safe beneath the shelter of your wings! Interlude + +safe beneath the shelter of your wings! Interlude + 5. For you have heard my vows, O God. - You have given me an inheritance reserved for those who fear your name. + +You have given me an inheritance reserved for those who fear your name. + 6. Add many years to the life of the king! - May his years span the generations! + +May his years span the generations! + 7. May he reign under God's protection forever. - May your unfailing love and faithfulness watch over him. + +May your unfailing love and faithfulness watch over him. + 8. Then I will sing praises to your name forever - as I fulfill my vows each day. + +as I fulfill my vows each day. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_62.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_62.md index e7b38ed6..538ee730 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_62.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_62.md @@ -1,50 +1,85 @@ Psalm 62 + 1. I wait quietly before God, - for my victory comes from him. + +for my victory comes from him. + 2. He alone is my rock and my salvation, - my fortress where I will never be shaken. + +my fortress where I will never be shaken. + 3. So many enemies against one man-- - all of them trying to kill me. + +all of them trying to kill me. + To them I'm just a broken-down wall - or a tottering fence. + +or a tottering fence. + 4. They plan to topple me from my high position. - They delight in telling lies about me. + +They delight in telling lies about me. + They praise me to my face - but curse me in their hearts. Interlude + +but curse me in their hearts. Interlude + 5. Let all that I am wait quietly before God, - for my hope is in him. + +for my hope is in him. + 6. He alone is my rock and my salvation, - my fortress where I will not be shaken. + +my fortress where I will not be shaken. + 7. My victory and honor come from God alone. - He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me. + +He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me. + 8. O my people, trust in him at all times. - Pour out your heart to him, - for God is our refuge. Interlude + +Pour out your heart to him, + +for God is our refuge. Interlude + 9. Common people are as worthless as a puff of wind, - and the powerful are not what they appear to be. + +and the powerful are not what they appear to be. + If you weigh them on the scales, - together they are lighter than a breath of air. + +together they are lighter than a breath of air. + 10. Don't make your living by extortion - or put your hope in stealing. + +or put your hope in stealing. + And if your wealth increases, - don't make it the center of your life. + +don't make it the center of your life. + 11. God has spoken plainly, - and I have heard it many times: + +and I have heard it many times: Power, O God, belongs to you; + 12. unfailing love, O Lord, is yours. + Surely you repay all people - according to what they have done. + +according to what they have done. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_63.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_63.md index d676b528..5aabbbf3 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_63.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_63.md @@ -1,41 +1,68 @@ Psalm 63 + 1. O God, you are my God; - I earnestly search for you. + +I earnestly search for you. + My soul thirsts for you; - my whole body longs for you + +my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land - where there is no water. + +where there is no water. + 2. I have seen you in your sanctuary - and gazed upon your power and glory. + +and gazed upon your power and glory. + 3. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; - how I praise you! + +how I praise you! + 4. I will praise you as long as I live, - lifting up my hands to you in prayer. + +lifting up my hands to you in prayer. + 5. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. - I will praise you with songs of joy. + +I will praise you with songs of joy. + 6. I lie awake thinking of you, - meditating on you through the night. + +meditating on you through the night. + 7. Because you are my helper, - I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. + +I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. + 8. I cling to you; - your strong right hand holds me securely. + +your strong right hand holds me securely. + 9. But those plotting to destroy me will come to ruin. - They will go down into the depths of the earth. + +They will go down into the depths of the earth. + 10. They will die by the sword - and become the food of jackals. + +and become the food of jackals. + 11. But the king will rejoice in God. - All who swear to tell the truth will praise him, - while liars will be silenced. + +All who swear to tell the truth will praise him, + +while liars will be silenced. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_64.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_64.md index d144225c..8b9e0a0b 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_64.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_64.md @@ -1,38 +1,64 @@ Psalm 64 + 1. O God, listen to my complaint. - Protect my life from my enemies' threats. + +Protect my life from my enemies' threats. + 2. Hide me from the plots of this evil mob, - from this gang of wrongdoers. + +from this gang of wrongdoers. + 3. They sharpen their tongues like swords - and aim their bitter words like arrows. + +and aim their bitter words like arrows. + 4. They shoot from ambush at the innocent, - attacking suddenly and fearlessly. + +attacking suddenly and fearlessly. + 5. They encourage each other to do evil - and plan how to set their traps in secret. - "Who will ever notice?" they ask. + +and plan how to set their traps in secret. + +"Who will ever notice?" they ask. + 6. As they plot their crimes, they say, - "We have devised the perfect plan!" - Yes, the human heart and mind are cunning. + +"We have devised the perfect plan!" + +Yes, the human heart and mind are cunning. + 7. But God himself will shoot them with his arrows, - suddenly striking them down. + +suddenly striking them down. + 8. Their own tongues will ruin them, - and all who see them will shake their heads in scorn. + +and all who see them will shake their heads in scorn. + 9. Then everyone will be afraid; - they will proclaim the mighty acts of God - and realize all the amazing things he does. + +they will proclaim the mighty acts of God + +and realize all the amazing things he does. + 10. The godly will rejoice in the LORD - and find shelter in him. + +and find shelter in him. + And those who do what is right - will praise him. + +will praise him. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_65.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_65.md index a8c76b84..68a9c587 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_65.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_65.md @@ -1,56 +1,97 @@ Psalm 65 + 1. What mighty praise, O God, - belongs to you in Zion. + +belongs to you in Zion. + We will fulfill our vows to you, + 2. for you answer our prayers. - All of us must come to you. + +All of us must come to you. + 3. Though we are overwhelmed by our sins, - you forgive them all. + +you forgive them all. + 4. What joy for those you choose to bring near, - those who live in your holy courts. + +those who live in your holy courts. + What festivities await us - inside your holy Temple. + +inside your holy Temple. + 5. You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, - O God our savior. + +O God our savior. + You are the hope of everyone on earth, - even those who sail on distant seas. + +even those who sail on distant seas. + 6. You formed the mountains by your power - and armed yourself with mighty strength. + +and armed yourself with mighty strength. + 7. You quieted the raging oceans - with their pounding waves - and silenced the shouting of the nations. + +with their pounding waves + +and silenced the shouting of the nations. + 8. Those who live at the ends of the earth - stand in awe of your wonders. + +stand in awe of your wonders. + From where the sun rises to where it sets, - you inspire shouts of joy. + +you inspire shouts of joy. + 9. You take care of the earth and water it, - making it rich and fertile. + +making it rich and fertile. + The river of God has plenty of water; - it provides a bountiful harvest of grain, - for you have ordered it so. + +it provides a bountiful harvest of grain, + +for you have ordered it so. + 10. You drench the plowed ground with rain, - melting the clods and leveling the ridges. + +melting the clods and leveling the ridges. + You soften the earth with showers - and bless its abundant crops. + +and bless its abundant crops. + 11. You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; - even the hard pathways overflow with abundance. + +even the hard pathways overflow with abundance. + 12. The grasslands of the wilderness become a lush pasture, - and the hillsides blossom with joy. + +and the hillsides blossom with joy. + 13. The meadows are clothed with flocks of sheep, - and the valleys are carpeted with grain. - They all shout and sing for joy! + +and the valleys are carpeted with grain. + +They all shout and sing for joy! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_66.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_66.md index 2389807e..d48c12b3 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_66.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_66.md @@ -1,67 +1,110 @@ Psalm 66 + 1. Shout joyful praises to God, all the earth! 2. Sing about the glory of his name! - Tell the world how glorious he is. + +Tell the world how glorious he is. + 3. Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds! - Your enemies cringe before your mighty power. + +Your enemies cringe before your mighty power. + 4. Everything on earth will worship you; - they will sing your praises, - shouting your name in glorious songs." Interlude + +they will sing your praises, + +shouting your name in glorious songs." Interlude + 5. Come and see what our God has done, - what awesome miracles he performs for people! + +what awesome miracles he performs for people! + 6. He made a dry path through the Red Sea, - and his people went across on foot. - There we rejoiced in him. + +and his people went across on foot. + +There we rejoiced in him. + 7. For by his great power he rules forever. - He watches every movement of the nations; - let no rebel rise in defiance. Interlude + +He watches every movement of the nations; + +let no rebel rise in defiance. Interlude + 8. Let the whole world bless our God - and loudly sing his praises. + +and loudly sing his praises. + 9. Our lives are in his hands, - and he keeps our feet from stumbling. + +and he keeps our feet from stumbling. + 10. You have tested us, O God; - you have purified us like silver. + +you have purified us like silver. + 11. You captured us in your net - and laid the burden of slavery on our backs. + +and laid the burden of slavery on our backs. + 12. Then you put a leader over us. - We went through fire and flood, - but you brought us to a place of great abundance. + +We went through fire and flood, + +but you brought us to a place of great abundance. + 13. Now I come to your Temple with burnt offerings - to fulfill the vows I made to you-- + +to fulfill the vows I made to you-- 14. yes, the sacred vows that I made - when I was in deep trouble. + +when I was in deep trouble. + 15. That is why I am sacrificing burnt offerings to you-- - the best of my rams as a pleasing aroma, - and a sacrifice of bulls and male goats. Interlude + +the best of my rams as a pleasing aroma, + +and a sacrifice of bulls and male goats. Interlude + 16. Come and listen, all you who fear God, - and I will tell you what he did for me. + +and I will tell you what he did for me. + 17. For I cried out to him for help, - praising him as I spoke. + +praising him as I spoke. + 18. If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, - the Lord would not have listened. + +the Lord would not have listened. + 19. But God did listen! - He paid attention to my prayer. + +He paid attention to my prayer. + 20. Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer - or withdraw his unfailing love from me. + +or withdraw his unfailing love from me. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_67.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_67.md index 379a69ad..e0964280 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_67.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_67.md @@ -1,25 +1,41 @@ Psalm 67 + 1. May God be merciful and bless us. - May his face smile with favor on us. Interlude + +May his face smile with favor on us. Interlude + 2. May your ways be known throughout the earth, - your saving power among people everywhere. + +your saving power among people everywhere. + 3. May the nations praise you, O God. - Yes, may all the nations praise you. + +Yes, may all the nations praise you. + 4. Let the whole world sing for joy, - because you govern the nations with justice - and guide the people of the whole world. Interlude + +because you govern the nations with justice + +and guide the people of the whole world. Interlude + 5. May the nations praise you, O God. - Yes, may all the nations praise you. + +Yes, may all the nations praise you. + 6. Then the earth will yield its harvests, - and God, our God, will richly bless us. + +and God, our God, will richly bless us. + 7. Yes, God will bless us, - and people all over the world will fear him. + +and people all over the world will fear him. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_68.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_68.md index b459ae15..fdc758ea 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_68.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_68.md @@ -1,126 +1,201 @@ Psalm 68 + 1. Rise up, O God, and scatter your enemies. - Let those who hate God run for their lives. + +Let those who hate God run for their lives. + 2. Blow them away like smoke. - Melt them like wax in a fire. - Let the wicked perish in the presence of God. + +Melt them like wax in a fire. + +Let the wicked perish in the presence of God. + 3. But let the godly rejoice. - Let them be glad in God's presence. - Let them be filled with joy. + +Let them be glad in God's presence. + +Let them be filled with joy. + 4. Sing praises to God and to his name! Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds. His name is the LORD-- - rejoice in his presence! + +rejoice in his presence! + 5. Father to the fatherless, defender of widows-- - this is God, whose dwelling is holy. + +this is God, whose dwelling is holy. + 6. God places the lonely in families; - he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. + +he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. + But he makes the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land. + 7. O God, when you led your people out from Egypt, - when you marched through the dry wasteland, Interlude + +when you marched through the dry wasteland, Interlude + 8. the earth trembled, and the heavens poured down rain - before you, the God of Sinai, - before God, the God of Israel. + +before you, the God of Sinai, + +before God, the God of Israel. + 9. You sent abundant rain, O God, - to refresh the weary land. + +to refresh the weary land. + 10. There your people finally settled, - and with a bountiful harvest, O God, - you provided for your needy people. + +and with a bountiful harvest, O God, + +you provided for your needy people. + 11. The Lord gives the word, and a great army brings the good news. 12. Enemy kings and their armies flee, - while the women of Israel divide the plunder. + +while the women of Israel divide the plunder. + 13. Even those who lived among the sheepfolds found treasures-- - doves with wings of silver - and feathers of gold. + +doves with wings of silver + +and feathers of gold. + 14. The Almighty scattered the enemy kings - like a blowing snowstorm on Mount Zalmon. + +like a blowing snowstorm on Mount Zalmon. + 15. The mountains of Bashan are majestic, - with many peaks stretching high into the sky. + +with many peaks stretching high into the sky. + 16. Why do you look with envy, O rugged mountains, - at Mount Zion, where God has chosen to live, + +at Mount Zion, where God has chosen to live, where the LORD himself will live forever? 17. Surrounded by unnumbered thousands of chariots, - the Lord came from Mount Sinai into his sanctuary. + +the Lord came from Mount Sinai into his sanctuary. + 18. When you ascended to the heights, - you led a crowd of captives. + +you led a crowd of captives. + You received gifts from the people, - even from those who rebelled against you. + +even from those who rebelled against you. Now the LORD God will live among us there. 19. Praise the Lord; praise God our savior! - For each day he carries us in his arms. Interlude + +For each day he carries us in his arms. Interlude + 20. Our God is a God who saves! The Sovereign LORD rescues us from death. 21. But God will smash the heads of his enemies, - crushing the skulls of those who love their guilty ways. + +crushing the skulls of those who love their guilty ways. + 22. The Lord says, "I will bring my enemies down from Bashan; - I will bring them up from the depths of the sea. + +I will bring them up from the depths of the sea. + 23. You, my people, will wash your feet in their blood, - and even your dogs will get their share!" + +and even your dogs will get their share!" + 24. Your procession has come into view, O God-- - the procession of my God and King as he goes into the sanctuary. + +the procession of my God and King as he goes into the sanctuary. + 25. Singers are in front, musicians behind; - between them are young women playing tambourines. + +between them are young women playing tambourines. + 26. Praise God, all you people of Israel; praise the LORD, the source of Israel's life. 27. Look, the little tribe of Benjamin leads the way. - Then comes a great throng of rulers from Judah - and all the rulers of Zebulun and Naphtali. + +Then comes a great throng of rulers from Judah + +and all the rulers of Zebulun and Naphtali. + 28. Summon your might, O God. - Display your power, O God, as you have in the past. + +Display your power, O God, as you have in the past. + 29. The kings of the earth are bringing tribute - to your Temple in Jerusalem. + +to your Temple in Jerusalem. + 30. Rebuke these enemy nations-- - these wild animals lurking in the reeds, - this herd of bulls among the weaker calves. + +these wild animals lurking in the reeds, + +this herd of bulls among the weaker calves. + Make them bring bars of silver in humble tribute. - Scatter the nations that delight in war. + +Scatter the nations that delight in war. + 31. Let Egypt come with gifts of precious metals; let Ethiopia bring tribute to God. 32. Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth. - Sing praises to the Lord. Interlude + +Sing praises to the Lord. Interlude + 33. Sing to the one who rides across the ancient heavens, - his mighty voice thundering from the sky. + +his mighty voice thundering from the sky. + 34. Tell everyone about God's power. - His majesty shines down on Israel; - his strength is mighty in the heavens. + +His majesty shines down on Israel; + +his strength is mighty in the heavens. + 35. God is awesome in his sanctuary. - The God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. + +The God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. + Praise be to God! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_69.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_69.md index ef365f9e..c3156ce9 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_69.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_69.md @@ -1,84 +1,142 @@ Psalm 69 + 1. Save me, O God, - for the floodwaters are up to my neck. + +for the floodwaters are up to my neck. + 2. Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire; - I can't find a foothold. + +I can't find a foothold. + I am in deep water, - and the floods overwhelm me. + +and the floods overwhelm me. + 3. I am exhausted from crying for help; - my throat is parched. + +my throat is parched. + My eyes are swollen with weeping, - waiting for my God to help me. + +waiting for my God to help me. + 4. Those who hate me without cause - outnumber the hairs on my head. + +outnumber the hairs on my head. + Many enemies try to destroy me with lies, - demanding that I give back what I didn't steal. + +demanding that I give back what I didn't steal. + 5. O God, you know how foolish I am; - my sins cannot be hidden from you. + +my sins cannot be hidden from you. + 6. Don't let those who trust in you be ashamed because of me, O Sovereign LORD of Heaven's Armies. + Don't let me cause them to be humiliated, - O God of Israel. + +O God of Israel. + 7. For I endure insults for your sake; - humiliation is written all over my face. + +humiliation is written all over my face. + 8. Even my own brothers pretend they don't know me; - they treat me like a stranger. + +they treat me like a stranger. + 9. Passion for your house has consumed me, - and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me. + +and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me. + 10. When I weep and fast, - they scoff at me. + +they scoff at me. + 11. When I dress in burlap to show sorrow, - they make fun of me. + +they make fun of me. + 12. I am the favorite topic of town gossip, - and all the drunks sing about me. + +and all the drunks sing about me. + 13. But I keep praying to you, LORD, - hoping this time you will show me favor. + +hoping this time you will show me favor. + In your unfailing love, O God, - answer my prayer with your sure salvation. + +answer my prayer with your sure salvation. + 14. Rescue me from the mud; - don't let me sink any deeper! + +don't let me sink any deeper! Save me from those who hate me, - and pull me from these deep waters. + +and pull me from these deep waters. + 15. Don't let the floods overwhelm me, - or the deep waters swallow me, - or the pit of death devour me. + +or the deep waters swallow me, + +or the pit of death devour me. + 16. Answer my prayers, O LORD, - for your unfailing love is wonderful. + +for your unfailing love is wonderful. + Take care of me, - for your mercy is so plentiful. + +for your mercy is so plentiful. + 17. Don't hide from your servant; - answer me quickly, for I am in deep trouble! + +answer me quickly, for I am in deep trouble! + 18. Come and redeem me; - free me from my enemies. + +free me from my enemies. + 19. You know of my shame, scorn, and disgrace. - You see all that my enemies are doing. + +You see all that my enemies are doing. + 20. Their insults have broken my heart, - and I am in despair. + +and I am in despair. + If only one person would show some pity; - if only one would turn and comfort me. + +if only one would turn and comfort me. + 21. But instead, they give me poison for food; - they offer me sour wine for my thirst. + +they offer me sour wine for my thirst. + 22. Let the bountiful table set before them become a snare and their prosperity become a trap. @@ -87,44 +145,72 @@ If only one person would show some pity; and make their bodies shake continually. 24. Pour out your fury on them; - consume them with your burning anger. + +consume them with your burning anger. + 25. Let their homes become desolate - and their tents be deserted. + +and their tents be deserted. + 26. To the one you have punished, they add insult to injury; - they add to the pain of those you have hurt. + +they add to the pain of those you have hurt. + 27. Pile their sins up high, - and don't let them go free. + +and don't let them go free. + 28. Erase their names from the Book of Life; - don't let them be counted among the righteous. + +don't let them be counted among the righteous. + 29. I am suffering and in pain. - Rescue me, O God, by your saving power. + +Rescue me, O God, by your saving power. + 30. Then I will praise God's name with singing, - and I will honor him with thanksgiving. + +and I will honor him with thanksgiving. + 31. For this will please the LORD more than sacrificing cattle, - more than presenting a bull with its horns and hooves. + +more than presenting a bull with its horns and hooves. + 32. The humble will see their God at work and be glad. - Let all who seek God's help be encouraged. + +Let all who seek God's help be encouraged. + 33. For the LORD hears the cries of the needy; - he does not despise his imprisoned people. + +he does not despise his imprisoned people. + 34. Praise him, O heaven and earth, - the seas and all that move in them. + +the seas and all that move in them. + 35. For God will save Jerusalem - and rebuild the towns of Judah. + +and rebuild the towns of Judah. + His people will live there - and settle in their own land. + +and settle in their own land. + 36. The descendants of those who obey him will inherit the land, - and those who love him will live there in safety. + +and those who love him will live there in safety. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_70.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_70.md index dc7d712e..71a87abe 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_70.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_70.md @@ -1,24 +1,38 @@ Psalm 70 + 1. Please, God, rescue me! Come quickly, LORD, and help me. 2. May those who try to kill me - be humiliated and put to shame. + +be humiliated and put to shame. + May those who take delight in my trouble - be turned back in disgrace. + +be turned back in disgrace. + 3. Let them be horrified by their shame, - for they said, "Aha! We've got him now!" + +for they said, "Aha! We've got him now!" + 4. But may all who search for you - be filled with joy and gladness in you. + +be filled with joy and gladness in you. + May those who love your salvation - repeatedly shout, "God is great!" + +repeatedly shout, "God is great!" + 5. But as for me, I am poor and needy; - please hurry to my aid, O God. + +please hurry to my aid, O God. + You are my helper and my savior; O LORD, do not delay. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_71.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_71.md index 2e0e2a80..9b1eced5 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_71.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_71.md @@ -1,90 +1,149 @@ Psalm 71 + 1. O LORD, I have come to you for protection; - don't let me be disgraced. + +don't let me be disgraced. + 2. Save me and rescue me, - for you do what is right. + +for you do what is right. + Turn your ear to listen to me, - and set me free. + +and set me free. + 3. Be my rock of safety - where I can always hide. + +where I can always hide. + Give the order to save me, - for you are my rock and my fortress. + +for you are my rock and my fortress. + 4. My God, rescue me from the power of the wicked, - from the clutches of cruel oppressors. + +from the clutches of cruel oppressors. + 5. O Lord, you alone are my hope. I've trusted you, O LORD, from childhood. 6. Yes, you have been with me from birth; - from my mother's womb you have cared for me. - No wonder I am always praising you! + +from my mother's womb you have cared for me. + +No wonder I am always praising you! + 7. My life is an example to many, - because you have been my strength and protection. + +because you have been my strength and protection. + 8. That is why I can never stop praising you; - I declare your glory all day long. + +I declare your glory all day long. + 9. And now, in my old age, don't set me aside. - Don't abandon me when my strength is failing. + +Don't abandon me when my strength is failing. + 10. For my enemies are whispering against me. - They are plotting together to kill me. + +They are plotting together to kill me. + 11. They say, "God has abandoned him. - Let's go and get him, - for no one will help him now." + +Let's go and get him, + +for no one will help him now." + 12. O God, don't stay away. - My God, please hurry to help me. + +My God, please hurry to help me. + 13. Bring disgrace and destruction on my accusers. - Humiliate and shame those who want to harm me. + +Humiliate and shame those who want to harm me. + 14. But I will keep on hoping for your help; - I will praise you more and more. + +I will praise you more and more. + 15. I will tell everyone about your righteousness. - All day long I will proclaim your saving power, + +All day long I will proclaim your saving power, though I am not skilled with words. 16. I will praise your mighty deeds, O Sovereign LORD. - I will tell everyone that you alone are just. + +I will tell everyone that you alone are just. + 17. O God, you have taught me from my earliest childhood, - and I constantly tell others about the wonderful things you do. + +and I constantly tell others about the wonderful things you do. + 18. Now that I am old and gray, - do not abandon me, O God. + +do not abandon me, O God. + Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, - your mighty miracles to all who come after me. + +your mighty miracles to all who come after me. + 19. Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the highest heavens. - You have done such wonderful things. - Who can compare with you, O God? + +You have done such wonderful things. + +Who can compare with you, O God? + 20. You have allowed me to suffer much hardship, - but you will restore me to life again - and lift me up from the depths of the earth. + +but you will restore me to life again + +and lift me up from the depths of the earth. + 21. You will restore me to even greater honor - and comfort me once again. + +and comfort me once again. + 22. Then I will praise you with music on the harp, - because you are faithful to your promises, O my God. + +because you are faithful to your promises, O my God. + I will sing praises to you with a lyre, - O Holy One of Israel. + +O Holy One of Israel. + 23. I will shout for joy and sing your praises, - for you have ransomed me. + +for you have ransomed me. + 24. I will tell about your righteous deeds - all day long, + +all day long, for everyone who tried to hurt me - has been shamed and humiliated. + +has been shamed and humiliated. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_72.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_72.md index 48e65092..7db67480 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_72.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_72.md @@ -1,73 +1,124 @@ Psalm 72 -1. Give your love of justice to the king, O God, - and righteousness to the king's son. -2. Help him judge your people in the right way; - let the poor always be treated fairly. +1. Give your love of justice to the king, O God, + +and righteousness to the king's son. + + +2. +Help him judge your people in the right way; + +let the poor always be treated fairly. + 3. May the mountains yield prosperity for all, - and may the hills be fruitful. + +and may the hills be fruitful. + + +4. +Help him to defend the poor, + +to rescue the children of the needy, + +and to crush their oppressors. -4. Help him to defend the poor, - to rescue the children of the needy, - and to crush their oppressors. 5. May they fear you as long as the sun shines, - as long as the moon remains in the sky. - Yes, forever! + +as long as the moon remains in the sky. + +Yes, forever! + 6. May the king's rule be refreshing like spring rain on freshly cut grass, - like the showers that water the earth. + +like the showers that water the earth. + 7. May all the godly flourish during his reign. - May there be abundant prosperity until the moon is no more. + +May there be abundant prosperity until the moon is no more. + 8. May he reign from sea to sea, and from the Euphrates River to the ends of the earth. 9. Desert nomads will bow before him; - his enemies will fall before him in the dust. + +his enemies will fall before him in the dust. + 10. The western kings of Tarshish and other distant lands - will bring him tribute. + +will bring him tribute. + The eastern kings of Sheba and Seba - will bring him gifts. + +will bring him gifts. + 11. All kings will bow before him, - and all nations will serve him. + +and all nations will serve him. + 12. He will rescue the poor when they cry to him; - he will help the oppressed, who have no one to defend them. + +he will help the oppressed, who have no one to defend them. + 13. He feels pity for the weak and the needy, - and he will rescue them. + +and he will rescue them. + 14. He will redeem them from oppression and violence, - for their lives are precious to him. + +for their lives are precious to him. + 15. Long live the king! - May the gold of Sheba be given to him. + +May the gold of Sheba be given to him. + May the people always pray for him - and bless him all day long. + +and bless him all day long. + 16. May there be abundant grain throughout the land, - flourishing even on the hilltops. + +flourishing even on the hilltops. + May the fruit trees flourish like the trees of Lebanon, - and may the people thrive like grass in a field. + +and may the people thrive like grass in a field. + 17. May the king's name endure forever; - may it continue as long as the sun shines. + +may it continue as long as the sun shines. + May all nations be blessed through him - and bring him praise. + +and bring him praise. + 18. Praise the LORD God, the God of Israel, - who alone does such wonderful things. + +who alone does such wonderful things. + 19. Praise his glorious name forever! - Let the whole earth be filled with his glory. + +Let the whole earth be filled with his glory. + Amen and amen! + 20. (This ends the prayers of David son of Jesse.) + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_73.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_73.md index d642f4ae..d9426fad 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_73.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_73.md @@ -1,90 +1,149 @@ Psalm 73 + 1. Truly God is good to Israel, - to those whose hearts are pure. + +to those whose hearts are pure. + 2. But as for me, I almost lost my footing. - My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone. + +My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone. + 3. For I envied the proud - when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness. + +when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness. + 4. They seem to live such painless lives; - their bodies are so healthy and strong. + +their bodies are so healthy and strong. + 5. They don't have troubles like other people; - they're not plagued with problems like everyone else. + +they're not plagued with problems like everyone else. + 6. They wear pride like a jeweled necklace - and clothe themselves with cruelty. + +and clothe themselves with cruelty. + 7. These fat cats have everything - their hearts could ever wish for! + +their hearts could ever wish for! + 8. They scoff and speak only evil; - in their pride they seek to crush others. + +in their pride they seek to crush others. + 9. They boast against the very heavens, - and their words strut throughout the earth. + +and their words strut throughout the earth. + 10. And so the people are dismayed and confused, - drinking in all their words. + +drinking in all their words. + 11. "What does God know?" they ask. - "Does the Most High even know what's happening?" + +"Does the Most High even know what's happening?" + 12. Look at these wicked people-- - enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiply. + +enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiply. + 13. Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? - Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? + +Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? + 14. I get nothing but trouble all day long; - every morning brings me pain. + +every morning brings me pain. + 15. If I had really spoken this way to others, - I would have been a traitor to your people. + +I would have been a traitor to your people. + 16. So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper. - But what a difficult task it is! + +But what a difficult task it is! + 17. Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, - and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. + +and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. + 18. Truly, you put them on a slippery path - and send them sliding over the cliff to destruction. + +and send them sliding over the cliff to destruction. + 19. In an instant they are destroyed, - completely swept away by terrors. + +completely swept away by terrors. + 20. When you arise, O Lord, - you will laugh at their silly ideas - as a person laughs at dreams in the morning. + +you will laugh at their silly ideas + +as a person laughs at dreams in the morning. + 21. Then I realized that my heart was bitter, - and I was all torn up inside. + +and I was all torn up inside. + 22. I was so foolish and ignorant-- - I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you. + +I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you. + 23. Yet I still belong to you; - you hold my right hand. + +you hold my right hand. + 24. You guide me with your counsel, - leading me to a glorious destiny. + +leading me to a glorious destiny. + 25. Whom have I in heaven but you? - I desire you more than anything on earth. + +I desire you more than anything on earth. + 26. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, - but God remains the strength of my heart; - he is mine forever. + +but God remains the strength of my heart; + +he is mine forever. + 27. Those who desert him will perish, - for you destroy those who abandon you. + +for you destroy those who abandon you. + 28. But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign LORD my shelter, - and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do. + +and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_74.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_74.md index 3c0532a6..67df132b 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_74.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_74.md @@ -1,74 +1,119 @@ Psalm 74 + 1. O God, why have you rejected us so long? - Why is your anger so intense against the sheep of your own pasture? + +Why is your anger so intense against the sheep of your own pasture? + 2. Remember that we are the people you chose long ago, - the tribe you redeemed as your own special possession! + +the tribe you redeemed as your own special possession! And remember Jerusalem, your home here on earth. 3. Walk through the awful ruins of the city; - see how the enemy has destroyed your sanctuary. + +see how the enemy has destroyed your sanctuary. + 4. There your enemies shouted their victorious battle cries; - there they set up their battle standards. + +there they set up their battle standards. + 5. They swung their axes - like woodcutters in a forest. + +like woodcutters in a forest. + 6. With axes and picks, - they smashed the carved paneling. + +they smashed the carved paneling. + 7. They burned your sanctuary to the ground. - They defiled the place that bears your name. + +They defiled the place that bears your name. + 8. Then they thought, "Let's destroy everything!" - So they burned down all the places where God was worshiped. + +So they burned down all the places where God was worshiped. + 9. We no longer see your miraculous signs. - All the prophets are gone, - and no one can tell us when it will end. + +All the prophets are gone, + +and no one can tell us when it will end. + 10. How long, O God, will you allow our enemies to insult you? - Will you let them dishonor your name forever? + +Will you let them dishonor your name forever? + 11. Why do you hold back your strong right hand? - Unleash your powerful fist and destroy them. + +Unleash your powerful fist and destroy them. + 12. You, O God, are my king from ages past, - bringing salvation to the earth. + +bringing salvation to the earth. + 13. You split the sea by your strength - and smashed the heads of the sea monsters. + +and smashed the heads of the sea monsters. + 14. You crushed the heads of Leviathan - and let the desert animals eat him. + +and let the desert animals eat him. + 15. You caused the springs and streams to gush forth, - and you dried up rivers that never run dry. + +and you dried up rivers that never run dry. + 16. Both day and night belong to you; you made the starlight and the sun. 17. You set the boundaries of the earth, - and you made both summer and winter. + +and you made both summer and winter. + 18. See how these enemies insult you, LORD. - A foolish nation has dishonored your name. + +A foolish nation has dishonored your name. + 19. Don't let these wild beasts destroy your turtledoves. - Don't forget your suffering people forever. + +Don't forget your suffering people forever. + 20. Remember your covenant promises, - for the land is full of darkness and violence! + +for the land is full of darkness and violence! + 21. Don't let the downtrodden be humiliated again. - Instead, let the poor and needy praise your name. + +Instead, let the poor and needy praise your name. + 22. Arise, O God, and defend your cause. - Remember how these fools insult you all day long. + +Remember how these fools insult you all day long. + 23. Don't overlook what your enemies have said - or their growing uproar. + +or their growing uproar. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_75.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_75.md index 42d1b024..f94ecfeb 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_75.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_75.md @@ -1,38 +1,62 @@ Psalm 75 + 1. We thank you, O God! - We give thanks because you are near. - People everywhere tell of your wonderful deeds. + +We give thanks because you are near. + +People everywhere tell of your wonderful deeds. + 2. God says, "At the time I have planned, - I will bring justice against the wicked. + +I will bring justice against the wicked. + 3. When the earth quakes and its people live in turmoil, - I am the one who keeps its foundations firm. Interlude + +I am the one who keeps its foundations firm. Interlude + 4. "I warned the proud, 'Stop your boasting!' - I told the wicked, 'Don't raise your fists! + +I told the wicked, 'Don't raise your fists! + 5. Don't raise your fists in defiance at the heavens - or speak with such arrogance.'" + +or speak with such arrogance.'" + 6. For no one on earth--from east or west, - or even from the wilderness-- + +or even from the wilderness-- should raise a defiant fist. 7. It is God alone who judges; - he decides who will rise and who will fall. + +he decides who will rise and who will fall. + 8. For the LORD holds a cup in his hand - that is full of foaming wine mixed with spices. + +that is full of foaming wine mixed with spices. + He pours out the wine in judgment, - and all the wicked must drink it, - draining it to the dregs. + +and all the wicked must drink it, + +draining it to the dregs. + 9. But as for me, I will always proclaim what God has done; - I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. + +I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. + 10. For God says, "I will break the strength of the wicked, - but I will increase the power of the godly." + +but I will increase the power of the godly." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_76.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_76.md index 5ad0d39c..2ca03c63 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_76.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_76.md @@ -1,40 +1,62 @@ Psalm 76 + 1. God is honored in Judah; - his name is great in Israel. + +his name is great in Israel. + 2. Jerusalem is where he lives; - Mount Zion is his home. + +Mount Zion is his home. + 3. There he has broken the fiery arrows of the enemy, - the shields and swords and weapons of war. Interlude + +the shields and swords and weapons of war. Interlude + 4. You are glorious and more majestic than the everlasting mountains. 5. Our boldest enemies have been plundered. - They lie before us in the sleep of death. - No warrior could lift a hand against us. + +They lie before us in the sleep of death. + +No warrior could lift a hand against us. + 6. At the blast of your breath, O God of Jacob, - their horses and chariots lay still. + +their horses and chariots lay still. + 7. No wonder you are greatly feared! - Who can stand before you when your anger explodes? + +Who can stand before you when your anger explodes? + 8. From heaven you sentenced your enemies; - the earth trembled and stood silent before you. + +the earth trembled and stood silent before you. + 9. You stand up to judge those who do evil, O God, - and to rescue the oppressed of the earth. Interlude + +and to rescue the oppressed of the earth. Interlude + 10. Human defiance only enhances your glory, for you use it as a weapon. 11. Make vows to the LORD your God, and keep them. - Let everyone bring tribute to the Awesome One. + +Let everyone bring tribute to the Awesome One. + 12. For he breaks the pride of princes, - and the kings of the earth fear him. + +and the kings of the earth fear him. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_77.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_77.md index 69c3eef1..9265180a 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_77.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_77.md @@ -1,69 +1,116 @@ Psalm 77 + 1. I cry out to God; yes, I shout. - Oh, that God would listen to me! + +Oh, that God would listen to me! + 2. When I was in deep trouble, - I searched for the Lord. + +I searched for the Lord. + All night long I prayed, with hands lifted toward heaven, - but my soul was not comforted. + +but my soul was not comforted. + 3. I think of God, and I moan, - overwhelmed with longing for his help. Interlude + +overwhelmed with longing for his help. Interlude + 4. You don't let me sleep. - I am too distressed even to pray! + +I am too distressed even to pray! + 5. I think of the good old days, - long since ended, + +long since ended, + 6. when my nights were filled with joyful songs. - I search my soul and ponder the difference now. + +I search my soul and ponder the difference now. + 7. Has the Lord rejected me forever? - Will he never again be kind to me? + +Will he never again be kind to me? + 8. Is his unfailing love gone forever? - Have his promises permanently failed? + +Have his promises permanently failed? + 9. Has God forgotten to be gracious? - Has he slammed the door on his compassion? Interlude + +Has he slammed the door on his compassion? Interlude + 10. And I said, "This is my fate; - the Most High has turned his hand against me." + +the Most High has turned his hand against me." + 11. But then I recall all you have done, O LORD; - I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. + +I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. + 12. They are constantly in my thoughts. - I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works. + +I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works. + 13. O God, your ways are holy. - Is there any god as mighty as you? + +Is there any god as mighty as you? + 14. You are the God of great wonders! - You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations. + +You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations. + 15. By your strong arm, you redeemed your people, - the descendants of Jacob and Joseph. Interlude + +the descendants of Jacob and Joseph. Interlude + 16. When the Red Sea saw you, O God, - its waters looked and trembled! - The sea quaked to its very depths. + +its waters looked and trembled! + +The sea quaked to its very depths. + 17. The clouds poured down rain; - the thunder rumbled in the sky. - Your arrows of lightning flashed. + +the thunder rumbled in the sky. + +Your arrows of lightning flashed. + 18. Your thunder roared from the whirlwind; - the lightning lit up the world! - The earth trembled and shook. + +the lightning lit up the world! + +The earth trembled and shook. + 19. Your road led through the sea, - your pathway through the mighty waters-- - a pathway no one knew was there! + +your pathway through the mighty waters-- + +a pathway no one knew was there! + 20. You led your people along that road like a flock of sheep, - with Moses and Aaron as their shepherds. + +with Moses and Aaron as their shepherds. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_78.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_78.md index 2f270ed8..1638c9e4 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_78.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_78.md @@ -1,236 +1,390 @@ Psalm 78 + 1. O my people, listen to my instructions. - Open your ears to what I am saying, + +Open your ears to what I am saying, + 2. for I will speak to you in a parable. + I will teach you hidden lessons from our past-- 3. stories we have heard and known, - stories our ancestors handed down to us. + +stories our ancestors handed down to us. + 4. We will not hide these truths from our children; - we will tell the next generation + +we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the LORD, - about his power and his mighty wonders. + +about his power and his mighty wonders. + 5. For he issued his laws to Jacob; - he gave his instructions to Israel. + +he gave his instructions to Israel. + He commanded our ancestors - to teach them to their children, + +to teach them to their children, + 6. so the next generation might know them-- - even the children not yet born-- - and they in turn will teach their own children. + +even the children not yet born-- + +and they in turn will teach their own children. + 7. So each generation should set its hope anew on God, - not forgetting his glorious miracles - and obeying his commands. + +not forgetting his glorious miracles + +and obeying his commands. + 8. Then they will not be like their ancestors-- - stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful, - refusing to give their hearts to God. + +stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful, + +refusing to give their hearts to God. + 9. The warriors of Ephraim, though armed with bows, - turned their backs and fled on the day of battle. + +turned their backs and fled on the day of battle. + 10. They did not keep God's covenant - and refused to live by his instructions. + +and refused to live by his instructions. + 11. They forgot what he had done-- - the great wonders he had shown them, + +the great wonders he had shown them, + 12. the miracles he did for their ancestors - on the plain of Zoan in the land of Egypt. + +on the plain of Zoan in the land of Egypt. + 13. For he divided the sea and led them through, - making the water stand up like walls! + +making the water stand up like walls! + 14. In the daytime he led them by a cloud, - and all night by a pillar of fire. + +and all night by a pillar of fire. + 15. He split open the rocks in the wilderness - to give them water, as from a gushing spring. + +to give them water, as from a gushing spring. + 16. He made streams pour from the rock, - making the waters flow down like a river! + +making the waters flow down like a river! + 17. Yet they kept on sinning against him, - rebelling against the Most High in the desert. + +rebelling against the Most High in the desert. + 18. They stubbornly tested God in their hearts, - demanding the foods they craved. + +demanding the foods they craved. + 19. They even spoke against God himself, saying, - "God can't give us food in the wilderness. + +"God can't give us food in the wilderness. + 20. Yes, he can strike a rock so water gushes out, - but he can't give his people bread and meat." + +but he can't give his people bread and meat." + 21. When the LORD heard them, he was furious. - The fire of his wrath burned against Jacob. - Yes, his anger rose against Israel, + +The fire of his wrath burned against Jacob. + +Yes, his anger rose against Israel, + 22. for they did not believe God - or trust him to care for them. + +or trust him to care for them. + 23. But he commanded the skies to open; - he opened the doors of heaven. + +he opened the doors of heaven. + 24. He rained down manna for them to eat; - he gave them bread from heaven. + +he gave them bread from heaven. + 25. They ate the food of angels! - God gave them all they could hold. + +God gave them all they could hold. + 26. He released the east wind in the heavens - and guided the south wind by his mighty power. + +and guided the south wind by his mighty power. + 27. He rained down meat as thick as dust-- - birds as plentiful as the sand on the seashore! + +birds as plentiful as the sand on the seashore! + 28. He caused the birds to fall within their camp - and all around their tents. + +and all around their tents. + 29. The people ate their fill. - He gave them what they craved. + +He gave them what they craved. + 30. But before they satisfied their craving, - while the meat was yet in their mouths, + +while the meat was yet in their mouths, + 31. the anger of God rose against them, - and he killed their strongest men. - He struck down the finest of Israel's young men. + +and he killed their strongest men. + +He struck down the finest of Israel's young men. + 32. But in spite of this, the people kept sinning. - Despite his wonders, they refused to trust him. + +Despite his wonders, they refused to trust him. + 33. So he ended their lives in failure, - their years in terror. + +their years in terror. + 34. When God began killing them, - they finally sought him. - They repented and took God seriously. + +they finally sought him. + +They repented and took God seriously. + 35. Then they remembered that God was their rock, that God Most High was their redeemer. 36. But all they gave him was lip service; - they lied to him with their tongues. + +they lied to him with their tongues. + 37. Their hearts were not loyal to him. - They did not keep his covenant. + +They did not keep his covenant. + 38. Yet he was merciful and forgave their sins - and did not destroy them all. + +and did not destroy them all. + Many times he held back his anger - and did not unleash his fury! + +and did not unleash his fury! + 39. For he remembered that they were merely mortal, - gone like a breath of wind that never returns. + +gone like a breath of wind that never returns. + 40. Oh, how often they rebelled against him in the wilderness - and grieved his heart in that dry wasteland. + +and grieved his heart in that dry wasteland. + 41. Again and again they tested God's patience - and provoked the Holy One of Israel. + +and provoked the Holy One of Israel. + 42. They did not remember his power - and how he rescued them from their enemies. + +and how he rescued them from their enemies. + 43. They did not remember his miraculous signs in Egypt, - his wonders on the plain of Zoan. + +his wonders on the plain of Zoan. + 44. For he turned their rivers into blood, - so no one could drink from the streams. + +so no one could drink from the streams. + 45. He sent vast swarms of flies to consume them - and hordes of frogs to ruin them. + +and hordes of frogs to ruin them. + 46. He gave their crops to caterpillars; - their harvest was consumed by locusts. + +their harvest was consumed by locusts. + 47. He destroyed their grapevines with hail - and shattered their sycamore-figs with sleet. + +and shattered their sycamore-figs with sleet. + 48. He abandoned their cattle to the hail, - their livestock to bolts of lightning. + +their livestock to bolts of lightning. + 49. He loosed on them his fierce anger-- - all his fury, rage, and hostility. + +all his fury, rage, and hostility. + He dispatched against them - a band of destroying angels. + +a band of destroying angels. + 50. He turned his anger against them; - he did not spare the Egyptians' lives - but ravaged them with the plague. + +he did not spare the Egyptians' lives + +but ravaged them with the plague. + 51. He killed the oldest son in each Egyptian family, the flower of youth throughout the land of Egypt. 52. But he led his own people like a flock of sheep, - guiding them safely through the wilderness. + +guiding them safely through the wilderness. + 53. He kept them safe so they were not afraid; - but the sea covered their enemies. + +but the sea covered their enemies. + 54. He brought them to the border of his holy land, - to this land of hills he had won for them. + +to this land of hills he had won for them. + 55. He drove out the nations before them; - he gave them their inheritance by lot. - He settled the tribes of Israel into their homes. + +he gave them their inheritance by lot. + +He settled the tribes of Israel into their homes. + 56. But they kept testing and rebelling against God Most High. - They did not obey his laws. + +They did not obey his laws. + 57. They turned back and were as faithless as their parents. - They were as undependable as a crooked bow. + +They were as undependable as a crooked bow. + 58. They angered God by building shrines to other gods; - they made him jealous with their idols. + +they made him jealous with their idols. + 59. When God heard them, he was very angry, - and he completely rejected Israel. + +and he completely rejected Israel. + 60. Then he abandoned his dwelling at Shiloh, - the Tabernacle where he had lived among the people. + +the Tabernacle where he had lived among the people. + 61. He allowed the Ark of his might to be captured; - he surrendered his glory into enemy hands. + +he surrendered his glory into enemy hands. + 62. He gave his people over to be butchered by the sword, because he was so angry with his own people--his special possession. 63. Their young men were killed by fire; - their young women died before singing their wedding songs. + +their young women died before singing their wedding songs. + 64. Their priests were slaughtered, - and their widows could not mourn their deaths. + +and their widows could not mourn their deaths. + 65. Then the Lord rose up as though waking from sleep, - like a warrior aroused from a drunken stupor. + +like a warrior aroused from a drunken stupor. + 66. He routed his enemies - and sent them to eternal shame. + +and sent them to eternal shame. + 67. But he rejected Joseph's descendants; - he did not choose the tribe of Ephraim. + +he did not choose the tribe of Ephraim. + 68. He chose instead the tribe of Judah, - and Mount Zion, which he loved. + +and Mount Zion, which he loved. + 69. There he built his sanctuary as high as the heavens, - as solid and enduring as the earth. + +as solid and enduring as the earth. + 70. He chose his servant David, - calling him from the sheep pens. + +calling him from the sheep pens. + 71. He took David from tending the ewes and lambs - and made him the shepherd of Jacob's descendants-- - God's own people, Israel. + +and made him the shepherd of Jacob's descendants-- + +God's own people, Israel. + 72. He cared for them with a true heart - and led them with skillful hands. + +and led them with skillful hands. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_79.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_79.md index af39eb95..dfa82480 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_79.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_79.md @@ -1,52 +1,89 @@ Psalm 79 + 1. O God, pagan nations have conquered your land, - your special possession. + +your special possession. + They have defiled your holy Temple - and made Jerusalem a heap of ruins. + +and made Jerusalem a heap of ruins. + 2. They have left the bodies of your servants - as food for the birds of heaven. + +as food for the birds of heaven. + The flesh of your godly ones - has become food for the wild animals. + +has become food for the wild animals. + 3. Blood has flowed like water all around Jerusalem; - no one is left to bury the dead. + +no one is left to bury the dead. + 4. We are mocked by our neighbors, - an object of scorn and derision to those around us. + +an object of scorn and derision to those around us. + 5. O LORD, how long will you be angry with us? Forever? - How long will your jealousy burn like fire? + +How long will your jealousy burn like fire? + 6. Pour out your wrath on the nations that refuse to acknowledge you-- - on kingdoms that do not call upon your name. + +on kingdoms that do not call upon your name. + 7. For they have devoured your people Israel, - making the land a desolate wilderness. + +making the land a desolate wilderness. + 8. Do not hold us guilty for the sins of our ancestors! - Let your compassion quickly meet our needs, - for we are on the brink of despair. + +Let your compassion quickly meet our needs, + +for we are on the brink of despair. + + +9. +Help us, O God of our salvation! + +Help us for the glory of your name. -9. Help us, O God of our salvation! - Help us for the glory of your name. Save us and forgive our sins - for the honor of your name. + +for the honor of your name. + 10. Why should pagan nations be allowed to scoff, - asking, "Where is their God?" + +asking, "Where is their God?" Show us your vengeance against the nations, - for they have spilled the blood of your servants. + +for they have spilled the blood of your servants. + 11. Listen to the moaning of the prisoners. - Demonstrate your great power by saving those condemned to die. + +Demonstrate your great power by saving those condemned to die. + 12. O Lord, pay back our neighbors seven times - for the scorn they have hurled at you. + +for the scorn they have hurled at you. + 13. Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, - will thank you forever and ever, - praising your greatness from generation to generation. + +will thank you forever and ever, + +praising your greatness from generation to generation. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_80.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_80.md index 72eb66bf..5e1aa51f 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_80.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_80.md @@ -1,67 +1,111 @@ Psalm 80 + 1. Please listen, O Shepherd of Israel, - you who lead Joseph's descendants like a flock. + +you who lead Joseph's descendants like a flock. + O God, enthroned above the cherubim, - display your radiant glory + +display your radiant glory + 2. to Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh. + Show us your mighty power. - Come to rescue us! + +Come to rescue us! + 3. Turn us again to yourself, O God. - Make your face shine down upon us. - Only then will we be saved. + +Make your face shine down upon us. + +Only then will we be saved. + 4. O LORD God of Heaven's Armies, - how long will you be angry with our prayers? + +how long will you be angry with our prayers? + 5. You have fed us with sorrow - and made us drink tears by the bucketful. + +and made us drink tears by the bucketful. + 6. You have made us the scorn of neighboring nations. - Our enemies treat us as a joke. + +Our enemies treat us as a joke. + 7. Turn us again to yourself, O God of Heaven's Armies. - Make your face shine down upon us. - Only then will we be saved. + +Make your face shine down upon us. + +Only then will we be saved. + 8. You brought us from Egypt like a grapevine; - you drove away the pagan nations and transplanted us into your land. + +you drove away the pagan nations and transplanted us into your land. + 9. You cleared the ground for us, - and we took root and filled the land. + +and we took root and filled the land. + 10. Our shade covered the mountains; - our branches covered the mighty cedars. + +our branches covered the mighty cedars. + 11. We spread our branches west to the Mediterranean Sea; our shoots spread east to the Euphrates River. 12. But now, why have you broken down our walls - so that all who pass by may steal our fruit? + +so that all who pass by may steal our fruit? + 13. The wild boar from the forest devours it, - and the wild animals feed on it. + +and the wild animals feed on it. + 14. Come back, we beg you, O God of Heaven's Armies. - Look down from heaven and see our plight. + +Look down from heaven and see our plight. + Take care of this grapevine + 15. that you yourself have planted, - this son you have raised for yourself. + +this son you have raised for yourself. + 16. For we are chopped up and burned by our enemies. - May they perish at the sight of your frown. + +May they perish at the sight of your frown. + 17. Strengthen the man you love, - the son of your choice. + +the son of your choice. + 18. Then we will never abandon you again. - Revive us so we can call on your name once more. + +Revive us so we can call on your name once more. + 19. Turn us again to yourself, O LORD God of Heaven's Armies. - Make your face shine down upon us. - Only then will we be saved. + +Make your face shine down upon us. + +Only then will we be saved. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_81.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_81.md index 19d2dfef..007a6709 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_81.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_81.md @@ -1,54 +1,90 @@ Psalm 81 + 1. Sing praises to God, our strength. - Sing to the God of Jacob. + +Sing to the God of Jacob. + 2. Sing! Beat the tambourine. - Play the sweet lyre and the harp. + +Play the sweet lyre and the harp. + 3. Blow the ram's horn at new moon, - and again at full moon to call a festival! + +and again at full moon to call a festival! + 4. For this is required by the decrees of Israel; - it is a regulation of the God of Jacob. + +it is a regulation of the God of Jacob. + 5. He made it a law for Israel - when he attacked Egypt to set us free. + +when he attacked Egypt to set us free. + I heard an unknown voice say, + 6. "Now I will take the load from your shoulders; - I will free your hands from their heavy tasks. + +I will free your hands from their heavy tasks. + 7. You cried to me in trouble, and I saved you; - I answered out of the thundercloud - and tested your faith when there was no water at Meribah. Interlude + +I answered out of the thundercloud + +and tested your faith when there was no water at Meribah. Interlude + 8. "Listen to me, O my people, while I give you stern warnings. - O Israel, if you would only listen to me! + +O Israel, if you would only listen to me! + 9. You must never have a foreign god; - you must not bow down before a false god. + +you must not bow down before a false god. + 10. For it was I, the LORD your God, - who rescued you from the land of Egypt. - Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it with good things. + +who rescued you from the land of Egypt. + +Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it with good things. + 11. "But no, my people wouldn't listen. - Israel did not want me around. + +Israel did not want me around. + 12. So I let them follow their own stubborn desires, - living according to their own ideas. + +living according to their own ideas. + 13. Oh, that my people would listen to me! - Oh, that Israel would follow me, walking in my paths! + +Oh, that Israel would follow me, walking in my paths! + 14. How quickly I would then subdue their enemies! - How soon my hands would be upon their foes! + +How soon my hands would be upon their foes! + 15. Those who hate the LORD would cringe before him; - they would be doomed forever. + +they would be doomed forever. + 16. But I would feed you with the finest wheat. - I would satisfy you with wild honey from the rock." + +I would satisfy you with wild honey from the rock." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_82.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_82.md index 25366695..0f0a294a 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_82.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_82.md @@ -1,29 +1,47 @@ Psalm 82 + 1. God presides over heaven's court; - he pronounces judgment on the heavenly beings: + +he pronounces judgment on the heavenly beings: + 2. "How long will you hand down unjust decisions - by favoring the wicked? Interlude + +by favoring the wicked? Interlude + 3. "Give justice to the poor and the orphan; - uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute. + +uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute. + 4. Rescue the poor and helpless; - deliver them from the grasp of evil people. + +deliver them from the grasp of evil people. + 5. But these oppressors know nothing; - they are so ignorant! + +they are so ignorant! They wander about in darkness, - while the whole world is shaken to the core. + +while the whole world is shaken to the core. + 6. I say, 'You are gods; - you are all children of the Most High. + +you are all children of the Most High. + 7. But you will die like mere mortals - and fall like every other ruler.'" + +and fall like every other ruler.'" + 8. Rise up, O God, and judge the earth, - for all the nations belong to you. + +for all the nations belong to you. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_83.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_83.md index 9e41b4cf..c115069c 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_83.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_83.md @@ -1,59 +1,95 @@ Psalm 83 + 1. O God, do not be silent! - Do not be deaf. - Do not be quiet, O God. + +Do not be deaf. + +Do not be quiet, O God. + 2. Don't you hear the uproar of your enemies? - Don't you see that your arrogant enemies are rising up? + +Don't you see that your arrogant enemies are rising up? + 3. They devise crafty schemes against your people; - they conspire against your precious ones. + +they conspire against your precious ones. + 4. "Come," they say, "let us wipe out Israel as a nation. - We will destroy the very memory of its existence." + +We will destroy the very memory of its existence." + 5. Yes, this was their unanimous decision. - They signed a treaty as allies against you-- + +They signed a treaty as allies against you-- 6. these Edomites and Ishmaelites; - Moabites and Hagrites; + +Moabites and Hagrites; + 7. Gebalites, Ammonites, and Amalekites; - and people from Philistia and Tyre. + +and people from Philistia and Tyre. + 8. Assyria has joined them, too, - and is allied with the descendants of Lot. Interlude + +and is allied with the descendants of Lot. Interlude + 9. Do to them as you did to the Midianites - and as you did to Sisera and Jabin at the Kishon River. + +and as you did to Sisera and Jabin at the Kishon River. + 10. They were destroyed at Endor, - and their decaying corpses fertilized the soil. + +and their decaying corpses fertilized the soil. + 11. Let their mighty nobles die as Oreb and Zeeb did. - Let all their princes die like Zebah and Zalmunna, + +Let all their princes die like Zebah and Zalmunna, + 12. for they said, "Let us seize for our own use - these pasturelands of God!" + +these pasturelands of God!" + 13. O my God, scatter them like tumbleweed, - like chaff before the wind! + +like chaff before the wind! + 14. As a fire burns a forest - and as a flame sets mountains ablaze, + +and as a flame sets mountains ablaze, + 15. chase them with your fierce storm; - terrify them with your tempest. + +terrify them with your tempest. + 16. Utterly disgrace them until they submit to your name, O LORD. 17. Let them be ashamed and terrified forever. - Let them die in disgrace. + +Let them die in disgrace. + 18. Then they will learn that you alone are called the LORD, - that you alone are the Most High, - supreme over all the earth. + +that you alone are the Most High, + +supreme over all the earth. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_84.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_84.md index cf11e9b4..d4c3ba3e 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_84.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_84.md @@ -1,48 +1,72 @@ Psalm 84 + 1. How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD of Heaven's Armies. 2. I long, yes, I faint with longing to enter the courts of the LORD. + With my whole being, body and soul, - I will shout joyfully to the living God. + +I will shout joyfully to the living God. + 3. Even the sparrow finds a home, - and the swallow builds her nest and raises her young + +and the swallow builds her nest and raises her young at a place near your altar, O LORD of Heaven's Armies, my King and my God! 4. What joy for those who can live in your house, - always singing your praises. Interlude + +always singing your praises. Interlude + 5. What joy for those whose strength comes from the LORD, - who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. + +who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. + 6. When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, - it will become a place of refreshing springs. - The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings. + +it will become a place of refreshing springs. + +The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings. + 7. They will continue to grow stronger, and each of them will appear before God in Jerusalem. 8. O LORD God of Heaven's Armies, hear my prayer. - Listen, O God of Jacob. Interlude + +Listen, O God of Jacob. Interlude + 9. O God, look with favor upon the king, our shield! - Show favor to the one you have anointed. + +Show favor to the one you have anointed. + 10. A single day in your courts - is better than a thousand anywhere else! + +is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God - than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. + +than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. + 11. For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. - He gives us grace and glory. + +He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing - from those who do what is right. + +from those who do what is right. + 12. O LORD of Heaven's Armies, - what joy for those who trust in you. + +what joy for those who trust in you. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_85.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_85.md index 8034b763..2bd7fbdc 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_85.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_85.md @@ -1,43 +1,69 @@ Psalm 85 + 1. LORD, you poured out blessings on your land! You restored the fortunes of Israel. 2. You forgave the guilt of your people-- - yes, you covered all their sins. Interlude + +yes, you covered all their sins. Interlude + 3. You held back your fury. - You kept back your blazing anger. + +You kept back your blazing anger. + 4. Now restore us again, O God of our salvation. - Put aside your anger against us once more. + +Put aside your anger against us once more. + 5. Will you be angry with us always? - Will you prolong your wrath to all generations? + +Will you prolong your wrath to all generations? + 6. Won't you revive us again, - so your people can rejoice in you? + +so your people can rejoice in you? + 7. Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, - and grant us your salvation. + +and grant us your salvation. + 8. I listen carefully to what God the LORD is saying, - for he speaks peace to his faithful people. - But let them not return to their foolish ways. + +for he speaks peace to his faithful people. + +But let them not return to their foolish ways. + 9. Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, - so our land will be filled with his glory. + +so our land will be filled with his glory. + 10. Unfailing love and truth have met together. - Righteousness and peace have kissed! + +Righteousness and peace have kissed! + 11. Truth springs up from the earth, - and righteousness smiles down from heaven. + +and righteousness smiles down from heaven. + 12. Yes, the LORD pours down his blessings. - Our land will yield its bountiful harvest. + +Our land will yield its bountiful harvest. + 13. Righteousness goes as a herald before him, - preparing the way for his steps. + +preparing the way for his steps. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_86.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_86.md index d944c624..4e9e03f9 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_86.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_86.md @@ -1,63 +1,102 @@ Psalm 86 + 1. Bend down, O LORD, and hear my prayer; - answer me, for I need your help. + +answer me, for I need your help. + 2. Protect me, for I am devoted to you. - Save me, for I serve you and trust you. - You are my God. + +Save me, for I serve you and trust you. + +You are my God. + 3. Be merciful to me, O Lord, - for I am calling on you constantly. + +for I am calling on you constantly. + 4. Give me happiness, O Lord, - for I give myself to you. + +for I give myself to you. + 5. O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, - so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help. + +so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help. + 6. Listen closely to my prayer, O LORD; - hear my urgent cry. + +hear my urgent cry. + 7. I will call to you whenever I'm in trouble, - and you will answer me. + +and you will answer me. + 8. No pagan god is like you, O Lord. - None can do what you do! + +None can do what you do! + 9. All the nations you made - will come and bow before you, Lord; - they will praise your holy name. + +will come and bow before you, Lord; + +they will praise your holy name. + 10. For you are great and perform wonderful deeds. - You alone are God. + +You alone are God. + 11. Teach me your ways, O LORD, - that I may live according to your truth! + +that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, - so that I may honor you. + +so that I may honor you. + 12. With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God. - I will give glory to your name forever, + +I will give glory to your name forever, + 13. for your love for me is very great. You have rescued me from the depths of death. 14. O God, insolent people rise up against me; - a violent gang is trying to kill me. - You mean nothing to them. + +a violent gang is trying to kill me. + +You mean nothing to them. + 15. But you, O Lord, - are a God of compassion and mercy, + +are a God of compassion and mercy, slow to get angry - and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. + +and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. + 16. Look down and have mercy on me. - Give your strength to your servant; - save me, the son of your servant. + +Give your strength to your servant; + +save me, the son of your servant. + 17. Send me a sign of your favor. - Then those who hate me will be put to shame, + +Then those who hate me will be put to shame, for you, O LORD, help and comfort me. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_87.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_87.md index 59da5e71..edc5c479 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_87.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_87.md @@ -1,5 +1,6 @@ Psalm 87 + 1. On the holy mountain stands the city founded by the LORD. @@ -7,20 +8,31 @@ Psalm 87 more than any other city in Israel. 3. O city of God, - what glorious things are said of you! Interlude + +what glorious things are said of you! Interlude + 4. I will count Egypt and Babylon among those who know me-- also Philistia and Tyre, and even distant Ethiopia. - They have all become citizens of Jerusalem! + +They have all become citizens of Jerusalem! + 5. Regarding Jerusalem it will be said, - "Everyone enjoys the rights of citizenship there." - And the Most High will personally bless this city. + +"Everyone enjoys the rights of citizenship there." + +And the Most High will personally bless this city. + 6. When the LORD registers the nations, he will say, - "They have all become citizens of Jerusalem." Interlude + +"They have all become citizens of Jerusalem." Interlude + 7. The people will play flutes and sing, - "The source of my life springs from Jerusalem!" + +"The source of my life springs from Jerusalem!" + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_88.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_88.md index 9e30d28b..2e73d9e3 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_88.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_88.md @@ -1,62 +1,99 @@ Psalm 88 + 1. O LORD, God of my salvation, - I cry out to you by day. - I come to you at night. + +I cry out to you by day. + +I come to you at night. + 2. Now hear my prayer; - listen to my cry. + +listen to my cry. + 3. For my life is full of troubles, and death draws near. 4. I am as good as dead, - like a strong man with no strength left. + +like a strong man with no strength left. + 5. They have left me among the dead, - and I lie like a corpse in a grave. + +and I lie like a corpse in a grave. + I am forgotten, - cut off from your care. + +cut off from your care. + 6. You have thrown me into the lowest pit, - into the darkest depths. + +into the darkest depths. + 7. Your anger weighs me down; - with wave after wave you have engulfed me. Interlude + +with wave after wave you have engulfed me. Interlude + 8. You have driven my friends away - by making me repulsive to them. + +by making me repulsive to them. + I am in a trap with no way of escape. + 9. My eyes are blinded by my tears. Each day I beg for your help, O LORD; - I lift my hands to you for mercy. + +I lift my hands to you for mercy. + 10. Are your wonderful deeds of any use to the dead? - Do the dead rise up and praise you? Interlude + +Do the dead rise up and praise you? Interlude + 11. Can those in the grave declare your unfailing love? Can they proclaim your faithfulness in the place of destruction? 12. Can the darkness speak of your wonderful deeds? - Can anyone in the land of forgetfulness talk about your righteousness? + +Can anyone in the land of forgetfulness talk about your righteousness? + 13. O LORD, I cry out to you. - I will keep on pleading day by day. + +I will keep on pleading day by day. + 14. O LORD, why do you reject me? - Why do you turn your face from me? + +Why do you turn your face from me? + 15. I have been sick and close to death since my youth. - I stand helpless and desperate before your terrors. + +I stand helpless and desperate before your terrors. + 16. Your fierce anger has overwhelmed me. - Your terrors have paralyzed me. + +Your terrors have paralyzed me. + 17. They swirl around me like floodwaters all day long. - They have engulfed me completely. + +They have engulfed me completely. + 18. You have taken away my companions and loved ones. - Darkness is my closest friend. + +Darkness is my closest friend. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_89.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_89.md index e19d0564..5bb32547 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_89.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_89.md @@ -1,163 +1,263 @@ Psalm 89 + 1. I will sing of the LORD's unfailing love forever! - Young and old will hear of your faithfulness. + +Young and old will hear of your faithfulness. + 2. Your unfailing love will last forever. - Your faithfulness is as enduring as the heavens. + +Your faithfulness is as enduring as the heavens. + 3. The LORD said, "I have made a covenant with David, my chosen servant. - I have sworn this oath to him: + +I have sworn this oath to him: + 4. 'I will establish your descendants as kings forever; - they will sit on your throne from now until eternity.'" Interlude + +they will sit on your throne from now until eternity.'" Interlude + 5. All heaven will praise your great wonders, LORD; - myriads of angels will praise you for your faithfulness. + +myriads of angels will praise you for your faithfulness. + 6. For who in all of heaven can compare with the LORD? What mightiest angel is anything like the LORD? 7. The highest angelic powers stand in awe of God. - He is far more awesome than all who surround his throne. + +He is far more awesome than all who surround his throne. + 8. O LORD God of Heaven's Armies! Where is there anyone as mighty as you, O LORD? - You are entirely faithful. + +You are entirely faithful. + 9. You rule the oceans. - You subdue their storm-tossed waves. + +You subdue their storm-tossed waves. + 10. You crushed the great sea monster. - You scattered your enemies with your mighty arm. + +You scattered your enemies with your mighty arm. + 11. The heavens are yours, and the earth is yours; everything in the world is yours--you created it all. 12. You created north and south. - Mount Tabor and Mount Hermon praise your name. + +Mount Tabor and Mount Hermon praise your name. + 13. Powerful is your arm! - Strong is your hand! - Your right hand is lifted high in glorious strength. + +Strong is your hand! + +Your right hand is lifted high in glorious strength. + 14. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. - Unfailing love and truth walk before you as attendants. + +Unfailing love and truth walk before you as attendants. + 15. Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, LORD. 16. They rejoice all day long in your wonderful reputation. - They exult in your righteousness. + +They exult in your righteousness. + 17. You are their glorious strength. - It pleases you to make us strong. + +It pleases you to make us strong. + 18. Yes, our protection comes from the LORD, - and he, the Holy One of Israel, has given us our king. + +and he, the Holy One of Israel, has given us our king. + 19. Long ago you spoke in a vision to your faithful people. + You said, "I have raised up a warrior. - I have selected him from the common people to be king. + +I have selected him from the common people to be king. + 20. I have found my servant David. - I have anointed him with my holy oil. + +I have anointed him with my holy oil. + 21. I will steady him with my hand; - with my powerful arm I will make him strong. + +with my powerful arm I will make him strong. + 22. His enemies will not defeat him, - nor will the wicked overpower him. + +nor will the wicked overpower him. + 23. I will beat down his adversaries before him - and destroy those who hate him. + +and destroy those who hate him. + 24. My faithfulness and unfailing love will be with him, - and by my authority he will grow in power. + +and by my authority he will grow in power. + 25. I will extend his rule over the sea, - his dominion over the rivers. + +his dominion over the rivers. + 26. And he will call out to me, 'You are my Father, - my God, and the Rock of my salvation.' + +my God, and the Rock of my salvation.' + 27. I will make him my firstborn son, - the mightiest king on earth. + +the mightiest king on earth. + 28. I will love him and be kind to him forever; - my covenant with him will never end. + +my covenant with him will never end. + 29. I will preserve an heir for him; - his throne will be as endless as the days of heaven. + +his throne will be as endless as the days of heaven. + 30. But if his descendants forsake my instructions - and fail to obey my regulations, + +and fail to obey my regulations, + 31. if they do not obey my decrees - and fail to keep my commands, + +and fail to keep my commands, + 32. then I will punish their sin with the rod, - and their disobedience with beating. + +and their disobedience with beating. + 33. But I will never stop loving him - nor fail to keep my promise to him. + +nor fail to keep my promise to him. + 34. No, I will not break my covenant; - I will not take back a single word I said. + +I will not take back a single word I said. + 35. I have sworn an oath to David, - and in my holiness I cannot lie: + +and in my holiness I cannot lie: + 36. His dynasty will go on forever; - his kingdom will endure as the sun. + +his kingdom will endure as the sun. + 37. It will be as eternal as the moon, - my faithful witness in the sky!" Interlude + +my faithful witness in the sky!" Interlude + 38. But now you have rejected him and cast him off. - You are angry with your anointed king. + +You are angry with your anointed king. + 39. You have renounced your covenant with him; - you have thrown his crown in the dust. + +you have thrown his crown in the dust. + 40. You have broken down the walls protecting him - and ruined every fort defending him. + +and ruined every fort defending him. + 41. Everyone who comes along has robbed him, - and he has become a joke to his neighbors. + +and he has become a joke to his neighbors. + 42. You have strengthened his enemies - and made them all rejoice. + +and made them all rejoice. + 43. You have made his sword useless - and refused to help him in battle. + +and refused to help him in battle. + 44. You have ended his splendor - and overturned his throne. + +and overturned his throne. + 45. You have made him old before his time - and publicly disgraced him. Interlude + +and publicly disgraced him. Interlude + 46. O LORD, how long will this go on? - Will you hide yourself forever? - How long will your anger burn like fire? + +Will you hide yourself forever? + +How long will your anger burn like fire? + 47. Remember how short my life is, - how empty and futile this human existence! + +how empty and futile this human existence! + 48. No one can live forever; all will die. No one can escape the power of the grave. Interlude 49. Lord, where is your unfailing love? - You promised it to David with a faithful pledge. + +You promised it to David with a faithful pledge. + 50. Consider, Lord, how your servants are disgraced! - I carry in my heart the insults of so many people. + +I carry in my heart the insults of so many people. + 51. Your enemies have mocked me, O LORD; - they mock your anointed king wherever he goes. + +they mock your anointed king wherever he goes. + 52. Praise the LORD forever! - Amen and amen! + +Amen and amen! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_90.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_90.md index 117ca8f9..3f1e53b1 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_90.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_90.md @@ -1,59 +1,97 @@ Psalm 90 + 1. Lord, through all the generations - you have been our home! + +you have been our home! + 2. Before the mountains were born, - before you gave birth to the earth and the world, - from beginning to end, you are God. + +before you gave birth to the earth and the world, + +from beginning to end, you are God. + 3. You turn people back to dust, saying, - "Return to dust, you mortals!" + +"Return to dust, you mortals!" + 4. For you, a thousand years are as a passing day, - as brief as a few night hours. + +as brief as a few night hours. + 5. You sweep people away like dreams that disappear. - They are like grass that springs up in the morning. + +They are like grass that springs up in the morning. + 6. In the morning it blooms and flourishes, - but by evening it is dry and withered. + +but by evening it is dry and withered. + 7. We wither beneath your anger; - we are overwhelmed by your fury. + +we are overwhelmed by your fury. + 8. You spread out our sins before you-- our secret sins--and you see them all. 9. We live our lives beneath your wrath, - ending our years with a groan. + +ending our years with a groan. + 10. Seventy years are given to us! - Some even live to eighty. + +Some even live to eighty. + But even the best years are filled with pain and trouble; - soon they disappear, and we fly away. + +soon they disappear, and we fly away. + 11. Who can comprehend the power of your anger? - Your wrath is as awesome as the fear you deserve. + +Your wrath is as awesome as the fear you deserve. + 12. Teach us to realize the brevity of life, - so that we may grow in wisdom. + +so that we may grow in wisdom. + 13. O LORD, come back to us! - How long will you delay? - Take pity on your servants! + +How long will you delay? + +Take pity on your servants! + 14. Satisfy us each morning with your unfailing love, - so we may sing for joy to the end of our lives. + +so we may sing for joy to the end of our lives. + 15. Give us gladness in proportion to our former misery! - Replace the evil years with good. + +Replace the evil years with good. + 16. Let us, your servants, see you work again; - let our children see your glory. + +let our children see your glory. + 17. And may the Lord our God show us his approval - and make our efforts successful. - Yes, make our efforts successful! + +and make our efforts successful. + +Yes, make our efforts successful! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_91.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_91.md index 8a15b246..a3394c2a 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_91.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_91.md @@ -1,55 +1,91 @@ Psalm 91 + 1. Those who live in the shelter of the Most High - will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. + +will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. + 2. This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; - he is my God, and I trust him. + +he is my God, and I trust him. + 3. For he will rescue you from every trap - and protect you from deadly disease. + +and protect you from deadly disease. + 4. He will cover you with his feathers. - He will shelter you with his wings. - His faithful promises are your armor and protection. + +He will shelter you with his wings. + +His faithful promises are your armor and protection. + 5. Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, - nor the arrow that flies in the day. + +nor the arrow that flies in the day. + 6. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, - nor the disaster that strikes at midday. + +nor the disaster that strikes at midday. + 7. Though a thousand fall at your side, - though ten thousand are dying around you, - these evils will not touch you. + +though ten thousand are dying around you, + +these evils will not touch you. + 8. Just open your eyes, - and see how the wicked are punished. + +and see how the wicked are punished. + 9. If you make the LORD your refuge, - if you make the Most High your shelter, + +if you make the Most High your shelter, + 10. no evil will conquer you; - no plague will come near your home. + +no plague will come near your home. + 11. For he will order his angels - to protect you wherever you go. + +to protect you wherever you go. + 12. They will hold you up with their hands - so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone. + +so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone. + 13. You will trample upon lions and cobras; - you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet! + +you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet! + 14. The LORD says, "I will rescue those who love me. - I will protect those who trust in my name. + +I will protect those who trust in my name. + 15. When they call on me, I will answer; - I will be with them in trouble. - I will rescue and honor them. + +I will be with them in trouble. + +I will rescue and honor them. + 16. I will reward them with a long life - and give them my salvation." + +and give them my salvation." + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_92.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_92.md index 5156ded9..6f514801 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_92.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_92.md @@ -1,49 +1,80 @@ Psalm 92 + 1. It is good to give thanks to the LORD, - to sing praises to the Most High. + +to sing praises to the Most High. + 2. It is good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning, - your faithfulness in the evening, + +your faithfulness in the evening, + 3. accompanied by a ten-stringed instrument, a harp, - and the melody of a lyre. + +and the melody of a lyre. + 4. You thrill me, LORD, with all you have done for me! - I sing for joy because of what you have done. + +I sing for joy because of what you have done. + 5. O LORD, what great works you do! - And how deep are your thoughts. + +And how deep are your thoughts. + 6. Only a simpleton would not know, - and only a fool would not understand this: + +and only a fool would not understand this: + 7. Though the wicked sprout like weeds - and evildoers flourish, - they will be destroyed forever. + +and evildoers flourish, + +they will be destroyed forever. + 8. But you, O LORD, will be exalted forever. 9. Your enemies, LORD, will surely perish; - all evildoers will be scattered. + +all evildoers will be scattered. + 10. But you have made me as strong as a wild ox. - You have anointed me with the finest oil. + +You have anointed me with the finest oil. + 11. My eyes have seen the downfall of my enemies; - my ears have heard the defeat of my wicked opponents. + +my ears have heard the defeat of my wicked opponents. + 12. But the godly will flourish like palm trees - and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. + +and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. + 13. For they are transplanted to the LORD's own house. - They flourish in the courts of our God. + +They flourish in the courts of our God. + 14. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; - they will remain vital and green. + +they will remain vital and green. + 15. They will declare, "The LORD is just! - He is my rock! - There is no evil in him!" + +He is my rock! + +There is no evil in him!" + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_93.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_93.md index 0601375d..56ef7b2b 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_93.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_93.md @@ -1,22 +1,33 @@ Psalm 93 + 1. The LORD is king! He is robed in majesty. Indeed, the LORD is robed in majesty and armed with strength. + The world stands firm - and cannot be shaken. + +and cannot be shaken. + 2. Your throne, O LORD, has stood from time immemorial. - You yourself are from the everlasting past. + +You yourself are from the everlasting past. + 3. The floods have risen up, O LORD. - The floods have roared like thunder; - the floods have lifted their pounding waves. + +The floods have roared like thunder; + +the floods have lifted their pounding waves. + 4. But mightier than the violent raging of the seas, - mightier than the breakers on the shore-- + +mightier than the breakers on the shore-- the LORD above is mightier than these! 5. Your royal laws cannot be changed. Your reign, O LORD, is holy forever and ever. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_94.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_94.md index 55c0767a..488ef567 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_94.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_94.md @@ -1,28 +1,43 @@ Psalm 94 + 1. O LORD, the God of vengeance, - O God of vengeance, let your glorious justice shine forth! + +O God of vengeance, let your glorious justice shine forth! + 2. Arise, O Judge of the earth. - Give the proud what they deserve. + +Give the proud what they deserve. + 3. How long, O LORD? - How long will the wicked be allowed to gloat? + +How long will the wicked be allowed to gloat? + 4. How long will they speak with arrogance? - How long will these evil people boast? + +How long will these evil people boast? + 5. They crush your people, LORD, - hurting those you claim as your own. + +hurting those you claim as your own. + 6. They kill widows and foreigners - and murder orphans. + +and murder orphans. + 7. "The LORD isn't looking," they say, "and besides, the God of Israel doesn't care." 8. Think again, you fools! - When will you finally catch on? + +When will you finally catch on? + 9. Is he deaf--the one who made your ears? Is he blind--the one who formed your eyes? @@ -31,43 +46,67 @@ Psalm 94 He knows everything--doesn't he also know what you are doing? 11. The LORD knows people's thoughts; - he knows they are worthless! + +he knows they are worthless! + 12. Joyful are those you discipline, LORD, - those you teach with your instructions. + +those you teach with your instructions. + 13. You give them relief from troubled times - until a pit is dug to capture the wicked. + +until a pit is dug to capture the wicked. + 14. The LORD will not reject his people; - he will not abandon his special possession. + +he will not abandon his special possession. + 15. Judgment will again be founded on justice, - and those with virtuous hearts will pursue it. + +and those with virtuous hearts will pursue it. + 16. Who will protect me from the wicked? - Who will stand up for me against evildoers? + +Who will stand up for me against evildoers? + 17. Unless the LORD had helped me, - I would soon have settled in the silence of the grave. + +I would soon have settled in the silence of the grave. + 18. I cried out, "I am slipping!" but your unfailing love, O LORD, supported me. 19. When doubts filled my mind, - your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer. + +your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer. + 20. Can unjust leaders claim that God is on their side-- - leaders whose decrees permit injustice? + +leaders whose decrees permit injustice? + 21. They gang up against the righteous - and condemn the innocent to death. + +and condemn the innocent to death. + 22. But the LORD is my fortress; - my God is the mighty rock where I hide. + +my God is the mighty rock where I hide. + 23. God will turn the sins of evil people back on them. - He will destroy them for their sins. + +He will destroy them for their sins. The LORD our God will destroy them. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_95.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_95.md index b333b751..ba32f299 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_95.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_95.md @@ -1,39 +1,62 @@ Psalm 95 + 1. Come, let us sing to the LORD! - Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. + +Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. + 2. Let us come to him with thanksgiving. - Let us sing psalms of praise to him. + +Let us sing psalms of praise to him. + 3. For the LORD is a great God, - a great King above all gods. + +a great King above all gods. + 4. He holds in his hands the depths of the earth - and the mightiest mountains. + +and the mightiest mountains. + 5. The sea belongs to him, for he made it. - His hands formed the dry land, too. + +His hands formed the dry land, too. + 6. Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the LORD our maker, 7. for he is our God. + We are the people he watches over, - the flock under his care. + +the flock under his care. + If only you would listen to his voice today! + 8. The LORD says, "Don't harden your hearts as Israel did at Meribah, - as they did at Massah in the wilderness. + +as they did at Massah in the wilderness. + 9. For there your ancestors tested and tried my patience, - even though they saw everything I did. + +even though they saw everything I did. + 10. For forty years I was angry with them, and I said, 'They are a people whose hearts turn away from me. - They refuse to do what I tell them.' + +They refuse to do what I tell them.' + 11. So in my anger I took an oath: - 'They will never enter my place of rest.'" + +'They will never enter my place of rest.'" + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_96.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_96.md index 0f4f088f..7f93817b 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_96.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_96.md @@ -1,45 +1,69 @@ Psalm 96 + 1. Sing a new song to the LORD! Let the whole earth sing to the LORD! 2. Sing to the LORD; praise his name. - Each day proclaim the good news that he saves. + +Each day proclaim the good news that he saves. + 3. Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. - Tell everyone about the amazing things he does. + +Tell everyone about the amazing things he does. + 4. Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise! - He is to be feared above all gods. + +He is to be feared above all gods. + 5. The gods of other nations are mere idols, but the LORD made the heavens! 6. Honor and majesty surround him; - strength and beauty fill his sanctuary. + +strength and beauty fill his sanctuary. + 7. O nations of the world, recognize the LORD; recognize that the LORD is glorious and strong. 8. Give to the LORD the glory he deserves! - Bring your offering and come into his courts. + +Bring your offering and come into his courts. + 9. Worship the LORD in all his holy splendor. - Let all the earth tremble before him. + +Let all the earth tremble before him. + 10. Tell all the nations, "The LORD reigns!" - The world stands firm and cannot be shaken. - He will judge all peoples fairly. + +The world stands firm and cannot be shaken. + +He will judge all peoples fairly. + 11. Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice! - Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise! + +Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise! + 12. Let the fields and their crops burst out with joy! - Let the trees of the forest sing for joy + +Let the trees of the forest sing for joy + 13. before the LORD, for he is coming! - He is coming to judge the earth. + +He is coming to judge the earth. + He will judge the world with justice, - and the nations with his truth. + +and the nations with his truth. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_97.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_97.md index cf726e78..d9760935 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_97.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_97.md @@ -1,43 +1,70 @@ Psalm 97 + 1. The LORD is king! - Let the earth rejoice! - Let the farthest coastlands be glad. + +Let the earth rejoice! + +Let the farthest coastlands be glad. + 2. Dark clouds surround him. - Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. + +Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. + 3. Fire spreads ahead of him - and burns up all his foes. + +and burns up all his foes. + 4. His lightning flashes out across the world. - The earth sees and trembles. + +The earth sees and trembles. + 5. The mountains melt like wax before the LORD, - before the Lord of all the earth. + +before the Lord of all the earth. + 6. The heavens proclaim his righteousness; - every nation sees his glory. + +every nation sees his glory. + 7. Those who worship idols are disgraced-- - all who brag about their worthless gods-- - for every god must bow to him. + +all who brag about their worthless gods-- + +for every god must bow to him. + 8. Jerusalem has heard and rejoiced, - and all the towns of Judah are glad + +and all the towns of Judah are glad because of your justice, O LORD! 9. For you, O LORD, are supreme over all the earth; - you are exalted far above all gods. + +you are exalted far above all gods. + 10. You who love the LORD, hate evil! - He protects the lives of his godly people - and rescues them from the power of the wicked. + +He protects the lives of his godly people + +and rescues them from the power of the wicked. + 11. Light shines on the godly, - and joy on those whose hearts are right. + +and joy on those whose hearts are right. + 12. May all who are godly rejoice in the LORD - and praise his holy name! + +and praise his holy name! + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_98.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_98.md index 3c090fdc..7c6f2bf7 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_98.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_98.md @@ -1,34 +1,55 @@ Psalm 98 + 1. Sing a new song to the LORD, - for he has done wonderful deeds. + +for he has done wonderful deeds. + His right hand has won a mighty victory; - his holy arm has shown his saving power! + +his holy arm has shown his saving power! + 2. The LORD has announced his victory - and has revealed his righteousness to every nation! + +and has revealed his righteousness to every nation! + 3. He has remembered his promise to love and be faithful to Israel. - The ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God. + +The ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God. + 4. Shout to the LORD, all the earth; - break out in praise and sing for joy! + +break out in praise and sing for joy! + 5. Sing your praise to the LORD with the harp, - with the harp and melodious song, + +with the harp and melodious song, + 6. with trumpets and the sound of the ram's horn. Make a joyful symphony before the LORD, the King! 7. Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise! - Let the earth and all living things join in. + +Let the earth and all living things join in. + 8. Let the rivers clap their hands in glee! - Let the hills sing out their songs of joy + +Let the hills sing out their songs of joy + 9. before the LORD, - for he is coming to judge the earth. + +for he is coming to judge the earth. + He will judge the world with justice, - and the nations with fairness. + +and the nations with fairness. + diff --git a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_99.md b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_99.md index aa849902..70c8678c 100644 --- a/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_99.md +++ b/NLT/19_Psalms/Chapter_99.md @@ -1,38 +1,60 @@ Psalm 99 + 1. The LORD is king! - Let the nations tremble! + +Let the nations tremble! He sits on his throne between the cherubim. - Let the whole earth quake! + +Let the whole earth quake! + 2. The LORD sits in majesty in Jerusalem, - exalted above all the nations. + +exalted above all the nations. + 3. Let them praise your great and awesome name. - Your name is holy! + +Your name is holy! + 4. Mighty King, lover of justice, - you have established fairness. + +you have established fairness. + You have acted with justice and righteousness throughout Israel. 5. Exalt the LORD our God! - Bow low before his feet, for he is holy! + +Bow low before his feet, for he is holy! + 6. Moses and Aaron were among his priests; - Samuel also called on his name. + +Samuel also called on his name. They cried to the LORD for help, - and he answered them. + +and he answered them. + 7. He spoke to Israel from the pillar of cloud, - and they followed the laws and decrees he gave them. + +and they followed the laws and decrees he gave them. + 8. O LORD our God, you answered them. - You were a forgiving God to them, - but you punished them when they went wrong. + +You were a forgiving God to them, + +but you punished them when they went wrong. + 9. Exalt the LORD our God, - and worship at his holy mountain in Jerusalem, + +and worship at his holy mountain in Jerusalem, for the LORD our God is holy! + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_01.md index 3491de3c..d91de5d8 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,104 +4,173 @@ The Purpose of Proverbs 1. These are the proverbs of Solomon, David's son, king of Israel. 2. Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, - to help them understand the insights of the wise. + +to help them understand the insights of the wise. + 3. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, - to help them do what is right, just, and fair. + +to help them do what is right, just, and fair. + 4. These proverbs will give insight to the simple, - knowledge and discernment to the young. + +knowledge and discernment to the young. + 5. Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. - Let those with understanding receive guidance + +Let those with understanding receive guidance + 6. by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables, - the words of the wise and their riddles. + +the words of the wise and their riddles. + 7. Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge, - but fools despise wisdom and discipline.A Father's Exhortation: Acquire Wisdom + +but fools despise wisdom and discipline. + +A Father's Exhortation: Acquire Wisdom + 8. My child, listen when your father corrects you. - Don't neglect your mother's instruction. + +Don't neglect your mother's instruction. + 9. What you learn from them will crown you with grace - and be a chain of honor around your neck. + +and be a chain of honor around your neck. + 10. My child, if sinners entice you, - turn your back on them! + +turn your back on them! + 11. They may say, "Come and join us. - Let's hide and kill someone! - Just for fun, let's ambush the innocent! + +Let's hide and kill someone! + +Just for fun, let's ambush the innocent! + 12. Let's swallow them alive, like the grave; - let's swallow them whole, like those who go down to the pit of death. + +let's swallow them whole, like those who go down to the pit of death. + 13. Think of the great things we'll get! - We'll fill our houses with all the stuff we take. + +We'll fill our houses with all the stuff we take. + 14. Come, throw in your lot with us; - we'll all share the loot." + +we'll all share the loot." + 15. My child, don't go along with them! - Stay far away from their paths. + +Stay far away from their paths. + 16. They rush to commit evil deeds. - They hurry to commit murder. + +They hurry to commit murder. + 17. If a bird sees a trap being set, - it knows to stay away. + +it knows to stay away. + 18. But these people set an ambush for themselves; - they are trying to get themselves killed. + +they are trying to get themselves killed. + 19. Such is the fate of all who are greedy for money; - it robs them of life.Wisdom Shouts in the Streets + +it robs them of life. + +Wisdom Shouts in the Streets + 20. Wisdom shouts in the streets. - She cries out in the public square. + +She cries out in the public square. + 21. She calls to the crowds along the main street, - to those gathered in front of the city gate: + +to those gathered in front of the city gate: + 22. "How long, you simpletons, - will you insist on being simpleminded? + +will you insist on being simpleminded? How long will you mockers relish your mocking? - How long will you fools hate knowledge? + +How long will you fools hate knowledge? + 23. Come and listen to my counsel. + I'll share my heart with you - and make you wise. + +and make you wise. + 24. "I called you so often, but you wouldn't come. - I reached out to you, but you paid no attention. + +I reached out to you, but you paid no attention. + 25. You ignored my advice - and rejected the correction I offered. + +and rejected the correction I offered. + 26. So I will laugh when you are in trouble! - I will mock you when disaster overtakes you-- + +I will mock you when disaster overtakes you-- 27. when calamity overtakes you like a storm, - when disaster engulfs you like a cyclone, - and anguish and distress overwhelm you. + +when disaster engulfs you like a cyclone, + +and anguish and distress overwhelm you. + 28. "When they cry for help, I will not answer. - Though they anxiously search for me, they will not find me. + +Though they anxiously search for me, they will not find me. + 29. For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD. 30. They rejected my advice - and paid no attention when I corrected them. + +and paid no attention when I corrected them. + 31. Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way, - choking on their own schemes. + +choking on their own schemes. + 32. For simpletons turn away from me--to death. - Fools are destroyed by their own complacency. + +Fools are destroyed by their own complacency. + 33. But all who listen to me will live in peace, - untroubled by fear of harm." + +untroubled by fear of harm." + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_02.md index bcde540f..56f84584 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_02.md @@ -2,69 +2,111 @@ The Benefits of Wisdom # Chapter 2 1. My child, listen to what I say, - and treasure my commands. + +and treasure my commands. + 2. Tune your ears to wisdom, - and concentrate on understanding. + +and concentrate on understanding. + 3. Cry out for insight, - and ask for understanding. + +and ask for understanding. + 4. Search for them as you would for silver; - seek them like hidden treasures. + +seek them like hidden treasures. + 5. Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, - and you will gain knowledge of God. + +and you will gain knowledge of God. + 6. For the LORD grants wisdom! - From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. + +From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. + 7. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. - He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. + +He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. + 8. He guards the paths of the just - and protects those who are faithful to him. + +and protects those who are faithful to him. + 9. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, - and you will find the right way to go. + +and you will find the right way to go. + 10. For wisdom will enter your heart, - and knowledge will fill you with joy. + +and knowledge will fill you with joy. + 11. Wise choices will watch over you. - Understanding will keep you safe. + +Understanding will keep you safe. + 12. Wisdom will save you from evil people, - from those whose words are twisted. + +from those whose words are twisted. + 13. These men turn from the right way - to walk down dark paths. + +to walk down dark paths. + 14. They take pleasure in doing wrong, - and they enjoy the twisted ways of evil. + +and they enjoy the twisted ways of evil. + 15. Their actions are crooked, - and their ways are wrong. + +and their ways are wrong. + 16. Wisdom will save you from the immoral woman, - from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman. + +from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman. + 17. She has abandoned her husband - and ignores the covenant she made before God. + +and ignores the covenant she made before God. + 18. Entering her house leads to death; it is the road to the grave. 19. The man who visits her is doomed. - He will never reach the paths of life. + +He will never reach the paths of life. + 20. So follow the steps of the good, - and stay on the paths of the righteous. + +and stay on the paths of the righteous. + 21. For only the godly will live in the land, - and those with integrity will remain in it. + +and those with integrity will remain in it. + 22. But the wicked will be removed from the land, - and the treacherous will be uprooted. + +and the treacherous will be uprooted. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_03.md index 04d5317d..f557e4ce 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_03.md @@ -2,109 +2,175 @@ Trusting in the LORD # Chapter 3 1. My child, never forget the things I have taught you. - Store my commands in your heart. + + +Store my commands in your heart. + 2. If you do this, you will live many years, - and your life will be satisfying. + +and your life will be satisfying. + 3. Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! - Tie them around your neck as a reminder. - Write them deep within your heart. + +Tie them around your neck as a reminder. + +Write them deep within your heart. + 4. Then you will find favor with both God and people, - and you will earn a good reputation. + +and you will earn a good reputation. + 5. Trust in the LORD with all your heart; - do not depend on your own understanding. + +do not depend on your own understanding. + 6. Seek his will in all you do, - and he will show you which path to take. + +and he will show you which path to take. + 7. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil. 8. Then you will have healing for your body - and strength for your bones. + +and strength for your bones. + 9. Honor the LORD with your wealth - and with the best part of everything you produce. + +and with the best part of everything you produce. + 10. Then he will fill your barns with grain, - and your vats will overflow with good wine. + +and your vats will overflow with good wine. + 11. My child, don't reject the LORD's discipline, - and don't be upset when he corrects you. + +and don't be upset when he corrects you. + 12. For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights. 13. Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, - the one who gains understanding. + +the one who gains understanding. + 14. For wisdom is more profitable than silver, - and her wages are better than gold. + +and her wages are better than gold. + 15. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; - nothing you desire can compare with her. + +nothing you desire can compare with her. + 16. She offers you long life in her right hand, - and riches and honor in her left. + +and riches and honor in her left. + 17. She will guide you down delightful paths; - all her ways are satisfying. + +all her ways are satisfying. + 18. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; - happy are those who hold her tightly. + +happy are those who hold her tightly. + 19. By wisdom the LORD founded the earth; - by understanding he created the heavens. + +by understanding he created the heavens. + 20. By his knowledge the deep fountains of the earth burst forth, - and the dew settles beneath the night sky. + +and the dew settles beneath the night sky. + 21. My child, don't lose sight of common sense and discernment. - Hang on to them, + +Hang on to them, + 22. for they will refresh your soul. - They are like jewels on a necklace. + +They are like jewels on a necklace. + 23. They keep you safe on your way, - and your feet will not stumble. + +and your feet will not stumble. + 24. You can go to bed without fear; - you will lie down and sleep soundly. + +you will lie down and sleep soundly. + 25. You need not be afraid of sudden disaster - or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, + +or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, + 26. for the LORD is your security. - He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap. + +He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap. + 27. Do not withhold good from those who deserve it - when it's in your power to help them. + +when it's in your power to help them. + 28. If you can help your neighbor now, don't say, - "Come back tomorrow, and then I'll help you." + +"Come back tomorrow, and then I'll help you." + 29. Don't plot harm against your neighbor, - for those who live nearby trust you. + +for those who live nearby trust you. + 30. Don't pick a fight without reason, - when no one has done you harm. + +when no one has done you harm. + 31. Don't envy violent people - or copy their ways. + +or copy their ways. + 32. Such wicked people are detestable to the LORD, - but he offers his friendship to the godly. + +but he offers his friendship to the godly. + 33. The LORD curses the house of the wicked, - but he blesses the home of the upright. + +but he blesses the home of the upright. + 34. The LORD mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble. 35. The wise inherit honor, - but fools are put to shame! + +but fools are put to shame! + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_04.md index 74c1f75a..8b3b934b 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_04.md @@ -2,85 +2,139 @@ A Father's Wise Advice # Chapter 4 1. My children, listen when your father corrects you. - Pay attention and learn good judgment, + +Pay attention and learn good judgment, + 2. for I am giving you good guidance. - Don't turn away from my instructions. + +Don't turn away from my instructions. + 3. For I, too, was once my father's son, - tenderly loved as my mother's only child. + +tenderly loved as my mother's only child. + 4. My father taught me, "Take my words to heart. - Follow my commands, and you will live. + +Follow my commands, and you will live. + 5. Get wisdom; develop good judgment. - Don't forget my words or turn away from them. + +Don't forget my words or turn away from them. + 6. Don't turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you. - Love her, and she will guard you. + +Love her, and she will guard you. + 7. Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! - And whatever else you do, develop good judgment. + +And whatever else you do, develop good judgment. + 8. If you prize wisdom, she will make you great. - Embrace her, and she will honor you. + +Embrace her, and she will honor you. + 9. She will place a lovely wreath on your head; - she will present you with a beautiful crown." + +she will present you with a beautiful crown." + 10. My child, listen to me and do as I say, - and you will have a long, good life. + +and you will have a long, good life. + 11. I will teach you wisdom's ways - and lead you in straight paths. + +and lead you in straight paths. + 12. When you walk, you won't be held back; - when you run, you won't stumble. + +when you run, you won't stumble. + 13. Take hold of my instructions; don't let them go. - Guard them, for they are the key to life. + +Guard them, for they are the key to life. + 14. Don't do as the wicked do, - and don't follow the path of evildoers. + +and don't follow the path of evildoers. + 15. Don't even think about it; don't go that way. - Turn away and keep moving. + +Turn away and keep moving. + 16. For evil people can't sleep until they've done their evil deed for the day. - They can't rest until they've caused someone to stumble. + +They can't rest until they've caused someone to stumble. + 17. They eat the food of wickedness - and drink the wine of violence! + +and drink the wine of violence! + 18. The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, - which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. + +which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. + 19. But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. - They have no idea what they are stumbling over. + +They have no idea what they are stumbling over. + 20. My child, pay attention to what I say. - Listen carefully to my words. + +Listen carefully to my words. + 21. Don't lose sight of them. - Let them penetrate deep into your heart, + +Let them penetrate deep into your heart, + 22. for they bring life to those who find them, - and healing to their whole body. + +and healing to their whole body. + 23. Guard your heart above all else, - for it determines the course of your life. + +for it determines the course of your life. + 24. Avoid all perverse talk; - stay away from corrupt speech. + +stay away from corrupt speech. + 25. Look straight ahead, - and fix your eyes on what lies before you. + +and fix your eyes on what lies before you. + 26. Mark out a straight path for your feet; - stay on the safe path. + +stay on the safe path. + 27. Don't get sidetracked; - keep your feet from following evil. + +keep your feet from following evil. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_05.md index a49f4c6a..8dbcad24 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_05.md @@ -2,46 +2,72 @@ Avoid Immoral Women # Chapter 5 1. My son, pay attention to my wisdom; - listen carefully to my wise counsel. + +listen carefully to my wise counsel. + 2. Then you will show discernment, - and your lips will express what you've learned. + +and your lips will express what you've learned. + 3. For the lips of an immoral woman are as sweet as honey, - and her mouth is smoother than oil. + +and her mouth is smoother than oil. + 4. But in the end she is as bitter as poison, - as dangerous as a double-edged sword. + +as dangerous as a double-edged sword. + 5. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave. 6. For she cares nothing about the path to life. - She staggers down a crooked trail and doesn't realize it. + +She staggers down a crooked trail and doesn't realize it. + 7. So now, my sons, listen to me. - Never stray from what I am about to say: + +Never stray from what I am about to say: + 8. Stay away from her! - Don't go near the door of her house! + +Don't go near the door of her house! + 9. If you do, you will lose your honor - and will lose to merciless people all you have achieved. + +and will lose to merciless people all you have achieved. + 10. Strangers will consume your wealth, - and someone else will enjoy the fruit of your labor. + +and someone else will enjoy the fruit of your labor. + 11. In the end you will groan in anguish - when disease consumes your body. + +when disease consumes your body. + 12. You will say, "How I hated discipline! - If only I had not ignored all the warnings! + +If only I had not ignored all the warnings! + 13. Oh, why didn't I listen to my teachers? - Why didn't I pay attention to my instructors? + +Why didn't I pay attention to my instructors? + 14. I have come to the brink of utter ruin, - and now I must face public disgrace." + +and now I must face public disgrace." + 15. Drink water from your own well-- share your love only with your wife. @@ -50,25 +76,40 @@ Avoid Immoral Women having sex with just anyone? 17. You should reserve it for yourselves. - Never share it with strangers. + +Never share it with strangers. + 18. Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you. - Rejoice in the wife of your youth. + +Rejoice in the wife of your youth. + 19. She is a loving deer, a graceful doe. - Let her breasts satisfy you always. - May you always be captivated by her love. + +Let her breasts satisfy you always. + +May you always be captivated by her love. + 20. Why be captivated, my son, by an immoral woman, - or fondle the breasts of a promiscuous woman? + +or fondle the breasts of a promiscuous woman? + 21. For the LORD sees clearly what a man does, - examining every path he takes. + +examining every path he takes. + 22. An evil man is held captive by his own sins; - they are ropes that catch and hold him. + +they are ropes that catch and hold him. + 23. He will die for lack of self-control; - he will be lost because of his great foolishness. + +he will be lost because of his great foolishness. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_06.md index e23bea3d..7b68de9d 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_06.md @@ -2,114 +2,186 @@ Lessons for Daily Life # Chapter 6 1. My child, if you have put up security for a friend's debt - or agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger-- + +or agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger-- 2. if you have trapped yourself by your agreement - and are caught by what you said-- + +and are caught by what you said-- 3. follow my advice and save yourself, - for you have placed yourself at your friend's mercy. + +for you have placed yourself at your friend's mercy. + Now swallow your pride; - go and beg to have your name erased. + +go and beg to have your name erased. + 4. Don't put it off; do it now! - Don't rest until you do. + +Don't rest until you do. + 5. Save yourself like a gazelle escaping from a hunter, - like a bird fleeing from a net. + +like a bird fleeing from a net. + 6. Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. - Learn from their ways and become wise! + +Learn from their ways and become wise! + 7. Though they have no prince - or governor or ruler to make them work, + +or governor or ruler to make them work, + 8. they labor hard all summer, - gathering food for the winter. + +gathering food for the winter. + 9. But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep? - When will you wake up? + +When will you wake up? + 10. A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, - a little folding of the hands to rest-- + +a little folding of the hands to rest-- 11. then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; - scarcity will attack you like an armed robber. + +scarcity will attack you like an armed robber. + 12. What are worthless and wicked people like? - They are constant liars, + +They are constant liars, + 13. signaling their deceit with a wink of the eye, - a nudge of the foot, or the wiggle of fingers. + +a nudge of the foot, or the wiggle of fingers. + 14. Their perverted hearts plot evil, - and they constantly stir up trouble. + +and they constantly stir up trouble. + 15. But they will be destroyed suddenly, - broken in an instant beyond all hope of healing. + +broken in an instant beyond all hope of healing. + 16. There are six things the LORD hates-- - no, seven things he detests: + +no, seven things he detests: + 17. haughty eyes, - a lying tongue, - hands that kill the innocent, + +a lying tongue, + +hands that kill the innocent, + 18. a heart that plots evil, - feet that race to do wrong, + +feet that race to do wrong, + 19. a false witness who pours out lies, - a person who sows discord in a family. + +a person who sows discord in a family. + 20. My son, obey your father's commands, - and don't neglect your mother's instruction. + +and don't neglect your mother's instruction. + 21. Keep their words always in your heart. - Tie them around your neck. + +Tie them around your neck. + 22. When you walk, their counsel will lead you. - When you sleep, they will protect you. - When you wake up, they will advise you. + +When you sleep, they will protect you. + +When you wake up, they will advise you. + 23. For their command is a lamp - and their instruction a light; + +and their instruction a light; their corrective discipline - is the way to life. + +is the way to life. + 24. It will keep you from the immoral woman, - from the smooth tongue of a promiscuous woman. + +from the smooth tongue of a promiscuous woman. + 25. Don't lust for her beauty. - Don't let her coy glances seduce you. + +Don't let her coy glances seduce you. + 26. For a prostitute will bring you to poverty, - but sleeping with another man's wife will cost you your life. + +but sleeping with another man's wife will cost you your life. + 27. Can a man scoop a flame into his lap - and not have his clothes catch on fire? + +and not have his clothes catch on fire? + 28. Can he walk on hot coals - and not blister his feet? + +and not blister his feet? + 29. So it is with the man who sleeps with another man's wife. - He who embraces her will not go unpunished. + +He who embraces her will not go unpunished. + 30. Excuses might be found for a thief - who steals because he is starving. + +who steals because he is starving. + 31. But if he is caught, he must pay back seven times what he stole, - even if he has to sell everything in his house. + +even if he has to sell everything in his house. + 32. But the man who commits adultery is an utter fool, - for he destroys himself. + +for he destroys himself. + 33. He will be wounded and disgraced. - His shame will never be erased. + +His shame will never be erased. + 34. For the woman's jealous husband will be furious, - and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge. + +and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge. + 35. He will accept no compensation, - nor be satisfied with a payoff of any size. + +nor be satisfied with a payoff of any size. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_07.md index 9c40e476..b6a5a17b 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_07.md @@ -2,86 +2,136 @@ Another Warning about Immoral Women # Chapter 7 1. Follow my advice, my son; - always treasure my commands. + +always treasure my commands. + 2. Obey my commands and live! Guard my instructions as you guard your own eyes. 3. Tie them on your fingers as a reminder. - Write them deep within your heart. + +Write them deep within your heart. + 4. Love wisdom like a sister; - make insight a beloved member of your family. + +make insight a beloved member of your family. + 5. Let them protect you from an affair with an immoral woman, - from listening to the flattery of a promiscuous woman. + +from listening to the flattery of a promiscuous woman. + 6. While I was at the window of my house, - looking through the curtain, + +looking through the curtain, + 7. I saw some naive young men, - and one in particular who lacked common sense. + +and one in particular who lacked common sense. + 8. He was crossing the street near the house of an immoral woman, - strolling down the path by her house. + +strolling down the path by her house. + 9. It was at twilight, in the evening, - as deep darkness fell. + +as deep darkness fell. + 10. The woman approached him, - seductively dressed and sly of heart. + +seductively dressed and sly of heart. + 11. She was the brash, rebellious type, - never content to stay at home. + +never content to stay at home. + 12. She is often in the streets and markets, - soliciting at every corner. + +soliciting at every corner. + 13. She threw her arms around him and kissed him, - and with a brazen look she said, + +and with a brazen look she said, + 14. "I've just made my peace offerings - and fulfilled my vows. + +and fulfilled my vows. + 15. You're the one I was looking for! - I came out to find you, and here you are! + +I came out to find you, and here you are! + 16. My bed is spread with beautiful blankets, - with colored sheets of Egyptian linen. + +with colored sheets of Egyptian linen. + 17. I've perfumed my bed - with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. + +with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. + 18. Come, let's drink our fill of love until morning. - Let's enjoy each other's caresses, + +Let's enjoy each other's caresses, + 19. for my husband is not home. - He's away on a long trip. + +He's away on a long trip. + 20. He has taken a wallet full of money with him and won't return until later this month." 21. So she seduced him with her pretty speech - and enticed him with her flattery. + +and enticed him with her flattery. + 22. He followed her at once, - like an ox going to the slaughter. + +like an ox going to the slaughter. He was like a stag caught in a trap, 23. awaiting the arrow that would pierce its heart. + He was like a bird flying into a snare, - little knowing it would cost him his life. + +little knowing it would cost him his life. + 24. So listen to me, my sons, - and pay attention to my words. + +and pay attention to my words. + 25. Don't let your hearts stray away toward her. - Don't wander down her wayward path. + +Don't wander down her wayward path. + 26. For she has been the ruin of many; - many men have been her victims. + +many men have been her victims. + 27. Her house is the road to the grave. - Her bedroom is the den of death. + +Her bedroom is the den of death. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_08.md index 1179fde0..43c7baf4 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_08.md @@ -2,115 +2,186 @@ Wisdom Calls for a Hearing # Chapter 8 1. Listen as Wisdom calls out! - Hear as understanding raises her voice! + +Hear as understanding raises her voice! + 2. On the hilltop along the road, - she takes her stand at the crossroads. + +she takes her stand at the crossroads. + 3. By the gates at the entrance to the town, - on the road leading in, she cries aloud, + +on the road leading in, she cries aloud, + 4. "I call to you, to all of you! - I raise my voice to all people. + +I raise my voice to all people. + 5. You simple people, use good judgment. - You foolish people, show some understanding. + +You foolish people, show some understanding. + 6. Listen to me! For I have important things to tell you. - Everything I say is right, + +Everything I say is right, + 7. for I speak the truth - and detest every kind of deception. + +and detest every kind of deception. + 8. My advice is wholesome. - There is nothing devious or crooked in it. + +There is nothing devious or crooked in it. + 9. My words are plain to anyone with understanding, - clear to those with knowledge. + +clear to those with knowledge. + 10. Choose my instruction rather than silver, - and knowledge rather than pure gold. + +and knowledge rather than pure gold. + 11. For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. - Nothing you desire can compare with it. + +Nothing you desire can compare with it. + 12. "I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. - I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. + +I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. + 13. All who fear the LORD will hate evil. - Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, - corruption and perverse speech. + +Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, + +corruption and perverse speech. + 14. Common sense and success belong to me. - Insight and strength are mine. + +Insight and strength are mine. + 15. Because of me, kings reign, - and rulers make just decrees. + +and rulers make just decrees. + 16. Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgments. 17. "I love all who love me. - Those who search will surely find me. + +Those who search will surely find me. + 18. I have riches and honor, - as well as enduring wealth and justice. + +as well as enduring wealth and justice. + 19. My gifts are better than gold, even the purest gold, - my wages better than sterling silver! + +my wages better than sterling silver! + 20. I walk in righteousness, - in paths of justice. + +in paths of justice. + 21. Those who love me inherit wealth. - I will fill their treasuries. + +I will fill their treasuries. + 22. "The LORD formed me from the beginning, - before he created anything else. + +before he created anything else. + 23. I was appointed in ages past, - at the very first, before the earth began. + +at the very first, before the earth began. + 24. I was born before the oceans were created, - before the springs bubbled forth their waters. + +before the springs bubbled forth their waters. + 25. Before the mountains were formed, - before the hills, I was born-- + +before the hills, I was born-- 26. before he had made the earth and fields - and the first handfuls of soil. + +and the first handfuls of soil. + 27. I was there when he established the heavens, - when he drew the horizon on the oceans. + +when he drew the horizon on the oceans. + 28. I was there when he set the clouds above, - when he established springs deep in the earth. + +when he established springs deep in the earth. + 29. I was there when he set the limits of the seas, - so they would not spread beyond their boundaries. + +so they would not spread beyond their boundaries. + And when he marked off the earth's foundations, + 30. I was the architect at his side. + I was his constant delight, - rejoicing always in his presence. + +rejoicing always in his presence. + 31. And how happy I was with the world he created; - how I rejoiced with the human family! + +how I rejoiced with the human family! + 32. "And so, my children, listen to me, - for all who follow my ways are joyful. + +for all who follow my ways are joyful. + 33. Listen to my instruction and be wise. - Don't ignore it. + +Don't ignore it. + 34. Joyful are those who listen to me, - watching for me daily at my gates, - waiting for me outside my home! + +watching for me daily at my gates, + +waiting for me outside my home! + 35. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. 36. But those who miss me injure themselves. - All who hate me love death." + +All who hate me love death." + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_09.md index 9a65d18b..cf32e3d4 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_09.md @@ -1,60 +1,101 @@ # Chapter 9 1. Wisdom has built her house; - she has carved its seven columns. + +she has carved its seven columns. + 2. She has prepared a great banquet, - mixed the wines, and set the table. + +mixed the wines, and set the table. + 3. She has sent her servants to invite everyone to come. - She calls out from the heights overlooking the city. + +She calls out from the heights overlooking the city. + 4. "Come in with me," she urges the simple. - To those who lack good judgment, she says, + +To those who lack good judgment, she says, + 5. "Come, eat my food, - and drink the wine I have mixed. + +and drink the wine I have mixed. + 6. Leave your simple ways behind, and begin to live; - learn to use good judgment." + +learn to use good judgment." + 7. Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return. - Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt. + +Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt. + 8. So don't bother correcting mockers; - they will only hate you. + +they will only hate you. + But correct the wise, - and they will love you. + +and they will love you. + 9. Instruct the wise, - and they will be even wiser. + +and they will be even wiser. + Teach the righteous, - and they will learn even more. + +and they will learn even more. + 10. Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom. - Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment. + +Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment. + 11. Wisdom will multiply your days - and add years to your life. + +and add years to your life. + 12. If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. - If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.Folly Calls for a Hearing + +If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer. + +Folly Calls for a Hearing + 13. The woman named Folly is brash. - She is ignorant and doesn't know it. + +She is ignorant and doesn't know it. + 14. She sits in her doorway - on the heights overlooking the city. + +on the heights overlooking the city. + 15. She calls out to men going by - who are minding their own business. + +who are minding their own business. + 16. "Come in with me," she urges the simple. - To those who lack good judgment, she says, + +To those who lack good judgment, she says, + 17. "Stolen water is refreshing; - food eaten in secret tastes the best!" + +food eaten in secret tastes the best!" + 18. But little do they know that the dead are there. Her guests are in the depths of the grave. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_10.md index f94e7cb9..05e1fe6c 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_10.md @@ -3,99 +3,161 @@ The Proverbs of Solomon # Chapter 10 1. The proverbs of Solomon: A wise child brings joy to a father; - a foolish child brings grief to a mother. + +a foolish child brings grief to a mother. + 2. Tainted wealth has no lasting value, - but right living can save your life. + +but right living can save your life. + 3. The LORD will not let the godly go hungry, - but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked. + +but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked. + 4. Lazy people are soon poor; - hard workers get rich. + +hard workers get rich. + 5. A wise youth harvests in the summer, - but one who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace. + +but one who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace. + 6. The godly are showered with blessings; - the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions. + +the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions. + 7. We have happy memories of the godly, - but the name of a wicked person rots away. + +but the name of a wicked person rots away. + 8. The wise are glad to be instructed, - but babbling fools fall flat on their faces. + +but babbling fools fall flat on their faces. + 9. People with integrity walk safely, - but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed. + +but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed. + 10. People who wink at wrong cause trouble, but a bold reproof promotes peace. 11. The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; - the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions. + +the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions. + 12. Hatred stirs up quarrels, - but love makes up for all offenses. + +but love makes up for all offenses. + 13. Wise words come from the lips of people with understanding, - but those lacking sense will be beaten with a rod. + +but those lacking sense will be beaten with a rod. + 14. Wise people treasure knowledge, - but the babbling of a fool invites disaster. + +but the babbling of a fool invites disaster. + 15. The wealth of the rich is their fortress; - the poverty of the poor is their destruction. + +the poverty of the poor is their destruction. + 16. The earnings of the godly enhance their lives, - but evil people squander their money on sin. + +but evil people squander their money on sin. + 17. People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, - but those who ignore correction will go astray. + +but those who ignore correction will go astray. + 18. Hiding hatred makes you a liar; - slandering others makes you a fool. + +slandering others makes you a fool. + 19. Too much talk leads to sin. - Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. + +Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. + 20. The words of the godly are like sterling silver; - the heart of a fool is worthless. + +the heart of a fool is worthless. + 21. The words of the godly encourage many, - but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense. + +but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense. + 22. The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, - and he adds no sorrow with it. + +and he adds no sorrow with it. + 23. Doing wrong is fun for a fool, - but living wisely brings pleasure to the sensible. + +but living wisely brings pleasure to the sensible. + 24. The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled; - the hopes of the godly will be granted. + +the hopes of the godly will be granted. + 25. When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, - but the godly have a lasting foundation. + +but the godly have a lasting foundation. + 26. Lazy people irritate their employers, - like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes. + +like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes. + 27. Fear of the LORD lengthens one's life, - but the years of the wicked are cut short. + +but the years of the wicked are cut short. + 28. The hopes of the godly result in happiness, - but the expectations of the wicked come to nothing. + +but the expectations of the wicked come to nothing. + 29. The way of the LORD is a stronghold to those with integrity, - but it destroys the wicked. + +but it destroys the wicked. + 30. The godly will never be disturbed, - but the wicked will be removed from the land. + +but the wicked will be removed from the land. + 31. The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, - but the tongue that deceives will be cut off. + +but the tongue that deceives will be cut off. + 32. The lips of the godly speak helpful words, - but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words. + +but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_11.md index 72d1cad6..469f0c75 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_11.md @@ -1,90 +1,148 @@ # Chapter 11 1. The LORD detests the use of dishonest scales, - but he delights in accurate weights. + +but he delights in accurate weights. + 2. Pride leads to disgrace, - but with humility comes wisdom. + +but with humility comes wisdom. + 3. Honesty guides good people; - dishonesty destroys treacherous people. + +dishonesty destroys treacherous people. + 4. Riches won't help on the day of judgment, - but right living can save you from death. + +but right living can save you from death. + 5. The godly are directed by honesty; - the wicked fall beneath their load of sin. + +the wicked fall beneath their load of sin. + 6. The godliness of good people rescues them; - the ambition of treacherous people traps them. + +the ambition of treacherous people traps them. + 7. When the wicked die, their hopes die with them, - for they rely on their own feeble strength. + +for they rely on their own feeble strength. + 8. The godly are rescued from trouble, - and it falls on the wicked instead. + +and it falls on the wicked instead. + 9. With their words, the godless destroy their friends, - but knowledge will rescue the righteous. + +but knowledge will rescue the righteous. + 10. The whole city celebrates when the godly succeed; - they shout for joy when the wicked die. + +they shout for joy when the wicked die. + 11. Upright citizens are good for a city and make it prosper, - but the talk of the wicked tears it apart. + +but the talk of the wicked tears it apart. + 12. It is foolish to belittle one's neighbor; - a sensible person keeps quiet. + +a sensible person keeps quiet. + 13. A gossip goes around telling secrets, - but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. + +but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. + 14. Without wise leadership, a nation falls; - there is safety in having many advisers. + +there is safety in having many advisers. + 15. There's danger in putting up security for a stranger's debt; - it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt. + +it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt. + 16. A gracious woman gains respect, - but ruthless men gain only wealth. + +but ruthless men gain only wealth. + 17. Your kindness will reward you, - but your cruelty will destroy you. + +but your cruelty will destroy you. + 18. Evil people get rich for the moment, - but the reward of the godly will last. + +but the reward of the godly will last. + 19. Godly people find life; - evil people find death. + +evil people find death. + 20. The LORD detests people with crooked hearts, - but he delights in those with integrity. + +but he delights in those with integrity. + 21. Evil people will surely be punished, - but the children of the godly will go free. + +but the children of the godly will go free. + 22. A beautiful woman who lacks discretion - is like a gold ring in a pig's snout. + +is like a gold ring in a pig's snout. + 23. The godly can look forward to a reward, - while the wicked can expect only judgment. + +while the wicked can expect only judgment. + 24. Give freely and become more wealthy; - be stingy and lose everything. + +be stingy and lose everything. + 25. The generous will prosper; - those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. + +those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. + 26. People curse those who hoard their grain, - but they bless the one who sells in time of need. + +but they bless the one who sells in time of need. + 27. If you search for good, you will find favor; - but if you search for evil, it will find you! + +but if you search for evil, it will find you! + 28. Trust in your money and down you go! - But the godly flourish like leaves in spring. + +But the godly flourish like leaves in spring. + 29. Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind. - The fool will be a servant to the wise. + +The fool will be a servant to the wise. + 30. The seeds of good deeds become a tree of life; a wise person wins friends. @@ -93,3 +151,4 @@ what will happen to wicked sinners? + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_12.md index 856b3336..8cad4b9a 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_12.md @@ -1,86 +1,142 @@ # Chapter 12 1. To learn, you must love discipline; - it is stupid to hate correction. + +it is stupid to hate correction. + 2. The LORD approves of those who are good, - but he condemns those who plan wickedness. + +but he condemns those who plan wickedness. + 3. Wickedness never brings stability, - but the godly have deep roots. + +but the godly have deep roots. + 4. A worthy wife is a crown for her husband, - but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones. + +but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones. + 5. The plans of the godly are just; - the advice of the wicked is treacherous. + +the advice of the wicked is treacherous. + 6. The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, - but the words of the godly save lives. + +but the words of the godly save lives. + 7. The wicked die and disappear, - but the family of the godly stands firm. + +but the family of the godly stands firm. + 8. A sensible person wins admiration, - but a warped mind is despised. + +but a warped mind is despised. + 9. Better to be an ordinary person with a servant - than to be self-important but have no food. + +than to be self-important but have no food. + 10. The godly care for their animals, - but the wicked are always cruel. + +but the wicked are always cruel. + 11. A hard worker has plenty of food, - but a person who chases fantasies has no sense. + +but a person who chases fantasies has no sense. + 12. Thieves are jealous of each other's loot, - but the godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit. + +but the godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit. + 13. The wicked are trapped by their own words, - but the godly escape such trouble. + +but the godly escape such trouble. + 14. Wise words bring many benefits, - and hard work brings rewards. + +and hard work brings rewards. + 15. Fools think their own way is right, - but the wise listen to others. + +but the wise listen to others. + 16. A fool is quick-tempered, - but a wise person stays calm when insulted. + +but a wise person stays calm when insulted. + 17. An honest witness tells the truth; - a false witness tells lies. + +a false witness tells lies. + 18. Some people make cutting remarks, - but the words of the wise bring healing. + +but the words of the wise bring healing. + 19. Truthful words stand the test of time, - but lies are soon exposed. + +but lies are soon exposed. + 20. Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil; - joy fills hearts that are planning peace! + +joy fills hearts that are planning peace! + 21. No harm comes to the godly, - but the wicked have their fill of trouble. + +but the wicked have their fill of trouble. + 22. The LORD detests lying lips, - but he delights in those who tell the truth. + +but he delights in those who tell the truth. + 23. The wise don't make a show of their knowledge, - but fools broadcast their foolishness. + +but fools broadcast their foolishness. + 24. Work hard and become a leader; - be lazy and become a slave. + +be lazy and become a slave. + 25. Worry weighs a person down; - an encouraging word cheers a person up. + +an encouraging word cheers a person up. + 26. The godly give good advice to their friends; - the wicked lead them astray. + +the wicked lead them astray. + 27. Lazy people don't even cook the game they catch, - but the diligent make use of everything they find. + +but the diligent make use of everything they find. + 28. The way of the godly leads to life; - that path does not lead to death. + +that path does not lead to death. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_13.md index 4ede574d..f96f5b1b 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_13.md @@ -1,45 +1,73 @@ # Chapter 13 1. A wise child accepts a parent's discipline; - a mocker refuses to listen to correction. + +a mocker refuses to listen to correction. + 2. Wise words will win you a good meal, - but treacherous people have an appetite for violence. + +but treacherous people have an appetite for violence. + 3. Those who control their tongue will have a long life; - opening your mouth can ruin everything. + +opening your mouth can ruin everything. + 4. Lazy people want much but get little, - but those who work hard will prosper. + +but those who work hard will prosper. + 5. The godly hate lies; - the wicked cause shame and disgrace. + +the wicked cause shame and disgrace. + 6. Godliness guards the path of the blameless, - but the evil are misled by sin. + +but the evil are misled by sin. + 7. Some who are poor pretend to be rich; - others who are rich pretend to be poor. + +others who are rich pretend to be poor. + 8. The rich can pay a ransom for their lives, - but the poor won't even get threatened. + +but the poor won't even get threatened. + 9. The life of the godly is full of light and joy, - but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out. + +but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out. + 10. Pride leads to conflict; - those who take advice are wise. + +those who take advice are wise. + 11. Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; - wealth from hard work grows over time. + +wealth from hard work grows over time. + 12. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, - but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life. + +but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life. + 13. People who despise advice are asking for trouble; - those who respect a command will succeed. + +those who respect a command will succeed. + 14. The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; - those who accept it avoid the snares of death. + +those who accept it avoid the snares of death. + 15. A person with good sense is respected; a treacherous person is headed for destruction. @@ -48,30 +76,48 @@ fools don't--and even brag about their foolishness. 17. An unreliable messenger stumbles into trouble, - but a reliable messenger brings healing. + +but a reliable messenger brings healing. + 18. If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; - if you accept correction, you will be honored. + +if you accept correction, you will be honored. + 19. It is pleasant to see dreams come true, - but fools refuse to turn from evil to attain them. + +but fools refuse to turn from evil to attain them. + 20. Walk with the wise and become wise; - associate with fools and get in trouble. + +associate with fools and get in trouble. + 21. Trouble chases sinners, - while blessings reward the righteous. + +while blessings reward the righteous. + 22. Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren, - but the sinner's wealth passes to the godly. + +but the sinner's wealth passes to the godly. + 23. A poor person's farm may produce much food, - but injustice sweeps it all away. + +but injustice sweeps it all away. + 24. Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. - Those who love their children care enough to discipline them. + +Those who love their children care enough to discipline them. + 25. The godly eat to their hearts' content, - but the belly of the wicked goes hungry. + +but the belly of the wicked goes hungry. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_14.md index 6ebbfcae..6195ec55 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_14.md @@ -1,107 +1,175 @@ # Chapter 14 1. A wise woman builds her home, - but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands. + +but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands. + 2. Those who follow the right path fear the LORD; - those who take the wrong path despise him. + +those who take the wrong path despise him. + 3. A fool's proud talk becomes a rod that beats him, - but the words of the wise keep them safe. + +but the words of the wise keep them safe. + 4. Without oxen a stable stays clean, - but you need a strong ox for a large harvest. + +but you need a strong ox for a large harvest. + 5. An honest witness does not lie; - a false witness breathes lies. + +a false witness breathes lies. + 6. A mocker seeks wisdom and never finds it, - but knowledge comes easily to those with understanding. + +but knowledge comes easily to those with understanding. + 7. Stay away from fools, - for you won't find knowledge on their lips. + +for you won't find knowledge on their lips. + 8. The prudent understand where they are going, - but fools deceive themselves. + +but fools deceive themselves. + 9. Fools make fun of guilt, - but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation. + +but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation. + 10. Each heart knows its own bitterness, - and no one else can fully share its joy. + +and no one else can fully share its joy. + 11. The house of the wicked will be destroyed, - but the tent of the godly will flourish. + +but the tent of the godly will flourish. + 12. There is a path before each person that seems right, - but it ends in death. + +but it ends in death. + 13. Laughter can conceal a heavy heart, - but when the laughter ends, the grief remains. + +but when the laughter ends, the grief remains. + 14. Backsliders get what they deserve; - good people receive their reward. + +good people receive their reward. + 15. Only simpletons believe everything they're told! - The prudent carefully consider their steps. + +The prudent carefully consider their steps. + 16. The wise are cautious and avoid danger; - fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence. + +fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence. + 17. Short-tempered people do foolish things, - and schemers are hated. + +and schemers are hated. + 18. Simpletons are clothed with foolishness, - but the prudent are crowned with knowledge. + +but the prudent are crowned with knowledge. + 19. Evil people will bow before good people; - the wicked will bow at the gates of the godly. + +the wicked will bow at the gates of the godly. + 20. The poor are despised even by their neighbors, - while the rich have many "friends." + +while the rich have many "friends." + 21. It is a sin to belittle one's neighbor; - blessed are those who help the poor. + +blessed are those who help the poor. + 22. If you plan to do evil, you will be lost; - if you plan to do good, you will receive unfailing love and faithfulness. + +if you plan to do good, you will receive unfailing love and faithfulness. + 23. Work brings profit, - but mere talk leads to poverty! + +but mere talk leads to poverty! + 24. Wealth is a crown for the wise; - the effort of fools yields only foolishness. + +the effort of fools yields only foolishness. + 25. A truthful witness saves lives, - but a false witness is a traitor. + +but a false witness is a traitor. + 26. Those who fear the LORD are secure; - he will be a refuge for their children. + +he will be a refuge for their children. + 27. Fear of the LORD is a life-giving fountain; - it offers escape from the snares of death. + +it offers escape from the snares of death. + 28. A growing population is a king's glory; - a prince without subjects has nothing. + +a prince without subjects has nothing. + 29. People with understanding control their anger; - a hot temper shows great foolishness. + +a hot temper shows great foolishness. + 30. A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; - jealousy is like cancer in the bones. + +jealousy is like cancer in the bones. + 31. Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, - but helping the poor honors him. + +but helping the poor honors him. + 32. The wicked are crushed by disaster, - but the godly have a refuge when they die. + +but the godly have a refuge when they die. + 33. Wisdom is enshrined in an understanding heart; wisdom is not found among fools. 34. Godliness makes a nation great, - but sin is a disgrace to any people. + +but sin is a disgrace to any people. + 35. A king rejoices in wise servants - but is angry with those who disgrace him. + +but is angry with those who disgrace him. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_15.md index 6fb26788..ca969c44 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_15.md @@ -1,101 +1,165 @@ # Chapter 15 1. A gentle answer deflects anger, - but harsh words make tempers flare. + +but harsh words make tempers flare. + 2. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, - but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. + +but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. + 3. The LORD is watching everywhere, - keeping his eye on both the evil and the good. + +keeping his eye on both the evil and the good. + 4. Gentle words are a tree of life; - a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. + +a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. + 5. Only a fool despises a parent's discipline; - whoever learns from correction is wise. + +whoever learns from correction is wise. + 6. There is treasure in the house of the godly, - but the earnings of the wicked bring trouble. + +but the earnings of the wicked bring trouble. + 7. The lips of the wise give good advice; - the heart of a fool has none to give. + +the heart of a fool has none to give. + 8. The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, - but he delights in the prayers of the upright. + +but he delights in the prayers of the upright. + 9. The LORD detests the way of the wicked, - but he loves those who pursue godliness. + +but he loves those who pursue godliness. + 10. Whoever abandons the right path will be severely disciplined; - whoever hates correction will die. + +whoever hates correction will die. + 11. Even Death and Destruction hold no secrets from the LORD. - How much more does he know the human heart! + +How much more does he know the human heart! + 12. Mockers hate to be corrected, - so they stay away from the wise. + +so they stay away from the wise. + 13. A glad heart makes a happy face; - a broken heart crushes the spirit. + +a broken heart crushes the spirit. + 14. A wise person is hungry for knowledge, - while the fool feeds on trash. + +while the fool feeds on trash. + 15. For the despondent, every day brings trouble; - for the happy heart, life is a continual feast. + +for the happy heart, life is a continual feast. + 16. Better to have little, with fear for the LORD, - than to have great treasure and inner turmoil. + +than to have great treasure and inner turmoil. + 17. A bowl of vegetables with someone you love - is better than steak with someone you hate. + +is better than steak with someone you hate. + 18. A hot-tempered person starts fights; - a cool-tempered person stops them. + +a cool-tempered person stops them. + 19. A lazy person's way is blocked with briers, - but the path of the upright is an open highway. + +but the path of the upright is an open highway. + 20. Sensible children bring joy to their father; - foolish children despise their mother. + +foolish children despise their mother. + 21. Foolishness brings joy to those with no sense; - a sensible person stays on the right path. + +a sensible person stays on the right path. + 22. Plans go wrong for lack of advice; - many advisers bring success. + +many advisers bring success. + 23. Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; - it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time! + +it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time! + 24. The path of life leads upward for the wise; they leave the grave behind. 25. The LORD tears down the house of the proud, - but he protects the property of widows. + +but he protects the property of widows. + 26. The LORD detests evil plans, - but he delights in pure words. + +but he delights in pure words. + 27. Greed brings grief to the whole family, - but those who hate bribes will live. + +but those who hate bribes will live. + 28. The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; - the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words. + +the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words. + 29. The LORD is far from the wicked, - but he hears the prayers of the righteous. + +but he hears the prayers of the righteous. + 30. A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; - good news makes for good health. + +good news makes for good health. + 31. If you listen to constructive criticism, - you will be at home among the wise. + +you will be at home among the wise. + 32. If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; - but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding. + +but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding. + 33. Fear of the LORD teaches wisdom; - humility precedes honor. + +humility precedes honor. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_16.md index 6ac3e227..132fd77e 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_16.md @@ -6,96 +6,151 @@ but the LORD examines their motives. 3. Commit your actions to the LORD, - and your plans will succeed. + +and your plans will succeed. + 4. The LORD has made everything for his own purposes, - even the wicked for a day of disaster. + +even the wicked for a day of disaster. + 5. The LORD detests the proud; - they will surely be punished. + +they will surely be punished. + 6. Unfailing love and faithfulness make atonement for sin. By fearing the LORD, people avoid evil. 7. When people's lives please the LORD, - even their enemies are at peace with them. + +even their enemies are at peace with them. + 8. Better to have little, with godliness, - than to be rich and dishonest. + +than to be rich and dishonest. + 9. We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps. 10. The king speaks with divine wisdom; - he must never judge unfairly. + +he must never judge unfairly. + 11. The LORD demands accurate scales and balances; - he sets the standards for fairness. + +he sets the standards for fairness. + 12. A king detests wrongdoing, - for his rule is built on justice. + +for his rule is built on justice. + 13. The king is pleased with words from righteous lips; - he loves those who speak honestly. + +he loves those who speak honestly. + 14. The anger of the king is a deadly threat; - the wise will try to appease it. + +the wise will try to appease it. + 15. When the king smiles, there is life; - his favor refreshes like a spring rain. + +his favor refreshes like a spring rain. + 16. How much better to get wisdom than gold, - and good judgment than silver! + +and good judgment than silver! + 17. The path of the virtuous leads away from evil; - whoever follows that path is safe. + +whoever follows that path is safe. + 18. Pride goes before destruction, - and haughtiness before a fall. + +and haughtiness before a fall. + 19. Better to live humbly with the poor - than to share plunder with the proud. + +than to share plunder with the proud. + 20. Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the LORD will be joyful. 21. The wise are known for their understanding, - and pleasant words are persuasive. + +and pleasant words are persuasive. + 22. Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it, - but discipline is wasted on fools. + +but discipline is wasted on fools. + 23. From a wise mind comes wise speech; - the words of the wise are persuasive. + +the words of the wise are persuasive. + 24. Kind words are like honey-- - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. + +sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. + 25. There is a path before each person that seems right, - but it ends in death. + +but it ends in death. + 26. It is good for workers to have an appetite; - an empty stomach drives them on. + +an empty stomach drives them on. + 27. Scoundrels create trouble; - their words are a destructive blaze. + +their words are a destructive blaze. + 28. A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; - gossip separates the best of friends. + +gossip separates the best of friends. + 29. Violent people mislead their companions, - leading them down a harmful path. + +leading them down a harmful path. + 30. With narrowed eyes, people plot evil; - with a smirk, they plan their mischief. + +with a smirk, they plan their mischief. + 31. Gray hair is a crown of glory; - it is gained by living a godly life. + +it is gained by living a godly life. + 32. Better to be patient than powerful; - better to have self-control than to conquer a city. + +better to have self-control than to conquer a city. + 33. We may throw the dice, but the LORD determines how they fall. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_17.md index 0d81b203..1668ef41 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_17.md @@ -3,84 +3,132 @@ than a house filled with feasting--and conflict. 2. A wise servant will rule over the master's disgraceful son - and will share the inheritance of the master's children. + +and will share the inheritance of the master's children. + 3. Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the LORD tests the heart. 4. Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; - liars pay close attention to slander. + +liars pay close attention to slander. + 5. Those who mock the poor insult their Maker; - those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished. + +those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished. + 6. Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children. 7. Eloquent words are not fitting for a fool; - even less are lies fitting for a ruler. + +even less are lies fitting for a ruler. + 8. A bribe is like a lucky charm; - whoever gives one will prosper! + +whoever gives one will prosper! + 9. Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, - but dwelling on it separates close friends. + +but dwelling on it separates close friends. + 10. A single rebuke does more for a person of understanding - than a hundred lashes on the back of a fool. + +than a hundred lashes on the back of a fool. + 11. Evil people are eager for rebellion, - but they will be severely punished. + +but they will be severely punished. + 12. It is safer to meet a bear robbed of her cubs - than to confront a fool caught in foolishness. + +than to confront a fool caught in foolishness. + 13. If you repay good with evil, - evil will never leave your house. + +evil will never leave your house. + 14. Starting a quarrel is like opening a floodgate, - so stop before a dispute breaks out. + +so stop before a dispute breaks out. + 15. Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent-- both are detestable to the LORD. 16. It is senseless to pay to educate a fool, - since he has no heart for learning. + +since he has no heart for learning. + 17. A friend is always loyal, - and a brother is born to help in time of need. + +and a brother is born to help in time of need. + 18. It's poor judgment to guarantee another person's debt - or put up security for a friend. + +or put up security for a friend. + 19. Anyone who loves to quarrel loves sin; - anyone who trusts in high walls invites disaster. + +anyone who trusts in high walls invites disaster. + 20. The crooked heart will not prosper; - the lying tongue tumbles into trouble. + +the lying tongue tumbles into trouble. + 21. It is painful to be the parent of a fool; - there is no joy for the father of a rebel. + +there is no joy for the father of a rebel. + 22. A cheerful heart is good medicine, - but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. + +but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. + 23. The wicked take secret bribes - to pervert the course of justice. + +to pervert the course of justice. + 24. Sensible people keep their eyes glued on wisdom, - but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth. + +but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth. + 25. Foolish children bring grief to their father - and bitterness to the one who gave them birth. + +and bitterness to the one who gave them birth. + 26. It is wrong to punish the godly for being good - or to flog leaders for being honest. + +or to flog leaders for being honest. + 27. A truly wise person uses few words; - a person with understanding is even-tempered. + +a person with understanding is even-tempered. + 28. Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; - with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. + +with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_18.md index 0e63ff01..0a1a8ee1 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_18.md @@ -1,74 +1,120 @@ # Chapter 18 1. Unfriendly people care only about themselves; - they lash out at common sense. + +they lash out at common sense. + 2. Fools have no interest in understanding; - they only want to air their own opinions. + +they only want to air their own opinions. + 3. Doing wrong leads to disgrace, - and scandalous behavior brings contempt. + +and scandalous behavior brings contempt. + 4. Wise words are like deep waters; - wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook. + +wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook. + 5. It is not right to acquit the guilty - or deny justice to the innocent. + +or deny justice to the innocent. + 6. Fools' words get them into constant quarrels; - they are asking for a beating. + +they are asking for a beating. + 7. The mouths of fools are their ruin; - they trap themselves with their lips. + +they trap themselves with their lips. + 8. Rumors are dainty morsels - that sink deep into one's heart. + +that sink deep into one's heart. + 9. A lazy person is as bad as - someone who destroys things. + +someone who destroys things. + 10. The name of the LORD is a strong fortress; - the godly run to him and are safe. + +the godly run to him and are safe. + 11. The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense; - they imagine it to be a high wall of safety. + +they imagine it to be a high wall of safety. + 12. Haughtiness goes before destruction; - humility precedes honor. + +humility precedes honor. + 13. Spouting off before listening to the facts - is both shameful and foolish. + +is both shameful and foolish. + 14. The human spirit can endure a sick body, - but who can bear a crushed spirit? + +but who can bear a crushed spirit? + 15. Intelligent people are always ready to learn. - Their ears are open for knowledge. + +Their ears are open for knowledge. + 16. Giving a gift can open doors; - it gives access to important people! + +it gives access to important people! + 17. The first to speak in court sounds right-- - until the cross-examination begins. + +until the cross-examination begins. + 18. Flipping a coin can end arguments; - it settles disputes between powerful opponents. + +it settles disputes between powerful opponents. + 19. An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city. - Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars. + +Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars. + 20. Wise words satisfy like a good meal; - the right words bring satisfaction. + +the right words bring satisfaction. + 21. The tongue can bring death or life; - those who love to talk will reap the consequences. + +those who love to talk will reap the consequences. + 22. The man who finds a wife finds a treasure, and he receives favor from the LORD. 23. The poor plead for mercy; - the rich answer with insults. + +the rich answer with insults. + 24. There are "friends" who destroy each other, - but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. + +but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_19.md index ce84fdad..0fb53ddb 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_19.md @@ -1,91 +1,144 @@ # Chapter 19 1. Better to be poor and honest - than to be dishonest and a fool. + +than to be dishonest and a fool. + 2. Enthusiasm without knowledge is no good; - haste makes mistakes. + +haste makes mistakes. + 3. People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the LORD. 4. Wealth makes many "friends"; - poverty drives them all away. + +poverty drives them all away. + 5. A false witness will not go unpunished, - nor will a liar escape. + +nor will a liar escape. + 6. Many seek favors from a ruler; - everyone is the friend of a person who gives gifts! + +everyone is the friend of a person who gives gifts! + 7. The relatives of the poor despise them; - how much more will their friends avoid them! + +how much more will their friends avoid them! Though the poor plead with them, - their friends are gone. + +their friends are gone. + 8. To acquire wisdom is to love yourself; - people who cherish understanding will prosper. + +people who cherish understanding will prosper. + 9. A false witness will not go unpunished, - and a liar will be destroyed. + +and a liar will be destroyed. + 10. It isn't right for a fool to live in luxury - or for a slave to rule over princes! + +or for a slave to rule over princes! + 11. Sensible people control their temper; - they earn respect by overlooking wrongs. + +they earn respect by overlooking wrongs. + 12. The king's anger is like a lion's roar, - but his favor is like dew on the grass. + +but his favor is like dew on the grass. + 13. A foolish child is a calamity to a father; - a quarrelsome wife is as annoying as constant dripping. + +a quarrelsome wife is as annoying as constant dripping. + 14. Fathers can give their sons an inheritance of houses and wealth, but only the LORD can give an understanding wife. 15. Lazy people sleep soundly, - but idleness leaves them hungry. + +but idleness leaves them hungry. + 16. Keep the commandments and keep your life; - despising them leads to death. + +despising them leads to death. + 17. If you help the poor, you are lending to the LORD-- - and he will repay you! + +and he will repay you! + 18. Discipline your children while there is hope. - Otherwise you will ruin their lives. + +Otherwise you will ruin their lives. + 19. Hot-tempered people must pay the penalty. - If you rescue them once, you will have to do it again. + +If you rescue them once, you will have to do it again. + 20. Get all the advice and instruction you can, - so you will be wise the rest of your life. + +so you will be wise the rest of your life. + 21. You can make many plans, but the LORD's purpose will prevail. 22. Loyalty makes a person attractive. - It is better to be poor than dishonest. + +It is better to be poor than dishonest. + 23. Fear of the LORD leads to life, - bringing security and protection from harm. + +bringing security and protection from harm. + 24. Lazy people take food in their hand - but don't even lift it to their mouth. + +but don't even lift it to their mouth. + 25. If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded will learn a lesson; - if you correct the wise, they will be all the wiser. + +if you correct the wise, they will be all the wiser. + 26. Children who mistreat their father or chase away their mother - are an embarrassment and a public disgrace. + +are an embarrassment and a public disgrace. + 27. If you stop listening to instruction, my child, - you will turn your back on knowledge. + +you will turn your back on knowledge. + 28. A corrupt witness makes a mockery of justice; - the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil. + +the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil. + 29. Punishment is made for mockers, - and the backs of fools are made to be beaten. + +and the backs of fools are made to be beaten. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_20.md index 6647b35f..dbfc12d7 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_20.md @@ -1,92 +1,144 @@ # Chapter 20 1. Wine produces mockers; alcohol leads to brawls. - Those led astray by drink cannot be wise. + +Those led astray by drink cannot be wise. + 2. The king's fury is like a lion's roar; - to rouse his anger is to risk your life. + +to rouse his anger is to risk your life. + 3. Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor; - only fools insist on quarreling. + +only fools insist on quarreling. + 4. Those too lazy to plow in the right season - will have no food at the harvest. + +will have no food at the harvest. + 5. Though good advice lies deep within the heart, - a person with understanding will draw it out. + +a person with understanding will draw it out. + 6. Many will say they are loyal friends, - but who can find one who is truly reliable? + +but who can find one who is truly reliable? + 7. The godly walk with integrity; - blessed are their children who follow them. + +blessed are their children who follow them. + 8. When a king sits in judgment, he weighs all the evidence, - distinguishing the bad from the good. + +distinguishing the bad from the good. + 9. Who can say, "I have cleansed my heart; - I am pure and free from sin"? + +I am pure and free from sin"? + 10. False weights and unequal measures-- the LORD detests double standards of every kind. 11. Even children are known by the way they act, - whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right. + +whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right. + 12. Ears to hear and eyes to see-- both are gifts from the LORD. 13. If you love sleep, you will end in poverty. - Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat! + +Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat! + 14. The buyer haggles over the price, saying, "It's worthless," - then brags about getting a bargain! + +then brags about getting a bargain! + 15. Wise words are more valuable - than much gold and many rubies. + +than much gold and many rubies. + 16. Get security from someone who guarantees a stranger's debt. Get a deposit if he does it for foreigners. 17. Stolen bread tastes sweet, - but it turns to gravel in the mouth. + +but it turns to gravel in the mouth. + 18. Plans succeed through good counsel; - don't go to war without wise advice. + +don't go to war without wise advice. + 19. A gossip goes around telling secrets, - so don't hang around with chatterers. + +so don't hang around with chatterers. + 20. If you insult your father or mother, - your light will be snuffed out in total darkness. + +your light will be snuffed out in total darkness. + 21. An inheritance obtained too early in life - is not a blessing in the end. + +is not a blessing in the end. + 22. Don't say, "I will get even for this wrong." Wait for the LORD to handle the matter. 23. The LORD detests double standards; - he is not pleased by dishonest scales. + +he is not pleased by dishonest scales. + 24. The LORD directs our steps, - so why try to understand everything along the way? + +so why try to understand everything along the way? + 25. Don't trap yourself by making a rash promise to God - and only later counting the cost. + +and only later counting the cost. + 26. A wise king scatters the wicked like wheat, - then runs his threshing wheel over them. + +then runs his threshing wheel over them. + 27. The LORD's light penetrates the human spirit, - exposing every hidden motive. + +exposing every hidden motive. + 28. Unfailing love and faithfulness protect the king; - his throne is made secure through love. + +his throne is made secure through love. + 29. The glory of the young is their strength; - the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old. + +the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old. + 30. Physical punishment cleanses away evil; - such discipline purifies the heart. + +such discipline purifies the heart. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_21.md index 5fbf8ced..48fde0d0 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_21.md @@ -1,90 +1,144 @@ # Chapter 21 1. The king's heart is like a stream of water directed by the LORD; - he guides it wherever he pleases. + +he guides it wherever he pleases. + 2. People may be right in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their heart. 3. The LORD is more pleased when we do what is right and just - than when we offer him sacrifices. + +than when we offer him sacrifices. + 4. Haughty eyes, a proud heart, - and evil actions are all sin. + +and evil actions are all sin. + 5. Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, - but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty. + +but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty. + 6. Wealth created by a lying tongue is a vanishing mist and a deadly trap. 7. The violence of the wicked sweeps them away, - because they refuse to do what is just. + +because they refuse to do what is just. + 8. The guilty walk a crooked path; - the innocent travel a straight road. + +the innocent travel a straight road. + 9. It's better to live alone in the corner of an attic - than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home. + +than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home. + 10. Evil people desire evil; - their neighbors get no mercy from them. + +their neighbors get no mercy from them. + 11. If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded become wise; - if you instruct the wise, they will be all the wiser. + +if you instruct the wise, they will be all the wiser. + 12. The Righteous One knows what is going on in the homes of the wicked; - he will bring disaster on them. + +he will bring disaster on them. + 13. Those who shut their ears to the cries of the poor - will be ignored in their own time of need. + +will be ignored in their own time of need. + 14. A secret gift calms anger; - a bribe under the table pacifies fury. + +a bribe under the table pacifies fury. + 15. Justice is a joy to the godly, - but it terrifies evildoers. + +but it terrifies evildoers. + 16. The person who strays from common sense - will end up in the company of the dead. + +will end up in the company of the dead. + 17. Those who love pleasure become poor; - those who love wine and luxury will never be rich. + +those who love wine and luxury will never be rich. + 18. The wicked are punished in place of the godly, - and traitors in place of the honest. + +and traitors in place of the honest. + 19. It's better to live alone in the desert - than with a quarrelsome, complaining wife. + +than with a quarrelsome, complaining wife. + 20. The wise have wealth and luxury, - but fools spend whatever they get. + +but fools spend whatever they get. + 21. Whoever pursues righteousness and unfailing love - will find life, righteousness, and honor. + +will find life, righteousness, and honor. + 22. The wise conquer the city of the strong - and level the fortress in which they trust. + +and level the fortress in which they trust. + 23. Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, - and you will stay out of trouble. + +and you will stay out of trouble. + 24. Mockers are proud and haughty; - they act with boundless arrogance. + +they act with boundless arrogance. + 25. Despite their desires, the lazy will come to ruin, - for their hands refuse to work. + +for their hands refuse to work. + 26. Some people are always greedy for more, - but the godly love to give! + +but the godly love to give! + 27. The sacrifice of an evil person is detestable, - especially when it is offered with wrong motives. + +especially when it is offered with wrong motives. + 28. A false witness will be cut off, - but a credible witness will be allowed to speak. + +but a credible witness will be allowed to speak. + 29. The wicked bluff their way through, - but the virtuous think before they act. + +but the virtuous think before they act. + 30. No human wisdom or understanding or plan can stand against the LORD. @@ -93,3 +147,4 @@ but the victory belongs to the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_22.md index 41488acc..a29d906a 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_22.md @@ -1,90 +1,143 @@ # Chapter 22 1. Choose a good reputation over great riches; - being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold. + +being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold. + 2. The rich and poor have this in common: The LORD made them both. 3. A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. - The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. + +The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. + 4. True humility and fear of the LORD - lead to riches, honor, and long life. + +lead to riches, honor, and long life. + 5. Corrupt people walk a thorny, treacherous road; - whoever values life will avoid it. + +whoever values life will avoid it. + 6. Direct your children onto the right path, - and when they are older, they will not leave it. + +and when they are older, they will not leave it. + 7. Just as the rich rule the poor, - so the borrower is servant to the lender. + +so the borrower is servant to the lender. + 8. Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster, and their reign of terror will come to an end. 9. Blessed are those who are generous, - because they feed the poor. + +because they feed the poor. + 10. Throw out the mocker, and fighting goes, too. - Quarrels and insults will disappear. + +Quarrels and insults will disappear. + 11. Whoever loves a pure heart and gracious speech - will have the king as a friend. + +will have the king as a friend. + 12. The LORD preserves those with knowledge, - but he ruins the plans of the treacherous. + +but he ruins the plans of the treacherous. + 13. The lazy person claims, "There's a lion out there! - If I go outside, I might be killed!" + +If I go outside, I might be killed!" + 14. The mouth of an immoral woman is a dangerous trap; those who make the LORD angry will fall into it. 15. A youngster's heart is filled with foolishness, - but physical discipline will drive it far away. + +but physical discipline will drive it far away. + 16. A person who gets ahead by oppressing the poor - or by showering gifts on the rich will end in poverty.Sayings of the Wise + +or by showering gifts on the rich will end in poverty. + +Sayings of the Wise + 17. Listen to the words of the wise; - apply your heart to my instruction. + +apply your heart to my instruction. + 18. For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart - and always ready on your lips. + +and always ready on your lips. + 19. I am teaching you today--yes, you-- so you will trust in the LORD. 20. I have written thirty sayings for you, - filled with advice and knowledge. + +filled with advice and knowledge. + 21. In this way, you may know the truth - and take an accurate report to those who sent you. + +and take an accurate report to those who sent you. + 22. Don't rob the poor just because you can, - or exploit the needy in court. + +or exploit the needy in court. + 23. For the LORD is their defender. - He will ruin anyone who ruins them. + +He will ruin anyone who ruins them. + 24. Don't befriend angry people - or associate with hot-tempered people, + +or associate with hot-tempered people, + 25. or you will learn to be like them - and endanger your soul. + +and endanger your soul. + 26. Don't agree to guarantee another person's debt - or put up security for someone else. + +or put up security for someone else. + 27. If you can't pay it, - even your bed will be snatched from under you. + +even your bed will be snatched from under you. + 28. Don't cheat your neighbor by moving the ancient boundary markers - set up by previous generations. + +set up by previous generations. + 29. Do you see any truly competent workers? - They will serve kings - rather than working for ordinary people. + +They will serve kings + +rather than working for ordinary people. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_23.md index bfc88770..5e86556c 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_23.md @@ -1,111 +1,179 @@ # Chapter 23 1. While dining with a ruler, - pay attention to what is put before you. + +pay attention to what is put before you. + 2. If you are a big eater, - put a knife to your throat; + +put a knife to your throat; + 3. don't desire all the delicacies, - for he might be trying to trick you. + +for he might be trying to trick you. + 4. Don't wear yourself out trying to get rich. - Be wise enough to know when to quit. + +Be wise enough to know when to quit. + 5. In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, - for it will sprout wings - and fly away like an eagle. + +for it will sprout wings + +and fly away like an eagle. + 6. Don't eat with people who are stingy; - don't desire their delicacies. + +don't desire their delicacies. + 7. They are always thinking about how much it costs. - "Eat and drink," they say, but they don't mean it. + +"Eat and drink," they say, but they don't mean it. + 8. You will throw up what little you've eaten, - and your compliments will be wasted. + +and your compliments will be wasted. + 9. Don't waste your breath on fools, - for they will despise the wisest advice. + +for they will despise the wisest advice. + 10. Don't cheat your neighbor by moving the ancient boundary markers; - don't take the land of defenseless orphans. + +don't take the land of defenseless orphans. + 11. For their Redeemer is strong; - he himself will bring their charges against you. + +he himself will bring their charges against you. + 12. Commit yourself to instruction; - listen carefully to words of knowledge. + +listen carefully to words of knowledge. + 13. Don't fail to discipline your children. - The rod of punishment won't kill them. + +The rod of punishment won't kill them. + 14. Physical discipline may well save them from death. 15. My child, if your heart is wise, - my own heart will rejoice! + +my own heart will rejoice! + 16. Everything in me will celebrate - when you speak what is right. + +when you speak what is right. + 17. Don't envy sinners, but always continue to fear the LORD. 18. You will be rewarded for this; - your hope will not be disappointed. + +your hope will not be disappointed. + 19. My child, listen and be wise: - Keep your heart on the right course. + +Keep your heart on the right course. + 20. Do not carouse with drunkards - or feast with gluttons, + +or feast with gluttons, + 21. for they are on their way to poverty, - and too much sleep clothes them in rags. + +and too much sleep clothes them in rags. + 22. Listen to your father, who gave you life, - and don't despise your mother when she is old. + +and don't despise your mother when she is old. + 23. Get the truth and never sell it; - also get wisdom, discipline, and good judgment. + +also get wisdom, discipline, and good judgment. + 24. The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure to have children who are wise. 25. So give your father and mother joy! - May she who gave you birth be happy. + +May she who gave you birth be happy. + 26. O my son, give me your heart. - May your eyes take delight in following my ways. + +May your eyes take delight in following my ways. + 27. A prostitute is a dangerous trap; - a promiscuous woman is as dangerous as falling into a narrow well. + +a promiscuous woman is as dangerous as falling into a narrow well. + 28. She hides and waits like a robber, - eager to make more men unfaithful. + +eager to make more men unfaithful. + 29. Who has anguish? Who has sorrow? - Who is always fighting? Who is always complaining? - Who has unnecessary bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? + +Who is always fighting? Who is always complaining? + +Who has unnecessary bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? + 30. It is the one who spends long hours in the taverns, - trying out new drinks. + +trying out new drinks. + 31. Don't gaze at the wine, seeing how red it is, - how it sparkles in the cup, how smoothly it goes down. + +how it sparkles in the cup, how smoothly it goes down. + 32. For in the end it bites like a poisonous snake; - it stings like a viper. + +it stings like a viper. + 33. You will see hallucinations, - and you will say crazy things. + +and you will say crazy things. + 34. You will stagger like a sailor tossed at sea, - clinging to a swaying mast. + +clinging to a swaying mast. + 35. And you will say, "They hit me, but I didn't feel it. - I didn't even know it when they beat me up. + +I didn't even know it when they beat me up. + When will I wake up - so I can look for another drink?" + +so I can look for another drink?" + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_24.md index 68f6c735..9040f897 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_24.md @@ -1,109 +1,180 @@ # Chapter 24 1. Don't envy evil people - or desire their company. + +or desire their company. + 2. For their hearts plot violence, - and their words always stir up trouble. + +and their words always stir up trouble. + 3. A house is built by wisdom - and becomes strong through good sense. + +and becomes strong through good sense. + 4. Through knowledge its rooms are filled - with all sorts of precious riches and valuables. + +with all sorts of precious riches and valuables. + 5. The wise are mightier than the strong, - and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger. + +and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger. + 6. So don't go to war without wise guidance; - victory depends on having many advisers. + +victory depends on having many advisers. + 7. Wisdom is too lofty for fools. - Among leaders at the city gate, they have nothing to say. + +Among leaders at the city gate, they have nothing to say. + 8. A person who plans evil - will get a reputation as a troublemaker. + +will get a reputation as a troublemaker. + 9. The schemes of a fool are sinful; - everyone detests a mocker. + +everyone detests a mocker. + 10. If you fail under pressure, - your strength is too small. + +your strength is too small. + 11. Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to die; - save them as they stagger to their death. + +save them as they stagger to their death. + 12. Don't excuse yourself by saying, "Look, we didn't know." - For God understands all hearts, and he sees you. + +For God understands all hearts, and he sees you. + He who guards your soul knows you knew. - He will repay all people as their actions deserve. + +He will repay all people as their actions deserve. + 13. My child, eat honey, for it is good, - and the honeycomb is sweet to the taste. + +and the honeycomb is sweet to the taste. + 14. In the same way, wisdom is sweet to your soul. - If you find it, you will have a bright future, - and your hopes will not be cut short. + +If you find it, you will have a bright future, + +and your hopes will not be cut short. + 15. Don't wait in ambush at the home of the godly, - and don't raid the house where the godly live. + +and don't raid the house where the godly live. + 16. The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. - But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked. + +But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked. + 17. Don't rejoice when your enemies fall; - don't be happy when they stumble. + +don't be happy when they stumble. + 18. For the LORD will be displeased with you - and will turn his anger away from them. + +and will turn his anger away from them. + 19. Don't fret because of evildoers; - don't envy the wicked. + +don't envy the wicked. + 20. For evil people have no future; - the light of the wicked will be snuffed out. + +the light of the wicked will be snuffed out. + 21. My child, fear the LORD and the king. + Don't associate with rebels, + 22. for disaster will hit them suddenly. + Who knows what punishment will come - from the LORD and the king?More Sayings of the Wise + from the LORD and the king? +More Sayings of the Wise + 23. Here are some further sayings of the wise: It is wrong to show favoritism when passing judgment. + 24. A judge who says to the wicked, "You are innocent," - will be cursed by many people and denounced by the nations. + +will be cursed by many people and denounced by the nations. + 25. But it will go well for those who convict the guilty; - rich blessings will be showered on them. + +rich blessings will be showered on them. + 26. An honest answer - is like a kiss of friendship. + +is like a kiss of friendship. + 27. Do your planning and prepare your fields - before building your house. + +before building your house. + 28. Don't testify against your neighbors without cause; - don't lie about them. + +don't lie about them. + 29. And don't say, "Now I can pay them back for what they've done to me! - I'll get even with them!" + +I'll get even with them!" + 30. I walked by the field of a lazy person, - the vineyard of one with no common sense. + +the vineyard of one with no common sense. + 31. I saw that it was overgrown with nettles. - It was covered with weeds, - and its walls were broken down. + +It was covered with weeds, + +and its walls were broken down. + 32. Then, as I looked and thought about it, - I learned this lesson: + +I learned this lesson: + 33. A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, - a little folding of the hands to rest-- + +a little folding of the hands to rest-- 34. then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; - scarcity will attack you like an armed robber. + +scarcity will attack you like an armed robber. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_25.md index 7bd13422..3e4252a9 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_25.md @@ -4,89 +4,143 @@ More Proverbs of Solomon 1. These are more proverbs of Solomon, collected by the advisers of King Hezekiah of Judah. 2. It is God's privilege to conceal things - and the king's privilege to discover them. + +and the king's privilege to discover them. + 3. No one can comprehend the height of heaven, the depth of the earth, - or all that goes on in the king's mind! + +or all that goes on in the king's mind! + 4. Remove the impurities from silver, - and the sterling will be ready for the silversmith. + +and the sterling will be ready for the silversmith. + 5. Remove the wicked from the king's court, - and his reign will be made secure by justice. + +and his reign will be made secure by justice. + 6. Don't demand an audience with the king - or push for a place among the great. + +or push for a place among the great. + 7. It's better to wait for an invitation to the head table - than to be sent away in public disgrace. + +than to be sent away in public disgrace. + Just because you've seen something, + 8. don't be in a hurry to go to court. + For what will you do in the end - if your neighbor deals you a shameful defeat? + +if your neighbor deals you a shameful defeat? + 9. When arguing with your neighbor, - don't betray another person's secret. + +don't betray another person's secret. + 10. Others may accuse you of gossip, - and you will never regain your good reputation. + +and you will never regain your good reputation. + 11. Timely advice is lovely, - like golden apples in a silver basket. + +like golden apples in a silver basket. + 12. To one who listens, valid criticism - is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry. + +is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry. + 13. Trustworthy messengers refresh like snow in summer. - They revive the spirit of their employer. + +They revive the spirit of their employer. + 14. A person who promises a gift but doesn't give it - is like clouds and wind that bring no rain. + +is like clouds and wind that bring no rain. + 15. Patience can persuade a prince, - and soft speech can break bones. + +and soft speech can break bones. + 16. Do you like honey? - Don't eat too much, or it will make you sick! + +Don't eat too much, or it will make you sick! + 17. Don't visit your neighbors too often, - or you will wear out your welcome. + +or you will wear out your welcome. + 18. Telling lies about others - is as harmful as hitting them with an ax, + +is as harmful as hitting them with an ax, wounding them with a sword, - or shooting them with a sharp arrow. + +or shooting them with a sharp arrow. + 19. Putting confidence in an unreliable person in times of trouble - is like chewing with a broken tooth or walking on a lame foot. + +is like chewing with a broken tooth or walking on a lame foot. + 20. Singing cheerful songs to a person with a heavy heart - is like taking someone's coat in cold weather + +is like taking someone's coat in cold weather or pouring vinegar in a wound. 21. If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. - If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. + +If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. + 22. You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads, and the LORD will reward you. 23. As surely as a north wind brings rain, - so a gossiping tongue causes anger! + +so a gossiping tongue causes anger! + 24. It's better to live alone in the corner of an attic - than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home. + +than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home. + 25. Good news from far away - is like cold water to the thirsty. + +is like cold water to the thirsty. + 26. If the godly give in to the wicked, - it's like polluting a fountain or muddying a spring. + +it's like polluting a fountain or muddying a spring. + 27. It's not good to eat too much honey, - and it's not good to seek honors for yourself. + +and it's not good to seek honors for yourself. + 28. A person without self-control - is like a city with broken-down walls. + +is like a city with broken-down walls. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_26.md index 1b2f54f3..328560cc 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_26.md @@ -1,88 +1,144 @@ # Chapter 26 1. Honor is no more associated with fools - than snow with summer or rain with harvest. + +than snow with summer or rain with harvest. + 2. Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, - an undeserved curse will not land on its intended victim. + +an undeserved curse will not land on its intended victim. + 3. Guide a horse with a whip, a donkey with a bridle, - and a fool with a rod to his back! + +and a fool with a rod to his back! + 4. Don't answer the foolish arguments of fools, - or you will become as foolish as they are. + +or you will become as foolish as they are. + 5. Be sure to answer the foolish arguments of fools, - or they will become wise in their own estimation. + +or they will become wise in their own estimation. + 6. Trusting a fool to convey a message - is like cutting off one's feet or drinking poison! + +is like cutting off one's feet or drinking poison! + 7. A proverb in the mouth of a fool - is as useless as a paralyzed leg. + +is as useless as a paralyzed leg. + 8. Honoring a fool - is as foolish as tying a stone to a slingshot. + +is as foolish as tying a stone to a slingshot. + 9. A proverb in the mouth of a fool - is like a thorny branch brandished by a drunk. + +is like a thorny branch brandished by a drunk. + 10. An employer who hires a fool or a bystander - is like an archer who shoots at random. + +is like an archer who shoots at random. + 11. As a dog returns to its vomit, - so a fool repeats his foolishness. + +so a fool repeats his foolishness. + 12. There is more hope for fools - than for people who think they are wise. + +than for people who think they are wise. + 13. The lazy person claims, "There's a lion on the road! - Yes, I'm sure there's a lion out there!" + +Yes, I'm sure there's a lion out there!" + 14. As a door swings back and forth on its hinges, - so the lazy person turns over in bed. + +so the lazy person turns over in bed. + 15. Lazy people take food in their hand - but don't even lift it to their mouth. + +but don't even lift it to their mouth. + 16. Lazy people consider themselves smarter - than seven wise counselors. + +than seven wise counselors. + 17. Interfering in someone else's argument - is as foolish as yanking a dog's ears. + +is as foolish as yanking a dog's ears. + 18. Just as damaging - as a madman shooting a deadly weapon + +as a madman shooting a deadly weapon + 19. is someone who lies to a friend - and then says, "I was only joking." + +and then says, "I was only joking." + 20. Fire goes out without wood, - and quarrels disappear when gossip stops. + +and quarrels disappear when gossip stops. + 21. A quarrelsome person starts fights - as easily as hot embers light charcoal or fire lights wood. + +as easily as hot embers light charcoal or fire lights wood. + 22. Rumors are dainty morsels - that sink deep into one's heart. + +that sink deep into one's heart. + 23. Smooth words may hide a wicked heart, - just as a pretty glaze covers a clay pot. + +just as a pretty glaze covers a clay pot. + 24. People may cover their hatred with pleasant words, - but they're deceiving you. + +but they're deceiving you. + 25. They pretend to be kind, but don't believe them. Their hearts are full of many evils. 26. While their hatred may be concealed by trickery, - their wrongdoing will be exposed in public. + +their wrongdoing will be exposed in public. + 27. If you set a trap for others, - you will get caught in it yourself. + +you will get caught in it yourself. + If you roll a boulder down on others, - it will crush you instead. + +it will crush you instead. + 28. A lying tongue hates its victims, - and flattering words cause ruin. + +and flattering words cause ruin. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_27.md index f0e9352f..98905b0d 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_27.md @@ -1,85 +1,137 @@ # Chapter 27 1. Don't brag about tomorrow, - since you don't know what the day will bring. + +since you don't know what the day will bring. + 2. Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth-- - a stranger, not your own lips. + +a stranger, not your own lips. + 3. A stone is heavy and sand is weighty, - but the resentment caused by a fool is even heavier. + +but the resentment caused by a fool is even heavier. + 4. Anger is cruel, and wrath is like a flood, - but jealousy is even more dangerous. + +but jealousy is even more dangerous. + 5. An open rebuke - is better than hidden love! + +is better than hidden love! + 6. Wounds from a sincere friend - are better than many kisses from an enemy. + +are better than many kisses from an enemy. + 7. A person who is full refuses honey, - but even bitter food tastes sweet to the hungry. + +but even bitter food tastes sweet to the hungry. + 8. A person who strays from home - is like a bird that strays from its nest. + +is like a bird that strays from its nest. + 9. The heartfelt counsel of a friend - is as sweet as perfume and incense. + +is as sweet as perfume and incense. + 10. Never abandon a friend-- - either yours or your father's. + +either yours or your father's. + When disaster strikes, you won't have to ask your brother for assistance. - It's better to go to a neighbor than to a brother who lives far away. + +It's better to go to a neighbor than to a brother who lives far away. + 11. Be wise, my child, and make my heart glad. - Then I will be able to answer my critics. + +Then I will be able to answer my critics. + 12. A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. - The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. + +The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. + 13. Get security from someone who guarantees a stranger's debt. Get a deposit if he does it for foreigners. 14. A loud and cheerful greeting early in the morning - will be taken as a curse! + +will be taken as a curse! + 15. A quarrelsome wife is as annoying - as constant dripping on a rainy day. + +as constant dripping on a rainy day. + 16. Stopping her complaints is like trying to stop the wind - or trying to hold something with greased hands. + +or trying to hold something with greased hands. + 17. As iron sharpens iron, - so a friend sharpens a friend. + +so a friend sharpens a friend. + 18. As workers who tend a fig tree are allowed to eat the fruit, - so workers who protect their employer's interests will be rewarded. + +so workers who protect their employer's interests will be rewarded. + 19. As a face is reflected in water, - so the heart reflects the real person. + +so the heart reflects the real person. + 20. Just as Death and Destruction are never satisfied, - so human desire is never satisfied. + +so human desire is never satisfied. + 21. Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but a person is tested by being praised. 22. You cannot separate fools from their foolishness, - even though you grind them like grain with mortar and pestle. + +even though you grind them like grain with mortar and pestle. + 23. Know the state of your flocks, - and put your heart into caring for your herds, + +and put your heart into caring for your herds, + 24. for riches don't last forever, - and the crown might not be passed to the next generation. + +and the crown might not be passed to the next generation. + 25. After the hay is harvested and the new crop appears - and the mountain grasses are gathered in, + +and the mountain grasses are gathered in, + 26. your sheep will provide wool for clothing, - and your goats will provide the price of a field. + +and your goats will provide the price of a field. + 27. And you will have enough goats' milk for yourself, - your family, and your servant girls. + +your family, and your servant girls. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_28.md index e8322621..7c1cccad 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_28.md @@ -1,88 +1,141 @@ # Chapter 28 1. The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, - but the godly are as bold as lions. + +but the godly are as bold as lions. + 2. When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. - But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability. + +But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability. + 3. A poor person who oppresses the poor - is like a pounding rain that destroys the crops. + +is like a pounding rain that destroys the crops. + 4. To reject the law is to praise the wicked; - to obey the law is to fight them. + +to obey the law is to fight them. + 5. Evil people don't understand justice, but those who follow the LORD understand completely. 6. Better to be poor and honest - than to be dishonest and rich. + +than to be dishonest and rich. + 7. Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents. 8. Income from charging high interest rates - will end up in the pocket of someone who is kind to the poor. + +will end up in the pocket of someone who is kind to the poor. + 9. God detests the prayers - of a person who ignores the law. + +of a person who ignores the law. + 10. Those who lead good people along an evil path - will fall into their own trap, - but the honest will inherit good things. + +will fall into their own trap, + +but the honest will inherit good things. + 11. Rich people may think they are wise, - but a poor person with discernment can see right through them. + +but a poor person with discernment can see right through them. + 12. When the godly succeed, everyone is glad. - When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding. + +When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding. + 13. People who conceal their sins will not prosper, - but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. + +but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. + 14. Blessed are those who fear to do wrong, - but the stubborn are headed for serious trouble. + +but the stubborn are headed for serious trouble. + 15. A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor - as a roaring lion or an attacking bear. + +as a roaring lion or an attacking bear. + 16. A ruler with no understanding will oppress his people, - but one who hates corruption will have a long life. + +but one who hates corruption will have a long life. + 17. A murderer's tormented conscience will drive him into the grave. - Don't protect him! + +Don't protect him! + 18. The blameless will be rescued from harm, - but the crooked will be suddenly destroyed. + +but the crooked will be suddenly destroyed. + 19. A hard worker has plenty of food, - but a person who chases fantasies ends up in poverty. + +but a person who chases fantasies ends up in poverty. + 20. The trustworthy person will get a rich reward, - but a person who wants quick riches will get into trouble. + +but a person who wants quick riches will get into trouble. + 21. Showing partiality is never good, - yet some will do wrong for a mere piece of bread. + +yet some will do wrong for a mere piece of bread. + 22. Greedy people try to get rich quick - but don't realize they're headed for poverty. + +but don't realize they're headed for poverty. + 23. In the end, people appreciate honest criticism - far more than flattery. + +far more than flattery. + 24. Anyone who steals from his father and mother - and says, "What's wrong with that?" - is no better than a murderer. + +and says, "What's wrong with that?" + +is no better than a murderer. + 25. Greed causes fighting; trusting the LORD leads to prosperity. 26. Those who trust their own insight are foolish, - but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe. + +but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe. + 27. Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, - but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed. - -28. When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding. - When the wicked meet disaster, the godly flourish. + +but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed. + + +28. +When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding. + +When the wicked meet disaster, the godly flourish. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_29.md index bc0d6c01..f2a4be43 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_29.md @@ -1,75 +1,119 @@ # Chapter 29 1. Whoever stubbornly refuses to accept criticism - will suddenly be destroyed beyond recovery. + +will suddenly be destroyed beyond recovery. + 2. When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. - But when the wicked are in power, they groan. + +But when the wicked are in power, they groan. + 3. The man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, - but if he hangs around with prostitutes, his wealth is wasted. + +but if he hangs around with prostitutes, his wealth is wasted. + 4. A just king gives stability to his nation, - but one who demands bribes destroys it. + +but one who demands bribes destroys it. + 5. To flatter friends - is to lay a trap for their feet. + +is to lay a trap for their feet. + 6. Evil people are trapped by sin, - but the righteous escape, shouting for joy. + +but the righteous escape, shouting for joy. + 7. The godly care about the rights of the poor; - the wicked don't care at all. + +the wicked don't care at all. + 8. Mockers can get a whole town agitated, - but the wise will calm anger. + +but the wise will calm anger. + 9. If a wise person takes a fool to court, - there will be ranting and ridicule but no satisfaction. + +there will be ranting and ridicule but no satisfaction. + 10. The bloodthirsty hate blameless people, but the upright seek to help them. 11. Fools vent their anger, - but the wise quietly hold it back. + +but the wise quietly hold it back. + 12. If a ruler pays attention to liars, - all his advisers will be wicked. + +all his advisers will be wicked. + 13. The poor and the oppressor have this in common-- the LORD gives sight to the eyes of both. 14. If a king judges the poor fairly, - his throne will last forever. + +his throne will last forever. + 15. To discipline a child produces wisdom, - but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child. + +but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child. + 16. When the wicked are in authority, sin flourishes, - but the godly will live to see their downfall. + +but the godly will live to see their downfall. + 17. Discipline your children, and they will give you peace of mind - and will make your heart glad. + +and will make your heart glad. + 18. When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. - But whoever obeys the law is joyful. + +But whoever obeys the law is joyful. + 19. Words alone will not discipline a servant; - the words may be understood, but they are not heeded. + +the words may be understood, but they are not heeded. + 20. There is more hope for a fool - than for someone who speaks without thinking. + +than for someone who speaks without thinking. + 21. A servant pampered from childhood - will become a rebel. + +will become a rebel. + 22. An angry person starts fights; - a hot-tempered person commits all kinds of sin. + +a hot-tempered person commits all kinds of sin. + 23. Pride ends in humiliation, - while humility brings honor. + +while humility brings honor. + 24. If you assist a thief, you only hurt yourself. - You are sworn to tell the truth, but you dare not testify. + +You are sworn to tell the truth, but you dare not testify. + 25. Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the LORD means safety. @@ -78,6 +122,8 @@ but justice comes from the LORD. 27. The righteous despise the unjust; - the wicked despise the godly. + +the wicked despise the godly. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_30.md index 22a51733..b6a692a5 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_30.md @@ -2,118 +2,191 @@ The Sayings of Agur # Chapter 30 1. The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh contain this message. + I am weary, O God; I am weary and worn out, O God. 2. I am too stupid to be human, - and I lack common sense. + +and I lack common sense. + 3. I have not mastered human wisdom, - nor do I know the Holy One. + +nor do I know the Holy One. + 4. Who but God goes up to heaven and comes back down? - Who holds the wind in his fists? + +Who holds the wind in his fists? Who wraps up the oceans in his cloak? - Who has created the whole wide world? + +Who has created the whole wide world? What is his name--and his son's name? - Tell me if you know! + +Tell me if you know! + 5. Every word of God proves true. - He is a shield to all who come to him for protection. + +He is a shield to all who come to him for protection. + 6. Do not add to his words, - or he may rebuke you and expose you as a liar. + +or he may rebuke you and expose you as a liar. + 7. O God, I beg two favors from you; - let me have them before I die. + +let me have them before I die. + 8. First, help me never to tell a lie. - Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! - Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. + +Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! + +Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. + 9. For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, "Who is the LORD?" - And if I am too poor, I may steal and thus insult God's holy name. + +And if I am too poor, I may steal and thus insult God's holy name. + 10. Never slander a worker to the employer, - or the person will curse you, and you will pay for it. + +or the person will curse you, and you will pay for it. + 11. Some people curse their father - and do not thank their mother. + +and do not thank their mother. + 12. They are pure in their own eyes, - but they are filthy and unwashed. + +but they are filthy and unwashed. + 13. They look proudly around, - casting disdainful glances. + +casting disdainful glances. + 14. They have teeth like swords - and fangs like knives. + +and fangs like knives. + They devour the poor from the earth - and the needy from among humanity. + +and the needy from among humanity. + 15. The leech has two suckers that cry out, "More, more!" There are three things that are never satisfied-- - no, four that never say, "Enough!": + +no, four that never say, "Enough!": + 16. the grave, - the barren womb, - the thirsty desert, - the blazing fire. + +the barren womb, + +the thirsty desert, + +the blazing fire. + 17. The eye that mocks a father - and despises a mother's instructions + +and despises a mother's instructions will be plucked out by ravens of the valley - and eaten by vultures. + +and eaten by vultures. + 18. There are three things that amaze me-- - no, four things that I don't understand: + +no, four things that I don't understand: + 19. how an eagle glides through the sky, - how a snake slithers on a rock, - how a ship navigates the ocean, - how a man loves a woman. + +how a snake slithers on a rock, + +how a ship navigates the ocean, + +how a man loves a woman. + 20. An adulterous woman consumes a man, - then wipes her mouth and says, "What's wrong with that?" + +then wipes her mouth and says, "What's wrong with that?" + 21. There are three things that make the earth tremble-- - no, four it cannot endure: + +no, four it cannot endure: + 22. a slave who becomes a king, - an overbearing fool who prospers, + +an overbearing fool who prospers, + 23. a bitter woman who finally gets a husband, - a servant girl who supplants her mistress. + +a servant girl who supplants her mistress. + 24. There are four things on earth that are small but unusually wise: 25. Ants--they aren't strong, - but they store up food all summer. + +but they store up food all summer. + 26. Hyraxes--they aren't powerful, - but they make their homes among the rocks. + +but they make their homes among the rocks. + 27. Locusts--they have no king, - but they march in formation. + +but they march in formation. + 28. Lizards--they are easy to catch, - but they are found even in kings' palaces. + +but they are found even in kings' palaces. + 29. There are three things that walk with stately stride-- - no, four that strut about: + +no, four that strut about: + 30. the lion, king of animals, who won't turn aside for anything, 31. the strutting rooster, - the male goat, - a king as he leads his army. + +the male goat, + +a king as he leads his army. + 32. If you have been a fool by being proud or plotting evil, - cover your mouth in shame. + +cover your mouth in shame. + 33. As the beating of cream yields butter - and striking the nose causes bleeding, - so stirring up anger causes quarrels. + +and striking the nose causes bleeding, + +so stirring up anger causes quarrels. + diff --git a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_31.md index fd802d14..261cdb2e 100644 --- a/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/20_Proverbs/Chapter_31.md @@ -4,93 +4,151 @@ The Sayings of King Lemuel 1. The sayings of King Lemuel contain this message, which his mother taught him. 2. O my son, O son of my womb, - O son of my vows, + +O son of my vows, + 3. do not waste your strength on women, - on those who ruin kings. + +on those who ruin kings. + 4. It is not for kings, O Lemuel, to guzzle wine. - Rulers should not crave alcohol. + +Rulers should not crave alcohol. + 5. For if they drink, they may forget the law - and not give justice to the oppressed. + +and not give justice to the oppressed. + 6. Alcohol is for the dying, - and wine for those in bitter distress. + +and wine for those in bitter distress. + 7. Let them drink to forget their poverty - and remember their troubles no more. + +and remember their troubles no more. + 8. Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; - ensure justice for those being crushed. + +ensure justice for those being crushed. + 9. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, - and see that they get justice.A Wife of Noble Character + +and see that they get justice. + +A Wife of Noble Character + 10. Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? - She is more precious than rubies. + +She is more precious than rubies. + 11. Her husband can trust her, - and she will greatly enrich his life. + +and she will greatly enrich his life. + 12. She brings him good, not harm, - all the days of her life. + +all the days of her life. + 13. She finds wool and flax - and busily spins it. + +and busily spins it. + 14. She is like a merchant's ship, - bringing her food from afar. + +bringing her food from afar. + 15. She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household - and plan the day's work for her servant girls. + +and plan the day's work for her servant girls. + 16. She goes to inspect a field and buys it; - with her earnings she plants a vineyard. + +with her earnings she plants a vineyard. + 17. She is energetic and strong, - a hard worker. + +a hard worker. + 18. She makes sure her dealings are profitable; - her lamp burns late into the night. + +her lamp burns late into the night. + 19. Her hands are busy spinning thread, - her fingers twisting fiber. + +her fingers twisting fiber. + 20. She extends a helping hand to the poor - and opens her arms to the needy. + +and opens her arms to the needy. + 21. She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes. 22. She makes her own bedspreads. - She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns. + +She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns. + 23. Her husband is well known at the city gates, - where he sits with the other civic leaders. + +where he sits with the other civic leaders. + 24. She makes belted linen garments - and sashes to sell to the merchants. + +and sashes to sell to the merchants. + 25. She is clothed with strength and dignity, - and she laughs without fear of the future. + +and she laughs without fear of the future. + 26. When she speaks, her words are wise, - and she gives instructions with kindness. + +and she gives instructions with kindness. + 27. She carefully watches everything in her household - and suffers nothing from laziness. + +and suffers nothing from laziness. + 28. Her children stand and bless her. - Her husband praises her: + +Her husband praises her: + 29. "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, - but you surpass them all!" + +but you surpass them all!" + 30. Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised. 31. Reward her for all she has done. - Let her deeds publicly declare her praise. + +Let her deeds publicly declare her praise. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_01.md index 9732bef3..207ec5d4 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,5 +1,8 @@ # Chapter 1 -1. These are the words of the Teacher, King David's son, who ruled in Jerusalem.Everything Is Meaningless +1. These are the words of the Teacher, King David's son, who ruled in Jerusalem. + +Everything Is Meaningless + 2. "Everything is meaningless," says the Teacher, "completely meaningless!" @@ -12,19 +15,26 @@ 9. History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new. 10. Sometimes people say, "Here is something new!" But actually it is old; nothing is ever truly new. -11. We don't remember what happened in the past, and in future generations, no one will remember what we are doing now.The Teacher Speaks: The Futility of Wisdom +11. We don't remember what happened in the past, and in future generations, no one will remember what we are doing now. + +The Teacher Speaks: The Futility of Wisdom + 12. I, the Teacher, was king of Israel, and I lived in Jerusalem. 13. I devoted myself to search for understanding and to explore by wisdom everything being done under heaven. I soon discovered that God has dealt a tragic existence to the human race. 14. I observed everything going on under the sun, and really, it is all meaningless--like chasing the wind. 15. What is wrong cannot be made right. - What is missing cannot be recovered. + +What is missing cannot be recovered. + 16. I said to myself, "Look, I am wiser than any of the kings who ruled in Jerusalem before me. I have greater wisdom and knowledge than any of them." 17. So I set out to learn everything from wisdom to madness and folly. But I learned firsthand that pursuing all this is like chasing the wind. 18. The greater my wisdom, the greater my grief. - To increase knowledge only increases sorrow. + +To increase knowledge only increases sorrow. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_02.md index 9867b9d4..620255db 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_02.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ The Futility of Pleasure 9. So I became greater than all who had lived in Jerusalem before me, and my wisdom never failed me. 10. Anything I wanted, I would take. I denied myself no pleasure. I even found great pleasure in hard work, a reward for all my labors. -11. But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless--like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere.The Wise and the Foolish +11. But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless--like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere. + +The Wise and the Foolish + 12. So I decided to compare wisdom with foolishness and madness (for who can do this better than I, the king?). 13. I thought, "Wisdom is better than foolishness, just as light is better than darkness. @@ -21,7 +24,10 @@ The Futility of Pleasure 15. Both will die. So I said to myself, "Since I will end up the same as the fool, what's the value of all my wisdom? This is all so meaningless!" 16. For the wise and the foolish both die. The wise will not be remembered any longer than the fool. In the days to come, both will be forgotten. -17. So I came to hate life because everything done here under the sun is so troubling. Everything is meaningless--like chasing the wind.The Futility of Work +17. So I came to hate life because everything done here under the sun is so troubling. Everything is meaningless--like chasing the wind. + +The Futility of Work + 18. I came to hate all my hard work here on earth, for I must leave to others everything I have earned. 19. And who can tell whether my successors will be wise or foolish? Yet they will control everything I have gained by my skill and hard work under the sun. How meaningless! @@ -36,3 +42,4 @@ The Futility of Pleasure 26. God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please him. But if a sinner becomes wealthy, God takes the wealth away and gives it to those who please him. This, too, is meaningless--like chasing the wind. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_03.md index a6c43f96..f2439752 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_03.md @@ -2,28 +2,44 @@ A Time for Everything # Chapter 3 1. For everything there is a season, - a time for every activity under heaven. + +a time for every activity under heaven. + 2. A time to be born and a time to die. - A time to plant and a time to harvest. + +A time to plant and a time to harvest. + 3. A time to kill and a time to heal. - A time to tear down and a time to build up. + +A time to tear down and a time to build up. + 4. A time to cry and a time to laugh. - A time to grieve and a time to dance. + +A time to grieve and a time to dance. + 5. A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. - A time to embrace and a time to turn away. + +A time to embrace and a time to turn away. + 6. A time to search and a time to quit searching. - A time to keep and a time to throw away. + +A time to keep and a time to throw away. + 7. A time to tear and a time to mend. - A time to be quiet and a time to speak. + +A time to be quiet and a time to speak. + 8. A time to love and a time to hate. - A time for war and a time for peace. + +A time for war and a time for peace. + 9. What do people really get for all their hard work? 10. I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. @@ -32,7 +48,10 @@ A Time for Everything 13. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God. 14. And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God's purpose is that people should fear him. -15. What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before, because God makes the same things happen over and over again.The Injustices of Life +15. What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before, because God makes the same things happen over and over again. + +The Injustices of Life + 16. I also noticed that under the sun there is evil in the courtroom. Yes, even the courts of law are corrupt! 17. I said to myself, "In due season God will judge everyone, both good and bad, for all their deeds." @@ -44,3 +63,4 @@ A Time for Everything 22. So I saw that there is nothing better for people than to be happy in their work. That is our lot in life. And no one can bring us back to see what happens after we die. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_04.md index 30187857..27b644e5 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_04.md @@ -6,12 +6,18 @@ 4. Then I observed that most people are motivated to success because they envy their neighbors. But this, too, is meaningless--like chasing the wind. 5. "Fools fold their idle hands, - leading them to ruin." + +leading them to ruin." + 6. And yet, "Better to have one handful with quietness - than two handfuls with hard work - and chasing the wind."The Advantages of Companionship + +than two handfuls with hard work + +and chasing the wind." +The Advantages of Companionship + 7. I observed yet another example of something meaningless under the sun. 8. This is the case of a man who is all alone, without a child or a brother, yet who works hard to gain as much wealth as he can. But then he asks himself, "Who am I working for? Why am I giving up so much pleasure now?" It is all so meaningless and depressing. @@ -19,7 +25,10 @@ 9. Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? -12. A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.The Futility of Political Power +12. A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. + +The Futility of Political Power + 13. It is better to be a poor but wise youth than an old and foolish king who refuses all advice. 14. Such a youth could rise from poverty and succeed. He might even become king, though he has been in prison. @@ -27,3 +36,4 @@ 16. Endless crowds stand around him, but then another generation grows up and rejects him, too. So it is all meaningless--like chasing the wind. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_05.md index 9be5c8a9..0edac95c 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_05.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ Approaching God with Care 5. It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it. 6. Don't let your mouth make you sin. And don't defend yourself by telling the Temple messenger that the promise you made was a mistake. That would make God angry, and he might wipe out everything you have achieved. -7. Talk is cheap, like daydreams and other useless activities. Fear God instead.The Futility of Wealth +7. Talk is cheap, like daydreams and other useless activities. Fear God instead. + +The Futility of Wealth + 8. Don't be surprised if you see a poor person being oppressed by the powerful and if justice is being miscarried throughout the land. For every official is under orders from higher up, and matters of justice get lost in red tape and bureaucracy. 9. Even the king milks the land for his own profit! @@ -32,3 +35,4 @@ Approaching God with Care 20. God keeps such people so busy enjoying life that they take no time to brood over the past. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_06.md index 9acae3d6..1475f69c 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_06.md @@ -19,3 +19,4 @@ 12. In the few days of our meaningless lives, who knows how our days can best be spent? Our lives are like a shadow. Who can tell what will happen on this earth after we are gone? + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_07.md index 633f74c7..63259aad 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_07.md @@ -2,49 +2,82 @@ Wisdom for Life # Chapter 7 1. A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume. - And the day you die is better than the day you are born. + +And the day you die is better than the day you are born. + 2. Better to spend your time at funerals than at parties. - After all, everyone dies-- - so the living should take this to heart. + +After all, everyone dies-- + +so the living should take this to heart. + 3. Sorrow is better than laughter, - for sadness has a refining influence on us. + +for sadness has a refining influence on us. + 4. A wise person thinks a lot about death, - while a fool thinks only about having a good time. + +while a fool thinks only about having a good time. + 5. Better to be criticized by a wise person - than to be praised by a fool. + +than to be praised by a fool. + 6. A fool's laughter is quickly gone, - like thorns crackling in a fire. - This also is meaningless. + +like thorns crackling in a fire. + +This also is meaningless. + 7. Extortion turns wise people into fools, - and bribes corrupt the heart. + +and bribes corrupt the heart. + 8. Finishing is better than starting. - Patience is better than pride. + +Patience is better than pride. + 9. Control your temper, - for anger labels you a fool. + +for anger labels you a fool. + 10. Don't long for "the good old days." - This is not wise. + +This is not wise. + 11. Wisdom is even better when you have money. - Both are a benefit as you go through life. + +Both are a benefit as you go through life. + 12. Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, - but only wisdom can save your life. + +but only wisdom can save your life. + 13. Accept the way God does things, - for who can straighten what he has made crooked? + +for who can straighten what he has made crooked? + 14. Enjoy prosperity while you can, - but when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. - Remember that nothing is certain in this life.The Limits of Human Wisdom + +but when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. + +Remember that nothing is certain in this life. + +The Limits of Human Wisdom + 15. I have seen everything in this meaningless life, including the death of good young people and the long life of wicked people. 16. So don't be too good or too wise! Why destroy yourself? @@ -69,3 +102,4 @@ Wisdom for Life 29. But I did find this: God created people to be virtuous, but they have each turned to follow their own downward path." + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_08.md index 381a2003..46e36481 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_08.md @@ -1,8 +1,14 @@ # Chapter 8 1. How wonderful to be wise, - to analyze and interpret things. + +to analyze and interpret things. + Wisdom lights up a person's face, - softening its harshness.Obedience to the King + +softening its harshness. + +Obedience to the King + 2. Obey the king since you vowed to God that you would. 3. Don't try to avoid doing your duty, and don't stand with those who plot evil, for the king can do whatever he wants. @@ -11,7 +17,10 @@ Wisdom lights up a person's face, 6. for there is a time and a way for everything, even when a person is in trouble. 7. Indeed, how can people avoid what they don't know is going to happen? -8. None of us can hold back our spirit from departing. None of us has the power to prevent the day of our death. There is no escaping that obligation, that dark battle. And in the face of death, wickedness will certainly not rescue the wicked.The Wicked and the Righteous +8. None of us can hold back our spirit from departing. None of us has the power to prevent the day of our death. There is no escaping that obligation, that dark battle. And in the face of death, wickedness will certainly not rescue the wicked. + +The Wicked and the Righteous + 9. I have thought deeply about all that goes on here under the sun, where people have the power to hurt each other. 10. I have seen wicked people buried with honor. Yet they were the very ones who frequented the Temple and are now praised in the same city where they committed their crimes! This, too, is meaningless. @@ -27,3 +36,4 @@ Wisdom lights up a person's face, 17. I realized that no one can discover everything God is doing under the sun. Not even the wisest people discover everything, no matter what they claim. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_09.md index 7c48ab90..25e55425 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_09.md @@ -17,7 +17,10 @@ Death Comes to All 11. I have observed something else under the sun. The fastest runner doesn't always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn't always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don't always lead successful lives. It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time. -12. People can never predict when hard times might come. Like fish in a net or birds in a trap, people are caught by sudden tragedy.Thoughts on Wisdom and Folly +12. People can never predict when hard times might come. Like fish in a net or birds in a trap, people are caught by sudden tragedy. + +Thoughts on Wisdom and Folly + 13. Here is another bit of wisdom that has impressed me as I have watched the way our world works. 14. There was a small town with only a few people, and a great king came with his army and besieged it. @@ -25,9 +28,13 @@ Death Comes to All 16. So even though wisdom is better than strength, those who are wise will be despised if they are poor. What they say will not be appreciated for long. 17. Better to hear the quiet words of a wise person - than the shouts of a foolish king. + +than the shouts of a foolish king. + 18. Better to have wisdom than weapons of war, - but one sinner can destroy much that is good. + +but one sinner can destroy much that is good. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_10.md index 29216809..150ccb59 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_10.md @@ -1,68 +1,115 @@ # Chapter 10 1. As dead flies cause even a bottle of perfume to stink, - so a little foolishness spoils great wisdom and honor. + +so a little foolishness spoils great wisdom and honor. + 2. A wise person chooses the right road; - a fool takes the wrong one. + +a fool takes the wrong one. + 3. You can identify fools - just by the way they walk down the street! + +just by the way they walk down the street! + 4. If your boss is angry at you, don't quit! - A quiet spirit can overcome even great mistakes.The Ironies of Life + +A quiet spirit can overcome even great mistakes. + +The Ironies of Life + 5. There is another evil I have seen under the sun. Kings and rulers make a grave mistake 6. when they give great authority to foolish people and low positions to people of proven worth. 7. I have even seen servants riding horseback like princes--and princes walking like servants! 8. When you dig a well, - you might fall in. + +you might fall in. + When you demolish an old wall, - you could be bitten by a snake. + +you could be bitten by a snake. + 9. When you work in a quarry, - stones might fall and crush you. + +stones might fall and crush you. + When you chop wood, - there is danger with each stroke of your ax. + +there is danger with each stroke of your ax. + 10. Using a dull ax requires great strength, - so sharpen the blade. + +so sharpen the blade. + That's the value of wisdom; - it helps you succeed. + +it helps you succeed. + 11. If a snake bites before you charm it, - what's the use of being a snake charmer? + +what's the use of being a snake charmer? + 12. Wise words bring approval, - but fools are destroyed by their own words. + +but fools are destroyed by their own words. + 13. Fools base their thoughts on foolish assumptions, - so their conclusions will be wicked madness; + +so their conclusions will be wicked madness; + 14. they chatter on and on. + No one really knows what is going to happen; - no one can predict the future. + +no one can predict the future. + 15. Fools are so exhausted by a little work - that they can't even find their way home. + +that they can't even find their way home. + 16. What sorrow for the land ruled by a servant, - the land whose leaders feast in the morning. + +the land whose leaders feast in the morning. + 17. Happy is the land whose king is a noble leader - and whose leaders feast at the proper time - to gain strength for their work, not to get drunk. + +and whose leaders feast at the proper time + +to gain strength for their work, not to get drunk. + 18. Laziness leads to a sagging roof; - idleness leads to a leaky house. + +idleness leads to a leaky house. + 19. A party gives laughter, - wine gives happiness, - and money gives everything! + +wine gives happiness, + +and money gives everything! + 20. Never make light of the king, even in your thoughts. - And don't make fun of the powerful, even in your own bedroom. + +And don't make fun of the powerful, even in your own bedroom. + For a little bird might deliver your message - and tell them what you said. + +and tell them what you said. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_11.md index 900e85dc..b62b460e 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_11.md @@ -5,17 +5,26 @@ The Uncertainties of Life and in time, profits will flow back to you. 2. But divide your investments among many places, - for you do not know what risks might lie ahead. + +for you do not know what risks might lie ahead. + 3. When clouds are heavy, the rains come down. - Whether a tree falls north or south, it stays where it falls. + +Whether a tree falls north or south, it stays where it falls. + 4. Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. - If they watch every cloud, they never harvest. + +If they watch every cloud, they never harvest. + 5. Just as you cannot understand the path of the wind or the mystery of a tiny baby growing in its mother's womb, so you cannot understand the activity of God, who does all things. -6. Plant your seed in the morning and keep busy all afternoon, for you don't know if profit will come from one activity or another--or maybe both.Advice for Young and Old +6. Plant your seed in the morning and keep busy all afternoon, for you don't know if profit will come from one activity or another--or maybe both. + +Advice for Young and Old + 7. Light is sweet; how pleasant to see a new day dawning. @@ -25,3 +34,4 @@ The Uncertainties of Life 10. So refuse to worry, and keep your body healthy. But remember that youth, with a whole life before you, is meaningless. + diff --git a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_12.md index 3920ffbe..da3d4bdc 100644 --- a/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/21_Ecclesiastes/Chapter_12.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ 5. Remember him before you become fearful of falling and worry about danger in the streets; before your hair turns white like an almond tree in bloom, and you drag along without energy like a dying grasshopper, and the caperberry no longer inspires sexual desire. Remember him before you near the grave, your everlasting home, when the mourners will weep at your funeral. 6. Yes, remember your Creator now while you are young, before the silver cord of life snaps and the golden bowl is broken. Don't wait until the water jar is smashed at the spring and the pulley is broken at the well. -7. For then the dust will return to the earth, and the spirit will return to God who gave it.Concluding Thoughts about the Teacher +7. For then the dust will return to the earth, and the spirit will return to God who gave it. + +Concluding Thoughts about the Teacher + 8. "Everything is meaningless," says the Teacher, "completely meaningless." @@ -23,3 +26,4 @@ 14. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad. + diff --git a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_01.md index 613fd7c2..a260bced 100644 --- a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_01.md @@ -2,67 +2,109 @@ 1. This is Solomon's song of songs, more wonderful than any other. 2. Kiss me and kiss me again, - for your love is sweeter than wine. + +for your love is sweeter than wine. + 3. How pleasing is your fragrance; - your name is like the spreading fragrance of scented oils. - No wonder all the young women love you! + +your name is like the spreading fragrance of scented oils. + +No wonder all the young women love you! + 4. Take me with you; come, let's run! - The king has brought me into his bedroom. + +The king has brought me into his bedroom. + How happy we are for you, O king. - We praise your love even more than wine. + +We praise your love even more than wine. + How right they are to adore you. + 5. I am dark but beautiful, - O women of Jerusalem-- + +O women of Jerusalem-- dark as the tents of Kedar, - dark as the curtains of Solomon's tents. + +dark as the curtains of Solomon's tents. + 6. Don't stare at me because I am dark-- - the sun has darkened my skin. + +the sun has darkened my skin. + My brothers were angry with me; - they forced me to care for their vineyards, + +they forced me to care for their vineyards, so I couldn't care for myself--my own vineyard. 7. Tell me, my love, where are you leading your flock today? - Where will you rest your sheep at noon? + +Where will you rest your sheep at noon? For why should I wander like a prostitute - among your friends and their flocks? + +among your friends and their flocks? + 8. If you don't know, O most beautiful woman, - follow the trail of my flock, - and graze your young goats by the shepherds' tents. + +follow the trail of my flock, + +and graze your young goats by the shepherds' tents. + 9. You are as exciting, my darling, - as a mare among Pharaoh's stallions. + +as a mare among Pharaoh's stallions. + 10. How lovely are your cheeks; - your earrings set them afire! + +your earrings set them afire! How lovely is your neck, - enhanced by a string of jewels. + +enhanced by a string of jewels. + 11. We will make for you earrings of gold - and beads of silver. + +and beads of silver. + 12. The king is lying on his couch, - enchanted by the fragrance of my perfume. + +enchanted by the fragrance of my perfume. + 13. My lover is like a sachet of myrrh - lying between my breasts. + +lying between my breasts. + 14. He is like a bouquet of sweet henna blossoms - from the vineyards of En-gedi. + +from the vineyards of En-gedi. + 15. How beautiful you are, my darling, - how beautiful! - Your eyes are like doves. + +how beautiful! + +Your eyes are like doves. + 16. You are so handsome, my love, - pleasing beyond words! + +pleasing beyond words! The soft grass is our bed; + 17. fragrant cedar branches are the beams of our house, - and pleasant smelling firs are the rafters. + +and pleasant smelling firs are the rafters. + diff --git a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_02.md index 9f8d8a2b..fbd9e6ed 100644 --- a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,73 +1,122 @@ # Chapter 2 1. I am the spring crocus blooming on the Sharon Plain, - the lily of the valley. + +the lily of the valley. + 2. Like a lily among thistles - is my darling among young women. + +is my darling among young women. + 3. Like the finest apple tree in the orchard - is my lover among other young men. + +is my lover among other young men. + I sit in his delightful shade - and taste his delicious fruit. + +and taste his delicious fruit. + 4. He escorts me to the banquet hall; - it's obvious how much he loves me. + +it's obvious how much he loves me. + 5. Strengthen me with raisin cakes, - refresh me with apples, - for I am weak with love. + +refresh me with apples, + +for I am weak with love. + 6. His left arm is under my head, - and his right arm embraces me. + +and his right arm embraces me. + 7. Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, - by the gazelles and wild deer, + +by the gazelles and wild deer, not to awaken love until the time is right. 8. Ah, I hear my lover coming! - He is leaping over the mountains, - bounding over the hills. + +He is leaping over the mountains, + +bounding over the hills. + 9. My lover is like a swift gazelle - or a young stag. + +or a young stag. + Look, there he is behind the wall, - looking through the window, - peering into the room. + +looking through the window, + +peering into the room. + 10. My lover said to me, - "Rise up, my darling! - Come away with me, my fair one! + +" +Rise up, my darling! + +Come away with me, my fair one! + 11. Look, the winter is past, - and the rains are over and gone. + +and the rains are over and gone. + 12. The flowers are springing up, the season of singing birds has come, - and the cooing of turtledoves fills the air. + +and the cooing of turtledoves fills the air. + 13. The fig trees are forming young fruit, - and the fragrant grapevines are blossoming. + +and the fragrant grapevines are blossoming. + Rise up, my darling! - Come away with me, my fair one!" + +Come away with me, my fair one!" + 14. My dove is hiding behind the rocks, - behind an outcrop on the cliff. + +behind an outcrop on the cliff. + Let me see your face; - let me hear your voice. + +let me hear your voice. + For your voice is pleasant, - and your face is lovely. + +and your face is lovely. + 15. Catch all the foxes, - those little foxes, + +those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, - for the grapevines are blossoming! + +for the grapevines are blossoming! + 16. My lover is mine, and I am his. - He browses among the lilies. + +He browses among the lilies. + 17. Before the dawn breezes blow - and the night shadows flee, + +and the night shadows flee, return to me, my love, like a gazelle or a young stag on the rugged mountains. + diff --git a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_03.md index f7d6ee63..e7eb7116 100644 --- a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_03.md @@ -1,51 +1,84 @@ # Chapter 3 1. One night as I lay in bed, I yearned for my lover. - I yearned for him, but he did not come. + +I yearned for him, but he did not come. + 2. So I said to myself, "I will get up and roam the city, - searching in all its streets and squares. + +searching in all its streets and squares. + I will search for the one I love." - So I searched everywhere but did not find him. + +So I searched everywhere but did not find him. + 3. The watchmen stopped me as they made their rounds, - and I asked, "Have you seen the one I love?" + +and I asked, "Have you seen the one I love?" + 4. Then scarcely had I left them - when I found my love! + +when I found my love! I caught and held him tightly, - then I brought him to my mother's house, - into my mother's bed, where I had been conceived. + +then I brought him to my mother's house, + +into my mother's bed, where I had been conceived. + 5. Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, - by the gazelles and wild deer, + +by the gazelles and wild deer, not to awaken love until the time is right. 6. Who is this sweeping in from the wilderness - like a cloud of smoke? + +like a cloud of smoke? Who is it, fragrant with myrrh and frankincense - and every kind of spice? + +and every kind of spice? + 7. Look, it is Solomon's carriage, - surrounded by sixty heroic men, - the best of Israel's soldiers. + +surrounded by sixty heroic men, + +the best of Israel's soldiers. + 8. They are all skilled swordsmen, - experienced warriors. + +experienced warriors. + Each wears a sword on his thigh, - ready to defend the king against an attack in the night. + +ready to defend the king against an attack in the night. + 9. King Solomon's carriage is built - of wood imported from Lebanon. + +of wood imported from Lebanon. + 10. Its posts are silver, - its canopy gold; - its cushions are purple. + +its canopy gold; + +its cushions are purple. + It was decorated with love - by the young women of Jerusalem. + +by the young women of Jerusalem. + 11. Come out to see King Solomon, young women of Jerusalem. + He wears the crown his mother gave him on his wedding day, - his most joyous day. + +his most joyous day. + diff --git a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_04.md index bb344530..fda83a24 100644 --- a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,78 +1,130 @@ # Chapter 4 1. You are beautiful, my darling, - beautiful beyond words. + +beautiful beyond words. + Your eyes are like doves - behind your veil. + +behind your veil. + Your hair falls in waves, - like a flock of goats winding down the slopes of Gilead. + +like a flock of goats winding down the slopes of Gilead. + 2. Your teeth are as white as sheep, - recently shorn and freshly washed. + +recently shorn and freshly washed. + Your smile is flawless, each tooth matched with its twin. 3. Your lips are like scarlet ribbon; - your mouth is inviting. + +your mouth is inviting. + Your cheeks are like rosy pomegranates - behind your veil. + +behind your veil. + 4. Your neck is as beautiful as the tower of David, - jeweled with the shields of a thousand heroes. + +jeweled with the shields of a thousand heroes. + 5. Your breasts are like two fawns, - twin fawns of a gazelle grazing among the lilies. + +twin fawns of a gazelle grazing among the lilies. + 6. Before the dawn breezes blow - and the night shadows flee, + +and the night shadows flee, I will hurry to the mountain of myrrh - and to the hill of frankincense. + +and to the hill of frankincense. + 7. You are altogether beautiful, my darling, - beautiful in every way. + +beautiful in every way. + 8. Come with me from Lebanon, my bride, - come with me from Lebanon. + +come with me from Lebanon. Come down from Mount Amana, - from the peaks of Senir and Hermon, + +from the peaks of Senir and Hermon, where the lions have their dens - and leopards live among the hills. + +and leopards live among the hills. + 9. You have captured my heart, - my treasure, my bride. + +my treasure, my bride. + You hold it hostage with one glance of your eyes, - with a single jewel of your necklace. + +with a single jewel of your necklace. + 10. Your love delights me, - my treasure, my bride. + +my treasure, my bride. + Your love is better than wine, - your perfume more fragrant than spices. + +your perfume more fragrant than spices. + 11. Your lips are as sweet as nectar, my bride. - Honey and milk are under your tongue. + +Honey and milk are under your tongue. + Your clothes are scented - like the cedars of Lebanon. + +like the cedars of Lebanon. + 12. You are my private garden, my treasure, my bride, - a secluded spring, a hidden fountain. + +a secluded spring, a hidden fountain. + 13. Your thighs shelter a paradise of pomegranates - with rare spices-- + +with rare spices-- henna with nard, + 14. nard and saffron, - fragrant calamus and cinnamon, + +fragrant calamus and cinnamon, with all the trees of frankincense, myrrh, and aloes, - and every other lovely spice. + +and every other lovely spice. + 15. You are a garden fountain, - a well of fresh water - streaming down from Lebanon's mountains. + +a well of fresh water + +streaming down from Lebanon's mountains. + 16. Awake, north wind! - Rise up, south wind! + +Rise up, south wind! Blow on my garden - and spread its fragrance all around. + +and spread its fragrance all around. + Come into your garden, my love; - taste its finest fruits. + +taste its finest fruits. + diff --git a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_05.md index 387c5441..3bf2cdbc 100644 --- a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_05.md @@ -1,84 +1,144 @@ # Chapter 5 1. I have entered my garden, my treasure, my bride! - I gather myrrh with my spices + +I gather myrrh with my spices and eat honeycomb with my honey. - I drink wine with my milk. + +I drink wine with my milk. + Oh, lover and beloved, eat and drink! - Yes, drink deeply of your love! + +Yes, drink deeply of your love! + 2. I slept, but my heart was awake, - when I heard my lover knocking and calling: + +when I heard my lover knocking and calling: "Open to me, my treasure, my darling, - my dove, my perfect one. + +my dove, my perfect one. + My head is drenched with dew, - my hair with the dampness of the night." + +my hair with the dampness of the night." + 3. But I responded, "I have taken off my robe. - Should I get dressed again? + +Should I get dressed again? I have washed my feet. - Should I get them soiled?" + +Should I get them soiled?" + 4. My lover tried to unlatch the door, - and my heart thrilled within me. + +and my heart thrilled within me. + 5. I jumped up to open the door for my love, - and my hands dripped with perfume. + +and my hands dripped with perfume. + My fingers dripped with lovely myrrh - as I pulled back the bolt. + +as I pulled back the bolt. + 6. I opened to my lover, - but he was gone! - My heart sank. + +but he was gone! + +My heart sank. + I searched for him - but could not find him anywhere. + +but could not find him anywhere. + I called to him, - but there was no reply. + +but there was no reply. + 7. The night watchmen found me - as they made their rounds. + +as they made their rounds. + They beat and bruised me - and stripped off my veil, - those watchmen on the walls. + +and stripped off my veil, + +those watchmen on the walls. + 8. Make this promise, O women of Jerusalem-- - If you find my lover, - tell him I am weak with love. + +If you find my lover, + +tell him I am weak with love. + 9. Why is your lover better than all others, - O woman of rare beauty? + +O woman of rare beauty? What makes your lover so special - that we must promise this? + +that we must promise this? + 10. My lover is dark and dazzling, - better than ten thousand others! + +better than ten thousand others! + 11. His head is finest gold, - his wavy hair is black as a raven. + +his wavy hair is black as a raven. + 12. His eyes sparkle like doves - beside springs of water; + +beside springs of water; they are set like jewels - washed in milk. + +washed in milk. + 13. His cheeks are like gardens of spices - giving off fragrance. + +giving off fragrance. + His lips are like lilies, - perfumed with myrrh. + +perfumed with myrrh. + 14. His arms are like rounded bars of gold, - set with beryl. + +set with beryl. + His body is like bright ivory, - glowing with lapis lazuli. + +glowing with lapis lazuli. + 15. His legs are like marble pillars - set in sockets of finest gold. + +set in sockets of finest gold. + His posture is stately, - like the noble cedars of Lebanon. + +like the noble cedars of Lebanon. + 16. His mouth is sweetness itself; - he is desirable in every way. + +he is desirable in every way. + Such, O women of Jerusalem, - is my lover, my friend. + +is my lover, my friend. + diff --git a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_06.md index 435d3f0c..cbd85873 100644 --- a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_06.md @@ -1,61 +1,98 @@ # Chapter 6 1. Where has your lover gone, - O woman of rare beauty? + +O woman of rare beauty? Which way did he turn - so we can help you find him? + +so we can help you find him? + 2. My lover has gone down to his garden, - to his spice beds, + +to his spice beds, to browse in the gardens - and gather the lilies. + +and gather the lilies. + 3. I am my lover's, and my lover is mine. - He browses among the lilies. + +He browses among the lilies. + 4. You are beautiful, my darling, - like the lovely city of Tirzah. + +like the lovely city of Tirzah. + Yes, as beautiful as Jerusalem, - as majestic as an army with billowing banners. + +as majestic as an army with billowing banners. + 5. Turn your eyes away, - for they overpower me. + +for they overpower me. + Your hair falls in waves, - like a flock of goats winding down the slopes of Gilead. + +like a flock of goats winding down the slopes of Gilead. + 6. Your teeth are as white as sheep - that are freshly washed. + +that are freshly washed. + Your smile is flawless, each tooth matched with its twin. 7. Your cheeks are like rosy pomegranates - behind your veil. + +behind your veil. + 8. Even among sixty queens - and eighty concubines - and countless young women, + +and eighty concubines + +and countless young women, + 9. I would still choose my dove, my perfect one-- - the favorite of her mother, - dearly loved by the one who bore her. + +the favorite of her mother, + +dearly loved by the one who bore her. + The young women see her and praise her; - even queens and royal concubines sing her praises: + +even queens and royal concubines sing her praises: + 10. "Who is this, arising like the dawn, - as fair as the moon, + +as fair as the moon, as bright as the sun, - as majestic as an army with billowing banners?" + +as majestic as an army with billowing banners?" + 11. I went down to the grove of walnut trees - and out to the valley to see the new spring growth, + +and out to the valley to see the new spring growth, to see whether the grapevines had budded - or the pomegranates were in bloom. + +or the pomegranates were in bloom. + 12. Before I realized it, my strong desires had taken me to the chariot of a noble man. 13. Return, return to us, O maid of Shulam. - Come back, come back, that we may see you again. + +Come back, come back, that we may see you again. + Why do you stare at this young woman of Shulam, as she moves so gracefully between two lines of dancers? + diff --git a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_07.md index bd94a754..37b772a0 100644 --- a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_07.md @@ -1,57 +1,91 @@ # Chapter 7 1. How beautiful are your sandaled feet, - O queenly maiden. + +O queenly maiden. + Your rounded thighs are like jewels, - the work of a skilled craftsman. + +the work of a skilled craftsman. + 2. Your navel is perfectly formed - like a goblet filled with mixed wine. + +like a goblet filled with mixed wine. + Between your thighs lies a mound of wheat - bordered with lilies. + +bordered with lilies. + 3. Your breasts are like two fawns, - twin fawns of a gazelle. + +twin fawns of a gazelle. + 4. Your neck is as beautiful as an ivory tower. + Your eyes are like the sparkling pools in Heshbon - by the gate of Bath-rabbim. + +by the gate of Bath-rabbim. + Your nose is as fine as the tower of Lebanon - overlooking Damascus. + +overlooking Damascus. + 5. Your head is as majestic as Mount Carmel, - and the sheen of your hair radiates royalty. - The king is held captive by its tresses. + +and the sheen of your hair radiates royalty. + +The king is held captive by its tresses. + 6. Oh, how beautiful you are! - How pleasing, my love, how full of delights! + +How pleasing, my love, how full of delights! + 7. You are slender like a palm tree, - and your breasts are like its clusters of fruit. + +and your breasts are like its clusters of fruit. + 8. I said, "I will climb the palm tree - and take hold of its fruit." + +and take hold of its fruit." May your breasts be like grape clusters, - and the fragrance of your breath like apples. + +and the fragrance of your breath like apples. + 9. May your kisses be as exciting as the best wine-- Yes, wine that goes down smoothly for my lover, flowing gently over lips and teeth. 10. I am my lover's, - and he claims me as his own. + +and he claims me as his own. + 11. Come, my love, let us go out to the fields and spend the night among the wildflowers. 12. Let us get up early and go to the vineyards - to see if the grapevines have budded, + +to see if the grapevines have budded, if the blossoms have opened, - and if the pomegranates have bloomed. - There I will give you my love. + +and if the pomegranates have bloomed. + +There I will give you my love. + 13. There the mandrakes give off their fragrance, - and the finest fruits are at our door, + +and the finest fruits are at our door, new delights as well as old, - which I have saved for you, my lover. + +which I have saved for you, my lover. + diff --git a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_08.md index 2ab61fc9..ddec7691 100644 --- a/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/22_Song of Solomon/Chapter_08.md @@ -1,69 +1,117 @@ # Chapter 8 1. Oh, I wish you were my brother, - who nursed at my mother's breasts. + +who nursed at my mother's breasts. + Then I could kiss you no matter who was watching, - and no one would criticize me. + +and no one would criticize me. + 2. I would bring you to my childhood home, and there you would teach me. + I would give you spiced wine to drink, - my sweet pomegranate wine. + +my sweet pomegranate wine. + 3. Your left arm would be under my head, - and your right arm would embrace me. + +and your right arm would embrace me. + 4. Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, not to awaken love until the time is right. 5. Who is this sweeping in from the desert, - leaning on her lover? + +leaning on her lover? I aroused you under the apple tree, - where your mother gave you birth, - where in great pain she delivered you. + +where your mother gave you birth, + +where in great pain she delivered you. + 6. Place me like a seal over your heart, - like a seal on your arm. + +like a seal on your arm. + For love is as strong as death, its jealousy as enduring as the grave. + Love flashes like fire, - the brightest kind of flame. + +the brightest kind of flame. + 7. Many waters cannot quench love, - nor can rivers drown it. + +nor can rivers drown it. + If a man tried to buy love - with all his wealth, - his offer would be utterly scorned. + +with all his wealth, + +his offer would be utterly scorned. + 8. We have a little sister - too young to have breasts. + +too young to have breasts. + What will we do for our sister - if someone asks to marry her? + +if someone asks to marry her? + 9. If she is a virgin, like a wall, - we will protect her with a silver tower. + +we will protect her with a silver tower. + But if she is promiscuous, like a swinging door, - we will block her door with a cedar bar. + +we will block her door with a cedar bar. + 10. I was a virgin, like a wall; - now my breasts are like towers. + +now my breasts are like towers. + When my lover looks at me, - he is delighted with what he sees. + +he is delighted with what he sees. + 11. Solomon has a vineyard at Baal-hamon, - which he leases out to tenant farmers. + +which he leases out to tenant farmers. + Each of them pays a thousand pieces of silver - for harvesting its fruit. + +for harvesting its fruit. + 12. But my vineyard is mine to give, - and Solomon need not pay a thousand pieces of silver. + +and Solomon need not pay a thousand pieces of silver. + But I will give two hundred pieces - to those who care for its vines. + +to those who care for its vines. + 13. O my darling, lingering in the gardens, - your companions are fortunate to hear your voice. - Let me hear it, too! + +your companions are fortunate to hear your voice. + +Let me hear it, too! + 14. Come away, my love! Be like a gazelle - or a young stag on the mountains of spices. + +or a young stag on the mountains of spices. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_01.md index 850bc7ba..ddf4d17d 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,146 +1,246 @@ # Chapter 1 -1. These are the visions that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. He saw these visions during the years when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah.A Message for Rebellious Judah +1. These are the visions that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. He saw these visions during the years when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah. + +A Message for Rebellious Judah + 2. Listen, O heavens! Pay attention, earth! This is what the LORD says: "The children I raised and cared for - have rebelled against me. + +have rebelled against me. + 3. Even an ox knows its owner, - and a donkey recognizes its master's care-- + +and a donkey recognizes its master's care-- but Israel doesn't know its master. - My people don't recognize my care for them." + +My people don't recognize my care for them." + 4. Oh, what a sinful nation they are-- - loaded down with a burden of guilt. + +loaded down with a burden of guilt. + They are evil people, corrupt children who have rejected the LORD. + They have despised the Holy One of Israel - and turned their backs on him. + +and turned their backs on him. + 5. Why do you continue to invite punishment? - Must you rebel forever? + +Must you rebel forever? Your head is injured, - and your heart is sick. + +and your heart is sick. + 6. You are battered from head to foot-- - covered with bruises, welts, and infected wounds-- - without any soothing ointments or bandages. + +covered with bruises, welts, and infected wounds-- + +without any soothing ointments or bandages. + 7. Your country lies in ruins, - and your towns are burned. + +and your towns are burned. + Foreigners plunder your fields before your eyes - and destroy everything they see. + +and destroy everything they see. + 8. Beautiful Jerusalem stands abandoned - like a watchman's shelter in a vineyard, + +like a watchman's shelter in a vineyard, like a lean-to in a cucumber field after the harvest, - like a helpless city under siege. + +like a helpless city under siege. + 9. If the LORD of Heaven's Armies had not spared a few of us, we would have been wiped out like Sodom, - destroyed like Gomorrah. + +destroyed like Gomorrah. + 10. Listen to the LORD, you leaders of "Sodom." - Listen to the law of our God, people of "Gomorrah." + +Listen to the law of our God, people of "Gomorrah." + 11. "What makes you think I want all your sacrifices?" says the LORD. + "I am sick of your burnt offerings of rams - and the fat of fattened cattle. + +and the fat of fattened cattle. + I get no pleasure from the blood - of bulls and lambs and goats. + +of bulls and lambs and goats. + 12. When you come to worship me, - who asked you to parade through my courts with all your ceremony? + +who asked you to parade through my courts with all your ceremony? + 13. Stop bringing me your meaningless gifts; - the incense of your offerings disgusts me! + +the incense of your offerings disgusts me! As for your celebrations of the new moon and the Sabbath - and your special days for fasting-- + +and your special days for fasting-- they are all sinful and false. - I want no more of your pious meetings. + +I want no more of your pious meetings. + 14. I hate your new moon celebrations and your annual festivals. - They are a burden to me. I cannot stand them! + +They are a burden to me. I cannot stand them! + 15. When you lift up your hands in prayer, I will not look. - Though you offer many prayers, I will not listen, - for your hands are covered with the blood of innocent victims. + +Though you offer many prayers, I will not listen, + +for your hands are covered with the blood of innocent victims. + 16. Wash yourselves and be clean! - Get your sins out of my sight. - Give up your evil ways. + +Get your sins out of my sight. + +Give up your evil ways. + 17. Learn to do good. - Seek justice. + +Seek justice. + + Help the oppressed. - Defend the cause of orphans. - Fight for the rights of widows. + +Defend the cause of orphans. + +Fight for the rights of widows. + 18. "Come now, let's settle this," says the LORD. + "Though your sins are like scarlet, - I will make them as white as snow. + +I will make them as white as snow. + Though they are red like crimson, - I will make them as white as wool. + +I will make them as white as wool. + 19. If you will only obey me, - you will have plenty to eat. + +you will have plenty to eat. + 20. But if you turn away and refuse to listen, - you will be devoured by the sword of your enemies. - I, the LORD, have spoken!"Unfaithful Jerusalem + +you will be devoured by the sword of your enemies. + I, the LORD, have spoken!" +Unfaithful Jerusalem + 21. See how Jerusalem, once so faithful, - has become a prostitute. + +has become a prostitute. + Once the home of justice and righteousness, - she is now filled with murderers. + +she is now filled with murderers. + 22. Once like pure silver, - you have become like worthless slag. + +you have become like worthless slag. + Once so pure, - you are now like watered-down wine. + +you are now like watered-down wine. + 23. Your leaders are rebels, - the companions of thieves. + +the companions of thieves. + All of them love bribes - and demand payoffs, + +and demand payoffs, but they refuse to defend the cause of orphans - or fight for the rights of widows. + +or fight for the rights of widows. + 24. Therefore, the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - the Mighty One of Israel, says, + +the Mighty One of Israel, says, "I will take revenge on my enemies - and pay back my foes! + +and pay back my foes! + 25. I will raise my fist against you. - I will melt you down and skim off your slag. - I will remove all your impurities. + +I will melt you down and skim off your slag. + +I will remove all your impurities. + 26. Then I will give you good judges again - and wise counselors like you used to have. + +and wise counselors like you used to have. + Then Jerusalem will again be called the Home of Justice - and the Faithful City." + +and the Faithful City." + 27. Zion will be restored by justice; - those who repent will be revived by righteousness. + +those who repent will be revived by righteousness. + 28. But rebels and sinners will be completely destroyed, and those who desert the LORD will be consumed. 29. You will be ashamed of your idol worship - in groves of sacred oaks. + +in groves of sacred oaks. + You will blush because you worshiped - in gardens dedicated to idols. + +in gardens dedicated to idols. + 30. You will be like a great tree with withered leaves, - like a garden without water. + +like a garden without water. + 31. The strongest among you will disappear like straw; - their evil deeds will be the spark that sets it on fire. + +their evil deeds will be the spark that sets it on fire. + They and their evil works will burn up together, - and no one will be able to put out the fire. + +and no one will be able to put out the fire. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_02.md index 716e03d7..255a032b 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_02.md @@ -4,100 +4,167 @@ The LORD's Future Reign 1. This is a vision that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem: 2. In the last days, the mountain of the LORD's house - will be the highest of all-- - the most important place on earth. + +will be the highest of all-- + +the most important place on earth. + It will be raised above the other hills, - and people from all over the world will stream there to worship. + +and people from all over the world will stream there to worship. + 3. People from many nations will come and say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, - to the house of Jacob's God. + +to the house of Jacob's God. + There he will teach us his ways, - and we will walk in his paths." + +and we will walk in his paths." For the LORD's teaching will go out from Zion; - his word will go out from Jerusalem. + +his word will go out from Jerusalem. + 4. The LORD will mediate between nations - and will settle international disputes. + +and will settle international disputes. + They will hammer their swords into plowshares - and their spears into pruning hooks. + +and their spears into pruning hooks. + Nation will no longer fight against nation, - nor train for war anymore.A Warning of Judgment + +nor train for war anymore. + +A Warning of Judgment + 5. Come, descendants of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the LORD! 6. For the LORD has rejected his people, - the descendants of Jacob, + +the descendants of Jacob, because they have filled their land with practices from the East - and with sorcerers, as the Philistines do. - They have made alliances with pagans. + +and with sorcerers, as the Philistines do. + +They have made alliances with pagans. + 7. Israel is full of silver and gold; - there is no end to its treasures. + +there is no end to its treasures. + Their land is full of warhorses; - there is no end to its chariots. + +there is no end to its chariots. + 8. Their land is full of idols; - the people worship things they have made - with their own hands. + +the people worship things they have made + +with their own hands. + 9. So now they will be humbled, - and all will be brought low-- - do not forgive them. + +and all will be brought low-- + +do not forgive them. + 10. Crawl into caves in the rocks. - Hide in the dust + +Hide in the dust from the terror of the LORD - and the glory of his majesty. + +and the glory of his majesty. + 11. Human pride will be brought down, - and human arrogance will be humbled. + +and human arrogance will be humbled. Only the LORD will be exalted - on that day of judgment. + +on that day of judgment. + 12. For the LORD of Heaven's Armies - has a day of reckoning. + +has a day of reckoning. + He will punish the proud and mighty - and bring down everything that is exalted. + +and bring down everything that is exalted. + 13. He will cut down the tall cedars of Lebanon - and all the mighty oaks of Bashan. + +and all the mighty oaks of Bashan. + 14. He will level all the high mountains - and all the lofty hills. + +and all the lofty hills. + 15. He will break down every high tower - and every fortified wall. + +and every fortified wall. + 16. He will destroy all the great trading ships - and every magnificent vessel. + +and every magnificent vessel. + 17. Human pride will be humbled, - and human arrogance will be brought down. + +and human arrogance will be brought down. Only the LORD will be exalted - on that day of judgment. + +on that day of judgment. + 18. Idols will completely disappear. 19. When the LORD rises to shake the earth, - his enemies will crawl into holes in the ground. + +his enemies will crawl into holes in the ground. + They will hide in caves in the rocks from the terror of the LORD - and the glory of his majesty. + +and the glory of his majesty. + 20. On that day of judgment they will abandon the gold and silver idols - they made for themselves to worship. + +they made for themselves to worship. + They will leave their gods to the rodents and bats, + 21. while they crawl away into caverns - and hide among the jagged rocks in the cliffs. + +and hide among the jagged rocks in the cliffs. They will try to escape the terror of the LORD - and the glory of his majesty - as he rises to shake the earth. + +and the glory of his majesty + +as he rises to shake the earth. + 22. Don't put your trust in mere humans. - They are as frail as breath. - What good are they? + +They are as frail as breath. + +What good are they? + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_03.md index 59cb9521..a45b4dba 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_03.md @@ -2,106 +2,170 @@ Judgment against Judah # Chapter 3 1. The Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - will take away from Jerusalem and Judah + +will take away from Jerusalem and Judah everything they depend on: - every bit of bread - and every drop of water, + +every bit of bread + +and every drop of water, + 2. all their heroes and soldiers, - judges and prophets, - fortune-tellers and elders, + +judges and prophets, + +fortune-tellers and elders, + 3. army officers and high officials, - advisers, skilled sorcerers, and astrologers. + +advisers, skilled sorcerers, and astrologers. + 4. I will make boys their leaders, - and toddlers their rulers. + +and toddlers their rulers. + 5. People will oppress each other-- - man against man, - neighbor against neighbor. + +man against man, + +neighbor against neighbor. + Young people will insult their elders, - and vulgar people will sneer at the honorable. + +and vulgar people will sneer at the honorable. + 6. In those days a man will say to his brother, "Since you have a coat, you be our leader! - Take charge of this heap of ruins!" + +Take charge of this heap of ruins!" + 7. But he will reply, - "No! I can't help. + +"No! I can't help. + I don't have any extra food or clothes. - Don't put me in charge!" + +Don't put me in charge!" + 8. For Jerusalem will stumble, - and Judah will fall, + +and Judah will fall, because they speak out against the LORD and refuse to obey him. - They provoke him to his face. + +They provoke him to his face. + 9. The very look on their faces gives them away. - They display their sin like the people of Sodom - and don't even try to hide it. + +They display their sin like the people of Sodom + +and don't even try to hide it. + They are doomed! - They have brought destruction upon themselves. + +They have brought destruction upon themselves. + 10. Tell the godly that all will be well for them. - They will enjoy the rich reward they have earned! + +They will enjoy the rich reward they have earned! + 11. But the wicked are doomed, - for they will get exactly what they deserve. + +for they will get exactly what they deserve. + 12. Childish leaders oppress my people, - and women rule over them. + +and women rule over them. + O my people, your leaders mislead you; - they send you down the wrong road. + +they send you down the wrong road. + 13. The LORD takes his place in court and presents his case against his people. 14. The LORD comes forward to pronounce judgment - on the elders and rulers of his people: + +on the elders and rulers of his people: "You have ruined Israel, my vineyard. - Your houses are filled with things stolen from the poor. + +Your houses are filled with things stolen from the poor. + 15. How dare you crush my people, - grinding the faces of the poor into the dust?" - demands the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies.A Warning to Jerusalem + +grinding the faces of the poor into the dust?" + demands +the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + +A Warning to Jerusalem + 16. The LORD says, "Beautiful Zion is haughty: craning her elegant neck, - flirting with her eyes, + +flirting with her eyes, walking with dainty steps, - tinkling her ankle bracelets. + +tinkling her ankle bracelets. -17. So the Lord will send scabs on her head; + +17. So +the Lord will send scabs on her head; the LORD will make beautiful Zion bald." 18. On that day of judgment - the Lord will strip away everything that makes her beautiful: + +the Lord will strip away everything that makes her beautiful: ornaments, headbands, crescent necklaces, + 19. earrings, bracelets, and veils; 20. scarves, ankle bracelets, sashes, - perfumes, and charms; + +perfumes, and charms; + 21. rings, jewels, 22. party clothes, gowns, capes, and purses; 23. mirrors, fine linen garments, - head ornaments, and shawls. + +head ornaments, and shawls. + 24. Instead of smelling of sweet perfume, she will stink. - She will wear a rope for a sash, - and her elegant hair will fall out. + +She will wear a rope for a sash, + +and her elegant hair will fall out. + She will wear rough burlap instead of rich robes. Shame will replace her beauty. 25. The men of the city will be killed with the sword, - and her warriors will die in battle. + +and her warriors will die in battle. + 26. The gates of Zion will weep and mourn. - The city will be like a ravaged woman, - huddled on the ground. + +The city will be like a ravaged woman, + +huddled on the ground. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_04.md index ac2a52d8..20325eb7 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,27 +1,45 @@ # Chapter 4 -1. In that day so few men will be left that seven women will fight for each man, saying, "Let us all marry you! We will provide our own food and clothing. Only let us take your name so we won't be mocked as old maids."A Promise of Restoration +1. In that day so few men will be left that seven women will fight for each man, saying, "Let us all marry you! We will provide our own food and clothing. Only let us take your name so we won't be mocked as old maids." +A Promise of Restoration + 2. But in that day, the branch of the LORD - will be beautiful and glorious; + +will be beautiful and glorious; the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory - of all who survive in Israel. + +of all who survive in Israel. + 3. All who remain in Zion - will be a holy people-- + +will be a holy people-- those who survive the destruction of Jerusalem - and are recorded among the living. + +and are recorded among the living. + 4. The Lord will wash the filth from beautiful Zion - and cleanse Jerusalem of its bloodstains - with the hot breath of fiery judgment. + +and cleanse Jerusalem of its bloodstains + +with the hot breath of fiery judgment. + 5. Then the LORD will provide shade for Mount Zion - and all who assemble there. + +and all who assemble there. + He will provide a canopy of cloud during the day - and smoke and flaming fire at night, - covering the glorious land. + +and smoke and flaming fire at night, + +covering the glorious land. + 6. It will be a shelter from daytime heat - and a hiding place from storms and rain. + +and a hiding place from storms and rain. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_05.md index 75f580c9..51662986 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_05.md @@ -2,146 +2,247 @@ A Song about the LORD's Vineyard # Chapter 5 1. Now I will sing for the one I love - a song about his vineyard: + +a song about his vineyard: My beloved had a vineyard - on a rich and fertile hill. + +on a rich and fertile hill. + 2. He plowed the land, cleared its stones, - and planted it with the best vines. + +and planted it with the best vines. + In the middle he built a watchtower - and carved a winepress in the nearby rocks. + +and carved a winepress in the nearby rocks. + Then he waited for a harvest of sweet grapes, - but the grapes that grew were bitter. + +but the grapes that grew were bitter. + 3. Now, you people of Jerusalem and Judah, - you judge between me and my vineyard. + +you judge between me and my vineyard. + 4. What more could I have done for my vineyard - that I have not already done? + +that I have not already done? When I expected sweet grapes, - why did my vineyard give me bitter grapes? + +why did my vineyard give me bitter grapes? + 5. Now let me tell you - what I will do to my vineyard: + +what I will do to my vineyard: I will tear down its hedges - and let it be destroyed. + +and let it be destroyed. + I will break down its walls - and let the animals trample it. + +and let the animals trample it. + 6. I will make it a wild place - where the vines are not pruned and the ground is not hoed, - a place overgrown with briers and thorns. + +where the vines are not pruned and the ground is not hoed, + +a place overgrown with briers and thorns. + I will command the clouds - to drop no rain on it. + +to drop no rain on it. + 7. The nation of Israel is the vineyard of the LORD of Heaven's Armies. - The people of Judah are his pleasant garden. + +The people of Judah are his pleasant garden. + He expected a crop of justice, - but instead he found oppression. + +but instead he found oppression. + He expected to find righteousness, - but instead he heard cries of violence.Judah's Guilt and Judgment + +but instead he heard cries of violence. + +Judah's Guilt and Judgment + 8. What sorrow for you who buy up house after house and field after field, - until everyone is evicted and you live alone in the land. + +until everyone is evicted and you live alone in the land. + 9. But I have heard the LORD of Heaven's Armies - swear a solemn oath: + +swear a solemn oath: "Many houses will stand deserted; - even beautiful mansions will be empty. + +even beautiful mansions will be empty. + 10. Ten acres of vineyard will not produce even six gallons of wine. Ten baskets of seed will yield only one basket of grain." 11. What sorrow for those who get up early in the morning - looking for a drink of alcohol + +looking for a drink of alcohol and spend long evenings drinking wine - to make themselves flaming drunk. + +to make themselves flaming drunk. + 12. They furnish wine and lovely music at their grand parties-- - lyre and harp, tambourine and flute-- + +lyre and harp, tambourine and flute-- but they never think about the LORD - or notice what he is doing. + +or notice what he is doing. + 13. So my people will go into exile far away - because they do not know me. + +because they do not know me. + Those who are great and honored will starve, - and the common people will die of thirst. + +and the common people will die of thirst. + 14. The grave is licking its lips in anticipation, - opening its mouth wide. + +opening its mouth wide. + The great and the lowly - and all the drunken mob will be swallowed up. + +and all the drunken mob will be swallowed up. + 15. Humanity will be destroyed, and people brought down; - even the arrogant will lower their eyes in humiliation. + +even the arrogant will lower their eyes in humiliation. + 16. But the LORD of Heaven's Armies will be exalted by his justice. - The holiness of God will be displayed by his righteousness. + +The holiness of God will be displayed by his righteousness. + 17. In that day lambs will find good pastures, and fattened sheep and young goats will feed among the ruins. 18. What sorrow for those who drag their sins behind them - with ropes made of lies, - who drag wickedness behind them like a cart! + +with ropes made of lies, + +who drag wickedness behind them like a cart! + 19. They even mock God and say, - "Hurry up and do something! - We want to see what you can do. + +"Hurry up and do something! + +We want to see what you can do. + Let the Holy One of Israel carry out his plan, - for we want to know what it is." + +for we want to know what it is." + 20. What sorrow for those who say - that evil is good and good is evil, + +that evil is good and good is evil, that dark is light and light is dark, - that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter. + +that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter. + 21. What sorrow for those who are wise in their own eyes - and think themselves so clever. + +and think themselves so clever. + 22. What sorrow for those who are heroes at drinking wine - and boast about all the alcohol they can hold. + +and boast about all the alcohol they can hold. + 23. They take bribes to let the wicked go free, - and they punish the innocent. + +and they punish the innocent. + 24. Therefore, just as fire licks up stubble - and dry grass shrivels in the flame, + +and dry grass shrivels in the flame, so their roots will rot - and their flowers wither. + +and their flowers wither. For they have rejected the law of the LORD of Heaven's Armies; - they have despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. + +they have despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. + 25. That is why the LORD's anger burns against his people, - and why he has raised his fist to crush them. + +and why he has raised his fist to crush them. + The mountains tremble, - and the corpses of his people litter the streets like garbage. + +and the corpses of his people litter the streets like garbage. But even then the LORD's anger is not satisfied. - His fist is still poised to strike! + +His fist is still poised to strike! + 26. He will send a signal to distant nations far away - and whistle to those at the ends of the earth. - They will come racing toward Jerusalem. + +and whistle to those at the ends of the earth. + +They will come racing toward Jerusalem. + 27. They will not get tired or stumble. - They will not stop for rest or sleep. + +They will not stop for rest or sleep. + Not a belt will be loose, - not a sandal strap broken. + +not a sandal strap broken. + 28. Their arrows will be sharp - and their bows ready for battle. + +and their bows ready for battle. + Sparks will fly from their horses' hooves, - and the wheels of their chariots will spin like a whirlwind. + +and the wheels of their chariots will spin like a whirlwind. + 29. They will roar like lions, - like the strongest of lions. + +like the strongest of lions. + Growling, they will pounce on their victims and carry them off, - and no one will be there to rescue them. + +and no one will be there to rescue them. + 30. They will roar over their victims on that day of destruction - like the roaring of the sea. + +like the roaring of the sea. + If someone looks across the land, - only darkness and distress will be seen; - even the light will be darkened by clouds. + +only darkness and distress will be seen; + +even the light will be darkened by clouds. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_06.md index 486e76a4..6c9c353f 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_06.md @@ -5,7 +5,9 @@ Isaiah's Cleansing and Call 2. Attending him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. 3. They were calling out to each other, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Heaven's Armies! - The whole earth is filled with his glory!" + +The whole earth is filled with his glory!" + 4. Their voices shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire building was filled with smoke. @@ -17,29 +19,44 @@ Isaiah's Cleansing and Call 8. Then I heard the Lord asking, "Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?" I said, "Here I am. Send me." + 9. And he said, "Yes, go, and say to this people, 'Listen carefully, but do not understand. - Watch closely, but learn nothing.' + +Watch closely, but learn nothing.' + 10. Harden the hearts of these people. - Plug their ears and shut their eyes. + +Plug their ears and shut their eyes. + That way, they will not see with their eyes, - nor hear with their ears, + +nor hear with their ears, nor understand with their hearts and turn to me for healing." 11. Then I said, "Lord, how long will this go on?" And he replied, "Until their towns are empty, - their houses are deserted, - and the whole country is a wasteland; + +their houses are deserted, + +and the whole country is a wasteland; + 12. until the LORD has sent everyone away, - and the entire land of Israel lies deserted. + +and the entire land of Israel lies deserted. + 13. If even a tenth--a remnant--survive, - it will be invaded again and burned. + +it will be invaded again and burned. + But as a terebinth or oak tree leaves a stump when it is cut down, - so Israel's stump will be a holy seed." + +so Israel's stump will be a holy seed." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_07.md index b337d467..050cd877 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_07.md @@ -11,17 +11,28 @@ A Message for Ahaz 6. 'We will attack Judah and capture it for ourselves. Then we will install the son of Tabeel as Judah's king.' 7. But this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "This invasion will never happen; - it will never take place; + +it will never take place; + 8. for Syria is no stronger than its capital, Damascus, - and Damascus is no stronger than its king, Rezin. + +and Damascus is no stronger than its king, Rezin. + As for Israel, within sixty-five years - it will be crushed and completely destroyed. + +it will be crushed and completely destroyed. + 9. Israel is no stronger than its capital, Samaria, - and Samaria is no stronger than its king, Pekah son of Remaliah. + +and Samaria is no stronger than its king, Pekah son of Remaliah. + Unless your faith is firm, - I cannot make you stand firm."The Sign of Immanuel + +I cannot make you stand firm." +The Sign of Immanuel + 10. Later, the LORD sent this message to King Ahaz: 11. "Ask the LORD your God for a sign of confirmation, Ahaz. Make it as difficult as you want--as high as heaven or as deep as the place of the dead." @@ -46,3 +57,4 @@ Unless your faith is firm, 25. No one will go to the fertile hillsides where the gardens once grew, for briers and thorns will cover them. Cattle, sheep, and goats will graze there. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_08.md index d6fe6fd1..227c3f57 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_08.md @@ -13,40 +13,64 @@ The Coming Assyrian Invasion 8. and sweep into Judah until it is chin deep. It will spread its wings, submerging your land from one end to the other, O Immanuel. 9. "Huddle together, you nations, and be terrified. - Listen, all you distant lands. + +Listen, all you distant lands. + Prepare for battle, but you will be crushed! - Yes, prepare for battle, but you will be crushed! + +Yes, prepare for battle, but you will be crushed! + 10. Call your councils of war, but they will be worthless. - Develop your strategies, but they will not succeed. + +Develop your strategies, but they will not succeed. For God is with us!"A Call to Trust the LORD 11. The LORD has given me a strong warning not to think like everyone else does. He said, 12. "Don't call everything a conspiracy, like they do, - and don't live in dread of what frightens them. + +and don't live in dread of what frightens them. + 13. Make the LORD of Heaven's Armies holy in your life. - He is the one you should fear. + +He is the one you should fear. + He is the one who should make you tremble. + 14. He will keep you safe. + But to Israel and Judah - he will be a stone that makes people stumble, - a rock that makes them fall. + +he will be a stone that makes people stumble, + +a rock that makes them fall. + And for the people of Jerusalem - he will be a trap and a snare. + +he will be a trap and a snare. + 15. Many will stumble and fall, - never to rise again. - They will be snared and captured." + +never to rise again. + +They will be snared and captured." + 16. Preserve the teaching of God; - entrust his instructions to those who follow me. + +entrust his instructions to those who follow me. + 17. I will wait for the LORD, - who has turned away from the descendants of Jacob. - I will put my hope in him. + +who has turned away from the descendants of Jacob. + +I will put my hope in him. + 18. I and the children the LORD has given me serve as signs and warnings to Israel from the LORD of Heaven's Armies who dwells in his Temple on Mount Zion. @@ -57,3 +81,4 @@ And for the people of Jerusalem 22. and down at the earth, but wherever they look, there will be trouble and anguish and dark despair. They will be thrown out into the darkness. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_09.md index d7f8121b..c365d8e7 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_09.md @@ -4,97 +4,157 @@ Hope in the Messiah 1. Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever. The land of Zebulun and Naphtali will be humbled, but there will be a time in the future when Galilee of the Gentiles, which lies along the road that runs between the Jordan and the sea, will be filled with glory. 2. The people who walk in darkness - will see a great light. + +will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, - a light will shine. + +a light will shine. + 3. You will enlarge the nation of Israel, - and its people will rejoice. + +and its people will rejoice. + They will rejoice before you - as people rejoice at the harvest - and like warriors dividing the plunder. + +as people rejoice at the harvest + +and like warriors dividing the plunder. + 4. For you will break the yoke of their slavery - and lift the heavy burden from their shoulders. + +and lift the heavy burden from their shoulders. + You will break the oppressor's rod, - just as you did when you destroyed the army of Midian. + +just as you did when you destroyed the army of Midian. + 5. The boots of the warrior - and the uniforms bloodstained by war + +and the uniforms bloodstained by war will all be burned. - They will be fuel for the fire. + +They will be fuel for the fire. + 6. For a child is born to us, - a son is given to us. + +a son is given to us. + The government will rest on his shoulders. - And he will be called: + +And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, - Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. + +Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. + 7. His government and its peace - will never end. + +will never end. + He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David - for all eternity. + +for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies - will make this happen!The LORD's Anger against Israel + +will make this happen!The LORD's Anger against Israel 8. The Lord has spoken out against Jacob; - his judgment has fallen upon Israel. + +his judgment has fallen upon Israel. + 9. And the people of Israel and Samaria, - who spoke with such pride and arrogance, - will soon know it. + +who spoke with such pride and arrogance, + +will soon know it. + 10. They said, "We will replace the broken bricks of our ruins with finished stone, - and replant the felled sycamore-fig trees with cedars." + +and replant the felled sycamore-fig trees with cedars." + 11. But the LORD will bring Rezin's enemies against Israel - and stir up all their foes. + +and stir up all their foes. + 12. The Syrians from the east and the Philistines from the west - will bare their fangs and devour Israel. + +will bare their fangs and devour Israel. But even then the LORD's anger will not be satisfied. - His fist is still poised to strike. + +His fist is still poised to strike. + 13. For after all this punishment, the people will still not repent. They will not seek the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 14. Therefore, in a single day the LORD will destroy both the head and the tail, - the noble palm branch and the lowly reed. + +the noble palm branch and the lowly reed. + 15. The leaders of Israel are the head, - and the lying prophets are the tail. + +and the lying prophets are the tail. + 16. For the leaders of the people have misled them. - They have led them down the path of destruction. + +They have led them down the path of destruction. + 17. That is why the Lord takes no pleasure in the young men - and shows no mercy even to the widows and orphans. + +and shows no mercy even to the widows and orphans. + For they are all wicked hypocrites, - and they all speak foolishness. + +and they all speak foolishness. But even then the LORD's anger will not be satisfied. - His fist is still poised to strike. + +His fist is still poised to strike. + 18. This wickedness is like a brushfire. - It burns not only briers and thorns + +It burns not only briers and thorns but also sets the forests ablaze. - Its burning sends up clouds of smoke. + +Its burning sends up clouds of smoke. + 19. The land will be blackened by the fury of the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + The people will be fuel for the fire, - and no one will spare even his own brother. + +and no one will spare even his own brother. + 20. They will attack their neighbor on the right - but will still be hungry. + +but will still be hungry. + They will devour their neighbor on the left - but will not be satisfied. + +but will not be satisfied. In the end they will even eat their own children. 21. Manasseh will feed on Ephraim, - Ephraim will feed on Manasseh, - and both will devour Judah. + +Ephraim will feed on Manasseh, + +and both will devour Judah. But even then the LORD's anger will not be satisfied. - His fist is still poised to strike. + +His fist is still poised to strike. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_10.md index 5ebcaf19..a2ccecdc 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_10.md @@ -1,94 +1,157 @@ # Chapter 10 1. What sorrow awaits the unjust judges - and those who issue unfair laws. + +and those who issue unfair laws. + 2. They deprive the poor of justice - and deny the rights of the needy among my people. + +and deny the rights of the needy among my people. + They prey on widows - and take advantage of orphans. + +and take advantage of orphans. + 3. What will you do when I punish you, - when I send disaster upon you from a distant land? + +when I send disaster upon you from a distant land? To whom will you turn for help? - Where will your treasures be safe? + +Where will your treasures be safe? + 4. You will stumble along as prisoners - or lie among the dead. + +or lie among the dead. But even then the LORD's anger will not be satisfied. - His fist is still poised to strike.Judgment against Assyria + +His fist is still poised to strike. + +Judgment against Assyria + 5. "What sorrow awaits Assyria, the rod of my anger. - I use it as a club to express my anger. + +I use it as a club to express my anger. + 6. I am sending Assyria against a godless nation, - against a people with whom I am angry. + +against a people with whom I am angry. + Assyria will plunder them, - trampling them like dirt beneath its feet. + +trampling them like dirt beneath its feet. + 7. But the king of Assyria will not understand that he is my tool; - his mind does not work that way. + +his mind does not work that way. + His plan is simply to destroy, - to cut down nation after nation. + +to cut down nation after nation. + 8. He will say, - 'Each of my princes will soon be a king. + +'Each of my princes will soon be a king. + 9. We destroyed Calno just as we did Carchemish. - Hamath fell before us as Arpad did. - And we destroyed Samaria just as we did Damascus. + +Hamath fell before us as Arpad did. + +And we destroyed Samaria just as we did Damascus. + 10. Yes, we have finished off many a kingdom - whose gods were greater than those in Jerusalem and Samaria. + +whose gods were greater than those in Jerusalem and Samaria. + 11. So we will defeat Jerusalem and her gods, - just as we destroyed Samaria with hers.'" + +just as we destroyed Samaria with hers.'" + 12. After the Lord has used the king of Assyria to accomplish his purposes on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, he will turn against the king of Assyria and punish him--for he is proud and arrogant. 13. He boasts, "By my own powerful arm I have done this. - With my own shrewd wisdom I planned it. + +With my own shrewd wisdom I planned it. + I have broken down the defenses of nations - and carried off their treasures. - I have knocked down their kings like a bull. + +and carried off their treasures. + +I have knocked down their kings like a bull. + 14. I have robbed their nests of riches - and gathered up kingdoms as a farmer gathers eggs. + +and gathered up kingdoms as a farmer gathers eggs. + No one can even flap a wing against me - or utter a peep of protest." + +or utter a peep of protest." + 15. But can the ax boast greater power than the person who uses it? - Is the saw greater than the person who saws? + +Is the saw greater than the person who saws? Can a rod strike unless a hand moves it? - Can a wooden cane walk by itself? + +Can a wooden cane walk by itself? + 16. Therefore, the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - will send a plague among Assyria's proud troops, - and a flaming fire will consume its glory. + +will send a plague among Assyria's proud troops, + +and a flaming fire will consume its glory. + 17. The LORD, the Light of Israel, will be a fire; - the Holy One will be a flame. + +the Holy One will be a flame. + He will devour the thorns and briers with fire, - burning up the enemy in a single night. + +burning up the enemy in a single night. + 18. The LORD will consume Assyria's glory - like a fire consumes a forest in a fruitful land; - it will waste away like sick people in a plague. + +like a fire consumes a forest in a fruitful land; + +it will waste away like sick people in a plague. + 19. Of all that glorious forest, only a few trees will survive-- - so few that a child could count them!Hope for the LORD's People + +so few that a child could count them!Hope for the LORD's People 20. In that day the remnant left in Israel, - the survivors in the house of Jacob, + +the survivors in the house of Jacob, will no longer depend on allies - who seek to destroy them. + +who seek to destroy them. But they will faithfully trust the LORD, - the Holy One of Israel. + +the Holy One of Israel. + 21. A remnant will return; - yes, the remnant of Jacob will return to the Mighty God. + +yes, the remnant of Jacob will return to the Mighty God. + 22. But though the people of Israel are as numerous - as the sand of the seashore, + +as the sand of the seashore, only a remnant of them will return. The LORD has rightly decided to destroy his people. @@ -100,36 +163,57 @@ only a remnant of them will return. 26. The LORD of Heaven's Armies will lash them with his whip, as he did when Gideon triumphed over the Midianites at the rock of Oreb, or when the LORD's staff was raised to drown the Egyptian army in the sea. 27. In that day the LORD will end the bondage of his people. - He will break the yoke of slavery + +He will break the yoke of slavery and lift it from their shoulders. 28. Look, the Assyrians are now at Aiath. - They are passing through Migron - and are storing their equipment at Micmash. + +They are passing through Migron + +and are storing their equipment at Micmash. + 29. They are crossing the pass - and are camping at Geba. + +and are camping at Geba. + Fear strikes the town of Ramah. - All the people of Gibeah, the hometown of Saul, - are running for their lives. + +All the people of Gibeah, the hometown of Saul, + +are running for their lives. + 30. Scream in terror, - you people of Gallim! + +you people of Gallim! Shout out a warning to Laishah. - Oh, poor Anathoth! + +Oh, poor Anathoth! + 31. There go the people of Madmenah, all fleeing. - The citizens of Gebim are trying to hide. + +The citizens of Gebim are trying to hide. + 32. The enemy stops at Nob for the rest of that day. - He shakes his fist at beautiful Mount Zion, the mountain of Jerusalem. + +He shakes his fist at beautiful Mount Zion, the mountain of Jerusalem. -33. But look! The Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - will chop down the mighty tree of Assyria with great power! + +33. But look! +The Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, + +will chop down the mighty tree of Assyria with great power! He will cut down the proud. - That lofty tree will be brought down. + +That lofty tree will be brought down. + 34. He will cut down the forest trees with an ax. Lebanon will fall to the Mighty One. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_11.md index 9d7c0abe..66045c39 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_11.md @@ -2,73 +2,113 @@ A Branch from David's Line # Chapter 11 1. Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot-- - yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root. + +yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root. + 2. And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him-- - the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, + +the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. 3. He will delight in obeying the LORD. - He will not judge by appearance - nor make a decision based on hearsay. + +He will not judge by appearance + +nor make a decision based on hearsay. + 4. He will give justice to the poor - and make fair decisions for the exploited. + +and make fair decisions for the exploited. + The earth will shake at the force of his word, - and one breath from his mouth will destroy the wicked. + +and one breath from his mouth will destroy the wicked. + 5. He will wear righteousness like a belt - and truth like an undergarment. + +and truth like an undergarment. + 6. In that day the wolf and the lamb will live together; - the leopard will lie down with the baby goat. + +the leopard will lie down with the baby goat. + The calf and the yearling will be safe with the lion, - and a little child will lead them all. + +and a little child will lead them all. + 7. The cow will graze near the bear. - The cub and the calf will lie down together. - The lion will eat hay like a cow. + +The cub and the calf will lie down together. + +The lion will eat hay like a cow. + 8. The baby will play safely near the hole of a cobra. - Yes, a little child will put its hand in a nest of deadly snakes without harm. + +Yes, a little child will put its hand in a nest of deadly snakes without harm. + 9. Nothing will hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain, - for as the waters fill the sea, + +for as the waters fill the sea, so the earth will be filled with people who know the LORD. 10. In that day the heir to David's throne - will be a banner of salvation to all the world. + +will be a banner of salvation to all the world. + The nations will rally to him, and the land where he lives will be a glorious place. 11. In that day the Lord will reach out his hand a second time - to bring back the remnant of his people-- + +to bring back the remnant of his people-- those who remain in Assyria and northern Egypt; in southern Egypt, Ethiopia, and Elam; in Babylonia, Hamath, and all the distant coastlands. 12. He will raise a flag among the nations - and assemble the exiles of Israel. + +and assemble the exiles of Israel. + He will gather the scattered people of Judah - from the ends of the earth. + +from the ends of the earth. + 13. Then at last the jealousy between Israel and Judah will end. - They will not be rivals anymore. + +They will not be rivals anymore. + 14. They will join forces to swoop down on Philistia to the west. - Together they will attack and plunder the nations to the east. + +Together they will attack and plunder the nations to the east. + They will occupy the lands of Edom and Moab, - and Ammon will obey them. + +and Ammon will obey them. + 15. The LORD will make a dry path through the gulf of the Red Sea. He will wave his hand over the Euphrates River, sending a mighty wind to divide it into seven streams - so it can easily be crossed on foot. + +so it can easily be crossed on foot. + 16. He will make a highway for the remnant of his people, - the remnant coming from Assyria, + +the remnant coming from Assyria, just as he did for Israel long ago - when they returned from Egypt. + +when they returned from Egypt. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_12.md index ebba159a..c8f0387a 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_12.md @@ -4,25 +4,39 @@ Songs of Praise for Salvation 1. In that day you will sing: "I will praise you, O LORD! You were angry with me, but not any more. - Now you comfort me. + +Now you comfort me. + 2. See, God has come to save me. - I will trust in him and not be afraid. + +I will trust in him and not be afraid. + The Lord God is my strength and my song; - he has given me victory." + +he has given me victory." + 3. With joy you will drink deeply - from the fountain of salvation! + +from the fountain of salvation! + 4. In that wonderful day you will sing: "Thank the LORD! Praise his name! Tell the nations what he has done. - Let them know how mighty he is! + +Let them know how mighty he is! + 5. Sing to the LORD, for he has done wonderful things. - Make known his praise around the world. + +Make known his praise around the world. + 6. Let all the people of Jerusalem shout his praise with joy! - For great is the Holy One of Israel who lives among you." + +For great is the Holy One of Israel who lives among you." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_13.md index 5e51fa64..c40fbe8b 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_13.md @@ -4,96 +4,162 @@ A Message about Babylon 1. Isaiah son of Amoz received this message concerning the destruction of Babylon: 2. "Raise a signal flag on a bare hilltop. - Call up an army against Babylon. + +Call up an army against Babylon. + Wave your hand to encourage them - as they march into the palaces of the high and mighty. + +as they march into the palaces of the high and mighty. + 3. I, the LORD, have dedicated these soldiers for this task. - Yes, I have called mighty warriors to express my anger, - and they will rejoice when I am exalted." + +Yes, I have called mighty warriors to express my anger, + +and they will rejoice when I am exalted." + 4. Hear the noise on the mountains! - Listen, as the vast armies march! + +Listen, as the vast armies march! It is the noise and shouting of many nations. The LORD of Heaven's Armies has called this army together. 5. They come from distant countries, - from beyond the farthest horizons. + +from beyond the farthest horizons. They are the LORD's weapons to carry out his anger. - With them he will destroy the whole land. + +With them he will destroy the whole land. + 6. Scream in terror, for the day of the LORD has arrived-- - the time for the Almighty to destroy. + +the time for the Almighty to destroy. + 7. Every arm is paralyzed with fear. - Every heart melts, + +Every heart melts, + 8. and people are terrified. + Pangs of anguish grip them, - like those of a woman in labor. + +like those of a woman in labor. + They look helplessly at one another, - their faces aflame with fear. + +their faces aflame with fear. + 9. For see, the day of the LORD is coming-- - the terrible day of his fury and fierce anger. + +the terrible day of his fury and fierce anger. + The land will be made desolate, - and all the sinners destroyed with it. + +and all the sinners destroyed with it. + 10. The heavens will be black above them; - the stars will give no light. + +the stars will give no light. + The sun will be dark when it rises, - and the moon will provide no light. + +and the moon will provide no light. + 11. "I, the LORD, will punish the world for its evil - and the wicked for their sin. + +and the wicked for their sin. + I will crush the arrogance of the proud - and humble the pride of the mighty. + +and humble the pride of the mighty. + 12. I will make people scarcer than gold-- - more rare than the fine gold of Ophir. + +more rare than the fine gold of Ophir. + 13. For I will shake the heavens. - The earth will move from its place + +The earth will move from its place when the LORD of Heaven's Armies displays his wrath - in the day of his fierce anger." + +in the day of his fierce anger." + 14. Everyone in Babylon will run about like a hunted gazelle, - like sheep without a shepherd. + +like sheep without a shepherd. + They will try to find their own people - and flee to their own land. + +and flee to their own land. + 15. Anyone who is captured will be cut down-- - run through with a sword. + +run through with a sword. + 16. Their little children will be dashed to death before their eyes. - Their homes will be sacked, and their wives will be raped. + +Their homes will be sacked, and their wives will be raped. + 17. "Look, I will stir up the Medes against Babylon. - They cannot be tempted by silver - or bribed with gold. + +They cannot be tempted by silver + +or bribed with gold. + 18. The attacking armies will shoot down the young men with arrows. - They will have no mercy on helpless babies - and will show no compassion for children." + +They will have no mercy on helpless babies + +and will show no compassion for children." + 19. Babylon, the most glorious of kingdoms, - the flower of Chaldean pride, + +the flower of Chaldean pride, will be devastated like Sodom and Gomorrah - when God destroyed them. + +when God destroyed them. + 20. Babylon will never be inhabited again. - It will remain empty for generation after generation. + +It will remain empty for generation after generation. + Nomads will refuse to camp there, - and shepherds will not bed down their sheep. + +and shepherds will not bed down their sheep. + 21. Desert animals will move into the ruined city, - and the houses will be haunted by howling creatures. + +and the houses will be haunted by howling creatures. + Owls will live among the ruins, - and wild goats will go there to dance. + +and wild goats will go there to dance. + 22. Hyenas will howl in its fortresses, - and jackals will make dens in its luxurious palaces. + +and jackals will make dens in its luxurious palaces. + Babylon's days are numbered; - its time of destruction will soon arrive. + +its time of destruction will soon arrive. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_14.md index e9b7b274..9d635264 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_14.md @@ -10,127 +10,208 @@ A Taunt for Babylon's King Yes, your insolence is ended. 5. For the LORD has crushed your wicked power - and broken your evil rule. + +and broken your evil rule. + 6. You struck the people with endless blows of rage - and held the nations in your angry grip - with unrelenting tyranny. + +and held the nations in your angry grip + +with unrelenting tyranny. + 7. But finally the earth is at rest and quiet. - Now it can sing again! + +Now it can sing again! + 8. Even the trees of the forest-- - the cypress trees and the cedars of Lebanon-- - sing out this joyous song: + +the cypress trees and the cedars of Lebanon-- + +sing out this joyous song: 'Since you have been cut down, - no one will come now to cut us down!' + +no one will come now to cut us down!' + 9. "In the place of the dead there is excitement - over your arrival. + +over your arrival. + The spirits of world leaders and mighty kings long dead - stand up to see you. + +stand up to see you. + 10. With one voice they all cry out, - 'Now you are as weak as we are! + +'Now you are as weak as we are! + 11. Your might and power were buried with you. - The sound of the harp in your palace has ceased. + +The sound of the harp in your palace has ceased. + Now maggots are your sheet, - and worms your blanket.' + +and worms your blanket.' + 12. "How you are fallen from heaven, - O shining star, son of the morning! + +O shining star, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, - you who destroyed the nations of the world. + +you who destroyed the nations of the world. + 13. For you said to yourself, - 'I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God's stars. + +'I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God's stars. + I will preside on the mountain of the gods far away in the north. 14. I will climb to the highest heavens - and be like the Most High.' + +and be like the Most High.' + 15. Instead, you will be brought down to the place of the dead, - down to its lowest depths. + +down to its lowest depths. + 16. Everyone there will stare at you and ask, 'Can this be the one who shook the earth - and made the kingdoms of the world tremble? + +and made the kingdoms of the world tremble? + 17. Is this the one who destroyed the world - and made it into a wasteland? + +and made it into a wasteland? Is this the king who demolished the world's greatest cities - and had no mercy on his prisoners?' + +and had no mercy on his prisoners?' + 18. "The kings of the nations lie in stately glory, - each in his own tomb, + +each in his own tomb, + 19. but you will be thrown out of your grave - like a worthless branch. + +like a worthless branch. + Like a corpse trampled underfoot, - you will be dumped into a mass grave - with those killed in battle. + +you will be dumped into a mass grave + +with those killed in battle. + You will descend to the pit. + 20. You will not be given a proper burial, for you have destroyed your nation - and slaughtered your people. + +and slaughtered your people. + The descendants of such an evil person - will never again receive honor. + +will never again receive honor. + 21. Kill this man's children! - Let them die because of their father's sins! + +Let them die because of their father's sins! They must not rise and conquer the earth, - filling the world with their cities." + +filling the world with their cities." + 22. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: - "I, myself, have risen against Babylon! + +"I, myself, have risen against Babylon! I will destroy its children and its children's children," says the LORD. 23. "I will make Babylon a desolate place of owls, - filled with swamps and marshes. + +filled with swamps and marshes. + I will sweep the land with the broom of destruction. - I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken!"A Message about Assyria + I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken!" +A Message about Assyria + 24. The LORD of Heaven's Armies has sworn this oath: "It will all happen as I have planned. - It will be as I have decided. + +It will be as I have decided. + 25. I will break the Assyrians when they are in Israel; - I will trample them on my mountains. + +I will trample them on my mountains. + My people will no longer be their slaves - nor bow down under their heavy loads. + +nor bow down under their heavy loads. + 26. I have a plan for the whole earth, - a hand of judgment upon all the nations. + +a hand of judgment upon all the nations. + 27. The LORD of Heaven's Armies has spoken-- - who can change his plans? + +who can change his plans? When his hand is raised, - who can stop him?"A Message about Philistia + +who can stop him?" +A Message about Philistia + 28. This message came to me the year King Ahaz died: 29. Do not rejoice, you Philistines, - that the rod that struck you is broken-- - that the king who attacked you is dead. + +that the rod that struck you is broken-- + +that the king who attacked you is dead. + For from that snake a more poisonous snake will be born, - a fiery serpent to destroy you! + +a fiery serpent to destroy you! + 30. I will feed the poor in my pasture; - the needy will lie down in peace. + +the needy will lie down in peace. + But as for you, I will wipe you out with famine - and destroy the few who remain. + +and destroy the few who remain. + 31. Wail at the gates! Weep in the cities! - Melt with fear, you Philistines! + +Melt with fear, you Philistines! A powerful army comes like smoke from the north. - Each soldier rushes forward eager to fight. + +Each soldier rushes forward eager to fight. + 32. What should we tell the Philistine messengers? Tell them, "The LORD has built Jerusalem; - its walls will give refuge to his oppressed people." + +its walls will give refuge to his oppressed people." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_15.md index c983c218..5d52897e 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_15.md @@ -3,42 +3,70 @@ A Message about Moab # Chapter 15 1. This message came to me concerning Moab: In one night the town of Ar will be leveled, - and the city of Kir will be destroyed. + +and the city of Kir will be destroyed. + 2. Your people will go to their temple in Dibon to mourn. - They will go to their sacred shrines to weep. + +They will go to their sacred shrines to weep. + They will wail for the fate of Nebo and Medeba, - shaving their heads in sorrow and cutting off their beards. + +shaving their heads in sorrow and cutting off their beards. + 3. They will wear burlap as they wander the streets. - From every home and public square will come the sound of wailing. + +From every home and public square will come the sound of wailing. + 4. The people of Heshbon and Elealeh will cry out; - their voices will be heard as far away as Jahaz! + +their voices will be heard as far away as Jahaz! The bravest warriors of Moab will cry out in utter terror. - They will be helpless with fear. + +They will be helpless with fear. + 5. My heart weeps for Moab. - Its people flee to Zoar and Eglath-shelishiyah. + +Its people flee to Zoar and Eglath-shelishiyah. + Weeping, they climb the road to Luhith. - Their cries of distress can be heard all along the road to Horonaim. + +Their cries of distress can be heard all along the road to Horonaim. + 6. Even the waters of Nimrim are dried up! - The grassy banks are scorched. + +The grassy banks are scorched. + The tender plants are gone; - nothing green remains. + +nothing green remains. + 7. The people grab their possessions - and carry them across the Ravine of Willows. + +and carry them across the Ravine of Willows. + 8. A cry of distress echoes through the land of Moab - from one end to the other-- - from Eglaim to Beer-elim. + +from one end to the other-- + +from Eglaim to Beer-elim. + 9. The stream near Dibon runs red with blood, - but I am still not finished with Dibon! + +but I am still not finished with Dibon! Lions will hunt down the survivors-- - both those who try to escape - and those who remain behind. + +both those who try to escape + +and those who remain behind. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_16.md index b650f532..522cf30c 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_16.md @@ -1,66 +1,110 @@ # Chapter 16 1. Send lambs from Sela as tribute - to the ruler of the land. + +to the ruler of the land. + Send them through the desert - to the mountain of beautiful Zion. + +to the mountain of beautiful Zion. + 2. The women of Moab are left like homeless birds - at the shallow crossings of the Arnon River. + +at the shallow crossings of the Arnon River. + + +3. " +Help us," they cry. + +"Defend us against our enemies. -3. "Help us," they cry. - "Defend us against our enemies. Protect us from their relentless attack. - Do not betray us now that we have escaped. + +Do not betray us now that we have escaped. + 4. Let our refugees stay among you. - Hide them from our enemies until the terror is past." + +Hide them from our enemies until the terror is past." When oppression and destruction have ended - and enemy raiders have disappeared, + +and enemy raiders have disappeared, + 5. then God will establish one of David's descendants as king. - He will rule with mercy and truth. + +He will rule with mercy and truth. + He will always do what is just - and be eager to do what is right. + +and be eager to do what is right. + 6. We have heard about proud Moab-- - about its pride and arrogance and rage. - But all that boasting has disappeared. + +about its pride and arrogance and rage. + +But all that boasting has disappeared. + 7. The entire land of Moab weeps. - Yes, everyone in Moab mourns + +Yes, everyone in Moab mourns for the cakes of raisins from Kir-hareseth. - They are all gone now. + +They are all gone now. + 8. The farms of Heshbon are abandoned; - the vineyards at Sibmah are deserted. + +the vineyards at Sibmah are deserted. + The rulers of the nations have broken down Moab-- - that beautiful grapevine. + +that beautiful grapevine. + Its tendrils spread north as far as the town of Jazer - and trailed eastward into the wilderness. + +and trailed eastward into the wilderness. + Its shoots reached so far west that they crossed over the Dead Sea. 9. So now I weep for Jazer and the vineyards of Sibmah; - my tears will flow for Heshbon and Elealeh. + +my tears will flow for Heshbon and Elealeh. + There are no more shouts of joy - over your summer fruits and harvest. + +over your summer fruits and harvest. + 10. Gone now is the gladness, - gone the joy of harvest. + +gone the joy of harvest. + There will be no singing in the vineyards, - no more happy shouts, + +no more happy shouts, no treading of grapes in the winepresses. - I have ended all their harvest joys. + +I have ended all their harvest joys. + 11. My heart's cry for Moab is like a lament on a harp. I am filled with anguish for Kir-hareseth. 12. The people of Moab will worship at their pagan shrines, - but it will do them no good. + +but it will do them no good. + They will cry to the gods in their temples, - but no one will be able to save them. + +but no one will be able to save them. + 13. The LORD has already said these things about Moab in the past. 14. But now the LORD says, "Within three years, counting each day, the glory of Moab will be ended. From its great population, only a feeble few will be left alive." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_17.md index 8a84fb32..f9e473a8 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_17.md @@ -3,68 +3,111 @@ A Message about Damascus and Israel # Chapter 17 1. This message came to me concerning Damascus: "Look, the city of Damascus will disappear! - It will become a heap of ruins. + +It will become a heap of ruins. + 2. The towns of Aroer will be deserted. - Flocks will graze in the streets and lie down undisturbed, - with no one to chase them away. + +Flocks will graze in the streets and lie down undisturbed, + +with no one to chase them away. + 3. The fortified towns of Israel will also be destroyed, - and the royal power of Damascus will end. + +and the royal power of Damascus will end. All that remains of Syria - will share the fate of Israel's departed glory," + +will share the fate of Israel's departed glory," declares the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 4. "In that day Israel's glory will grow dim; - its robust body will waste away. + +its robust body will waste away. + 5. The whole land will look like a grainfield - after the harvesters have gathered the grain. + +after the harvesters have gathered the grain. + It will be desolate, - like the fields in the valley of Rephaim after the harvest. + +like the fields in the valley of Rephaim after the harvest. + 6. Only a few of its people will be left, - like stray olives left on a tree after the harvest. + +like stray olives left on a tree after the harvest. + Only two or three remain in the highest branches, - four or five scattered here and there on the limbs," + +four or five scattered here and there on the limbs," declares the LORD, the God of Israel. 7. Then at last the people will look to their Creator - and turn their eyes to the Holy One of Israel. + +and turn their eyes to the Holy One of Israel. + 8. They will no longer look to their idols for help - or worship what their own hands have made. + +or worship what their own hands have made. + They will never again bow down to their Asherah poles - or worship at the pagan shrines they have built. + +or worship at the pagan shrines they have built. + 9. Their largest cities will be like a deserted forest, like the land the Hivites and Amorites abandoned when the Israelites came here so long ago. - It will be utterly desolate. + +It will be utterly desolate. + 10. Why? Because you have turned from the God who can save you. - You have forgotten the Rock who can hide you. + +You have forgotten the Rock who can hide you. + So you may plant the finest grapevines - and import the most expensive seedlings. + +and import the most expensive seedlings. + 11. They may sprout on the day you set them out; - yes, they may blossom on the very morning you plant them, + +yes, they may blossom on the very morning you plant them, but you will never pick any grapes from them. - Your only harvest will be a load of grief and unrelieved pain. + +Your only harvest will be a load of grief and unrelieved pain. + 12. Listen! The armies of many nations - roar like the roaring of the sea. + +roar like the roaring of the sea. + Hear the thunder of the mighty forces - as they rush forward like thundering waves. + +as they rush forward like thundering waves. + 13. But though they thunder like breakers on a beach, - God will silence them, and they will run away. + +God will silence them, and they will run away. + They will flee like chaff scattered by the wind, - like a tumbleweed whirling before a storm. + +like a tumbleweed whirling before a storm. + 14. In the evening Israel waits in terror, - but by dawn its enemies are dead. + +but by dawn its enemies are dead. + This is the just reward of those who plunder us, - a fitting end for those who destroy us. + +a fitting end for those who destroy us. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_18.md index de24f572..baa06153 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_18.md @@ -2,41 +2,64 @@ A Message about Ethiopia # Chapter 18 1. Listen, Ethiopia--land of fluttering sails - that lies at the headwaters of the Nile, + +that lies at the headwaters of the Nile, + 2. that sends ambassadors - in swift boats down the river. + +in swift boats down the river. + Go, swift messengers! Take a message to a tall, smooth-skinned people, - who are feared far and wide + +who are feared far and wide for their conquests and destruction, - and whose land is divided by rivers. + +and whose land is divided by rivers. + 3. All you people of the world, - everyone who lives on the earth-- + +everyone who lives on the earth-- when I raise my battle flag on the mountain, look! - When I blow the ram's horn, listen! + +When I blow the ram's horn, listen! + 4. For the LORD has told me this: "I will watch quietly from my dwelling place-- - as quietly as the heat rises on a summer day, - or as the morning dew forms during the harvest." + +as quietly as the heat rises on a summer day, + +or as the morning dew forms during the harvest." + 5. Even before you begin your attack, - while your plans are ripening like grapes, + +while your plans are ripening like grapes, the LORD will cut off your new growth with pruning shears. - He will snip off and discard your spreading branches. + +He will snip off and discard your spreading branches. + 6. Your mighty army will be left dead in the fields - for the mountain vultures and wild animals. + +for the mountain vultures and wild animals. + The vultures will tear at the corpses all summer. - The wild animals will gnaw at the bones all winter. + +The wild animals will gnaw at the bones all winter. + 7. At that time the LORD of Heaven's Armies will receive gifts - from this land divided by rivers, + +from this land divided by rivers, from this tall, smooth-skinned people, - who are feared far and wide for their conquests and destruction. + +who are feared far and wide for their conquests and destruction. They will bring the gifts to Jerusalem, where the LORD of Heaven's Armies dwells. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_19.md index c2d46435..5ee55aca 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_19.md @@ -3,70 +3,114 @@ A Message about Egypt # Chapter 19 1. This message came to me concerning Egypt: Look! The LORD is advancing against Egypt, - riding on a swift cloud. + +riding on a swift cloud. + The idols of Egypt tremble. - The hearts of the Egyptians melt with fear. + +The hearts of the Egyptians melt with fear. + 2. "I will make Egyptian fight against Egyptian-- - brother against brother, + +brother against brother, neighbor against neighbor, - city against city, - province against province. + +city against city, + +province against province. + 3. The Egyptians will lose heart, - and I will confuse their plans. + +and I will confuse their plans. + They will plead with their idols for wisdom - and call on spirits, mediums, and those who consult the spirits of the dead. + +and call on spirits, mediums, and those who consult the spirits of the dead. + 4. I will hand Egypt over - to a hard, cruel master. + +to a hard, cruel master. + A fierce king will rule them," says the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 5. The waters of the Nile will fail to rise and flood the fields. - The riverbed will be parched and dry. + +The riverbed will be parched and dry. + 6. The canals of the Nile will dry up, - and the streams of Egypt will stink - with rotting reeds and rushes. + +and the streams of Egypt will stink + +with rotting reeds and rushes. + 7. All the greenery along the riverbank - and all the crops along the river - will dry up and blow away. + +and all the crops along the river + +will dry up and blow away. + 8. The fishermen will lament for lack of work. - Those who cast hooks into the Nile will groan, - and those who use nets will lose heart. + +Those who cast hooks into the Nile will groan, + +and those who use nets will lose heart. + 9. There will be no flax for the harvesters, - no thread for the weavers. + +no thread for the weavers. + 10. They will be in despair, - and all the workers will be sick at heart. + +and all the workers will be sick at heart. + 11. What fools are the officials of Zoan! - Their best counsel to the king of Egypt is stupid and wrong. + +Their best counsel to the king of Egypt is stupid and wrong. + Will they still boast to Pharaoh of their wisdom? - Will they dare brag about all their wise ancestors? + +Will they dare brag about all their wise ancestors? + 12. Where are your wise counselors, Pharaoh? - Let them tell you what God plans, + +Let them tell you what God plans, what the LORD of Heaven's Armies is going to do to Egypt. 13. The officials of Zoan are fools, and the officials of Memphis are deluded. + The leaders of the people - have led Egypt astray. + +have led Egypt astray. + 14. The LORD has sent a spirit of foolishness on them, - so all their suggestions are wrong. + +so all their suggestions are wrong. + They cause Egypt to stagger - like a drunk in his vomit. + +like a drunk in his vomit. + 15. There is nothing Egypt can do. - All are helpless-- + +All are helpless-- the head and the tail, - the noble palm branch and the lowly reed. + +the noble palm branch and the lowly reed. + 16. In that day the Egyptians will be as weak as women. They will cower in fear beneath the upraised fist of the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 17. Just to speak the name of Israel will terrorize them, for the LORD of Heaven's Armies has laid out his plans against them. @@ -83,3 +127,4 @@ the head and the tail, 25. For the LORD of Heaven's Armies will say, "Blessed be Egypt, my people. Blessed be Assyria, the land I have made. Blessed be Israel, my special possession!" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_20.md index 5e8417de..b682d058 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_20.md @@ -10,3 +10,4 @@ A Message about Egypt and Ethiopia 6. They will say, 'If this can happen to Egypt, what chance do we have? We were counting on Egypt to protect us from the king of Assyria.'" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_21.md index e959f233..bc50b61a 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_21.md @@ -3,80 +3,131 @@ A Message about Babylon # Chapter 21 1. This message came to me concerning Babylon--the desert by the sea: Disaster is roaring down on you from the desert, - like a whirlwind sweeping in from the Negev. + +like a whirlwind sweeping in from the Negev. + 2. I see a terrifying vision: - I see the betrayer betraying, - the destroyer destroying. + +I see the betrayer betraying, + +the destroyer destroying. + Go ahead, you Elamites and Medes, - attack and lay siege. + +attack and lay siege. + I will make an end - to all the groaning Babylon caused. + +to all the groaning Babylon caused. + 3. My stomach aches and burns with pain. - Sharp pangs of anguish are upon me, - like those of a woman in labor. + +Sharp pangs of anguish are upon me, + +like those of a woman in labor. + I grow faint when I hear what God is planning; - I am too afraid to look. + +I am too afraid to look. + 4. My mind reels and my heart races. - I longed for evening to come, - but now I am terrified of the dark. + +I longed for evening to come, + +but now I am terrified of the dark. + 5. Look! They are preparing a great feast. - They are spreading rugs for people to sit on. - Everyone is eating and drinking. + +They are spreading rugs for people to sit on. + +Everyone is eating and drinking. + But quick! Grab your shields and prepare for battle. - You are being attacked! + +You are being attacked! + 6. Meanwhile, the Lord said to me, "Put a watchman on the city wall. - Let him shout out what he sees. + +Let him shout out what he sees. + 7. He should look for chariots - drawn by pairs of horses, + +drawn by pairs of horses, and for riders on donkeys and camels. - Let the watchman be fully alert." + +Let the watchman be fully alert." + 8. Then the watchman called out, "Day after day I have stood on the watchtower, my lord. - Night after night I have remained at my post. + +Night after night I have remained at my post. + 9. Now at last--look! Here comes a man in a chariot - with a pair of horses!" + +with a pair of horses!" Then the watchman said, - "Babylon is fallen, fallen! + +"Babylon is fallen, fallen! All the idols of Babylon - lie broken on the ground!" + +lie broken on the ground!" + 10. O my people, threshed and winnowed, I have told you everything the LORD of Heaven's Armies has said, - everything the God of Israel has told me.A Message about Edom + +everything the God of Israel has told me. + +A Message about Edom + 11. This message came to me concerning Edom: Someone from Edom keeps calling to me, "Watchman, how much longer until morning? - When will the night be over?" + +When will the night be over?" + 12. The watchman replies, "Morning is coming, but night will soon return. - If you wish to ask again, then come back and ask."A Message about Arabia + +If you wish to ask again, then come back and ask." +A Message about Arabia + 13. This message came to me concerning Arabia: O caravans from Dedan, - hide in the deserts of Arabia. + +hide in the deserts of Arabia. + 14. O people of Tema, - bring water to these thirsty people, - food to these weary refugees. + +bring water to these thirsty people, + +food to these weary refugees. + 15. They have fled from the sword, - from the drawn sword, + +from the drawn sword, from the bent bow - and the terrors of battle. + +and the terrors of battle. + 16. The Lord said to me, "Within a year, counting each day, all the glory of Kedar will come to an end. 17. Only a few of its courageous archers will survive. I, the LORD, the God of Israel, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_22.md index eb5a145a..67d1c1ac 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_22.md @@ -3,79 +3,131 @@ A Message about Jerusalem # Chapter 22 1. This message came to me concerning Jerusalem--the Valley of Vision: What is happening? - Why is everyone running to the rooftops? + +Why is everyone running to the rooftops? + 2. The whole city is in a terrible uproar. - What do I see in this reveling city? + +What do I see in this reveling city? Bodies are lying everywhere, - killed not in battle but by famine and disease. + +killed not in battle but by famine and disease. + 3. All your leaders have fled. - They surrendered without resistance. + +They surrendered without resistance. + The people tried to slip away, - but they were captured, too. + +but they were captured, too. + 4. That's why I said, "Leave me alone to weep; - do not try to comfort me. + +do not try to comfort me. + Let me cry for my people - as I watch them being destroyed." + +as I watch them being destroyed." + 5. Oh, what a day of crushing defeat! - What a day of confusion and terror + +What a day of confusion and terror brought by the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - upon the Valley of Vision! + +upon the Valley of Vision! The walls of Jerusalem have been broken, - and cries of death echo from the mountainsides. + +and cries of death echo from the mountainsides. + 6. Elamites are the archers, - with their chariots and charioteers. - The men of Kir hold up the shields. + +with their chariots and charioteers. + +The men of Kir hold up the shields. + 7. Chariots fill your beautiful valleys, - and charioteers storm your gates. + +and charioteers storm your gates. + 8. Judah's defenses have been stripped away. You run to the armory for your weapons. 9. You inspect the breaks in the walls of Jerusalem. - You store up water in the lower pool. + +You store up water in the lower pool. + 10. You survey the houses and tear some down - for stone to strengthen the walls. + +for stone to strengthen the walls. + 11. Between the city walls, you build a reservoir - for water from the old pool. + +for water from the old pool. + But you never ask for help from the One who did all this. - You never considered the One who planned this long ago. + +You never considered the One who planned this long ago. + 12. At that time the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - called you to weep and mourn. + +called you to weep and mourn. + He told you to shave your heads in sorrow for your sins - and to wear clothes of burlap to show your remorse. + +and to wear clothes of burlap to show your remorse. + 13. But instead, you dance and play; - you slaughter cattle and kill sheep. - You feast on meat and drink wine. -You say, "Let's feast and drink, - for tomorrow we die!" + +you slaughter cattle and kill sheep. + +You feast on meat and drink wine. + +You say, "Let's feast and drink, + +for tomorrow we die!" + + +14. The LORD of Heaven's Armies has revealed this to me: "Till the day you die, you will never be forgiven for this sin." That is the judgment of the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + +A Message for Shebna -14. The LORD of Heaven's Armies has revealed this to me: "Till the day you die, you will never be forgiven for this sin." That is the judgment of the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies.A Message for Shebna 15. This is what the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, said to me: "Confront Shebna, the palace administrator, and give him this message: 16. "Who do you think you are, - and what are you doing here, + +and what are you doing here, building a beautiful tomb for yourself-- - a monument high up in the rock? + +a monument high up in the rock? + 17. For the LORD is about to hurl you away, mighty man. - He is going to grab you, + +He is going to grab you, + 18. crumple you into a ball, - and toss you away into a distant, barren land. + +and toss you away into a distant, barren land. + There you will die, - and your glorious chariots will be broken and useless. - You are a disgrace to your master! + +and your glorious chariots will be broken and useless. + +You are a disgrace to your master! + 19. "Yes, I will drive you out of office," says the LORD. "I will pull you down from your high position. 20. And then I will call my servant Eliakim son of Hilkiah to replace you. @@ -87,3 +139,4 @@ There you will die, 25. But the LORD of Heaven's Armies also says: "The time will come when I will pull out the nail that seemed so firm. It will come out and fall to the ground. Everything it supports will fall with it. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_23.md index 2f416cc4..c6bcb568 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_23.md @@ -3,76 +3,119 @@ A Message about Tyre # Chapter 23 1. This message came to me concerning Tyre: Wail, you trading ships of Tarshish, - for the harbor and houses of Tyre are gone! + +for the harbor and houses of Tyre are gone! The rumors you heard in Cyprus - are all true. + +are all true. + 2. Mourn in silence, you people of the coast - and you merchants of Sidon. + +and you merchants of Sidon. Your traders crossed the sea, 3. sailing over deep waters. They brought you grain from Egypt - and harvests from along the Nile. + +and harvests from along the Nile. + You were the marketplace of the world. + 4. But now you are put to shame, city of Sidon, for Tyre, the fortress of the sea, says, "Now I am childless; - I have no sons or daughters." + +I have no sons or daughters." + 5. When Egypt hears the news about Tyre, - there will be great sorrow. + +there will be great sorrow. + 6. Send word now to Tarshish! - Wail, you people who live in distant lands! + +Wail, you people who live in distant lands! + 7. Is this silent ruin all that is left of your once joyous city? - What a long history was yours! - Think of all the colonists you sent to distant places. + +What a long history was yours! + +Think of all the colonists you sent to distant places. + 8. Who has brought this disaster on Tyre, - that great creator of kingdoms? + +that great creator of kingdoms? Her traders were all princes, - her merchants were nobles. + +her merchants were nobles. + 9. The LORD of Heaven's Armies has done it - to destroy your pride - and bring low all earth's nobility. + +to destroy your pride + +and bring low all earth's nobility. + 10. Come, people of Tarshish, - sweep over the land like the flooding Nile, + +sweep over the land like the flooding Nile, for Tyre is defenseless. 11. The LORD held out his hand over the sea - and shook the kingdoms of the earth. + +and shook the kingdoms of the earth. He has spoken out against Phoenicia, - ordering that her fortresses be destroyed. + +ordering that her fortresses be destroyed. + 12. He says, "Never again will you rejoice, - O daughter of Sidon, for you have been crushed. + +O daughter of Sidon, for you have been crushed. + Even if you flee to Cyprus, - you will find no rest." + +you will find no rest." + 13. Look at the land of Babylonia-- - the people of that land are gone! + +the people of that land are gone! The Assyrians have handed Babylon over - to the wild animals of the desert. + +to the wild animals of the desert. + They have built siege ramps against its walls, - torn down its palaces, - and turned it to a heap of rubble. + +torn down its palaces, + +and turned it to a heap of rubble. + 14. Wail, you ships of Tarshish, - for your harbor is destroyed! + +for your harbor is destroyed! + 15. For seventy years, the length of a king's life, Tyre will be forgotten. But then the city will come back to life as in the song about the prostitute: 16. Take a harp and walk the streets, - you forgotten harlot. + +you forgotten harlot. + Make sweet melody and sing your songs - so you will be remembered again. + +so you will be remembered again. + 17. Yes, after seventy years the LORD will revive Tyre. But she will be no different than she was before. She will again be a prostitute to all kingdoms around the world. 18. But in the end her profits will be given to the LORD. Her wealth will not be hoarded but will provide good food and fine clothing for the LORD's priests. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_24.md index 0e79b375..99449d3e 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_24.md @@ -2,59 +2,95 @@ Destruction of the Earth # Chapter 24 1. Look! The LORD is about to destroy the earth - and make it a vast wasteland. + +and make it a vast wasteland. + He devastates the surface of the earth - and scatters the people. + +and scatters the people. + 2. Priests and laypeople, - servants and masters, - maids and mistresses, - buyers and sellers, - lenders and borrowers, + +servants and masters, + +maids and mistresses, + +buyers and sellers, + +lenders and borrowers, bankers and debtors--none will be spared. 3. The earth will be completely emptied and looted. The LORD has spoken! 4. The earth mourns and dries up, - and the land wastes away and withers. - Even the greatest people on earth waste away. + +and the land wastes away and withers. + +Even the greatest people on earth waste away. + 5. The earth suffers for the sins of its people, - for they have twisted God's instructions, + +for they have twisted God's instructions, violated his laws, - and broken his everlasting covenant. + +and broken his everlasting covenant. + 6. Therefore, a curse consumes the earth. - Its people must pay the price for their sin. + +Its people must pay the price for their sin. + They are destroyed by fire, - and only a few are left alive. + +and only a few are left alive. + 7. The grapevines waste away, - and there is no new wine. - All the merrymakers sigh and mourn. + +and there is no new wine. + +All the merrymakers sigh and mourn. + 8. The cheerful sound of tambourines is stilled; - the happy cries of celebration are heard no more. - The melodious chords of the harp are silent. + +the happy cries of celebration are heard no more. + +The melodious chords of the harp are silent. + 9. Gone are the joys of wine and song; - alcoholic drink turns bitter in the mouth. + +alcoholic drink turns bitter in the mouth. + 10. The city writhes in chaos; - every home is locked to keep out intruders. + +every home is locked to keep out intruders. + 11. Mobs gather in the streets, crying out for wine. - Joy has turned to gloom. - Gladness has been banished from the land. + +Joy has turned to gloom. + +Gladness has been banished from the land. + 12. The city is left in ruins, - its gates battered down. + +its gates battered down. + 13. Throughout the earth the story is the same-- - only a remnant is left, + +only a remnant is left, like the stray olives left on the tree - or the few grapes left on the vine after harvest. + +or the few grapes left on the vine after harvest. + 14. But all who are left shout and sing for joy. Those in the west praise the LORD's majesty. @@ -63,40 +99,67 @@ like the stray olives left on the tree In the lands beyond the sea, praise the name of the LORD, the God of Israel. 16. We hear songs of praise from the ends of the earth, - songs that give glory to the Righteous One! + +songs that give glory to the Righteous One! But my heart is heavy with grief. - Weep for me, for I wither away. + +Weep for me, for I wither away. + Deceit still prevails, - and treachery is everywhere. + +and treachery is everywhere. + 17. Terror and traps and snares will be your lot, - you people of the earth. + +you people of the earth. + 18. Those who flee in terror will fall into a trap, - and those who escape the trap will be caught in a snare. + +and those who escape the trap will be caught in a snare. + Destruction falls like rain from the heavens; - the foundations of the earth shake. + +the foundations of the earth shake. + 19. The earth has broken up. - It has utterly collapsed; - it is violently shaken. + +It has utterly collapsed; + +it is violently shaken. + 20. The earth staggers like a drunk. - It trembles like a tent in a storm. + +It trembles like a tent in a storm. + It falls and will not rise again, - for the guilt of its rebellion is very heavy. + +for the guilt of its rebellion is very heavy. + 21. In that day the LORD will punish the gods in the heavens - and the proud rulers of the nations on earth. + +and the proud rulers of the nations on earth. + 22. They will be rounded up and put in prison. - They will be shut up in prison - and will finally be punished. + +They will be shut up in prison + +and will finally be punished. + 23. Then the glory of the moon will wane, - and the brightness of the sun will fade, + +and the brightness of the sun will fade, for the LORD of Heaven's Armies will rule on Mount Zion. - He will rule in great glory in Jerusalem, - in the sight of all the leaders of his people. + +He will rule in great glory in Jerusalem, + +in the sight of all the leaders of his people. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_25.md index ba776c6e..2be9ba74 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_25.md @@ -2,63 +2,106 @@ Praise for Judgment and Salvation # Chapter 25 1. O LORD, I will honor and praise your name, - for you are my God. + +for you are my God. + You do such wonderful things! - You planned them long ago, - and now you have accomplished them. + +You planned them long ago, + +and now you have accomplished them. + 2. You turn mighty cities into heaps of ruins. - Cities with strong walls are turned to rubble. + +Cities with strong walls are turned to rubble. + Beautiful palaces in distant lands disappear - and will never be rebuilt. + +and will never be rebuilt. + 3. Therefore, strong nations will declare your glory; - ruthless nations will fear you. + +ruthless nations will fear you. + 4. But you are a tower of refuge to the poor, O LORD, - a tower of refuge to the needy in distress. + +a tower of refuge to the needy in distress. + You are a refuge from the storm - and a shelter from the heat. + +and a shelter from the heat. + For the oppressive acts of ruthless people - are like a storm beating against a wall, + +are like a storm beating against a wall, + 5. or like the relentless heat of the desert. + But you silence the roar of foreign nations. - As the shade of a cloud cools relentless heat, - so the boastful songs of ruthless people are stilled. + +As the shade of a cloud cools relentless heat, + +so the boastful songs of ruthless people are stilled. + 6. In Jerusalem, the LORD of Heaven's Armies - will spread a wonderful feast - for all the people of the world. + +will spread a wonderful feast + +for all the people of the world. + It will be a delicious banquet - with clear, well-aged wine and choice meat. + +with clear, well-aged wine and choice meat. + 7. There he will remove the cloud of gloom, - the shadow of death that hangs over the earth. + +the shadow of death that hangs over the earth. + 8. He will swallow up death forever! The Sovereign LORD will wipe away all tears. + He will remove forever all insults and mockery - against his land and people. + +against his land and people. The LORD has spoken! 9. In that day the people will proclaim, "This is our God! - We trusted in him, and he saved us! + +We trusted in him, and he saved us! This is the LORD, in whom we trusted. - Let us rejoice in the salvation he brings!" + +Let us rejoice in the salvation he brings!" + 10. For the LORD's hand of blessing will rest on Jerusalem. - But Moab will be crushed. - It will be like straw trampled down and left to rot. + +But Moab will be crushed. + +It will be like straw trampled down and left to rot. + 11. God will push down Moab's people - as a swimmer pushes down water with his hands. + +as a swimmer pushes down water with his hands. + He will end their pride - and all their evil works. + +and all their evil works. + 12. The high walls of Moab will be demolished. - They will be brought down to the ground, - down into the dust. + +They will be brought down to the ground, + +down into the dust. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_26.md index 622cab8b..94b75b70 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_26.md @@ -3,91 +3,147 @@ A Song of Praise to the LORD # Chapter 26 1. In that day, everyone in the land of Judah will sing this song: Our city is strong! - We are surrounded by the walls of God's salvation. + +We are surrounded by the walls of God's salvation. + 2. Open the gates to all who are righteous; - allow the faithful to enter. + +allow the faithful to enter. + 3. You will keep in perfect peace - all who trust in you, - all whose thoughts are fixed on you! + +all who trust in you, + +all whose thoughts are fixed on you! + 4. Trust in the LORD always, - for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. + +for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. 5. He humbles the proud - and brings down the arrogant city. - He brings it down to the dust. + +and brings down the arrogant city. + +He brings it down to the dust. + 6. The poor and oppressed trample it underfoot, - and the needy walk all over it. + +and the needy walk all over it. + 7. But for those who are righteous, - the way is not steep and rough. + +the way is not steep and rough. + You are a God who does what is right, - and you smooth out the path ahead of them. + +and you smooth out the path ahead of them. + 8. LORD, we show our trust in you by obeying your laws; - our heart's desire is to glorify your name. + +our heart's desire is to glorify your name. + 9. In the night I search for you; in the morning I earnestly seek you. + For only when you come to judge the earth - will people learn what is right. + +will people learn what is right. + 10. Your kindness to the wicked - does not make them do good. + +does not make them do good. + Although others do right, the wicked keep doing wrong and take no notice of the LORD's majesty. 11. O LORD, they pay no attention to your upraised fist. - Show them your eagerness to defend your people. + +Show them your eagerness to defend your people. + Then they will be ashamed. - Let your fire consume your enemies. + +Let your fire consume your enemies. + 12. LORD, you will grant us peace; - all we have accomplished is really from you. + +all we have accomplished is really from you. + 13. O LORD our God, others have ruled us, - but you alone are the one we worship. + +but you alone are the one we worship. + 14. Those we served before are dead and gone. - Their departed spirits will never return! + +Their departed spirits will never return! You attacked them and destroyed them, - and they are long forgotten. + +and they are long forgotten. + 15. O LORD, you have made our nation great; - yes, you have made us great. + +yes, you have made us great. + You have extended our borders, - and we give you the glory! + +and we give you the glory! + 16. LORD, in distress we searched for you. - We prayed beneath the burden of your discipline. + +We prayed beneath the burden of your discipline. + 17. Just as a pregnant woman - writhes and cries out in pain as she gives birth, + +writhes and cries out in pain as she gives birth, so were we in your presence, LORD. 18. We, too, writhe in agony, - but nothing comes of our suffering. + +but nothing comes of our suffering. + We have not given salvation to the earth, - nor brought life into the world. + +nor brought life into the world. + 19. But those who die in the LORD will live; - their bodies will rise again! + +their bodies will rise again! Those who sleep in the earth - will rise up and sing for joy! + +will rise up and sing for joy! For your life-giving light will fall like dew - on your people in the place of the dead!Restoration for Israel + +on your people in the place of the dead! +Restoration for Israel + 20. Go home, my people, - and lock your doors! + +and lock your doors! Hide yourselves for a little while until the LORD's anger has passed. 21. Look! The LORD is coming from heaven - to punish the people of the earth for their sins. + +to punish the people of the earth for their sins. + The earth will no longer hide those who have been killed. - They will be brought out for all to see. + +They will be brought out for all to see. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_27.md index bf64aed7..1c4ad063 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_27.md @@ -2,52 +2,86 @@ 1. In that day the LORD will take his terrible, swift sword and punish Leviathan, the swiftly moving serpent, the coiling, writhing serpent. He will kill the dragon of the sea. 2. "In that day, - sing about the fruitful vineyard. + +sing about the fruitful vineyard. + 3. I, the LORD, will watch over it, - watering it carefully. + +watering it carefully. + Day and night I will watch so no one can harm it. + 4. My anger will be gone. + If I find briers and thorns growing, - I will attack them; + +I will attack them; I will burn them up-- 5. unless they turn to me for help. + Let them make peace with me; - yes, let them make peace with me." + +yes, let them make peace with me." + 6. The time is coming when Jacob's descendants will take root. - Israel will bud and blossom - and fill the whole earth with fruit! + +Israel will bud and blossom + +and fill the whole earth with fruit! + 7. Has the LORD struck Israel - as he struck her enemies? + +as he struck her enemies? Has he punished her - as he punished them? + +as he punished them? + 8. No, but he exiled Israel to call her to account. - She was exiled from her land - as though blown away in a storm from the east. + +She was exiled from her land + +as though blown away in a storm from the east. + 9. The LORD did this to purge Israel's wickedness, - to take away all her sin. + +to take away all her sin. + As a result, all the pagan altars will be crushed to dust. - No Asherah pole or pagan shrine will be left standing. + +No Asherah pole or pagan shrine will be left standing. + 10. The fortified towns will be silent and empty, - the houses abandoned, the streets overgrown with weeds. + +the houses abandoned, the streets overgrown with weeds. + Calves will graze there, - chewing on twigs and branches. + +chewing on twigs and branches. + 11. The people are like the dead branches of a tree, - broken off and used for kindling beneath the cooking pots. + +broken off and used for kindling beneath the cooking pots. + Israel is a foolish and stupid nation, - for its people have turned away from God. + +for its people have turned away from God. + Therefore, the one who made them - will show them no pity or mercy. + +will show them no pity or mercy. + 12. Yet the time will come when the LORD will gather them together like handpicked grain. One by one he will gather them--from the Euphrates River in the east to the Brook of Egypt in the west. 13. In that day the great trumpet will sound. Many who were dying in exile in Assyria and Egypt will return to Jerusalem to worship the LORD on his holy mountain. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_28.md index 048babf7..d55afe24 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_28.md @@ -3,143 +3,239 @@ A Message about Samaria # Chapter 28 1. What sorrow awaits the proud city of Samaria-- the glorious crown of the drunks of Israel. + It sits at the head of a fertile valley, - but its glorious beauty will fade like a flower. + +but its glorious beauty will fade like a flower. + It is the pride of a people - brought down by wine. + +brought down by wine. + 2. For the Lord will send a mighty army against it. - Like a mighty hailstorm and a torrential rain, + +Like a mighty hailstorm and a torrential rain, they will burst upon it like a surging flood - and smash it to the ground. + +and smash it to the ground. + 3. The proud city of Samaria-- the glorious crown of the drunks of Israel-- - will be trampled beneath its enemies' feet. + +will be trampled beneath its enemies' feet. + + +4. +It sits at the head of a fertile valley, + +but its glorious beauty will fade like a flower. -4. It sits at the head of a fertile valley, - but its glorious beauty will fade like a flower. Whoever sees it will snatch it up, - as an early fig is quickly picked and eaten. + +as an early fig is quickly picked and eaten. + 5. Then at last the LORD of Heaven's Armies - will himself be Israel's glorious crown. + +will himself be Israel's glorious crown. + He will be the pride and joy - of the remnant of his people. + +of the remnant of his people. + 6. He will give a longing for justice - to their judges. + +to their judges. + He will give great courage - to their warriors who stand at the gates. + +to their warriors who stand at the gates. + 7. Now, however, Israel is led by drunks - who reel with wine and stagger with alcohol. + +who reel with wine and stagger with alcohol. + The priests and prophets stagger with alcohol - and lose themselves in wine. + +and lose themselves in wine. + They reel when they see visions - and stagger as they render decisions. + +and stagger as they render decisions. + 8. Their tables are covered with vomit; - filth is everywhere. + +filth is everywhere. + 9. "Who does the LORD think we are?" they ask. - "Why does he speak to us like this? + +"Why does he speak to us like this? Are we little children, - just recently weaned? + +just recently weaned? + 10. He tells us everything over and over-- one line at a time, - one line at a time, + +one line at a time, a little here, - and a little there!" + +and a little there!" + 11. So now God will have to speak to his people - through foreign oppressors who speak a strange language! + +through foreign oppressors who speak a strange language! + 12. God has told his people, "Here is a place of rest; - let the weary rest here. + +let the weary rest here. + This is a place of quiet rest." - But they would not listen. + +But they would not listen. + 13. So the LORD will spell out his message for them again, one line at a time, - one line at a time, + +one line at a time, a little here, - and a little there, + +and a little there, so that they will stumble and fall. - They will be injured, trapped, and captured. + +They will be injured, trapped, and captured. + 14. Therefore, listen to this message from the LORD, - you scoffing rulers in Jerusalem. + +you scoffing rulers in Jerusalem. + 15. You boast, "We have struck a bargain to cheat death and have made a deal to dodge the grave. + The coming destruction can never touch us, - for we have built a strong refuge made of lies and deception." + +for we have built a strong refuge made of lies and deception." + 16. Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "Look! I am placing a foundation stone in Jerusalem, - a firm and tested stone. + +a firm and tested stone. + It is a precious cornerstone that is safe to build on. Whoever believes need never be shaken. 17. I will test you with the measuring line of justice - and the plumb line of righteousness. + +and the plumb line of righteousness. + Since your refuge is made of lies, - a hailstorm will knock it down. + +a hailstorm will knock it down. + Since it is made of deception, - a flood will sweep it away. + +a flood will sweep it away. + 18. I will cancel the bargain you made to cheat death, - and I will overturn your deal to dodge the grave. + +and I will overturn your deal to dodge the grave. + When the terrible enemy sweeps through, - you will be trampled into the ground. + +you will be trampled into the ground. + 19. Again and again that flood will come, - morning after morning, + +morning after morning, day and night, - until you are carried away." + +until you are carried away." This message will bring terror to your people. + 20. The bed you have made is too short to lie on. - The blankets are too narrow to cover you. + +The blankets are too narrow to cover you. + 21. The LORD will come as he did against the Philistines at Mount Perazim - and against the Amorites at Gibeon. + +and against the Amorites at Gibeon. + He will come to do a strange thing; - he will come to do an unusual deed: + +he will come to do an unusual deed: + 22. For the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - has plainly said that he is determined to crush the whole land. + +has plainly said that he is determined to crush the whole land. + So scoff no more, - or your punishment will be even greater. + +or your punishment will be even greater. + 23. Listen to me; - listen, and pay close attention. + +listen, and pay close attention. + 24. Does a farmer always plow and never sow? - Is he forever cultivating the soil and never planting? + +Is he forever cultivating the soil and never planting? + 25. Does he not finally plant his seeds-- - black cumin, cumin, wheat, barley, and emmer wheat-- + +black cumin, cumin, wheat, barley, and emmer wheat-- each in its proper way, - and each in its proper place? + +and each in its proper place? + 26. The farmer knows just what to do, - for God has given him understanding. + +for God has given him understanding. + 27. A heavy sledge is never used to thresh black cumin; - rather, it is beaten with a light stick. + +rather, it is beaten with a light stick. + A threshing wheel is never rolled on cumin; - instead, it is beaten lightly with a flail. + +instead, it is beaten lightly with a flail. + 28. Grain for bread is easily crushed, - so he doesn't keep on pounding it. + +so he doesn't keep on pounding it. + He threshes it under the wheels of a cart, - but he doesn't pulverize it. + +but he doesn't pulverize it. + 29. The LORD of Heaven's Armies is a wonderful teacher, - and he gives the farmer great wisdom. + +and he gives the farmer great wisdom. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_29.md index a834ff1a..09956e81 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_29.md @@ -2,110 +2,182 @@ A Message about Jerusalem # Chapter 29 1. "What sorrow awaits Ariel, the City of David. - Year after year you celebrate your feasts. + +Year after year you celebrate your feasts. + 2. Yet I will bring disaster upon you, - and there will be much weeping and sorrow. + +and there will be much weeping and sorrow. + For Jerusalem will become what her name Ariel means-- - an altar covered with blood. + +an altar covered with blood. + 3. I will be your enemy, - surrounding Jerusalem and attacking its walls. + +surrounding Jerusalem and attacking its walls. + I will build siege towers - and destroy it. + +and destroy it. + 4. Then deep from the earth you will speak; - from low in the dust your words will come. + +from low in the dust your words will come. + Your voice will whisper from the ground - like a ghost conjured up from the grave. + +like a ghost conjured up from the grave. + 5. "But suddenly, your ruthless enemies will be crushed - like the finest of dust. + +like the finest of dust. + Your many attackers will be driven away - like chaff before the wind. + +like chaff before the wind. + Suddenly, in an instant, + 6. I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, will act for you with thunder and earthquake and great noise, - with whirlwind and storm and consuming fire. + +with whirlwind and storm and consuming fire. + 7. All the nations fighting against Jerusalem - will vanish like a dream! + +will vanish like a dream! Those who are attacking her walls - will vanish like a vision in the night. + +will vanish like a vision in the night. + 8. A hungry person dreams of eating - but wakes up still hungry. + +but wakes up still hungry. + A thirsty person dreams of drinking - but is still faint from thirst when morning comes. + +but is still faint from thirst when morning comes. + So it will be with your enemies, - with those who attack Mount Zion." + +with those who attack Mount Zion." + 9. Are you amazed and incredulous? - Don't you believe it? + +Don't you believe it? Then go ahead and be blind. - You are stupid, but not from wine! - You stagger, but not from liquor! + +You are stupid, but not from wine! + +You stagger, but not from liquor! + 10. For the LORD has poured out on you a spirit of deep sleep. - He has closed the eyes of your prophets and visionaries. + +He has closed the eyes of your prophets and visionaries. + 11. All the future events in this vision are like a sealed book to them. When you give it to those who can read, they will say, "We can't read it because it is sealed." 12. When you give it to those who cannot read, they will say, "We don't know how to read." 13. And so the Lord says, - "These people say they are mine. + +"These people say they are mine. + They honor me with their lips, - but their hearts are far from me. + +but their hearts are far from me. + And their worship of me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote. 14. Because of this, I will once again astound these hypocrites - with amazing wonders. + +with amazing wonders. + The wisdom of the wise will pass away, - and the intelligence of the intelligent will disappear." + +and the intelligence of the intelligent will disappear." + 15. What sorrow awaits those who try to hide their plans from the LORD, - who do their evil deeds in the dark! + +who do their evil deeds in the dark! "The LORD can't see us," they say. - "He doesn't know what's going on!" + +"He doesn't know what's going on!" + 16. How foolish can you be? - He is the Potter, and he is certainly greater than you, the clay! + +He is the Potter, and he is certainly greater than you, the clay! Should the created thing say of the one who made it, - "He didn't make me"? + +"He didn't make me"? Does a jar ever say, - "The potter who made me is stupid"? + +"The potter who made me is stupid"? + 17. Soon--and it will not be very long-- - the forests of Lebanon will become a fertile field, - and the fertile field will yield bountiful crops. + +the forests of Lebanon will become a fertile field, + +and the fertile field will yield bountiful crops. + 18. In that day the deaf will hear words read from a book, - and the blind will see through the gloom and darkness. + +and the blind will see through the gloom and darkness. + 19. The humble will be filled with fresh joy from the LORD. - The poor will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. + +The poor will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. + 20. The scoffer will be gone, - the arrogant will disappear, - and those who plot evil will be killed. + +the arrogant will disappear, + +and those who plot evil will be killed. + 21. Those who convict the innocent - by their false testimony will disappear. + +by their false testimony will disappear. + A similar fate awaits those who use trickery to pervert justice - and who tell lies to destroy the innocent. + +and who tell lies to destroy the innocent. + 22. That is why the LORD, who redeemed Abraham, says to the people of Israel, "My people will no longer be ashamed - or turn pale with fear. + +or turn pale with fear. + 23. For when they see their many children - and all the blessings I have given them, + +and all the blessings I have given them, they will recognize the holiness of the Holy One of Jacob. - They will stand in awe of the God of Israel. + +They will stand in awe of the God of Israel. + 24. Then the wayward will gain understanding, - and complainers will accept instruction. + +and complainers will accept instruction. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_30.md index 1a691867..26f2615e 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_30.md @@ -3,116 +3,193 @@ Judah's Worthless Treaty with Egypt # Chapter 30 1. "What sorrow awaits my rebellious children," says the LORD. + "You make plans that are contrary to mine. - You make alliances not directed by my Spirit, - thus piling up your sins. + +You make alliances not directed by my Spirit, + +thus piling up your sins. + 2. For without consulting me, - you have gone down to Egypt for help. + +you have gone down to Egypt for help. + You have put your trust in Pharaoh's protection. - You have tried to hide in his shade. + +You have tried to hide in his shade. + 3. But by trusting Pharaoh, you will be humiliated, - and by depending on him, you will be disgraced. + +and by depending on him, you will be disgraced. + 4. For though his power extends to Zoan - and his officials have arrived in Hanes, + +and his officials have arrived in Hanes, + 5. all who trust in him will be ashamed. - He will not help you. - Instead, he will disgrace you." + +He will not help you. + +Instead, he will disgrace you." + 6. This message came to me concerning the animals in the Negev: The caravan moves slowly - across the terrible desert to Egypt-- + +across the terrible desert to Egypt-- donkeys weighed down with riches - and camels loaded with treasure-- - all to pay for Egypt's protection. + +and camels loaded with treasure-- + +all to pay for Egypt's protection. + They travel through the wilderness, - a place of lionesses and lions, - a place where vipers and poisonous snakes live. + +a place of lionesses and lions, + +a place where vipers and poisonous snakes live. + All this, and Egypt will give you nothing in return. + 7. Egypt's promises are worthless! Therefore, I call her Rahab-- - the Harmless Dragon.A Warning for Rebellious Judah + the Harmless Dragon. + +A Warning for Rebellious Judah + 8. Now go and write down these words. - Write them in a book. + +Write them in a book. + They will stand until the end of time - as a witness + +as a witness + 9. that these people are stubborn rebels who refuse to pay attention to the LORD's instructions. 10. They tell the seers, - "Stop seeing visions!" + +"Stop seeing visions!" They tell the prophets, - "Don't tell us what is right. + +"Don't tell us what is right. + Tell us nice things. - Tell us lies. + +Tell us lies. + 11. Forget all this gloom. - Get off your narrow path. + +Get off your narrow path. + Stop telling us about your - 'Holy One of Israel.'" + +'Holy One of Israel.'" + 12. This is the reply of the Holy One of Israel: "Because you despise what I tell you - and trust instead in oppression and lies, + +and trust instead in oppression and lies, + 13. calamity will come upon you suddenly-- - like a bulging wall that bursts and falls. + +like a bulging wall that bursts and falls. + In an instant it will collapse - and come crashing down. + +and come crashing down. + 14. You will be smashed like a piece of pottery-- - shattered so completely that + +shattered so completely that there won't be a piece big enough - to carry coals from a fireplace - or a little water from the well." + +to carry coals from a fireplace + +or a little water from the well." + 15. This is what the Sovereign LORD, - the Holy One of Israel, says: + +the Holy One of Israel, says: "Only in returning to me - and resting in me will you be saved. + +and resting in me will you be saved. + In quietness and confidence is your strength. - But you would have none of it. + +But you would have none of it. + 16. You said, 'No, we will get our help from Egypt. - They will give us swift horses for riding into battle.' + +They will give us swift horses for riding into battle.' But the only swiftness you are going to see - is the swiftness of your enemies chasing you! + +is the swiftness of your enemies chasing you! + 17. One of them will chase a thousand of you. - Five of them will make all of you flee. + +Five of them will make all of you flee. + You will be left like a lonely flagpole on a hill - or a tattered banner on a distant mountaintop."Blessings for the LORD's People + +or a tattered banner on a distant mountaintop."Blessings for the LORD's People 18. So the LORD must wait for you to come to him - so he can show you his love and compassion. + +so he can show you his love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. - Blessed are those who wait for his help. + +Blessed are those who wait for his help. + 19. O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, - you will weep no more. + +you will weep no more. + He will be gracious if you ask for help. - He will surely respond to the sound of your cries. + +He will surely respond to the sound of your cries. + 20. Though the Lord gave you adversity for food - and suffering for drink, + +and suffering for drink, he will still be with you to teach you. - You will see your teacher with your own eyes. + +You will see your teacher with your own eyes. + 21. Your own ears will hear him. - Right behind you a voice will say, + +Right behind you a voice will say, "This is the way you should go," - whether to the right or to the left. + +whether to the right or to the left. + 22. Then you will destroy all your silver idols - and your precious gold images. + +and your precious gold images. + You will throw them out like filthy rags, - saying to them, "Good riddance!" + +saying to them, "Good riddance!" + 23. Then the LORD will bless you with rain at planting time. There will be wonderful harvests and plenty of pastureland for your livestock. 24. The oxen and donkeys that till the ground will eat good grain, its chaff blown away by the wind. @@ -120,39 +197,66 @@ You will throw them out like filthy rags, 26. The moon will be as bright as the sun, and the sun will be seven times brighter--like the light of seven days in one! So it will be when the LORD begins to heal his people and cure the wounds he gave them. 27. Look! The LORD is coming from far away, - burning with anger, - surrounded by thick, rising smoke. + +burning with anger, + +surrounded by thick, rising smoke. + His lips are filled with fury; - his words consume like fire. + +his words consume like fire. + 28. His hot breath pours out like a flood - up to the neck of his enemies. + +up to the neck of his enemies. + He will sift out the proud nations for destruction. - He will bridle them and lead them away to ruin. + +He will bridle them and lead them away to ruin. + 29. But the people of God will sing a song of joy, - like the songs at the holy festivals. + +like the songs at the holy festivals. + You will be filled with joy, - as when a flutist leads a group of pilgrims + +as when a flutist leads a group of pilgrims to Jerusalem, the mountain of the LORD-- - to the Rock of Israel. + +to the Rock of Israel. + 30. And the LORD will make his majestic voice heard. - He will display the strength of his mighty arm. + +He will display the strength of his mighty arm. + It will descend with devouring flames, - with cloudbursts, thunderstorms, and huge hailstones. + +with cloudbursts, thunderstorms, and huge hailstones. + 31. At the LORD's command, the Assyrians will be shattered. - He will strike them down with his royal scepter. + +He will strike them down with his royal scepter. + 32. And as the LORD strikes them with his rod of punishment, - his people will celebrate with tambourines and harps. - Lifting his mighty arm, he will fight the Assyrians. + +his people will celebrate with tambourines and harps. + +Lifting his mighty arm, he will fight the Assyrians. + 33. Topheth--the place of burning-- - has long been ready for the Assyrian king; - the pyre is piled high with wood. + +has long been ready for the Assyrian king; + +the pyre is piled high with wood. The breath of the LORD, like fire from a volcano, - will set it ablaze. + +will set it ablaze. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_31.md index 8e804826..6675225c 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_31.md @@ -2,49 +2,77 @@ The Futility of Relying on Egypt # Chapter 31 1. What sorrow awaits those who look to Egypt for help, - trusting their horses, chariots, and charioteers + +trusting their horses, chariots, and charioteers and depending on the strength of human armies instead of looking to the LORD, - the Holy One of Israel. + +the Holy One of Israel. + 2. In his wisdom, the LORD will send great disaster; - he will not change his mind. + +he will not change his mind. + He will rise against the wicked - and against their helpers. + +and against their helpers. + 3. For these Egyptians are mere humans, not God! - Their horses are puny flesh, not mighty spirits! + +Their horses are puny flesh, not mighty spirits! When the LORD raises his fist against them, - those who help will stumble, + +those who help will stumble, and those being helped will fall. - They will all fall down and die together. + +They will all fall down and die together. + 4. But this is what the LORD has told me: "When a strong young lion - stands growling over a sheep it has killed, + +stands growling over a sheep it has killed, it is not frightened by the shouts and noise - of a whole crowd of shepherds. + +of a whole crowd of shepherds. In the same way, the LORD of Heaven's Armies - will come down and fight on Mount Zion. + +will come down and fight on Mount Zion. + 5. The LORD of Heaven's Armies will hover over Jerusalem - and protect it like a bird protecting its nest. + +and protect it like a bird protecting its nest. + He will defend and save the city; - he will pass over it and rescue it." + +he will pass over it and rescue it." + 6. Though you are such wicked rebels, my people, come and return to the LORD. 7. I know the glorious day will come when each of you will throw away the gold idols and silver images your sinful hands have made. 8. "The Assyrians will be destroyed, - but not by the swords of men. + +but not by the swords of men. + The sword of God will strike them, - and they will panic and flee. + +and they will panic and flee. + The strong young Assyrians - will be taken away as captives. + +will be taken away as captives. + 9. Even the strongest will quake with terror, - and princes will flee when they see your battle flags," + +and princes will flee when they see your battle flags," says the LORD, whose fire burns in Zion, - whose flame blazes from Jerusalem. + +whose flame blazes from Jerusalem. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_32.md index 4a90f1a5..ea467bd6 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_32.md @@ -2,80 +2,133 @@ Israel's Ultimate Deliverance # Chapter 32 1. Look, a righteous king is coming! - And honest princes will rule under him. + +And honest princes will rule under him. + 2. Each one will be like a shelter from the wind - and a refuge from the storm, + +and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert - and the shadow of a great rock in a parched land. + +and the shadow of a great rock in a parched land. + 3. Then everyone who has eyes will be able to see the truth, - and everyone who has ears will be able to hear it. + +and everyone who has ears will be able to hear it. + 4. Even the hotheads will be full of sense and understanding. - Those who stammer will speak out plainly. + +Those who stammer will speak out plainly. + 5. In that day ungodly fools will not be heroes. - Scoundrels will not be respected. + +Scoundrels will not be respected. + 6. For fools speak foolishness - and make evil plans. + +and make evil plans. + They practice ungodliness and spread false teachings about the LORD. + They deprive the hungry of food - and give no water to the thirsty. + +and give no water to the thirsty. + 7. The smooth tricks of scoundrels are evil. - They plot crooked schemes. + +They plot crooked schemes. + They lie to convict the poor, - even when the cause of the poor is just. + +even when the cause of the poor is just. + 8. But generous people plan to do what is generous, - and they stand firm in their generosity. + +and they stand firm in their generosity. + 9. Listen, you women who lie around in ease. - Listen to me, you who are so smug. + +Listen to me, you who are so smug. + 10. In a short time--just a little more than a year-- - you careless ones will suddenly begin to care. + +you careless ones will suddenly begin to care. + For your fruit crops will fail, - and the harvest will never take place. + +and the harvest will never take place. + 11. Tremble, you women of ease; - throw off your complacency. + +throw off your complacency. + Strip off your pretty clothes, - and put on burlap to show your grief. + +and put on burlap to show your grief. + 12. Beat your breasts in sorrow for your bountiful farms - and your fruitful grapevines. + +and your fruitful grapevines. + 13. For your land will be overgrown with thorns and briers. - Your joyful homes and happy towns will be gone. + +Your joyful homes and happy towns will be gone. + 14. The palace and the city will be deserted, - and busy towns will be empty. + +and busy towns will be empty. + Wild donkeys will frolic and flocks will graze in the empty forts and watchtowers 15. until at last the Spirit is poured out - on us from heaven. + +on us from heaven. + Then the wilderness will become a fertile field, - and the fertile field will yield bountiful crops. + +and the fertile field will yield bountiful crops. + 16. Justice will rule in the wilderness - and righteousness in the fertile field. + +and righteousness in the fertile field. + 17. And this righteousness will bring peace. - Yes, it will bring quietness and confidence forever. + +Yes, it will bring quietness and confidence forever. + 18. My people will live in safety, quietly at home. - They will be at rest. + +They will be at rest. + 19. Even if the forest should be destroyed - and the city torn down, + +and the city torn down, + 20. the LORD will greatly bless his people. - Wherever they plant seed, bountiful crops will spring up. - Their cattle and donkeys will graze freely. + +Wherever they plant seed, bountiful crops will spring up. + +Their cattle and donkeys will graze freely. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_33.md index f4914048..e8c29365 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_33.md @@ -2,107 +2,176 @@ A Message about Assyria # Chapter 33 1. What sorrow awaits you Assyrians, who have destroyed others - but have never been destroyed yourselves. + +but have never been destroyed yourselves. + You betray others, - but you have never been betrayed. + +but you have never been betrayed. + When you are done destroying, - you will be destroyed. + +you will be destroyed. + When you are done betraying, - you will be betrayed. + +you will be betrayed. + 2. But LORD, be merciful to us, - for we have waited for you. + +for we have waited for you. + Be our strong arm each day - and our salvation in times of trouble. + +and our salvation in times of trouble. + 3. The enemy runs at the sound of your voice. - When you stand up, the nations flee! + +When you stand up, the nations flee! + 4. Just as caterpillars and locusts strip the fields and vines, - so the fallen army of Assyria will be stripped! + +so the fallen army of Assyria will be stripped! + 5. Though the LORD is very great and lives in heaven, he will make Jerusalem his home of justice and righteousness. 6. In that day he will be your sure foundation, - providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. + +providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the LORD will be your treasure. 7. But now your brave warriors weep in public. - Your ambassadors of peace cry in bitter disappointment. + +Your ambassadors of peace cry in bitter disappointment. + 8. Your roads are deserted; - no one travels them anymore. + +no one travels them anymore. + The Assyrians have broken their peace treaty and care nothing for the promises they made before witnesses. - They have no respect for anyone. + +They have no respect for anyone. + 9. The land of Israel wilts in mourning. - Lebanon withers with shame. + +Lebanon withers with shame. + The plain of Sharon is now a wilderness. - Bashan and Carmel have been plundered. + +Bashan and Carmel have been plundered. + 10. But the LORD says: "Now I will stand up. - Now I will show my power and might. + +Now I will show my power and might. + 11. You Assyrians produce nothing but dry grass and stubble. - Your own breath will turn to fire and consume you. + +Your own breath will turn to fire and consume you. + 12. Your people will be burned up completely, - like thornbushes cut down and tossed in a fire. + +like thornbushes cut down and tossed in a fire. + 13. Listen to what I have done, you nations far away! - And you that are near, acknowledge my might!" + +And you that are near, acknowledge my might!" + 14. The sinners in Jerusalem shake with fear. - Terror seizes the godless. + +Terror seizes the godless. + "Who can live with this devouring fire?" they cry. - "Who can survive this all-consuming fire?" + +"Who can survive this all-consuming fire?" + 15. Those who are honest and fair, - who refuse to profit by fraud, - who stay far away from bribes, + +who refuse to profit by fraud, + +who stay far away from bribes, who refuse to listen to those who plot murder, - who shut their eyes to all enticement to do wrong-- + +who shut their eyes to all enticement to do wrong-- 16. these are the ones who will dwell on high. - The rocks of the mountains will be their fortress. + +The rocks of the mountains will be their fortress. + Food will be supplied to them, - and they will have water in abundance. + +and they will have water in abundance. + 17. Your eyes will see the king in all his splendor, - and you will see a land that stretches into the distance. + +and you will see a land that stretches into the distance. + 18. You will think back to this time of terror, asking, "Where are the Assyrian officers - who counted our towers? + +who counted our towers? Where are the bookkeepers - who recorded the plunder taken from our fallen city?" + +who recorded the plunder taken from our fallen city?" + 19. You will no longer see these fierce, violent people - with their strange, unknown language. + +with their strange, unknown language. + 20. Instead, you will see Zion as a place of holy festivals. - You will see Jerusalem, a city quiet and secure. + +You will see Jerusalem, a city quiet and secure. + It will be like a tent whose ropes are taut - and whose stakes are firmly fixed. + +and whose stakes are firmly fixed. + 21. The LORD will be our Mighty One. - He will be like a wide river of protection + +He will be like a wide river of protection that no enemy can cross, - that no enemy ship can sail upon. + +that no enemy ship can sail upon. + 22. For the LORD is our judge, - our lawgiver, and our king. - He will care for us and save us. + +our lawgiver, and our king. + +He will care for us and save us. + 23. The enemies' sails hang loose - on broken masts with useless tackle. + +on broken masts with useless tackle. + Their treasure will be divided by the people of God. - Even the lame will take their share! + +Even the lame will take their share! + 24. The people of Israel will no longer say, - "We are sick and helpless," + +"We are sick and helpless," for the LORD will forgive their sins. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_34.md index a181c97f..6f67805e 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_34.md @@ -2,83 +2,136 @@ A Message for the Nations # Chapter 34 1. Come here and listen, O nations of the earth. - Let the world and everything in it hear my words. + +Let the world and everything in it hear my words. + 2. For the LORD is enraged against the nations. - His fury is against all their armies. + +His fury is against all their armies. He will completely destroy them, - dooming them to slaughter. + +dooming them to slaughter. + 3. Their dead will be left unburied, - and the stench of rotting bodies will fill the land. - The mountains will flow with their blood. + +and the stench of rotting bodies will fill the land. + +The mountains will flow with their blood. + 4. The heavens above will melt away - and disappear like a rolled-up scroll. + +and disappear like a rolled-up scroll. + The stars will fall from the sky - like withered leaves from a grapevine, - or shriveled figs from a fig tree. + +like withered leaves from a grapevine, + +or shriveled figs from a fig tree. + 5. And when my sword has finished its work in the heavens, - it will fall upon Edom, - the nation I have marked for destruction. + +it will fall upon Edom, + +the nation I have marked for destruction. + 6. The sword of the LORD is drenched with blood - and covered with fat-- + +and covered with fat-- with the blood of lambs and goats, - with the fat of rams prepared for sacrifice. + +with the fat of rams prepared for sacrifice. Yes, the LORD will offer a sacrifice in the city of Bozrah. - He will make a mighty slaughter in Edom. + +He will make a mighty slaughter in Edom. + 7. Even men as strong as wild oxen will die-- - the young men alongside the veterans. + +the young men alongside the veterans. + The land will be soaked with blood - and the soil enriched with fat. + +and the soil enriched with fat. + 8. For it is the day of the LORD's revenge, the year when Edom will be paid back for all it did to Israel. 9. The streams of Edom will be filled with burning pitch, - and the ground will be covered with fire. + +and the ground will be covered with fire. + 10. This judgment on Edom will never end; - the smoke of its burning will rise forever. -The land will lie deserted from generation to generation. - No one will live there anymore. + +the smoke of its burning will rise forever. + +The land will lie deserted +from generation to generation. + +No one will live there anymore. + 11. It will be haunted by the desert owl and the screech owl, the great owl and the raven. + For God will measure that land carefully; - he will measure it for chaos and destruction. + +he will measure it for chaos and destruction. + 12. It will be called the Land of Nothing, and all its nobles will soon be gone. 13. Thorns will overrun its palaces; - nettles and thistles will grow in its forts. + +nettles and thistles will grow in its forts. + The ruins will become a haunt for jackals - and a home for owls. + +and a home for owls. + 14. Desert animals will mingle there with hyenas, - their howls filling the night. + +their howls filling the night. + Wild goats will bleat at one another among the ruins, and night creatures will come there to rest. 15. There the owl will make her nest and lay her eggs. - She will hatch her young and cover them with her wings. + +She will hatch her young and cover them with her wings. + And the buzzards will come, - each one with its mate. + +each one with its mate. + 16. Search the book of the LORD, - and see what he will do. + +and see what he will do. + Not one of these birds and animals will be missing, - and none will lack a mate, + +and none will lack a mate, for the LORD has promised this. - His Spirit will make it all come true. + +His Spirit will make it all come true. + 17. He has surveyed and divided the land - and deeded it over to those creatures. + +and deeded it over to those creatures. + They will possess it forever, - from generation to generation. + +from generation to generation. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_35.md index 725edbb5..e60c04d5 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_35.md @@ -2,51 +2,84 @@ Hope for Restoration # Chapter 35 1. Even the wilderness and desert will be glad in those days. - The wasteland will rejoice and blossom with spring crocuses. + +The wasteland will rejoice and blossom with spring crocuses. + 2. Yes, there will be an abundance of flowers - and singing and joy! + +and singing and joy! The deserts will become as green as the mountains of Lebanon, - as lovely as Mount Carmel or the plain of Sharon. + +as lovely as Mount Carmel or the plain of Sharon. There the LORD will display his glory, - the splendor of our God. + +the splendor of our God. + 3. With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, - and encourage those who have weak knees. + +and encourage those who have weak knees. + 4. Say to those with fearful hearts, - "Be strong, and do not fear, + +"Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. - He is coming to save you." + +He is coming to save you." + 5. And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the blind - and unplug the ears of the deaf. + +and unplug the ears of the deaf. + 6. The lame will leap like a deer, - and those who cannot speak will sing for joy! + +and those who cannot speak will sing for joy! Springs will gush forth in the wilderness, - and streams will water the wasteland. + +and streams will water the wasteland. + 7. The parched ground will become a pool, - and springs of water will satisfy the thirsty land. + +and springs of water will satisfy the thirsty land. + Marsh grass and reeds and rushes will flourish - where desert jackals once lived. + +where desert jackals once lived. + 8. And a great road will go through that once deserted land. - It will be named the Highway of Holiness. + +It will be named the Highway of Holiness. + Evil-minded people will never travel on it. - It will be only for those who walk in God's ways; - fools will never walk there. + +It will be only for those who walk in God's ways; + +fools will never walk there. + 9. Lions will not lurk along its course, - nor any other ferocious beasts. + +nor any other ferocious beasts. + There will be no other dangers. - Only the redeemed will walk on it. + +Only the redeemed will walk on it. + 10. Those who have been ransomed by the LORD will return. They will enter Jerusalem singing, - crowned with everlasting joy. + +crowned with everlasting joy. + Sorrow and mourning will disappear, - and they will be filled with joy and gladness. + +and they will be filled with joy and gladness. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_36.md index ef4cf2e0..236fbea5 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_36.md @@ -4,10 +4,14 @@ Assyria Invades Judah 1. In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah's reign, King Sennacherib of Assyria came to attack the fortified towns of Judah and conquered them. 2. Then the king of Assyria sent his chief of staff from Lachish with a huge army to confront King Hezekiah in Jerusalem. The Assyrians took up a position beside the aqueduct that feeds water into the upper pool, near the road leading to the field where cloth is washed. -3. These are the officials who went out to meet with them: Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator; Shebna the court secretary; and Joah son of Asaph, the royal historian.Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem +3. These are the officials who went out to meet with them: Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator; Shebna the court secretary; and Joah son of Asaph, the royal historian. + +Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem + 4. Then the Assyrian king's chief of staff told them to give this message to Hezekiah: "This is what the great king of Assyria says: What are you trusting in that makes you so confident? + 5. Do you think that mere words can substitute for military skill and strength? Who are you counting on, that you have rebelled against me? 6. On Egypt? If you lean on Egypt, it will be like a reed that splinters beneath your weight and pierces your hand. Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, is completely unreliable! @@ -37,3 +41,4 @@ Assyria Invades Judah 22. Then Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator; Shebna the court secretary; and Joah son of Asaph, the royal historian, went back to Hezekiah. They tore their clothes in despair, and they went in to see the king and told him what the Assyrian chief of staff had said. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_37.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_37.md index 38c14767..42bd405d 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_37.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_37.md @@ -1,4 +1,5 @@ -Hezekiah Seeks the LORD's Help +Hezekiah Seeks the LORD's +Help # Chapter 37 1. When King Hezekiah heard their report, he tore his clothes and put on burlap and went into the Temple of the LORD. @@ -26,89 +27,145 @@ Hezekiah Seeks the LORD's Help 18. "It is true, LORD, that the kings of Assyria have destroyed all these nations. 19. And they have thrown the gods of these nations into the fire and burned them. But of course the Assyrians could destroy them! They were not gods at all--only idols of wood and stone shaped by human hands. -20. Now, O LORD our God, rescue us from his power; then all the kingdoms of the earth will know that you alone, O LORD, are God."Isaiah Predicts Judah's Deliverance +20. Now, O LORD our God, rescue us from his power; then all the kingdoms of the earth will know that you alone, O LORD, are God." +Isaiah Predicts Judah's Deliverance + 21. Then Isaiah son of Amoz sent this message to Hezekiah: "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: Because you prayed about King Sennacherib of Assyria, 22. the LORD has spoken this word against him: "The virgin daughter of Zion - despises you and laughs at you. + +despises you and laughs at you. + The daughter of Jerusalem - shakes her head in derision as you flee. + +shakes her head in derision as you flee. + 23. "Whom have you been defying and ridiculing? - Against whom did you raise your voice? + +Against whom did you raise your voice? At whom did you look with such haughty eyes? - It was the Holy One of Israel! + +It was the Holy One of Israel! + 24. By your messengers you have defied the Lord. - You have said, 'With my many chariots + +You have said, 'With my many chariots I have conquered the highest mountains-- - yes, the remotest peaks of Lebanon. + +yes, the remotest peaks of Lebanon. + I have cut down its tallest cedars - and its finest cypress trees. + +and its finest cypress trees. + I have reached its farthest heights - and explored its deepest forests. + +and explored its deepest forests. + 25. I have dug wells in many foreign lands - and refreshed myself with their water. + +and refreshed myself with their water. + With the sole of my foot, - I stopped up all the rivers of Egypt!' + +I stopped up all the rivers of Egypt!' + 26. "But have you not heard? - I decided this long ago. + +I decided this long ago. + Long ago I planned it, - and now I am making it happen. + +and now I am making it happen. + I planned for you to crush fortified cities - into heaps of rubble. + +into heaps of rubble. + 27. That is why their people have so little power - and are so frightened and confused. + +and are so frightened and confused. + They are as weak as grass, - as easily trampled as tender green shoots. + +as easily trampled as tender green shoots. + They are like grass sprouting on a housetop, scorched before it can grow lush and tall. 28. "But I know you well-- - where you stay + +where you stay and when you come and go. - I know the way you have raged against me. + +I know the way you have raged against me. + 29. And because of your raging against me - and your arrogance, which I have heard for myself, + +and your arrogance, which I have heard for myself, I will put my hook in your nose - and my bit in your mouth. + +and my bit in your mouth. + I will make you return - by the same road on which you came." + +by the same road on which you came." + 30. Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, "Here is the proof that what I say is true: "This year you will eat only what grows up by itself, - and next year you will eat what springs up from that. + +and next year you will eat what springs up from that. + But in the third year you will plant crops and harvest them; - you will tend vineyards and eat their fruit. + +you will tend vineyards and eat their fruit. + 31. And you who are left in Judah, - who have escaped the ravages of the siege, + +who have escaped the ravages of the siege, will put roots down in your own soil - and grow up and flourish. + +and grow up and flourish. + 32. For a remnant of my people will spread out from Jerusalem, - a group of survivors from Mount Zion. + +a group of survivors from Mount Zion. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies - will make this happen! + +will make this happen! + 33. "And this is what the LORD says about the king of Assyria: "'His armies will not enter Jerusalem. - They will not even shoot an arrow at it. + +They will not even shoot an arrow at it. + They will not march outside its gates with their shields - nor build banks of earth against its walls. + +nor build banks of earth against its walls. + 34. The king will return to his own country - by the same road on which he came. + +by the same road on which he came. + He will not enter this city,' says the LORD. 35. 'For my own honor and for the sake of my servant David, - I will defend this city and protect it.'" + +I will defend this city and protect it.'" + 36. That night the angel of the LORD went out to the Assyrian camp and killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. When the surviving Assyrians woke up the next morning, they found corpses everywhere. 37. Then King Sennacherib of Assyria broke camp and returned to his own land. He went home to his capital of Nineveh and stayed there. @@ -116,3 +173,4 @@ He will not enter this city,' 38. One day while he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer killed him with their swords. They then escaped to the land of Ararat, and another son, Esarhaddon, became the next king of Assyria. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_38.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_38.md index 93d9b0c2..55b47105 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_38.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_38.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Hezekiah's Sickness and Recovery # Chapter 38 -1. About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill, and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to visit him. He gave the king this message: "This is what the LORD says: 'Set your affairs in order, for you are going to die. You will not recover from this illness.'" +1. +About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill, and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to visit him. He gave the king this message: "This is what the LORD says: 'Set your affairs in order, for you are going to die. You will not recover from this illness.'" 2. When Hezekiah heard this, he turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, 3. "Remember, O LORD, how I have always been faithful to you and have served you single-mindedly, always doing what pleases you." Then he broke down and wept bitterly. @@ -11,58 +12,98 @@ Hezekiah's Sickness and Recovery 6. and I will rescue you and this city from the king of Assyria. Yes, I will defend this city. 7. "'And this is the sign from the LORD to prove that he will do as he promised: -8. I will cause the sun's shadow to move ten steps backward on the sundial of Ahaz!'" So the shadow on the sundial moved backward ten steps.Hezekiah's Poem of Praise +8. I will cause the sun's shadow to move ten steps backward on the sundial of Ahaz!'" So the shadow on the sundial moved backward ten steps. + +Hezekiah's Poem of Praise + 9. When King Hezekiah was well again, he wrote this poem: 10. I said, "In the prime of my life, must I now enter the place of the dead? - Am I to be robbed of the rest of my years?" + +Am I to be robbed of the rest of my years?" + 11. I said, "Never again will I see the Lord God - while still in the land of the living. + +while still in the land of the living. + Never again will I see my friends - or be with those who live in this world. + +or be with those who live in this world. + 12. My life has been blown away - like a shepherd's tent in a storm. + +like a shepherd's tent in a storm. + It has been cut short, - as when a weaver cuts cloth from a loom. - Suddenly, my life was over. + +as when a weaver cuts cloth from a loom. + +Suddenly, my life was over. + 13. I waited patiently all night, - but I was torn apart as though by lions. - Suddenly, my life was over. + +but I was torn apart as though by lions. + +Suddenly, my life was over. + 14. Delirious, I chattered like a swallow or a crane, - and then I moaned like a mourning dove. + +and then I moaned like a mourning dove. + My eyes grew tired of looking to heaven for help. - I am in trouble, Lord. Help me!" + +I am in trouble, Lord. +Help me!" + 15. But what could I say? - For he himself sent this sickness. + +For he himself sent this sickness. + Now I will walk humbly throughout my years - because of this anguish I have felt. + +because of this anguish I have felt. + 16. Lord, your discipline is good, - for it leads to life and health. + +for it leads to life and health. + You restore my health - and allow me to live! + +and allow me to live! + 17. Yes, this anguish was good for me, - for you have rescued me from death - and forgiven all my sins. + +for you have rescued me from death + +and forgiven all my sins. + 18. For the dead cannot praise you; - they cannot raise their voices in praise. + +they cannot raise their voices in praise. + Those who go down to the grave - can no longer hope in your faithfulness. + +can no longer hope in your faithfulness. + 19. Only the living can praise you as I do today. - Each generation tells of your faithfulness to the next. + +Each generation tells of your faithfulness to the next. + 20. Think of it--the LORD is ready to heal me! - I will sing his praises with instruments + +I will sing his praises with instruments every day of my life in the Temple of the LORD. @@ -71,3 +112,4 @@ every day of my life 22. And Hezekiah had asked, "What sign will prove that I will go to the Temple of the LORD?" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_39.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_39.md index 31bfd5e9..a054d723 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_39.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_39.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ Envoys from Babylon 3. Then Isaiah the prophet went to King Hezekiah and asked him, "What did those men want? Where were they from?" Hezekiah replied, "They came from the distant land of Babylon." + 4. "What did they see in your palace?" asked Isaiah. "They saw everything," Hezekiah replied. "I showed them everything I own--all my royal treasuries." @@ -17,3 +18,4 @@ Hezekiah replied, "They came from the distant land of Babylon." 8. Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, "This message you have given me from the LORD is good." For the king was thinking, "At least there will be peace and security during my lifetime." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_40.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_40.md index ffe4a6a5..0ece0362 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_40.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_40.md @@ -2,143 +2,234 @@ Comfort for God's People # Chapter 40 1. "Comfort, comfort my people," - says your God. + +says your God. + 2. "Speak tenderly to Jerusalem. + Tell her that her sad days are gone - and her sins are pardoned. + +and her sins are pardoned. Yes, the LORD has punished her twice over - for all her sins." + +for all her sins." + 3. Listen! It's the voice of someone shouting, "Clear the way through the wilderness for the LORD! Make a straight highway through the wasteland - for our God! + +for our God! + 4. Fill in the valleys, - and level the mountains and hills. + +and level the mountains and hills. + Straighten the curves, - and smooth out the rough places. + +and smooth out the rough places. + 5. Then the glory of the LORD will be revealed, - and all people will see it together. + +and all people will see it together. The LORD has spoken!" 6. A voice said, "Shout!" - I asked, "What should I shout?" + +I asked, "What should I shout?" "Shout that people are like the grass. - Their beauty fades as quickly - as the flowers in a field. + +Their beauty fades as quickly + +as the flowers in a field. + 7. The grass withers and the flowers fade beneath the breath of the LORD. - And so it is with people. + +And so it is with people. + 8. The grass withers and the flowers fade, - but the word of our God stands forever." + +but the word of our God stands forever." + 9. O Zion, messenger of good news, - shout from the mountaintops! + +shout from the mountaintops! Shout it louder, O Jerusalem. - Shout, and do not be afraid. + +Shout, and do not be afraid. + Tell the towns of Judah, - "Your God is coming!" + +"Your God is coming!" + 10. Yes, the Sovereign LORD is coming in power. - He will rule with a powerful arm. - See, he brings his reward with him as he comes. + +He will rule with a powerful arm. + +See, he brings his reward with him as he comes. + 11. He will feed his flock like a shepherd. - He will carry the lambs in his arms, + +He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. - He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young.The LORD Has No Equal + +He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young.The LORD Has No Equal 12. Who else has held the oceans in his hand? - Who has measured off the heavens with his fingers? + +Who has measured off the heavens with his fingers? Who else knows the weight of the earth - or has weighed the mountains and hills on a scale? + +or has weighed the mountains and hills on a scale? + 13. Who is able to advise the Spirit of the LORD? - Who knows enough to give him advice or teach him? + +Who knows enough to give him advice or teach him? + 14. Has the LORD ever needed anyone's advice? - Does he need instruction about what is good? + +Does he need instruction about what is good? Did someone teach him what is right - or show him the path of justice? + +or show him the path of justice? + 15. No, for all the nations of the world - are but a drop in the bucket. + +are but a drop in the bucket. + They are nothing more - than dust on the scales. + +than dust on the scales. + He picks up the whole earth - as though it were a grain of sand. + +as though it were a grain of sand. + 16. All the wood in Lebanon's forests - and all Lebanon's animals would not be enough - to make a burnt offering worthy of our God. + +and all Lebanon's animals would not be enough + +to make a burnt offering worthy of our God. + 17. The nations of the world are worth nothing to him. - In his eyes they count for less than nothing-- - mere emptiness and froth. + +In his eyes they count for less than nothing-- + +mere emptiness and froth. + 18. To whom can you compare God? - What image can you find to resemble him? + +What image can you find to resemble him? + 19. Can he be compared to an idol formed in a mold, - overlaid with gold, and decorated with silver chains? + +overlaid with gold, and decorated with silver chains? + 20. Or if people are too poor for that, - they might at least choose wood that won't decay + +they might at least choose wood that won't decay and a skilled craftsman - to carve an image that won't fall down! + +to carve an image that won't fall down! + 21. Haven't you heard? Don't you understand? - Are you deaf to the words of God-- + +Are you deaf to the words of God-- the words he gave before the world began? - Are you so ignorant? + +Are you so ignorant? + 22. God sits above the circle of the earth. - The people below seem like grasshoppers to him! + +The people below seem like grasshoppers to him! He spreads out the heavens like a curtain - and makes his tent from them. + +and makes his tent from them. + 23. He judges the great people of the world - and brings them all to nothing. + +and brings them all to nothing. + 24. They hardly get started, barely taking root, - when he blows on them and they wither. - The wind carries them off like chaff. + +when he blows on them and they wither. + +The wind carries them off like chaff. + 25. "To whom will you compare me? - Who is my equal?" asks the Holy One. + +Who is my equal?" asks the Holy One. + 26. Look up into the heavens. - Who created all the stars? + +Who created all the stars? He brings them out like an army, one after another, - calling each by its name. + +calling each by its name. + Because of his great power and incomparable strength, - not a single one is missing. + +not a single one is missing. + 27. O Jacob, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? - O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights? + +O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights? + 28. Have you never heard? - Have you never understood? + +Have you never understood? The LORD is the everlasting God, - the Creator of all the earth. + +the Creator of all the earth. + He never grows weak or weary. - No one can measure the depths of his understanding. + +No one can measure the depths of his understanding. + 29. He gives power to the weak - and strength to the powerless. + +and strength to the powerless. + 30. Even youths will become weak and tired, - and young men will fall in exhaustion. + +and young men will fall in exhaustion. + 31. But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. - They will soar high on wings like eagles. + +They will soar high on wings like eagles. + They will run and not grow weary. - They will walk and not faint. + +They will walk and not faint. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_41.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_41.md index b3653b5e..4d078292 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_41.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_41.md @@ -1,138 +1,229 @@ -God's Help for Israel +God's +Help for Israel # Chapter 41 1. "Listen in silence before me, you lands beyond the sea. - Bring your strongest arguments. + +Bring your strongest arguments. + Come now and speak. - The court is ready for your case. + +The court is ready for your case. + 2. "Who has stirred up this king from the east, - rightly calling him to God's service? + +rightly calling him to God's service? Who gives this man victory over many nations - and permits him to trample their kings underfoot? + +and permits him to trample their kings underfoot? With his sword, he reduces armies to dust. - With his bow, he scatters them like chaff before the wind. + +With his bow, he scatters them like chaff before the wind. + 3. He chases them away and goes on safely, - though he is walking over unfamiliar ground. + +though he is walking over unfamiliar ground. + 4. Who has done such mighty deeds, - summoning each new generation from the beginning of time? + +summoning each new generation from the beginning of time? It is I, the LORD, the First and the Last. - I alone am he." + +I alone am he." + 5. The lands beyond the sea watch in fear. - Remote lands tremble and mobilize for war. + +Remote lands tremble and mobilize for war. + 6. The idol makers encourage one another, - saying to each other, "Be strong!" + +saying to each other, "Be strong!" + 7. The carver encourages the goldsmith, - and the molder helps at the anvil. - "Good," they say. "It's coming along fine." + +and the molder helps at the anvil. + +"Good," they say. "It's coming along fine." Carefully they join the parts together, - then fasten the thing in place so it won't fall over. + +then fasten the thing in place so it won't fall over. + 8. "But as for you, Israel my servant, - Jacob my chosen one, - descended from Abraham my friend, + +Jacob my chosen one, + +descended from Abraham my friend, + 9. I have called you back from the ends of the earth, - saying, 'You are my servant.' + +saying, 'You are my servant.' For I have chosen you - and will not throw you away. + +and will not throw you away. + 10. Don't be afraid, for I am with you. - Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. + +Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. + I will strengthen you and help you. - I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. + +I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. + 11. "See, all your angry enemies lie there, - confused and humiliated. + +confused and humiliated. + Anyone who opposes you will die - and come to nothing. + +and come to nothing. + 12. You will look in vain - for those who tried to conquer you. + +for those who tried to conquer you. + Those who attack you - will come to nothing. + +will come to nothing. + 13. For I hold you by your right hand-- I, the LORD your God. + And I say to you, - 'Don't be afraid. I am here to help you. + +'Don't be afraid. I am here to help you. + 14. Though you are a lowly worm, O Jacob, - don't be afraid, people of Israel, for I will help you. + +don't be afraid, people of Israel, for I will help you. I am the LORD, your Redeemer. - I am the Holy One of Israel.' + +I am the Holy One of Israel.' + 15. You will be a new threshing instrument - with many sharp teeth. + +with many sharp teeth. + You will tear your enemies apart, - making chaff of mountains. + +making chaff of mountains. + 16. You will toss them into the air, - and the wind will blow them all away; - a whirlwind will scatter them. + +and the wind will blow them all away; + +a whirlwind will scatter them. Then you will rejoice in the LORD. - You will glory in the Holy One of Israel. + +You will glory in the Holy One of Israel. + 17. "When the poor and needy search for water and there is none, - and their tongues are parched from thirst, + +and their tongues are parched from thirst, then I, the LORD, will answer them. - I, the God of Israel, will never abandon them. + +I, the God of Israel, will never abandon them. + 18. I will open up rivers for them on the high plateaus. - I will give them fountains of water in the valleys. + +I will give them fountains of water in the valleys. + I will fill the desert with pools of water. - Rivers fed by springs will flow across the parched ground. + +Rivers fed by springs will flow across the parched ground. + 19. I will plant trees in the barren desert-- - cedar, acacia, myrtle, olive, cypress, fir, and pine. + +cedar, acacia, myrtle, olive, cypress, fir, and pine. + 20. I am doing this so all who see this miracle - will understand what it means-- + +will understand what it means-- that it is the LORD who has done this, - the Holy One of Israel who created it. + +the Holy One of Israel who created it. + 21. "Present the case for your idols," says the LORD. + "Let them show what they can do," says the King of Israel. 22. "Let them try to tell us what happened long ago - so that we may consider the evidence. + +so that we may consider the evidence. + Or let them tell us what the future holds, - so we can know what's going to happen. + +so we can know what's going to happen. + 23. Yes, tell us what will occur in the days ahead. - Then we will know you are gods. + +Then we will know you are gods. In fact, do anything--good or bad! - Do something that will amaze and frighten us. + +Do something that will amaze and frighten us. + 24. But no! You are less than nothing and can do nothing at all. - Those who choose you pollute themselves. + +Those who choose you pollute themselves. + 25. "But I have stirred up a leader who will approach from the north. - From the east he will call on my name. + +From the east he will call on my name. + I will give him victory over kings and princes. - He will trample them as a potter treads on clay. + +He will trample them as a potter treads on clay. + 26. "Who told you from the beginning - that this would happen? + +that this would happen? Who predicted this, - making you admit that he was right? - No one said a word! + +making you admit that he was right? + +No one said a word! + 27. I was the first to tell Zion, - 'Look! Help is on the way!' - I will send Jerusalem a messenger with good news. + 'Look! +Help is on the way!' + +I will send Jerusalem a messenger with good news. + 28. Not one of your idols told you this. - Not one gave any answer when I asked. + +Not one gave any answer when I asked. + 29. See, they are all foolish, worthless things. - All your idols are as empty as the wind. + +All your idols are as empty as the wind. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_42.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_42.md index bda467af..0d83a485 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_42.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_42.md @@ -2,119 +2,199 @@ The LORD's Chosen Servant # Chapter 42 1. "Look at my servant, whom I strengthen. - He is my chosen one, who pleases me. + +He is my chosen one, who pleases me. + I have put my Spirit upon him. - He will bring justice to the nations. + +He will bring justice to the nations. + 2. He will not shout - or raise his voice in public. + +or raise his voice in public. + 3. He will not crush the weakest reed - or put out a flickering candle. - He will bring justice to all who have been wronged. + +or put out a flickering candle. + +He will bring justice to all who have been wronged. + 4. He will not falter or lose heart - until justice prevails throughout the earth. + +until justice prevails throughout the earth. Even distant lands beyond the sea will wait for his instruction." 5. God, the LORD, created the heavens and stretched them out. - He created the earth and everything in it. + +He created the earth and everything in it. + He gives breath to everyone, - life to everyone who walks the earth. + +life to everyone who walks the earth. + And it is he who says, + 6. "I, the LORD, have called you to demonstrate my righteousness. - I will take you by the hand and guard you, + +I will take you by the hand and guard you, and I will give you to my people, Israel, - as a symbol of my covenant with them. + +as a symbol of my covenant with them. + And you will be a light to guide the nations. + 7. You will open the eyes of the blind. + You will free the captives from prison, - releasing those who sit in dark dungeons. + +releasing those who sit in dark dungeons. + 8. "I am the LORD; that is my name! - I will not give my glory to anyone else, - nor share my praise with carved idols. + +I will not give my glory to anyone else, + +nor share my praise with carved idols. + 9. Everything I prophesied has come true, - and now I will prophesy again. + +and now I will prophesy again. + I will tell you the future before it happens."A Song of Praise to the LORD 10. Sing a new song to the LORD! - Sing his praises from the ends of the earth! + +Sing his praises from the ends of the earth! Sing, all you who sail the seas, - all you who live in distant coastlands. + +all you who live in distant coastlands. + 11. Join in the chorus, you desert towns; - let the villages of Kedar rejoice! + +let the villages of Kedar rejoice! Let the people of Sela sing for joy; - shout praises from the mountaintops! + +shout praises from the mountaintops! + 12. Let the whole world glorify the LORD; - let it sing his praise. + +let it sing his praise. + 13. The LORD will march forth like a mighty hero; - he will come out like a warrior, full of fury. + +he will come out like a warrior, full of fury. + He will shout his battle cry - and crush all his enemies. + +and crush all his enemies. + 14. He will say, "I have long been silent; - yes, I have restrained myself. + +yes, I have restrained myself. + But now, like a woman in labor, - I will cry and groan and pant. + +I will cry and groan and pant. + 15. I will level the mountains and hills - and blight all their greenery. + +and blight all their greenery. + I will turn the rivers into dry land - and will dry up all the pools. + +and will dry up all the pools. + 16. I will lead blind Israel down a new path, - guiding them along an unfamiliar way. + +guiding them along an unfamiliar way. + I will brighten the darkness before them - and smooth out the road ahead of them. + +and smooth out the road ahead of them. + Yes, I will indeed do these things; - I will not forsake them. + +I will not forsake them. + 17. But those who trust in idols, - who say, 'You are our gods,' - will be turned away in shame.Israel's Failure to Listen and See + +who say, 'You are our gods,' + +will be turned away in shame. + +Israel's Failure to Listen and See + 18. "Listen, you who are deaf! - Look and see, you blind! + +Look and see, you blind! + 19. Who is as blind as my own people, my servant? - Who is as deaf as my messenger? + +Who is as deaf as my messenger? Who is as blind as my chosen people, the servant of the LORD? 20. You see and recognize what is right - but refuse to act on it. + +but refuse to act on it. + You hear with your ears, - but you don't really listen." + +but you don't really listen." + 21. Because he is righteous, the LORD has exalted his glorious law. 22. But his own people have been robbed and plundered, - enslaved, imprisoned, and trapped. + +enslaved, imprisoned, and trapped. + They are fair game for anyone - and have no one to protect them, - no one to take them back home. + +and have no one to protect them, + +no one to take them back home. + 23. Who will hear these lessons from the past - and see the ruin that awaits you in the future? + +and see the ruin that awaits you in the future? + 24. Who allowed Israel to be robbed and hurt? It was the LORD, against whom we sinned, for the people would not walk in his path, - nor would they obey his law. + +nor would they obey his law. + 25. Therefore, he poured out his fury on them - and destroyed them in battle. + +and destroyed them in battle. + They were enveloped in flames, - but they still refused to understand. + +but they still refused to understand. + They were consumed by fire, - but they did not learn their lesson. + +but they did not learn their lesson. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_43.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_43.md index 0bcb3f48..10141358 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_43.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_43.md @@ -2,125 +2,204 @@ The Savior of Israel # Chapter 43 1. But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you. - O Israel, the one who formed you says, + +O Israel, the one who formed you says, "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. - I have called you by name; you are mine. + +I have called you by name; you are mine. + 2. When you go through deep waters, - I will be with you. + +I will be with you. + When you go through rivers of difficulty, - you will not drown. + +you will not drown. + When you walk through the fire of oppression, - you will not be burned up; - the flames will not consume you. + +you will not be burned up; + +the flames will not consume you. + 3. For I am the LORD, your God, - the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. + +the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. + I gave Egypt as a ransom for your freedom; I gave Ethiopia and Seba in your place. 4. Others were given in exchange for you. - I traded their lives for yours + +I traded their lives for yours because you are precious to me. - You are honored, and I love you. + +You are honored, and I love you. + 5. "Do not be afraid, for I am with you. - I will gather you and your children from east and west. + +I will gather you and your children from east and west. + 6. I will say to the north and south, - 'Bring my sons and daughters back to Israel - from the distant corners of the earth. + +'Bring my sons and daughters back to Israel + +from the distant corners of the earth. + 7. Bring all who claim me as their God, - for I have made them for my glory. - It was I who created them.'" + +for I have made them for my glory. + +It was I who created them.'" + 8. Bring out the people who have eyes but are blind, - who have ears but are deaf. + +who have ears but are deaf. + 9. Gather the nations together! - Assemble the peoples of the world! + +Assemble the peoples of the world! Which of their idols has ever foretold such things? - Which can predict what will happen tomorrow? + +Which can predict what will happen tomorrow? Where are the witnesses of such predictions? - Who can verify that they spoke the truth? + +Who can verify that they spoke the truth? + 10. "But you are my witnesses, O Israel!" says the LORD. - "You are my servant. + +"You are my servant. + You have been chosen to know me, believe in me, - and understand that I alone am God. + +and understand that I alone am God. + There is no other God-- - there never has been, and there never will be. + +there never has been, and there never will be. + 11. I, yes I, am the LORD, - and there is no other Savior. + +and there is no other Savior. + 12. First I predicted your rescue, - then I saved you and proclaimed it to the world. + +then I saved you and proclaimed it to the world. + No foreign god has ever done this. - You are witnesses that I am the only God," + +You are witnesses that I am the only God," says the LORD. 13. "From eternity to eternity I am God. - No one can snatch anyone out of my hand. - No one can undo what I have done."The LORD's Promise of Victory + +No one can snatch anyone out of my hand. + +No one can undo what I have done."The LORD's Promise of Victory 14. This is what the LORD says--your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "For your sakes I will send an army against Babylon, forcing the Babylonians to flee in those ships they are so proud of. 15. I am the LORD, your Holy One, - Israel's Creator and King. + +Israel's Creator and King. + 16. I am the LORD, who opened a way through the waters, - making a dry path through the sea. + +making a dry path through the sea. + 17. I called forth the mighty army of Egypt - with all its chariots and horses. + +with all its chariots and horses. + I drew them beneath the waves, and they drowned, - their lives snuffed out like a smoldering candlewick. + +their lives snuffed out like a smoldering candlewick. + 18. "But forget all that-- - it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. + +it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. + 19. For I am about to do something new. - See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? + +See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. - I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. + +I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. + 20. The wild animals in the fields will thank me, - the jackals and owls, too, - for giving them water in the desert. + +the jackals and owls, too, + +for giving them water in the desert. + Yes, I will make rivers in the dry wasteland - so my chosen people can be refreshed. + +so my chosen people can be refreshed. + 21. I have made Israel for myself, - and they will someday honor me before the whole world. + +and they will someday honor me before the whole world. + 22. "But, dear family of Jacob, you refuse to ask for my help. - You have grown tired of me, O Israel! + +You have grown tired of me, O Israel! + 23. You have not brought me sheep or goats for burnt offerings. - You have not honored me with sacrifices, + +You have not honored me with sacrifices, though I have not burdened and wearied you - with requests for grain offerings and frankincense. + +with requests for grain offerings and frankincense. + 24. You have not brought me fragrant calamus - or pleased me with the fat from sacrifices. + +or pleased me with the fat from sacrifices. + Instead, you have burdened me with your sins - and wearied me with your faults. + +and wearied me with your faults. + 25. "I--yes, I alone--will blot out your sins for my own sake - and will never think of them again. + +and will never think of them again. + 26. Let us review the situation together, - and you can present your case to prove your innocence. + +and you can present your case to prove your innocence. + 27. From the very beginning, your first ancestor sinned against me; - all your leaders broke my laws. + +all your leaders broke my laws. + 28. That is why I have disgraced your priests; I have decreed complete destruction for Jacob - and shame for Israel. + +and shame for Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_44.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_44.md index 14d0cee1..0284cb04 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_44.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_44.md @@ -1,143 +1,239 @@ # Chapter 44 1. "But now, listen to me, Jacob my servant, - Israel my chosen one. + +Israel my chosen one. + 2. The LORD who made you and helps you says: Do not be afraid, O Jacob, my servant, O dear Israel, my chosen one. 3. For I will pour out water to quench your thirst - and to irrigate your parched fields. + +and to irrigate your parched fields. + And I will pour out my Spirit on your descendants, - and my blessing on your children. + +and my blessing on your children. + 4. They will thrive like watered grass, - like willows on a riverbank. + +like willows on a riverbank. + 5. Some will proudly claim, 'I belong to the LORD.' - Others will say, 'I am a descendant of Jacob.' + +Others will say, 'I am a descendant of Jacob.' Some will write the LORD's name on their hands - and will take the name of Israel as their own."The Foolishness of Idols + +and will take the name of Israel as their own." +The Foolishness of Idols + 6. This is what the LORD says--Israel's King and Redeemer, the LORD of Heaven's Armies: "I am the First and the Last; - there is no other God. + +there is no other God. + 7. Who is like me? - Let him step forward and prove to you his power. + +Let him step forward and prove to you his power. + Let him do as I have done since ancient times - when I established a people and explained its future. + +when I established a people and explained its future. + 8. Do not tremble; do not be afraid. - Did I not proclaim my purposes for you long ago? + +Did I not proclaim my purposes for you long ago? You are my witnesses--is there any other God? No! There is no other Rock--not one!" 9. How foolish are those who manufacture idols. - These prized objects are really worthless. + +These prized objects are really worthless. + The people who worship idols don't know this, - so they are all put to shame. + +so they are all put to shame. + 10. Who but a fool would make his own god-- - an idol that cannot help him one bit? + +an idol that cannot help him one bit? + 11. All who worship idols will be disgraced along with all these craftsmen--mere humans-- - who claim they can make a god. + +who claim they can make a god. + They may all stand together, - but they will stand in terror and shame. + +but they will stand in terror and shame. + 12. The blacksmith stands at his forge to make a sharp tool, - pounding and shaping it with all his might. + +pounding and shaping it with all his might. + His work makes him hungry and weak. - It makes him thirsty and faint. + +It makes him thirsty and faint. + 13. Then the wood-carver measures a block of wood - and draws a pattern on it. + +and draws a pattern on it. + He works with chisel and plane - and carves it into a human figure. + +and carves it into a human figure. + He gives it human beauty - and puts it in a little shrine. + +and puts it in a little shrine. + 14. He cuts down cedars; - he selects the cypress and the oak; + +he selects the cypress and the oak; he plants the pine in the forest - to be nourished by the rain. + +to be nourished by the rain. + 15. Then he uses part of the wood to make a fire. - With it he warms himself and bakes his bread. + +With it he warms himself and bakes his bread. Then--yes, it's true--he takes the rest of it - and makes himself a god to worship! + +and makes himself a god to worship! He makes an idol - and bows down in front of it! + +and bows down in front of it! + 16. He burns part of the tree to roast his meat - and to keep himself warm. - He says, "Ah, that fire feels good." + +and to keep himself warm. + +He says, "Ah, that fire feels good." + 17. Then he takes what's left - and makes his god: a carved idol! + +and makes his god: a carved idol! He falls down in front of it, - worshiping and praying to it. + +worshiping and praying to it. + "Rescue me!" he says. - "You are my god!" + +"You are my god!" + 18. Such stupidity and ignorance! - Their eyes are closed, and they cannot see. - Their minds are shut, and they cannot think. + +Their eyes are closed, and they cannot see. + +Their minds are shut, and they cannot think. + 19. The person who made the idol never stops to reflect, - "Why, it's just a block of wood! + +"Why, it's just a block of wood! I burned half of it for heat - and used it to bake my bread and roast my meat. + +and used it to bake my bread and roast my meat. + How can the rest of it be a god? - Should I bow down to worship a piece of wood?" + +Should I bow down to worship a piece of wood?" + 20. The poor, deluded fool feeds on ashes. - He trusts something that can't help him at all. + +He trusts something that can't help him at all. + Yet he cannot bring himself to ask, - "Is this idol that I'm holding in my hand a lie?"Restoration for Jerusalem + +"Is this idol that I'm holding in my hand a lie?" +Restoration for Jerusalem + 21. "Pay attention, O Jacob, - for you are my servant, O Israel. + +for you are my servant, O Israel. I, the LORD, made you, - and I will not forget you. + +and I will not forget you. + 22. I have swept away your sins like a cloud. - I have scattered your offenses like the morning mist. + +I have scattered your offenses like the morning mist. + Oh, return to me, - for I have paid the price to set you free." + +for I have paid the price to set you free." + 23. Sing, O heavens, for the LORD has done this wondrous thing. - Shout for joy, O depths of the earth! + +Shout for joy, O depths of the earth! Break into song, - O mountains and forests and every tree! + +O mountains and forests and every tree! For the LORD has redeemed Jacob - and is glorified in Israel. + +and is glorified in Israel. + 24. This is what the LORD says-- - your Redeemer and Creator: + +your Redeemer and Creator: "I am the LORD, who made all things. - I alone stretched out the heavens. + +I alone stretched out the heavens. + Who was with me - when I made the earth? + +when I made the earth? + 25. I expose the false prophets as liars - and make fools of fortune-tellers. + +and make fools of fortune-tellers. + I cause the wise to give bad advice, - thus proving them to be fools. + +thus proving them to be fools. + 26. But I carry out the predictions of my prophets! - By them I say to Jerusalem, 'People will live here again,' + +By them I say to Jerusalem, 'People will live here again,' and to the towns of Judah, 'You will be rebuilt; - I will restore all your ruins!' + +I will restore all your ruins!' + 27. When I speak to the rivers and say, 'Dry up!' - they will be dry. + +they will be dry. + 28. When I say of Cyrus, 'He is my shepherd,' - he will certainly do as I say. + +he will certainly do as I say. + He will command, 'Rebuild Jerusalem'; - he will say, 'Restore the Temple.'" + +he will say, 'Restore the Temple.'" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_45.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_45.md index 3b6ba0d9..f11c8420 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_45.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_45.md @@ -2,139 +2,223 @@ Cyrus, the LORD's Chosen One # Chapter 45 1. This is what the LORD says to Cyrus, his anointed one, - whose right hand he will empower. + +whose right hand he will empower. + Before him, mighty kings will be paralyzed with fear. - Their fortress gates will be opened, - never to shut again. + +Their fortress gates will be opened, + +never to shut again. + 2. This is what the LORD says: "I will go before you, Cyrus, and level the mountains. + I will smash down gates of bronze - and cut through bars of iron. + +and cut through bars of iron. + 3. And I will give you treasures hidden in the darkness-- - secret riches. + +secret riches. I will do this so you may know that I am the LORD, - the God of Israel, the one who calls you by name. + +the God of Israel, the one who calls you by name. + 4. "And why have I called you for this work? - Why did I call you by name when you did not know me? + +Why did I call you by name when you did not know me? It is for the sake of Jacob my servant, - Israel my chosen one. + +Israel my chosen one. + 5. I am the LORD; - there is no other God. + +there is no other God. + I have equipped you for battle, - though you don't even know me, + +though you don't even know me, + 6. so all the world from east to west - will know there is no other God. + will know +there is no other God. I am the LORD, and there is no other. 7. I create the light and make the darkness. + I send good times and bad times. I, the LORD, am the one who does these things. 8. "Open up, O heavens, - and pour out your righteousness. + +and pour out your righteousness. + Let the earth open wide - so salvation and righteousness can sprout up together. + +so salvation and righteousness can sprout up together. I, the LORD, created them. 9. "What sorrow awaits those who argue with their Creator. - Does a clay pot argue with its maker? + +Does a clay pot argue with its maker? Does the clay dispute with the one who shapes it, saying, - 'Stop, you're doing it wrong!' + +'Stop, you're doing it wrong!' Does the pot exclaim, - 'How clumsy can you be?' + +'How clumsy can you be?' + 10. How terrible it would be if a newborn baby said to its father, - 'Why was I born?' + +'Why was I born?' or if it said to its mother, - 'Why did you make me this way?'" + +'Why did you make me this way?'" + 11. This is what the LORD says-- - the Holy One of Israel and your Creator: + +the Holy One of Israel and your Creator: "Do you question what I do for my children? - Do you give me orders about the work of my hands? + +Do you give me orders about the work of my hands? + 12. I am the one who made the earth - and created people to live on it. + +and created people to live on it. + With my hands I stretched out the heavens. - All the stars are at my command. + +All the stars are at my command. + 13. I will raise up Cyrus to fulfill my righteous purpose, - and I will guide his actions. + +and I will guide his actions. + He will restore my city and free my captive people-- - without seeking a reward! - I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken!"Future Conversion of Gentiles + +without seeking a reward! + I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken!" +Future Conversion of Gentiles + 14. This is what the LORD says: "You will rule the Egyptians, the Ethiopians, and the Sabeans. + They will come to you with all their merchandise, - and it will all be yours. + +and it will all be yours. + They will follow you as prisoners in chains. - They will fall to their knees in front of you and say, + +They will fall to their knees in front of you and say, 'God is with you, and he is the only God. - There is no other.'" + +There is no other.'" + 15. Truly, O God of Israel, our Savior, - you work in mysterious ways. + +you work in mysterious ways. + 16. All craftsmen who make idols will be humiliated. - They will all be disgraced together. + +They will all be disgraced together. + 17. But the LORD will save the people of Israel - with eternal salvation. + +with eternal salvation. + Throughout everlasting ages, - they will never again be humiliated and disgraced. + +they will never again be humiliated and disgraced. + 18. For the LORD is God, - and he created the heavens and earth - and put everything in place. + +and he created the heavens and earth + +and put everything in place. + He made the world to be lived in, - not to be a place of empty chaos. + +not to be a place of empty chaos. "I am the LORD," he says, - "and there is no other. + +"and there is no other. + 19. I publicly proclaim bold promises. - I do not whisper obscurities in some dark corner. + +I do not whisper obscurities in some dark corner. I would not have told the people of Israel to seek me - if I could not be found. + +if I could not be found. I, the LORD, speak only what is true - and declare only what is right. + +and declare only what is right. + 20. "Gather together and come, - you fugitives from surrounding nations. + +you fugitives from surrounding nations. + What fools they are who carry around their wooden idols - and pray to gods that cannot save! + +and pray to gods that cannot save! + 21. Consult together, argue your case. - Get together and decide what to say. + +Get together and decide what to say. + Who made these things known so long ago? - What idol ever told you they would happen? + +What idol ever told you they would happen? Was it not I, the LORD? - For there is no other God but me, + +For there is no other God but me, a righteous God and Savior. - There is none but me. + +There is none but me. + 22. Let all the world look to me for salvation! - For I am God; there is no other. + +For I am God; there is no other. + 23. I have sworn by my own name; - I have spoken the truth, - and I will never go back on my word: + +I have spoken the truth, + +and I will never go back on my word: Every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will declare allegiance to me." 24. The people will declare, "The LORD is the source of all my righteousness and strength." And all who were angry with him - will come to him and be ashamed. + +will come to him and be ashamed. + 25. In the LORD all the generations of Israel will be justified, - and in him they will boast. + +and in him they will boast. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_46.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_46.md index 74f06eb1..2d3d2fd1 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_46.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_46.md @@ -2,61 +2,103 @@ Babylon's False Gods # Chapter 46 1. Bel and Nebo, the gods of Babylon, - bow as they are lowered to the ground. + +bow as they are lowered to the ground. + They are being hauled away on ox carts. - The poor beasts stagger under the weight. + +The poor beasts stagger under the weight. + 2. Both the idols and their owners are bowed down. - The gods cannot protect the people, + +The gods cannot protect the people, and the people cannot protect the gods. - They go off into captivity together. + +They go off into captivity together. + 3. "Listen to me, descendants of Jacob, - all you who remain in Israel. + +all you who remain in Israel. + I have cared for you since you were born. - Yes, I carried you before you were born. + +Yes, I carried you before you were born. + 4. I will be your God throughout your lifetime-- - until your hair is white with age. + +until your hair is white with age. + I made you, and I will care for you. - I will carry you along and save you. + +I will carry you along and save you. + 5. "To whom will you compare me? - Who is my equal? + +Who is my equal? + 6. Some people pour out their silver and gold - and hire a craftsman to make a god from it. - Then they bow down and worship it! + +and hire a craftsman to make a god from it. + +Then they bow down and worship it! + 7. They carry it around on their shoulders, - and when they set it down, it stays there. - It can't even move! + +and when they set it down, it stays there. + +It can't even move! And when someone prays to it, there is no answer. - It can't rescue anyone from trouble. + +It can't rescue anyone from trouble. + 8. "Do not forget this! Keep it in mind! - Remember this, you guilty ones. + +Remember this, you guilty ones. + 9. Remember the things I have done in the past. - For I alone am God! - I am God, and there is none like me. + +For I alone am God! + +I am God, and there is none like me. + 10. Only I can tell you the future - before it even happens. + +before it even happens. + Everything I plan will come to pass, - for I do whatever I wish. + +for I do whatever I wish. + 11. I will call a swift bird of prey from the east-- - a leader from a distant land to come and do my bidding. + +a leader from a distant land to come and do my bidding. + I have said what I would do, - and I will do it. + +and I will do it. + 12. "Listen to me, you stubborn people - who are so far from doing right. + +who are so far from doing right. + 13. For I am ready to set things right, - not in the distant future, but right now! + +not in the distant future, but right now! I am ready to save Jerusalem - and show my glory to Israel. + +and show my glory to Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_47.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_47.md index 28a0e4ed..d3fd3071 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_47.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_47.md @@ -2,72 +2,120 @@ Prediction of Babylon's Fall # Chapter 47 1. "Come down, virgin daughter of Babylon, and sit in the dust. - For your days of sitting on a throne have ended. + +For your days of sitting on a throne have ended. O daughter of Babylonia, never again will you be - the lovely princess, tender and delicate. + +the lovely princess, tender and delicate. + 2. Take heavy millstones and grind flour. - Remove your veil, and strip off your robe. + +Remove your veil, and strip off your robe. Expose yourself to public view. 3. You will be naked and burdened with shame. - I will take vengeance against you without pity." + +I will take vengeance against you without pity." + 4. Our Redeemer, whose name is the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - is the Holy One of Israel. + +is the Holy One of Israel. + 5. "O beautiful Babylon, sit now in darkness and silence. - Never again will you be known as the queen of kingdoms. + +Never again will you be known as the queen of kingdoms. + 6. For I was angry with my chosen people - and punished them by letting them fall into your hands. + +and punished them by letting them fall into your hands. + But you, Babylon, showed them no mercy. - You oppressed even the elderly. + +You oppressed even the elderly. + 7. You said, 'I will reign forever as queen of the world!' - You did not reflect on your actions - or think about their consequences. + +You did not reflect on your actions + +or think about their consequences. + 8. "Listen to this, you pleasure-loving kingdom, - living at ease and feeling secure. + +living at ease and feeling secure. + You say, 'I am the only one, and there is no other. - I will never be a widow or lose my children.' + +I will never be a widow or lose my children.' + 9. Well, both these things will come upon you in a moment: - widowhood and the loss of your children. + +widowhood and the loss of your children. + Yes, these calamities will come upon you, - despite all your witchcraft and magic. + +despite all your witchcraft and magic. + 10. "You felt secure in your wickedness. - 'No one sees me,' you said. + +'No one sees me,' you said. + But your 'wisdom' and 'knowledge' have led you astray, - and you said, 'I am the only one, and there is no other.' + +and you said, 'I am the only one, and there is no other.' + 11. So disaster will overtake you, - and you won't be able to charm it away. + +and you won't be able to charm it away. + Calamity will fall upon you, - and you won't be able to buy your way out. + +and you won't be able to buy your way out. + A catastrophe will strike you suddenly, - one for which you are not prepared. + +one for which you are not prepared. + 12. "Now use your magical charms! - Use the spells you have worked at all these years! + +Use the spells you have worked at all these years! Maybe they will do you some good. - Maybe they can make someone afraid of you. + +Maybe they can make someone afraid of you. + 13. All the advice you receive has made you tired. - Where are all your astrologers, + +Where are all your astrologers, those stargazers who make predictions each month? - Let them stand up and save you from what the future holds. + +Let them stand up and save you from what the future holds. + 14. But they are like straw burning in a fire; - they cannot save themselves from the flame. + +they cannot save themselves from the flame. + You will get no help from them at all; - their hearth is no place to sit for warmth. + +their hearth is no place to sit for warmth. + 15. And all your friends, - those with whom you've done business since childhood, + +those with whom you've done business since childhood, will go their own ways, - turning a deaf ear to your cries. + +turning a deaf ear to your cries. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_48.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_48.md index 28c91de2..c715483b 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_48.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_48.md @@ -2,105 +2,169 @@ God's Stubborn People # Chapter 48 1. "Listen to me, O family of Jacob, - you who are called by the name of Israel - and born into the family of Judah. + +you who are called by the name of Israel + +and born into the family of Judah. Listen, you who take oaths in the name of the LORD - and call on the God of Israel. + +and call on the God of Israel. + You don't keep your promises, + 2. even though you call yourself the holy city and talk about depending on the God of Israel, whose name is the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 3. Long ago I told you what was going to happen. - Then suddenly I took action, - and all my predictions came true. + +Then suddenly I took action, + +and all my predictions came true. + 4. For I know how stubborn and obstinate you are. - Your necks are as unbending as iron. - Your heads are as hard as bronze. + +Your necks are as unbending as iron. + +Your heads are as hard as bronze. + 5. That is why I told you what would happen; - I told you beforehand what I was going to do. + +I told you beforehand what I was going to do. + Then you could never say, 'My idols did it. - My wooden image and metal god commanded it to happen!' + +My wooden image and metal god commanded it to happen!' + 6. You have heard my predictions and seen them fulfilled, - but you refuse to admit it. + +but you refuse to admit it. + Now I will tell you new things, - secrets you have not yet heard. + +secrets you have not yet heard. + 7. They are brand new, not things from the past. - So you cannot say, 'We knew that all the time!' + +So you cannot say, 'We knew that all the time!' + 8. "Yes, I will tell you of things that are entirely new, - things you never heard of before. + +things you never heard of before. + For I know so well what traitors you are. - You have been rebels from birth. + +You have been rebels from birth. + 9. Yet for my own sake and for the honor of my name, - I will hold back my anger and not wipe you out. + +I will hold back my anger and not wipe you out. + 10. I have refined you, but not as silver is refined. - Rather, I have refined you in the furnace of suffering. + +Rather, I have refined you in the furnace of suffering. + 11. I will rescue you for my sake-- - yes, for my own sake! + +yes, for my own sake! I will not let my reputation be tarnished, - and I will not share my glory with idols!Freedom from Babylon + +and I will not share my glory with idols! +Freedom from Babylon + 12. "Listen to me, O family of Jacob, - Israel my chosen one! + +Israel my chosen one! I alone am God, - the First and the Last. + +the First and the Last. + 13. It was my hand that laid the foundations of the earth, - my right hand that spread out the heavens above. + +my right hand that spread out the heavens above. + When I call out the stars, - they all appear in order." + +they all appear in order." + 14. Have any of your idols ever told you this? - Come, all of you, and listen: + +Come, all of you, and listen: The LORD has chosen Cyrus as his ally. - He will use him to put an end to the empire of Babylon + +He will use him to put an end to the empire of Babylon and to destroy the Babylonian armies. 15. "I have said it: I am calling Cyrus! - I will send him on this errand and will help him succeed. + +I will send him on this errand and will help him succeed. + 16. Come closer, and listen to this. - From the beginning I have told you plainly what would happen." + +From the beginning I have told you plainly what would happen." And now the Sovereign LORD and his Spirit - have sent me with this message. + +have sent me with this message. + 17. This is what the LORD says-- - your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: + +your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, - who teaches you what is good for you - and leads you along the paths you should follow. + +who teaches you what is good for you + +and leads you along the paths you should follow. + 18. Oh, that you had listened to my commands! - Then you would have had peace flowing like a gentle river - and righteousness rolling over you like waves in the sea. + +Then you would have had peace flowing like a gentle river + +and righteousness rolling over you like waves in the sea. + 19. Your descendants would have been like the sands along the seashore-- - too many to count! + +too many to count! There would have been no need for your destruction, - or for cutting off your family name." + +or for cutting off your family name." + 20. Yet even now, be free from your captivity! Leave Babylon and the Babylonians. + Sing out this message! - Shout it to the ends of the earth! + +Shout it to the ends of the earth! The LORD has redeemed his servants, the people of Israel. 21. They were not thirsty - when he led them through the desert. + +when he led them through the desert. + He divided the rock, - and water gushed out for them to drink. + +and water gushed out for them to drink. + 22. "But there is no peace for the wicked," says the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_49.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_49.md index 7e87b54a..02b4e222 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_49.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_49.md @@ -2,133 +2,216 @@ The LORD's Servant Commissioned # Chapter 49 1. Listen to me, all you in distant lands! - Pay attention, you who are far away! + +Pay attention, you who are far away! The LORD called me before my birth; - from within the womb he called me by name. + +from within the womb he called me by name. + 2. He made my words of judgment as sharp as a sword. - He has hidden me in the shadow of his hand. - I am like a sharp arrow in his quiver. + +He has hidden me in the shadow of his hand. + +I am like a sharp arrow in his quiver. + 3. He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, - and you will bring me glory." + +and you will bring me glory." + 4. I replied, "But my work seems so useless! - I have spent my strength for nothing and to no purpose. + +I have spent my strength for nothing and to no purpose. Yet I leave it all in the LORD's hand; - I will trust God for my reward." + +I will trust God for my reward." + 5. And now the LORD speaks-- - the one who formed me in my mother's womb to be his servant, - who commissioned me to bring Israel back to him. + +the one who formed me in my mother's womb to be his servant, + +who commissioned me to bring Israel back to him. The LORD has honored me, - and my God has given me strength. + +and my God has given me strength. + 6. He says, "You will do more than restore the people of Israel to me. - I will make you a light to the Gentiles, - and you will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth." + +I will make you a light to the Gentiles, + +and you will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth." + 7. The LORD, the Redeemer - and Holy One of Israel, + +and Holy One of Israel, says to the one who is despised and rejected by the nations, - to the one who is the servant of rulers: + +to the one who is the servant of rulers: "Kings will stand at attention when you pass by. - Princes will also bow low + +Princes will also bow low because of the LORD, the faithful one, - the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you."Promises of Israel's Restoration + +the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you." +Promises of Israel's Restoration + 8. This is what the LORD says: "At just the right time, I will respond to you. - On the day of salvation I will help you. + +On the day of salvation I will help you. + I will protect you and give you to the people - as my covenant with them. + +as my covenant with them. + Through you I will reestablish the land of Israel - and assign it to its own people again. + +and assign it to its own people again. + 9. I will say to the prisoners, 'Come out in freedom,' - and to those in darkness, 'Come into the light.' + +and to those in darkness, 'Come into the light.' They will be my sheep, grazing in green pastures - and on hills that were previously bare. + +and on hills that were previously bare. + 10. They will neither hunger nor thirst. - The searing sun will not reach them anymore. + +The searing sun will not reach them anymore. For the LORD in his mercy will lead them; - he will lead them beside cool waters. + +he will lead them beside cool waters. + 11. And I will make my mountains into level paths for them. - The highways will be raised above the valleys. + +The highways will be raised above the valleys. + 12. See, my people will return from far away, - from lands to the north and west, + +from lands to the north and west, and from as far south as Egypt." 13. Sing for joy, O heavens! - Rejoice, O earth! - Burst into song, O mountains! + +Rejoice, O earth! + +Burst into song, O mountains! For the LORD has comforted his people - and will have compassion on them in their suffering. + +and will have compassion on them in their suffering. + 14. Yet Jerusalem says, "The LORD has deserted us; - the Lord has forgotten us." + +the Lord has forgotten us." + 15. "Never! Can a mother forget her nursing child? - Can she feel no love for the child she has borne? + +Can she feel no love for the child she has borne? But even if that were possible, - I would not forget you! + +I would not forget you! + 16. See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands. - Always in my mind is a picture of Jerusalem's walls in ruins. + +Always in my mind is a picture of Jerusalem's walls in ruins. + 17. Soon your descendants will come back, - and all who are trying to destroy you will go away. + +and all who are trying to destroy you will go away. + 18. Look around you and see, - for all your children will come back to you. + +for all your children will come back to you. As surely as I live," says the LORD, - "they will be like jewels or bridal ornaments for you to display. + +"they will be like jewels or bridal ornaments for you to display. + 19. "Even the most desolate parts of your abandoned land - will soon be crowded with your people. + +will soon be crowded with your people. + Your enemies who enslaved you - will be far away. + +will be far away. + 20. The generations born in exile will return and say, - 'We need more room! It's crowded here!' + +'We need more room! It's crowded here!' + 21. Then you will think to yourself, - 'Who has given me all these descendants? + +'Who has given me all these descendants? For most of my children were killed, - and the rest were carried away into exile. + +and the rest were carried away into exile. + I was left here all alone. - Where did all these people come from? + +Where did all these people come from? Who bore these children? - Who raised them for me?'" + +Who raised them for me?'" + 22. This is what the Sovereign LORD says: - "See, I will give a signal to the godless nations. + +"See, I will give a signal to the godless nations. + They will carry your little sons back to you in their arms; - they will bring your daughters on their shoulders. + +they will bring your daughters on their shoulders. + 23. Kings and queens will serve you - and care for all your needs. + +and care for all your needs. + They will bow to the earth before you - and lick the dust from your feet. + +and lick the dust from your feet. Then you will know that I am the LORD. - Those who trust in me will never be put to shame." + +Those who trust in me will never be put to shame." + 24. Who can snatch the plunder of war from the hands of a warrior? Who can demand that a tyrant let his captives go? 25. But the LORD says, "The captives of warriors will be released, - and the plunder of tyrants will be retrieved. + +and the plunder of tyrants will be retrieved. + For I will fight those who fight you, - and I will save your children. + +and I will save your children. + 26. I will feed your enemies with their own flesh. - They will be drunk with rivers of their own blood. + +They will be drunk with rivers of their own blood. All the world will know that I, the LORD, - am your Savior and your Redeemer, + +am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Israel." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_50.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_50.md index 02e3343a..a1a51b3d 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_50.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_50.md @@ -1,60 +1,98 @@ # Chapter 50 1. This is what the LORD says: "Was your mother sent away because I divorced her? - Did I sell you as slaves to my creditors? + +Did I sell you as slaves to my creditors? No, you were sold because of your sins. - And your mother, too, was taken because of your sins. + +And your mother, too, was taken because of your sins. + 2. Why was no one there when I came? - Why didn't anyone answer when I called? + +Why didn't anyone answer when I called? Is it because I have no power to rescue? - No, that is not the reason! + +No, that is not the reason! For I can speak to the sea and make it dry up! - I can turn rivers into deserts covered with dying fish. + +I can turn rivers into deserts covered with dying fish. + 3. I dress the skies in darkness, - covering them with clothes of mourning."The LORD's Obedient Servant + +covering them with clothes of mourning."The LORD's Obedient Servant 4. The Sovereign LORD has given me his words of wisdom, - so that I know how to comfort the weary. + +so that I know how to comfort the weary. + Morning by morning he wakens me - and opens my understanding to his will. + +and opens my understanding to his will. + 5. The Sovereign LORD has spoken to me, - and I have listened. - I have not rebelled or turned away. + +and I have listened. + +I have not rebelled or turned away. + 6. I offered my back to those who beat me - and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard. + +and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard. + I did not hide my face - from mockery and spitting. + +from mockery and spitting. + 7. Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, - I will not be disgraced. + +I will not be disgraced. + Therefore, I have set my face like a stone, - determined to do his will. - And I know that I will not be put to shame. + +determined to do his will. + +And I know that I will not be put to shame. + 8. He who gives me justice is near. - Who will dare to bring charges against me now? + +Who will dare to bring charges against me now? Where are my accusers? - Let them appear! + +Let them appear! + 9. See, the Sovereign LORD is on my side! - Who will declare me guilty? + +Who will declare me guilty? All my enemies will be destroyed - like old clothes that have been eaten by moths! + +like old clothes that have been eaten by moths! + 10. Who among you fears the LORD - and obeys his servant? + +and obeys his servant? If you are walking in darkness, - without a ray of light, + +without a ray of light, trust in the LORD - and rely on your God. + +and rely on your God. + 11. But watch out, you who live in your own light - and warm yourselves by your own fires. + +and warm yourselves by your own fires. + This is the reward you will receive from me: - You will soon fall down in great torment. + +You will soon fall down in great torment. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_51.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_51.md index 29f2fffc..c66c684b 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_51.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_51.md @@ -4,120 +4,198 @@ A Call to Trust the LORD 1. "Listen to me, all who hope for deliverance-- all who seek the LORD! Consider the rock from which you were cut, - the quarry from which you were mined. + +the quarry from which you were mined. + 2. Yes, think about Abraham, your ancestor, - and Sarah, who gave birth to your nation. + +and Sarah, who gave birth to your nation. + Abraham was only one man when I called him. - But when I blessed him, he became a great nation." + +But when I blessed him, he became a great nation." + 3. The LORD will comfort Israel again - and have pity on her ruins. + +and have pity on her ruins. + Her desert will blossom like Eden, her barren wilderness like the garden of the LORD. + Joy and gladness will be found there. - Songs of thanksgiving will fill the air. + +Songs of thanksgiving will fill the air. + 4. "Listen to me, my people. - Hear me, Israel, + +Hear me, Israel, for my law will be proclaimed, - and my justice will become a light to the nations. + +and my justice will become a light to the nations. + 5. My mercy and justice are coming soon. - My salvation is on the way. - My strong arm will bring justice to the nations. + +My salvation is on the way. + +My strong arm will bring justice to the nations. + All distant lands will look to me - and wait in hope for my powerful arm. + +and wait in hope for my powerful arm. + 6. Look up to the skies above, - and gaze down on the earth below. + +and gaze down on the earth below. + For the skies will disappear like smoke, - and the earth will wear out like a piece of clothing. + +and the earth will wear out like a piece of clothing. + The people of the earth will die like flies, - but my salvation lasts forever. - My righteous rule will never end! + +but my salvation lasts forever. + +My righteous rule will never end! + 7. "Listen to me, you who know right from wrong, - you who cherish my law in your hearts. + +you who cherish my law in your hearts. + Do not be afraid of people's scorn, - nor fear their insults. + +nor fear their insults. + 8. For the moth will devour them as it devours clothing. - The worm will eat at them as it eats wool. + +The worm will eat at them as it eats wool. + But my righteousness will last forever. - My salvation will continue from generation to generation." + +My salvation will continue from generation to generation." + 9. Wake up, wake up, O LORD! Clothe yourself with strength! - Flex your mighty right arm! + +Flex your mighty right arm! Rouse yourself as in the days of old when you slew Egypt, the dragon of the Nile. 10. Are you not the same today, - the one who dried up the sea, + +the one who dried up the sea, making a path of escape through the depths - so that your people could cross over? + +so that your people could cross over? + 11. Those who have been ransomed by the LORD will return. They will enter Jerusalem singing, - crowned with everlasting joy. + +crowned with everlasting joy. + Sorrow and mourning will disappear, - and they will be filled with joy and gladness. + +and they will be filled with joy and gladness. + 12. "I, yes I, am the one who comforts you. - So why are you afraid of mere humans, - who wither like the grass and disappear? + +So why are you afraid of mere humans, + +who wither like the grass and disappear? + 13. Yet you have forgotten the LORD, your Creator, - the one who stretched out the sky like a canopy - and laid the foundations of the earth. + +the one who stretched out the sky like a canopy + +and laid the foundations of the earth. + Will you remain in constant dread of human oppressors? - Will you continue to fear the anger of your enemies? + +Will you continue to fear the anger of your enemies? Where is their fury and anger now? - It is gone! + +It is gone! + 14. Soon all you captives will be released! - Imprisonment, starvation, and death will not be your fate! + +Imprisonment, starvation, and death will not be your fate! + 15. For I am the LORD your God, - who stirs up the sea, causing its waves to roar. + +who stirs up the sea, causing its waves to roar. My name is the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 16. And I have put my words in your mouth - and hidden you safely in my hand. + +and hidden you safely in my hand. I stretched out the sky like a canopy - and laid the foundations of the earth. + +and laid the foundations of the earth. + I am the one who says to Israel, - 'You are my people!'" + +'You are my people!'" + 17. Wake up, wake up, O Jerusalem! You have drunk the cup of the LORD's fury. + You have drunk the cup of terror, - tipping out its last drops. + +tipping out its last drops. + 18. Not one of your children is left alive - to take your hand and guide you. + +to take your hand and guide you. + 19. These two calamities have fallen on you: - desolation and destruction, famine and war. + +desolation and destruction, famine and war. + And who is left to sympathize with you? Who is left to comfort you? 20. For your children have fainted and lie in the streets, - helpless as antelopes caught in a net. + +helpless as antelopes caught in a net. The LORD has poured out his fury; - God has rebuked them. + +God has rebuked them. + 21. But now listen to this, you afflicted ones - who sit in a drunken stupor, - though not from drinking wine. + +who sit in a drunken stupor, + +though not from drinking wine. + 22. This is what the Sovereign LORD, - your God and Defender, says: + +your God and Defender, says: "See, I have taken the terrible cup from your hands. - You will drink no more of my fury. + +You will drink no more of my fury. + 23. Instead, I will hand that cup to your tormentors, - those who said, 'We will trample you into the dust - and walk on your backs.'" + +those who said, 'We will trample you into the dust + +and walk on your backs.'" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_52.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_52.md index a8a0ce1e..be431894 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_52.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_52.md @@ -2,63 +2,95 @@ Deliverance for Jerusalem # Chapter 52 1. Wake up, wake up, O Zion! - Clothe yourself with strength. + +Clothe yourself with strength. + Put on your beautiful clothes, O holy city of Jerusalem, - for unclean and godless people will enter your gates no longer. + +for unclean and godless people will enter your gates no longer. + 2. Rise from the dust, O Jerusalem. - Sit in a place of honor. + +Sit in a place of honor. + Remove the chains of slavery from your neck, - O captive daughter of Zion. + +O captive daughter of Zion. + 3. For this is what the LORD says: "When I sold you into exile, - I received no payment. + +I received no payment. + Now I can redeem you - without having to pay for you." + +without having to pay for you." + 4. This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "Long ago my people chose to live in Egypt. Now they are oppressed by Assyria. 5. What is this?" asks the LORD. "Why are my people enslaved again? Those who rule them shout in exultation. My name is blasphemed all day long. 6. But I will reveal my name to my people, and they will come to know its power. Then at last they will recognize that I am the one who speaks to them." 7. How beautiful on the mountains - are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, + +are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! 8. The watchmen shout and sing with joy, - for before their very eyes + +for before their very eyes they see the LORD returning to Jerusalem. 9. Let the ruins of Jerusalem break into joyful song, for the LORD has comforted his people. - He has redeemed Jerusalem. + +He has redeemed Jerusalem. + 10. The LORD has demonstrated his holy power - before the eyes of all the nations. + +before the eyes of all the nations. + All the ends of the earth will see - the victory of our God. + +the victory of our God. + 11. Get out! Get out and leave your captivity, - where everything you touch is unclean. + +where everything you touch is unclean. + Get out of there and purify yourselves, you who carry home the sacred objects of the LORD. 12. You will not leave in a hurry, - running for your lives. + +running for your lives. For the LORD will go ahead of you; - yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind.The LORD's Suffering Servant + +yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind.The LORD's Suffering Servant 13. See, my servant will prosper; - he will be highly exalted. + +he will be highly exalted. + 14. But many were amazed when they saw him. - His face was so disfigured he seemed hardly human, - and from his appearance, one would scarcely know he was a man. + +His face was so disfigured he seemed hardly human, + +and from his appearance, one would scarcely know he was a man. + 15. And he will startle many nations. - Kings will stand speechless in his presence. + +Kings will stand speechless in his presence. + For they will see what they had not been told; they will understand what they had not heard about. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_53.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_53.md index b4f1908a..a57fadaa 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_53.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_53.md @@ -3,65 +3,109 @@ To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful arm? 2. My servant grew up in the LORD's presence like a tender green shoot, - like a root in dry ground. + +like a root in dry ground. + There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, - nothing to attract us to him. + +nothing to attract us to him. + 3. He was despised and rejected-- - a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. + +a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. + We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. - He was despised, and we did not care. + +He was despised, and we did not care. + 4. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. + And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, - a punishment for his own sins! + +a punishment for his own sins! + 5. But he was pierced for our rebellion, - crushed for our sins. + +crushed for our sins. + He was beaten so we could be whole. - He was whipped so we could be healed. + +He was whipped so we could be healed. + 6. All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. - We have left God's paths to follow our own. + +We have left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on him - the sins of us all. + +the sins of us all. + 7. He was oppressed and treated harshly, - yet he never said a word. + +yet he never said a word. + He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. - And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, - he did not open his mouth. + +And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, + +he did not open his mouth. + 8. Unjustly condemned, he was led away. + No one cared that he died without descendants, that his life was cut short in midstream. + But he was struck down - for the rebellion of my people. + +for the rebellion of my people. + 9. He had done no wrong - and had never deceived anyone. + +and had never deceived anyone. + But he was buried like a criminal; - he was put in a rich man's grave. + +he was put in a rich man's grave. + 10. But it was the LORD's good plan to crush him - and cause him grief. + +and cause him grief. + Yet when his life is made an offering for sin, - he will have many descendants. + +he will have many descendants. + He will enjoy a long life, and the LORD's good plan will prosper in his hands. 11. When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, - he will be satisfied. + +he will be satisfied. + And because of his experience, - my righteous servant will make it possible + +my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, - for he will bear all their sins. + +for he will bear all their sins. + 12. I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier, - because he exposed himself to death. + +because he exposed himself to death. + He was counted among the rebels. - He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels. + +He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_54.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_54.md index 9964fb72..dc003c98 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_54.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_54.md @@ -2,84 +2,133 @@ Future Glory for Jerusalem # Chapter 54 1. "Sing, O childless woman, - you who have never given birth! + +you who have never given birth! Break into loud and joyful song, O Jerusalem, - you who have never been in labor. + +you who have never been in labor. + For the desolate woman now has more children - than the woman who lives with her husband," + +than the woman who lives with her husband," says the LORD. 2. "Enlarge your house; build an addition. - Spread out your home, and spare no expense! + +Spread out your home, and spare no expense! + 3. For you will soon be bursting at the seams. - Your descendants will occupy other nations - and resettle the ruined cities. + +Your descendants will occupy other nations + +and resettle the ruined cities. + 4. "Fear not; you will no longer live in shame. - Don't be afraid; there is no more disgrace for you. + +Don't be afraid; there is no more disgrace for you. + You will no longer remember the shame of your youth - and the sorrows of widowhood. + +and the sorrows of widowhood. + 5. For your Creator will be your husband; the LORD of Heaven's Armies is his name! He is your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, - the God of all the earth. + +the God of all the earth. + 6. For the LORD has called you back from your grief-- - as though you were a young wife abandoned by her husband," - says your God. + +as though you were a young wife abandoned by her husband," + +says your God. + 7. "For a brief moment I abandoned you, - but with great compassion I will take you back. + +but with great compassion I will take you back. + 8. In a burst of anger I turned my face away for a little while. - But with everlasting love I will have compassion on you," + +But with everlasting love I will have compassion on you," says the LORD, your Redeemer. 9. "Just as I swore in the time of Noah - that I would never again let a flood cover the earth, + +that I would never again let a flood cover the earth, so now I swear - that I will never again be angry and punish you. + +that I will never again be angry and punish you. + 10. For the mountains may move - and the hills disappear, + +and the hills disappear, but even then my faithful love for you will remain. - My covenant of blessing will never be broken," + +My covenant of blessing will never be broken," says the LORD, who has mercy on you. 11. "O storm-battered city, - troubled and desolate! + +troubled and desolate! I will rebuild you with precious jewels - and make your foundations from lapis lazuli. + +and make your foundations from lapis lazuli. + 12. I will make your towers of sparkling rubies, - your gates of shining gems, - and your walls of precious stones. + +your gates of shining gems, + +and your walls of precious stones. + 13. I will teach all your children, - and they will enjoy great peace. + +and they will enjoy great peace. + 14. You will be secure under a government that is just and fair. - Your enemies will stay far away. + +Your enemies will stay far away. + You will live in peace, - and terror will not come near. + +and terror will not come near. + 15. If any nation comes to fight you, - it is not because I sent them. - Whoever attacks you will go down in defeat. + +it is not because I sent them. + +Whoever attacks you will go down in defeat. + 16. "I have created the blacksmith - who fans the coals beneath the forge + +who fans the coals beneath the forge and makes the weapons of destruction. - And I have created the armies that destroy. + +And I have created the armies that destroy. + 17. But in that coming day - no weapon turned against you will succeed. + +no weapon turned against you will succeed. + You will silence every voice - raised up to accuse you. + +raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the LORD; - their vindication will come from me. + +their vindication will come from me. I, the LORD, have spoken! + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_55.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_55.md index 842a6bd4..7ce442aa 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_55.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_55.md @@ -2,62 +2,103 @@ Invitation to the LORD's Salvation # Chapter 55 1. "Is anyone thirsty? - Come and drink-- - even if you have no money! + +Come and drink-- + +even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk-- - it's all free! + +it's all free! + 2. Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? - Why pay for food that does you no good? + +Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. - You will enjoy the finest food. + +You will enjoy the finest food. + 3. "Come to me with your ears wide open. - Listen, and you will find life. + +Listen, and you will find life. + I will make an everlasting covenant with you. - I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David. + +I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David. + 4. See how I used him to display my power among the peoples. - I made him a leader among the nations. + +I made him a leader among the nations. + 5. You also will command nations you do not know, - and peoples unknown to you will come running to obey, + +and peoples unknown to you will come running to obey, because I, the LORD your God, - the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious." + +the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious." + 6. Seek the LORD while you can find him. - Call on him now while he is near. + +Call on him now while he is near. + 7. Let the wicked change their ways - and banish the very thought of doing wrong. + +and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the LORD that he may have mercy on them. - Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. + +Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. + 8. "My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts," says the LORD. - "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. + +"And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. + 9. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, - so my ways are higher than your ways - and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. + +so my ways are higher than your ways + +and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. + 10. "The rain and snow come down from the heavens - and stay on the ground to water the earth. + +and stay on the ground to water the earth. + They cause the grain to grow, - producing seed for the farmer - and bread for the hungry. + +producing seed for the farmer + +and bread for the hungry. + 11. It is the same with my word. - I send it out, and it always produces fruit. + +I send it out, and it always produces fruit. + It will accomplish all I want it to, - and it will prosper everywhere I send it. + +and it will prosper everywhere I send it. + 12. You will live in joy and peace. - The mountains and hills will burst into song, - and the trees of the field will clap their hands! + +The mountains and hills will burst into song, + +and the trees of the field will clap their hands! + 13. Where once there were thorns, cypress trees will grow. - Where nettles grew, myrtles will sprout up. + +Where nettles grew, myrtles will sprout up. These events will bring great honor to the LORD's name; - they will be an everlasting sign of his power and love." + +they will be an everlasting sign of his power and love." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_56.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_56.md index 4af7de04..e1df7b8e 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_56.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_56.md @@ -3,66 +3,110 @@ Blessings for All Nations # Chapter 56 1. This is what the LORD says: "Be just and fair to all. - Do what is right and good, + +Do what is right and good, for I am coming soon to rescue you - and to display my righteousness among you. + +and to display my righteousness among you. + 2. Blessed are all those - who are careful to do this. + +who are careful to do this. + Blessed are those who honor my Sabbath days of rest - and keep themselves from doing wrong. + +and keep themselves from doing wrong. + 3. "Don't let foreigners who commit themselves to the LORD say, 'The LORD will never let me be part of his people.' And don't let the eunuchs say, - 'I'm a dried-up tree with no children and no future.' + +'I'm a dried-up tree with no children and no future.' + 4. For this is what the LORD says: I will bless those eunuchs - who keep my Sabbath days holy + +who keep my Sabbath days holy and who choose to do what pleases me - and commit their lives to me. + +and commit their lives to me. + 5. I will give them--within the walls of my house-- - a memorial and a name - far greater than sons and daughters could give. + +a memorial and a name + +far greater than sons and daughters could give. + For the name I give them is an everlasting one. - It will never disappear! + +It will never disappear! + 6. "I will also bless the foreigners who commit themselves to the LORD, - who serve him and love his name, + +who serve him and love his name, who worship him and do not desecrate the Sabbath day of rest, - and who hold fast to my covenant. + +and who hold fast to my covenant. + 7. I will bring them to my holy mountain of Jerusalem - and will fill them with joy in my house of prayer. + +and will fill them with joy in my house of prayer. + I will accept their burnt offerings and sacrifices, - because my Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations. + +because my Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations. + 8. For the Sovereign LORD, - who brings back the outcasts of Israel, says: + +who brings back the outcasts of Israel, says: I will bring others, too, - besides my people Israel."Sinful Leaders Condemned + +besides my people Israel." +Sinful Leaders Condemned + 9. Come, wild animals of the field! - Come, wild animals of the forest! - Come and devour my people! + +Come, wild animals of the forest! + +Come and devour my people! + 10. For the leaders of my people-- the LORD's watchmen, his shepherds-- - are blind and ignorant. + +are blind and ignorant. + They are like silent watchdogs - that give no warning when danger comes. + +that give no warning when danger comes. + They love to lie around, sleeping and dreaming. + 11. Like greedy dogs, they are never satisfied. + They are ignorant shepherds, - all following their own path - and intent on personal gain. + +all following their own path + +and intent on personal gain. + 12. "Come," they say, "let's get some wine and have a party. - Let's all get drunk. + +Let's all get drunk. + Then tomorrow we'll do it again - and have an even bigger party!" + +and have an even bigger party!" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_57.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_57.md index d9cbd03b..b0cb51cf 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_57.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_57.md @@ -1,103 +1,177 @@ # Chapter 57 1. Good people pass away; - the godly often die before their time. - But no one seems to care or wonder why. + +the godly often die before their time. + +But no one seems to care or wonder why. + No one seems to understand - that God is protecting them from the evil to come. + +that God is protecting them from the evil to come. + 2. For those who follow godly paths - will rest in peace when they die.Idolatrous Worship Condemned + +will rest in peace when they die. + +Idolatrous Worship Condemned + 3. "But you--come here, you witches' children, - you offspring of adulterers and prostitutes! + +you offspring of adulterers and prostitutes! + 4. Whom do you mock, - making faces and sticking out your tongues? - You children of sinners and liars! + +making faces and sticking out your tongues? + +You children of sinners and liars! + 5. You worship your idols with great passion - beneath the oaks and under every green tree. + +beneath the oaks and under every green tree. + You sacrifice your children down in the valleys, - among the jagged rocks in the cliffs. + +among the jagged rocks in the cliffs. + 6. Your gods are the smooth stones in the valleys. - You worship them with liquid offerings and grain offerings. + +You worship them with liquid offerings and grain offerings. + They, not I, are your inheritance. - Do you think all this makes me happy? + +Do you think all this makes me happy? + 7. You have committed adultery on every high mountain. - There you have worshiped idols - and have been unfaithful to me. + +There you have worshiped idols + +and have been unfaithful to me. + 8. You have put pagan symbols - on your doorposts and behind your doors. + +on your doorposts and behind your doors. + You have left me - and climbed into bed with these detestable gods. + +and climbed into bed with these detestable gods. + You have committed yourselves to them. - You love to look at their naked bodies. + +You love to look at their naked bodies. + 9. You have gone to Molech - with olive oil and many perfumes, + +with olive oil and many perfumes, sending your agents far and wide, even to the world of the dead. 10. You grew weary in your search, - but you never gave up. + +but you never gave up. + Desire gave you renewed strength, - and you did not grow weary. + +and you did not grow weary. + 11. "Are you afraid of these idols? - Do they terrify you? + +Do they terrify you? Is that why you have lied to me - and forgotten me and my words? + +and forgotten me and my words? Is it because of my long silence - that you no longer fear me? + +that you no longer fear me? + 12. Now I will expose your so-called good deeds. - None of them will help you. + +None of them will help you. + 13. Let's see if your idols can save you - when you cry to them for help. + +when you cry to them for help. + Why, a puff of wind can knock them down! - If you just breathe on them, they fall over! + +If you just breathe on them, they fall over! But whoever trusts in me will inherit the land - and possess my holy mountain."God Forgives the Repentant + +and possess my holy mountain." +God Forgives the Repentant + 14. God says, "Rebuild the road! - Clear away the rocks and stones - so my people can return from captivity." + +Clear away the rocks and stones + +so my people can return from captivity." + 15. The high and lofty one who lives in eternity, - the Holy One, says this: + +the Holy One, says this: "I live in the high and holy place - with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. + +with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. + I restore the crushed spirit of the humble - and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts. + +and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts. + 16. For I will not fight against you forever; - I will not always be angry. + +I will not always be angry. + If I were, all people would pass away-- - all the souls I have made. + +all the souls I have made. + 17. I was angry, - so I punished these greedy people. + +so I punished these greedy people. + I withdrew from them, - but they kept going on their own stubborn way. + +but they kept going on their own stubborn way. + 18. I have seen what they do, - but I will heal them anyway! - I will lead them. + +but I will heal them anyway! + +I will lead them. + I will comfort those who mourn, + 19. bringing words of praise to their lips. + May they have abundant peace, both near and far," says the LORD, who heals them. 20. "But those who still reject me are like the restless sea, - which is never still - but continually churns up mud and dirt. + +which is never still + +but continually churns up mud and dirt. + 21. There is no peace for the wicked," - says my God. + +says my God. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_58.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_58.md index 490b0bf1..2ff5c140 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_58.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_58.md @@ -2,86 +2,139 @@ True and False Worship # Chapter 58 1. "Shout with the voice of a trumpet blast. - Shout aloud! Don't be timid. + +Shout aloud! Don't be timid. Tell my people Israel of their sins! 2. Yet they act so pious! They come to the Temple every day - and seem delighted to learn all about me. + +and seem delighted to learn all about me. + They act like a righteous nation - that would never abandon the laws of its God. + +that would never abandon the laws of its God. + They ask me to take action on their behalf, - pretending they want to be near me. + +pretending they want to be near me. + 3. 'We have fasted before you!' they say. - 'Why aren't you impressed? + +'Why aren't you impressed? We have been very hard on ourselves, - and you don't even notice it!' + +and you don't even notice it!' "I will tell you why!" I respond. - "It's because you are fasting to please yourselves. + +"It's because you are fasting to please yourselves. + Even while you fast, - you keep oppressing your workers. + +you keep oppressing your workers. + 4. What good is fasting - when you keep on fighting and quarreling? + +when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting - will never get you anywhere with me. + +will never get you anywhere with me. + 5. You humble yourselves - by going through the motions of penance, + +by going through the motions of penance, bowing your heads - like reeds bending in the wind. + +like reeds bending in the wind. + You dress in burlap - and cover yourselves with ashes. + +and cover yourselves with ashes. + Is this what you call fasting? Do you really think this will please the LORD? 6. "No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; - lighten the burden of those who work for you. + +lighten the burden of those who work for you. + Let the oppressed go free, - and remove the chains that bind people. + +and remove the chains that bind people. + 7. Share your food with the hungry, - and give shelter to the homeless. + +and give shelter to the homeless. + Give clothes to those who need them, - and do not hide from relatives who need your help. + +and do not hide from relatives who need your help. + 8. "Then your salvation will come like the dawn, - and your wounds will quickly heal. + +and your wounds will quickly heal. + Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the LORD will protect you from behind. 9. Then when you call, the LORD will answer. - 'Yes, I am here,' he will quickly reply. + +'Yes, I am here,' he will quickly reply. + "Remove the heavy yoke of oppression. - Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors! + +Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors! + 10. Feed the hungry, - and help those in trouble. + +and help those in trouble. + Then your light will shine out from the darkness, - and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. + +and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. + 11. The LORD will guide you continually, - giving you water when you are dry - and restoring your strength. + +giving you water when you are dry + +and restoring your strength. + You will be like a well-watered garden, - like an ever-flowing spring. + +like an ever-flowing spring. + 12. Some of you will rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities. - Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls - and a restorer of homes. + +Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls + +and a restorer of homes. + 13. "Keep the Sabbath day holy. - Don't pursue your own interests on that day, + +Don't pursue your own interests on that day, but enjoy the Sabbath and speak of it with delight as the LORD's holy day. + Honor the Sabbath in everything you do on that day, - and don't follow your own desires or talk idly. + +and don't follow your own desires or talk idly. + 14. Then the LORD will be your delight. - I will give you great honor + +I will give you great honor and satisfy you with the inheritance I promised to your ancestor Jacob. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_59.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_59.md index 7791d575..c5fd7f85 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_59.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_59.md @@ -2,102 +2,174 @@ Warnings against Sin # Chapter 59 1. Listen! The LORD's arm is not too weak to save you, - nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call. + +nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call. + 2. It's your sins that have cut you off from God. - Because of your sins, he has turned away - and will not listen anymore. + +Because of your sins, he has turned away + +and will not listen anymore. + 3. Your hands are the hands of murderers, - and your fingers are filthy with sin. + +and your fingers are filthy with sin. + Your lips are full of lies, - and your mouth spews corruption. + +and your mouth spews corruption. + 4. No one cares about being fair and honest. - The people's lawsuits are based on lies. + +The people's lawsuits are based on lies. + They conceive evil deeds - and then give birth to sin. + +and then give birth to sin. + 5. They hatch deadly snakes - and weave spiders' webs. + +and weave spiders' webs. + Whoever eats their eggs will die; - whoever cracks them will hatch a viper. + +whoever cracks them will hatch a viper. + 6. Their webs can't be made into clothing, - and nothing they do is productive. + +and nothing they do is productive. + All their activity is filled with sin, - and violence is their trademark. + +and violence is their trademark. + 7. Their feet run to do evil, - and they rush to commit murder. + +and they rush to commit murder. + They think only about sinning. - Misery and destruction always follow them. + +Misery and destruction always follow them. + 8. They don't know where to find peace - or what it means to be just and good. + +or what it means to be just and good. + They have mapped out crooked roads, - and no one who follows them knows a moment's peace. + +and no one who follows them knows a moment's peace. + 9. So there is no justice among us, - and we know nothing about right living. + +and we know nothing about right living. + We look for light but find only darkness. - We look for bright skies but walk in gloom. + +We look for bright skies but walk in gloom. + 10. We grope like the blind along a wall, - feeling our way like people without eyes. + +feeling our way like people without eyes. + Even at brightest noontime, - we stumble as though it were dark. + +we stumble as though it were dark. + Among the living, - we are like the dead. + +we are like the dead. + 11. We growl like hungry bears; - we moan like mournful doves. + +we moan like mournful doves. + We look for justice, but it never comes. - We look for rescue, but it is far away from us. + +We look for rescue, but it is far away from us. + 12. For our sins are piled up before God - and testify against us. - Yes, we know what sinners we are. + +and testify against us. + +Yes, we know what sinners we are. + 13. We know we have rebelled and have denied the LORD. - We have turned our backs on our God. + +We have turned our backs on our God. + We know how unfair and oppressive we have been, - carefully planning our deceitful lies. + +carefully planning our deceitful lies. + 14. Our courts oppose the righteous, - and justice is nowhere to be found. + +and justice is nowhere to be found. + Truth stumbles in the streets, - and honesty has been outlawed. + +and honesty has been outlawed. + 15. Yes, truth is gone, - and anyone who renounces evil is attacked. + +and anyone who renounces evil is attacked. The LORD looked and was displeased - to find there was no justice. + +to find there was no justice. + 16. He was amazed to see that no one intervened - to help the oppressed. + +to help the oppressed. + So he himself stepped in to save them with his strong arm, - and his justice sustained him. + +and his justice sustained him. + 17. He put on righteousness as his body armor - and placed the helmet of salvation on his head. + +and placed the helmet of salvation on his head. + He clothed himself with a robe of vengeance - and wrapped himself in a cloak of divine passion. + +and wrapped himself in a cloak of divine passion. + 18. He will repay his enemies for their evil deeds. - His fury will fall on his foes. - He will pay them back even to the ends of the earth. + +His fury will fall on his foes. + +He will pay them back even to the ends of the earth. + 19. In the west, people will respect the name of the LORD; - in the east, they will glorify him. + +in the east, they will glorify him. + For he will come like a raging flood tide driven by the breath of the LORD. 20. "The Redeemer will come to Jerusalem - to buy back those in Israel + +to buy back those in Israel who have turned from their sins," says the LORD. 21. "And this is my covenant with them," says the LORD. "My Spirit will not leave them, and neither will these words I have given you. They will be on your lips and on the lips of your children and your children's children forever. I, the LORD, have spoken! + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_60.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_60.md index 89d26e46..14c995cc 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_60.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_60.md @@ -8,106 +8,173 @@ Future Glory for Jerusalem but the glory of the LORD rises and appears over you. 3. All nations will come to your light; - mighty kings will come to see your radiance. + +mighty kings will come to see your radiance. + 4. "Look and see, for everyone is coming home! - Your sons are coming from distant lands; - your little daughters will be carried home. + +Your sons are coming from distant lands; + +your little daughters will be carried home. + 5. Your eyes will shine, - and your heart will thrill with joy, + +and your heart will thrill with joy, for merchants from around the world will come to you. - They will bring you the wealth of many lands. + +They will bring you the wealth of many lands. + 6. Vast caravans of camels will converge on you, - the camels of Midian and Ephah. + +the camels of Midian and Ephah. + The people of Sheba will bring gold and frankincense and will come worshiping the LORD. 7. The flocks of Kedar will be given to you, - and the rams of Nebaioth will be brought for my altars. + +and the rams of Nebaioth will be brought for my altars. + I will accept their offerings, - and I will make my Temple glorious. + +and I will make my Temple glorious. + 8. "And what do I see flying like clouds to Israel, - like doves to their nests? + +like doves to their nests? + 9. They are ships from the ends of the earth, - from lands that trust in me, - led by the great ships of Tarshish. + +from lands that trust in me, + +led by the great ships of Tarshish. + They are bringing the people of Israel home from far away, - carrying their silver and gold. + +carrying their silver and gold. They will honor the LORD your God, - the Holy One of Israel, - for he has filled you with splendor. + +the Holy One of Israel, + +for he has filled you with splendor. + 10. "Foreigners will come to rebuild your towns, - and their kings will serve you. + +and their kings will serve you. + For though I have destroyed you in my anger, - I will now have mercy on you through my grace. + +I will now have mercy on you through my grace. + 11. Your gates will stay open day and night - to receive the wealth of many lands. + +to receive the wealth of many lands. + The kings of the world will be led as captives - in a victory procession. + +in a victory procession. + 12. For the nations that refuse to serve you - will be destroyed. + +will be destroyed. + 13. "The glory of Lebanon will be yours-- - the forests of cypress, fir, and pine-- + +the forests of cypress, fir, and pine-- to beautify my sanctuary. - My Temple will be glorious! + +My Temple will be glorious! + 14. The descendants of your tormentors - will come and bow before you. + +will come and bow before you. + Those who despised you - will kiss your feet. + +will kiss your feet. They will call you the City of the LORD, - and Zion of the Holy One of Israel. + +and Zion of the Holy One of Israel. + 15. "Though you were once despised and hated, - with no one traveling through you, + +with no one traveling through you, I will make you beautiful forever, - a joy to all generations. + +a joy to all generations. + 16. Powerful kings and mighty nations - will satisfy your every need, + +will satisfy your every need, as though you were a child - nursing at the breast of a queen. + +nursing at the breast of a queen. You will know at last that I, the LORD, - am your Savior and your Redeemer, + +am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Israel. 17. I will exchange your bronze for gold, - your iron for silver, + +your iron for silver, your wood for bronze, - and your stones for iron. + +and your stones for iron. + I will make peace your leader - and righteousness your ruler. + +and righteousness your ruler. + 18. Violence will disappear from your land; - the desolation and destruction of war will end. + +the desolation and destruction of war will end. + Salvation will surround you like city walls, - and praise will be on the lips of all who enter there. + +and praise will be on the lips of all who enter there. + 19. "No longer will you need the sun to shine by day, - nor the moon to give its light by night, + +nor the moon to give its light by night, for the LORD your God will be your everlasting light, - and your God will be your glory. + +and your God will be your glory. + 20. Your sun will never set; - your moon will not go down. + +your moon will not go down. For the LORD will be your everlasting light. - Your days of mourning will come to an end. + +Your days of mourning will come to an end. + 21. All your people will be righteous. - They will possess their land forever, + +They will possess their land forever, for I will plant them there with my own hands - in order to bring myself glory. + +in order to bring myself glory. + 22. The smallest family will become a thousand people, - and the tiniest group will become a mighty nation. + +and the tiniest group will become a mighty nation. At the right time, I, the LORD, will make it happen." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_61.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_61.md index 614992f7..2af673a0 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_61.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_61.md @@ -3,61 +3,98 @@ Good News for the Oppressed # Chapter 61 1. The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me - to bring good news to the poor. + +to bring good news to the poor. + He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted - and to proclaim that captives will be released + +and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. 2. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the LORD's favor has come, - and with it, the day of God's anger against their enemies. + +and with it, the day of God's anger against their enemies. + 3. To all who mourn in Israel, - he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, + +he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, - festive praise instead of despair. + +festive praise instead of despair. + In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory. 4. They will rebuild the ancient ruins, - repairing cities destroyed long ago. + +repairing cities destroyed long ago. + They will revive them, - though they have been deserted for many generations. + +though they have been deserted for many generations. + 5. Foreigners will be your servants. - They will feed your flocks + +They will feed your flocks and plow your fields - and tend your vineyards. + +and tend your vineyards. + 6. You will be called priests of the LORD, - ministers of our God. + +ministers of our God. + You will feed on the treasures of the nations - and boast in their riches. + +and boast in their riches. + 7. Instead of shame and dishonor, - you will enjoy a double share of honor. + +you will enjoy a double share of honor. + You will possess a double portion of prosperity in your land, - and everlasting joy will be yours. + +and everlasting joy will be yours. + 8. "For I, the LORD, love justice. - I hate robbery and wrongdoing. + +I hate robbery and wrongdoing. + I will faithfully reward my people for their suffering - and make an everlasting covenant with them. + +and make an everlasting covenant with them. + 9. Their descendants will be recognized - and honored among the nations. + +and honored among the nations. + Everyone will realize that they are a people the LORD has blessed." 10. I am overwhelmed with joy in the LORD my God! - For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation - and draped me in a robe of righteousness. + +For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation + +and draped me in a robe of righteousness. + I am like a bridegroom dressed for his wedding - or a bride with her jewels. + +or a bride with her jewels. + 11. The Sovereign LORD will show his justice to the nations of the world. - Everyone will praise him! + +Everyone will praise him! His righteousness will be like a garden in early spring, - with plants springing up everywhere. + +with plants springing up everywhere. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_62.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_62.md index 4da62bc0..56e6ed00 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_62.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_62.md @@ -2,63 +2,97 @@ Isaiah's Prayer for Jerusalem # Chapter 62 1. Because I love Zion, - I will not keep still. + +I will not keep still. + Because my heart yearns for Jerusalem, - I cannot remain silent. + +I cannot remain silent. + I will not stop praying for her - until her righteousness shines like the dawn, - and her salvation blazes like a burning torch. + +until her righteousness shines like the dawn, + +and her salvation blazes like a burning torch. + 2. The nations will see your righteousness. - World leaders will be blinded by your glory. + +World leaders will be blinded by your glory. + And you will be given a new name by the LORD's own mouth. 3. The LORD will hold you in his hand for all to see-- - a splendid crown in the hand of God. + +a splendid crown in the hand of God. + 4. Never again will you be called "The Forsaken City" or "The Desolate Land." Your new name will be "The City of God's Delight" and "The Bride of God," for the LORD delights in you - and will claim you as his bride. + +and will claim you as his bride. + 5. Your children will commit themselves to you, O Jerusalem, - just as a young man commits himself to his bride. + +just as a young man commits himself to his bride. + Then God will rejoice over you - as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride. + +as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride. + 6. O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen on your walls; - they will pray day and night, continually. + +they will pray day and night, continually. Take no rest, all you who pray to the LORD. 7. Give the LORD no rest until he completes his work, - until he makes Jerusalem the pride of the earth. + +until he makes Jerusalem the pride of the earth. + 8. The LORD has sworn to Jerusalem by his own strength: - "I will never again hand you over to your enemies. + +"I will never again hand you over to your enemies. + Never again will foreign warriors come - and take away your grain and new wine. + +and take away your grain and new wine. + 9. You raised the grain, and you will eat it, praising the LORD. + Within the courtyards of the Temple, - you yourselves will drink the wine you have pressed." + +you yourselves will drink the wine you have pressed." + 10. Go out through the gates! - Prepare the highway for my people to return! + +Prepare the highway for my people to return! Smooth out the road; pull out the boulders; - raise a flag for all the nations to see. + +raise a flag for all the nations to see. + 11. The LORD has sent this message to every land: "Tell the people of Israel, 'Look, your Savior is coming. - See, he brings his reward with him as he comes.'" + +See, he brings his reward with him as he comes.'" + 12. They will be called "The Holy People" and "The People Redeemed by the LORD." And Jerusalem will be known as "The Desirable Place" - and "The City No Longer Forsaken." + +and "The City No Longer Forsaken." + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_63.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_63.md index 44db2753..f6f3be14 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_63.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_63.md @@ -2,96 +2,159 @@ Judgment against the LORD's Enemies # Chapter 63 1. Who is this who comes from Edom, - from the city of Bozrah, - with his clothing stained red? + +from the city of Bozrah, + +with his clothing stained red? Who is this in royal robes, - marching in his great strength? + +marching in his great strength? "It is I, the LORD, announcing your salvation! It is I, the LORD, who has the power to save!" 2. Why are your clothes so red, - as if you have been treading out grapes? + +as if you have been treading out grapes? + 3. "I have been treading the winepress alone; - no one was there to help me. + +no one was there to help me. + In my anger I have trampled my enemies - as if they were grapes. + +as if they were grapes. + In my fury I have trampled my foes. - Their blood has stained my clothes. + +Their blood has stained my clothes. + 4. For the time has come for me to avenge my people, - to ransom them from their oppressors. + +to ransom them from their oppressors. + 5. I was amazed to see that no one intervened - to help the oppressed. + +to help the oppressed. + So I myself stepped in to save them with my strong arm, - and my wrath sustained me. + +and my wrath sustained me. + 6. I crushed the nations in my anger - and made them stagger and fall to the ground, - spilling their blood upon the earth."Praise for Deliverance + +and made them stagger and fall to the ground, + +spilling their blood upon the earth." +Praise for Deliverance + 7. I will tell of the LORD's unfailing love. I will praise the LORD for all he has done. + I will rejoice in his great goodness to Israel, - which he has granted according to his mercy and love. + +which he has granted according to his mercy and love. + 8. He said, "They are my very own people. - Surely they will not betray me again." - And he became their Savior. + +Surely they will not betray me again." + +And he became their Savior. + 9. In all their suffering he also suffered, and he personally rescued them. + In his love and mercy he redeemed them. - He lifted them up and carried them - through all the years. + +He lifted them up and carried them + +through all the years. + 10. But they rebelled against him - and grieved his Holy Spirit. + +and grieved his Holy Spirit. + So he became their enemy - and fought against them. + +and fought against them. + 11. Then they remembered those days of old - when Moses led his people out of Egypt. + +when Moses led his people out of Egypt. + They cried out, "Where is the one who brought Israel through the sea, - with Moses as their shepherd? + +with Moses as their shepherd? Where is the one who sent his Holy Spirit - to be among his people? + +to be among his people? + 12. Where is the one whose power was displayed - when Moses lifted up his hand-- + +when Moses lifted up his hand-- the one who divided the sea before them, - making himself famous forever? + +making himself famous forever? + 13. Where is the one who led them through the bottom of the sea? - They were like fine stallions - racing through the desert, never stumbling. + +They were like fine stallions + +racing through the desert, never stumbling. + 14. As with cattle going down into a peaceful valley, the Spirit of the LORD gave them rest. You led your people, LORD, - and gained a magnificent reputation."Prayer for Mercy and Pardon + +and gained a magnificent reputation." +Prayer for Mercy and Pardon + 15. LORD, look down from heaven; - look from your holy, glorious home, and see us. + +look from your holy, glorious home, and see us. + Where is the passion and the might - you used to show on our behalf? - Where are your mercy and compassion now? + +you used to show on our behalf? + +Where are your mercy and compassion now? + 16. Surely you are still our Father! Even if Abraham and Jacob would disown us, LORD, you would still be our Father. - You are our Redeemer from ages past. + +You are our Redeemer from ages past. + 17. LORD, why have you allowed us to turn from your path? - Why have you given us stubborn hearts so we no longer fear you? + +Why have you given us stubborn hearts so we no longer fear you? Return and help us, for we are your servants, - the tribes that are your special possession. + +the tribes that are your special possession. + 18. How briefly your holy people possessed your holy place, - and now our enemies have destroyed it. + +and now our enemies have destroyed it. + 19. Sometimes it seems as though we never belonged to you, - as though we had never been known as your people. + +as though we had never been known as your people. + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_64.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_64.md index 40e9e410..c6b10251 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_64.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_64.md @@ -1,58 +1,97 @@ # Chapter 64 1. Oh, that you would burst from the heavens and come down! - How the mountains would quake in your presence! + +How the mountains would quake in your presence! + 2. As fire causes wood to burn - and water to boil, + +and water to boil, your coming would make the nations tremble. - Then your enemies would learn the reason for your fame! + +Then your enemies would learn the reason for your fame! + 3. When you came down long ago, - you did awesome deeds beyond our highest expectations. - And oh, how the mountains quaked! + +you did awesome deeds beyond our highest expectations. + +And oh, how the mountains quaked! + 4. For since the world began, - no ear has heard + +no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like you, - who works for those who wait for him! + +who works for those who wait for him! + 5. You welcome those who gladly do good, - who follow godly ways. + +who follow godly ways. + But you have been very angry with us, - for we are not godly. + +for we are not godly. + We are constant sinners; - how can people like us be saved? + +how can people like us be saved? + 6. We are all infected and impure with sin. - When we display our righteous deeds, - they are nothing but filthy rags. + +When we display our righteous deeds, + +they are nothing but filthy rags. + Like autumn leaves, we wither and fall, - and our sins sweep us away like the wind. + +and our sins sweep us away like the wind. + 7. Yet no one calls on your name - or pleads with you for mercy. + +or pleads with you for mercy. + Therefore, you have turned away from us and turned us over to our sins. 8. And yet, O LORD, you are our Father. - We are the clay, and you are the potter. - We all are formed by your hand. + +We are the clay, and you are the potter. + +We all are formed by your hand. + 9. Don't be so angry with us, LORD. - Please don't remember our sins forever. + +Please don't remember our sins forever. + Look at us, we pray, - and see that we are all your people. + +and see that we are all your people. + 10. Your holy cities are destroyed. - Zion is a wilderness; - yes, Jerusalem is a desolate ruin. + +Zion is a wilderness; + +yes, Jerusalem is a desolate ruin. + 11. The holy and beautiful Temple - where our ancestors praised you + +where our ancestors praised you has been burned down, - and all the things of beauty are destroyed. + +and all the things of beauty are destroyed. + 12. After all this, LORD, must you still refuse to help us? - Will you continue to be silent and punish us? + +Will you continue to be silent and punish us? + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_65.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_65.md index 1522773f..59250e01 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_65.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_65.md @@ -3,128 +3,214 @@ Judgment and Final Salvation # Chapter 65 1. The LORD says, "I was ready to respond, but no one asked for help. - I was ready to be found, but no one was looking for me. + +I was ready to be found, but no one was looking for me. + I said, 'Here I am, here I am!' to a nation that did not call on my name. 2. All day long I opened my arms to a rebellious people. - But they follow their own evil paths - and their own crooked schemes. + +But they follow their own evil paths + +and their own crooked schemes. + 3. All day long they insult me to my face - by worshiping idols in their sacred gardens. - They burn incense on pagan altars. + +by worshiping idols in their sacred gardens. + +They burn incense on pagan altars. + 4. At night they go out among the graves, - worshiping the dead. + +worshiping the dead. + They eat the flesh of pigs - and make stews with other forbidden foods. + +and make stews with other forbidden foods. + 5. Yet they say to each other, - 'Don't come too close or you will defile me! - I am holier than you!' + +'Don't come too close or you will defile me! + +I am holier than you!' These people are a stench in my nostrils, - an acrid smell that never goes away. + +an acrid smell that never goes away. + 6. "Look, my decree is written out in front of me: - I will not stand silent; + +I will not stand silent; I will repay them in full! - Yes, I will repay them-- + +Yes, I will repay them-- 7. both for their own sins - and for those of their ancestors," + +and for those of their ancestors," says the LORD. + "For they also burned incense on the mountains - and insulted me on the hills. - I will pay them back in full! + +and insulted me on the hills. + +I will pay them back in full! + 8. "But I will not destroy them all," says the LORD. + "For just as good grapes are found among a cluster of bad ones - (and someone will say, 'Don't throw them all away-- - some of those grapes are good!'), + +(and someone will say, 'Don't throw them all away-- + +some of those grapes are good!'), so I will not destroy all Israel. - For I still have true servants there. + +For I still have true servants there. + 9. I will preserve a remnant of the people of Israel - and of Judah to possess my land. + +and of Judah to possess my land. + Those I choose will inherit it, - and my servants will live there. + +and my servants will live there. + 10. The plain of Sharon will again be filled with flocks - for my people who have searched for me, - and the valley of Achor will be a place to pasture herds. + +for my people who have searched for me, + +and the valley of Achor will be a place to pasture herds. + 11. "But because the rest of you have forsaken the LORD - and have forgotten his Temple, + +and have forgotten his Temple, and because you have prepared feasts to honor the god of Fate - and have offered mixed wine to the god of Destiny, + +and have offered mixed wine to the god of Destiny, + 12. now I will 'destine' you for the sword. - All of you will bow down before the executioner. + +All of you will bow down before the executioner. + For when I called, you did not answer. - When I spoke, you did not listen. + +When I spoke, you did not listen. You deliberately sinned--before my very eyes-- - and chose to do what you know I despise." + +and chose to do what you know I despise." + 13. Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "My servants will eat, - but you will starve. + +but you will starve. + My servants will drink, - but you will be thirsty. + +but you will be thirsty. + My servants will rejoice, - but you will be sad and ashamed. + +but you will be sad and ashamed. + 14. My servants will sing for joy, - but you will cry in sorrow and despair. + +but you will cry in sorrow and despair. + 15. Your name will be a curse word among my people, for the Sovereign LORD will destroy you - and will call his true servants by another name. + +and will call his true servants by another name. + 16. All who invoke a blessing or take an oath - will do so by the God of truth. + +will do so by the God of truth. + For I will put aside my anger - and forget the evil of earlier days. + +and forget the evil of earlier days. + 17. "Look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth, - and no one will even think about the old ones anymore. + +and no one will even think about the old ones anymore. + 18. Be glad; rejoice forever in my creation! - And look! I will create Jerusalem as a place of happiness. - Her people will be a source of joy. + +And look! I will create Jerusalem as a place of happiness. + +Her people will be a source of joy. + 19. I will rejoice over Jerusalem - and delight in my people. + +and delight in my people. + And the sound of weeping and crying - will be heard in it no more. + +will be heard in it no more. + 20. "No longer will babies die when only a few days old. - No longer will adults die before they have lived a full life. + +No longer will adults die before they have lived a full life. + No longer will people be considered old at one hundred! - Only the cursed will die that young! + +Only the cursed will die that young! + 21. In those days people will live in the houses they build - and eat the fruit of their own vineyards. + +and eat the fruit of their own vineyards. + 22. Unlike the past, invaders will not take their houses - and confiscate their vineyards. + +and confiscate their vineyards. + For my people will live as long as trees, - and my chosen ones will have time to enjoy their hard-won gains. + +and my chosen ones will have time to enjoy their hard-won gains. + 23. They will not work in vain, - and their children will not be doomed to misfortune. + +and their children will not be doomed to misfortune. For they are people blessed by the LORD, - and their children, too, will be blessed. + +and their children, too, will be blessed. + 24. I will answer them before they even call to me. - While they are still talking about their needs, - I will go ahead and answer their prayers! + +While they are still talking about their needs, + +I will go ahead and answer their prayers! + 25. The wolf and the lamb will feed together. - The lion will eat hay like a cow. - But the snakes will eat dust. + +The lion will eat hay like a cow. + +But the snakes will eat dust. + In those days no one will be hurt or destroyed on my holy mountain. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_66.md b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_66.md index bded1ac9..c87e8b53 100644 --- a/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_66.md +++ b/NLT/23_Isaiah/Chapter_66.md @@ -1,93 +1,154 @@ # Chapter 66 1. This is what the LORD says: "Heaven is my throne, - and the earth is my footstool. + +and the earth is my footstool. + Could you build me a temple as good as that? - Could you build me such a resting place? + +Could you build me such a resting place? + 2. My hands have made both heaven and earth; they and everything in them are mine. I, the LORD, have spoken! "I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, - who tremble at my word. + +who tremble at my word. + 3. But those who choose their own ways-- - delighting in their detestable sins-- - will not have their offerings accepted. + +delighting in their detestable sins-- + +will not have their offerings accepted. + When such people sacrifice a bull, - it is no more acceptable than a human sacrifice. + +it is no more acceptable than a human sacrifice. + When they sacrifice a lamb, - it's as though they had sacrificed a dog! + +it's as though they had sacrificed a dog! When they bring an offering of grain, - they might as well offer the blood of a pig. + +they might as well offer the blood of a pig. + When they burn frankincense, - it's as if they had blessed an idol. + +it's as if they had blessed an idol. + 4. I will send them great trouble-- - all the things they feared. + +all the things they feared. + For when I called, they did not answer. - When I spoke, they did not listen. + +When I spoke, they did not listen. + They deliberately sinned before my very eyes - and chose to do what they know I despise." + +and chose to do what they know I despise." + 5. Hear this message from the LORD, - all you who tremble at his words: + +all you who tremble at his words: "Your own people hate you - and throw you out for being loyal to my name. + +and throw you out for being loyal to my name. 'Let the LORD be honored!' they scoff. - 'Be joyful in him!' - But they will be put to shame. + +'Be joyful in him!' + +But they will be put to shame. + 6. What is all the commotion in the city? - What is that terrible noise from the Temple? + +What is that terrible noise from the Temple? It is the voice of the LORD - taking vengeance against his enemies. + +taking vengeance against his enemies. + 7. "Before the birth pains even begin, - Jerusalem gives birth to a son. + +Jerusalem gives birth to a son. + 8. Who has ever seen anything as strange as this? - Who ever heard of such a thing? + +Who ever heard of such a thing? Has a nation ever been born in a single day? - Has a country ever come forth in a mere moment? + +Has a country ever come forth in a mere moment? But by the time Jerusalem's birth pains begin, - her children will be born. + +her children will be born. + 9. Would I ever bring this nation to the point of birth and then not deliver it?" asks the LORD. + "No! I would never keep this nation from being born," - says your God. + +says your God. + 10. "Rejoice with Jerusalem! - Be glad with her, all you who love her - and all you who mourn for her. + +Be glad with her, all you who love her + +and all you who mourn for her. + 11. Drink deeply of her glory - even as an infant drinks at its mother's comforting breasts." + +even as an infant drinks at its mother's comforting breasts." + 12. This is what the LORD says: "I will give Jerusalem a river of peace and prosperity. - The wealth of the nations will flow to her. + +The wealth of the nations will flow to her. + Her children will be nursed at her breasts, - carried in her arms, and held on her lap. + +carried in her arms, and held on her lap. + 13. I will comfort you there in Jerusalem - as a mother comforts her child." + +as a mother comforts her child." + 14. When you see these things, your heart will rejoice. - You will flourish like the grass! + +You will flourish like the grass! Everyone will see the LORD's hand of blessing on his servants-- - and his anger against his enemies. + +and his anger against his enemies. + 15. See, the LORD is coming with fire, - and his swift chariots roar like a whirlwind. + +and his swift chariots roar like a whirlwind. + He will bring punishment with the fury of his anger - and the flaming fire of his hot rebuke. + +and the flaming fire of his hot rebuke. + 16. The LORD will punish the world by fire - and by his sword. + +and by his sword. + He will judge the earth, - and many will be killed by him. + +and many will be killed by him. + 17. "Those who 'consecrate' and 'purify' themselves in a sacred garden with its idol in the center--feasting on pork and rats and other detestable meats--will come to a terrible end," says the LORD. @@ -97,19 +158,29 @@ He will judge the earth, 21. "And I will appoint some of them to be my priests and Levites. I, the LORD, have spoken! 22. "As surely as my new heavens and earth will remain, - so will you always be my people, + +so will you always be my people, with a name that will never disappear," says the LORD. 23. "All humanity will come to worship me - from week to week - and from month to month. + +from week to week + +and from month to month. + 24. And as they go out, they will see - the dead bodies of those who have rebelled against me. + +the dead bodies of those who have rebelled against me. + For the worms that devour them will never die, - and the fire that burns them will never go out. + +and the fire that burns them will never go out. + All who pass by - will view them with utter horror." + +will view them with utter horror." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_01.md index 0e6b3968..b09b058f 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,13 +1,19 @@ # Chapter 1 1. These are the words of Jeremiah son of Hilkiah, one of the priests from the town of Anathoth in the land of Benjamin. 2. The LORD first gave messages to Jeremiah during the thirteenth year of the reign of Josiah son of Amon, king of Judah. -3. The LORD's messages continued throughout the reign of King Jehoiakim, Josiah's son, until the eleventh year of the reign of King Zedekiah, another of Josiah's sons. In August of that eleventh year the people of Jerusalem were taken away as captives.Jeremiah's Call and First Visions +3. The LORD's messages continued throughout the reign of King Jehoiakim, Josiah's son, until the eleventh year of the reign of King Zedekiah, another of Josiah's sons. In August of that eleventh year the people of Jerusalem were taken away as captives. + +Jeremiah's Call and First Visions + 4. The LORD gave me this message: 5. "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. - Before you were born I set you apart - and appointed you as my prophet to the nations." + +Before you were born I set you apart + +and appointed you as my prophet to the nations." + 6. "O Sovereign LORD," I said, "I can't speak for you! I'm too young!" @@ -16,46 +22,73 @@ 9. Then the LORD reached out and touched my mouth and said, "Look, I have put my words in your mouth! + 10. Today I appoint you to stand up - against nations and kingdoms. + +against nations and kingdoms. + Some you must uproot and tear down, - destroy and overthrow. + +destroy and overthrow. + Others you must build up - and plant." + +and plant." + 11. Then the LORD said to me, "Look, Jeremiah! What do you see?" And I replied, "I see a branch from an almond tree." + 12. And the LORD said, "That's right, and it means that I am watching, and I will certainly carry out all my plans." 13. Then the LORD spoke to me again and asked, "What do you see now?" And I replied, "I see a pot of boiling water, spilling from the north." + 14. "Yes," the LORD said, "for terror from the north will boil out on the people of this land. 15. Listen! I am calling the armies of the kingdoms of the north to come to Jerusalem. I, the LORD, have spoken! "They will set their thrones - at the gates of the city. + +at the gates of the city. + They will attack its walls - and all the other towns of Judah. + +and all the other towns of Judah. + 16. I will pronounce judgment - on my people for all their evil-- + +on my people for all their evil-- for deserting me and burning incense to other gods. - Yes, they worship idols made with their own hands! + +Yes, they worship idols made with their own hands! + 17. "Get up and prepare for action. - Go out and tell them everything I tell you to say. + +Go out and tell them everything I tell you to say. + Do not be afraid of them, - or I will make you look foolish in front of them. + +or I will make you look foolish in front of them. + 18. For see, today I have made you strong - like a fortified city that cannot be captured, - like an iron pillar or a bronze wall. + +like a fortified city that cannot be captured, + +like an iron pillar or a bronze wall. + You will stand against the whole land-- - the kings, officials, priests, and people of Judah. + +the kings, officials, priests, and people of Judah. + 19. They will fight you, but they will fail. - For I am with you, and I will take care of you. + +For I am with you, and I will take care of you. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_02.md index a4f8380d..1e959572 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_02.md @@ -4,186 +4,295 @@ The LORD's Case against His People 1. The LORD gave me another message. He said, 2. "Go and shout this message to Jerusalem. This is what the LORD says: "I remember how eager you were to please me - as a young bride long ago, + +as a young bride long ago, how you loved me and followed me - even through the barren wilderness. + +even through the barren wilderness. + 3. In those days Israel was holy to the LORD, the first of his children. + All who harmed his people were declared guilty, - and disaster fell on them. + +and disaster fell on them. I, the LORD, have spoken!" 4. Listen to the word of the LORD, people of Jacob--all you families of Israel! 5. This is what the LORD says: "What did your ancestors find wrong with me - that led them to stray so far from me? + +that led them to stray so far from me? They worshiped worthless idols, - only to become worthless themselves. + +only to become worthless themselves. + 6. They did not ask, 'Where is the LORD - who brought us safely out of Egypt + +who brought us safely out of Egypt and led us through the barren wilderness-- - a land of deserts and pits, + +a land of deserts and pits, a land of drought and death, - where no one lives or even travels?' + +where no one lives or even travels?' + 7. "And when I brought you into a fruitful land - to enjoy its bounty and goodness, + +to enjoy its bounty and goodness, you defiled my land and - corrupted the possession I had promised you. + +corrupted the possession I had promised you. + 8. The priests did not ask, 'Where is the LORD?' Those who taught my word ignored me, - the rulers turned against me, + +the rulers turned against me, and the prophets spoke in the name of Baal, - wasting their time on worthless idols. + +wasting their time on worthless idols. + 9. Therefore, I will bring my case against you," says the LORD. + "I will even bring charges against your children's children - in the years to come. + +in the years to come. + 10. "Go west and look in the land of Cyprus; - go east and search through the land of Kedar. + +go east and search through the land of Kedar. + Has anyone ever heard of anything - as strange as this? + +as strange as this? + 11. Has any nation ever traded its gods for new ones, - even though they are not gods at all? + +even though they are not gods at all? Yet my people have exchanged their glorious God - for worthless idols! + +for worthless idols! + 12. The heavens are shocked at such a thing - and shrink back in horror and dismay," + +and shrink back in horror and dismay," says the LORD. 13. "For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me-- - the fountain of living water. + +the fountain of living water. + And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns - that can hold no water at all!The Results of Israel's Sin + +that can hold no water at all! +The Results of Israel's Sin + 14. "Why has Israel become a slave? - Why has he been carried away as plunder? + +Why has he been carried away as plunder? + 15. Strong lions have roared against him, - and the land has been destroyed. + +and the land has been destroyed. + The towns are now in ruins, - and no one lives in them anymore. + +and no one lives in them anymore. + 16. Egyptians, marching from their cities of Memphis and Tahpanhes, - have destroyed Israel's glory and power. + +have destroyed Israel's glory and power. + 17. And you have brought this upon yourselves by rebelling against the LORD your God, - even though he was leading you on the way! + +even though he was leading you on the way! + 18. "What have you gained by your alliances with Egypt - and your covenants with Assyria? + +and your covenants with Assyria? What good to you are the streams of the Nile or the waters of the Euphrates River? 19. Your wickedness will bring its own punishment. - Your turning from me will shame you. + +Your turning from me will shame you. + You will see what an evil, bitter thing it is to abandon the LORD your God and not to fear him. - I, the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken! + +I, the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken! 20. "Long ago I broke the yoke that oppressed you - and tore away the chains of your slavery, + +and tore away the chains of your slavery, but still you said, - 'I will not serve you.' + +'I will not serve you.' On every hill and under every green tree, - you have prostituted yourselves by bowing down to idols. + +you have prostituted yourselves by bowing down to idols. + 21. But I was the one who planted you, choosing a vine of the purest stock--the very best. - How did you grow into this corrupt wild vine? + +How did you grow into this corrupt wild vine? + 22. No amount of soap or lye can make you clean. - I still see the stain of your guilt. - I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!Israel, an Unfaithful Wife + +I still see the stain of your guilt. + I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken! +Israel, an Unfaithful Wife + 23. "You say, 'That's not true! - I haven't worshiped the images of Baal!' + +I haven't worshiped the images of Baal!' But how can you say that? - Go and look in any valley in the land! + +Go and look in any valley in the land! Face the awful sins you have done. - You are like a restless female camel - desperately searching for a mate. + +You are like a restless female camel + +desperately searching for a mate. + 24. You are like a wild donkey, - sniffing the wind at mating time. + +sniffing the wind at mating time. + Who can restrain her lust? - Those who desire her don't need to search, - for she goes running to them! + +Those who desire her don't need to search, + +for she goes running to them! + 25. When will you stop running? - When will you stop panting after other gods? + +When will you stop panting after other gods? But you say, 'Save your breath. - I'm in love with these foreign gods, - and I can't stop loving them now!' + +I'm in love with these foreign gods, + +and I can't stop loving them now!' + 26. "Israel is like a thief - who feels shame only when he gets caught. + +who feels shame only when he gets caught. + They, their kings, officials, priests, and prophets-- - all are alike in this. + +all are alike in this. + 27. To an image carved from a piece of wood they say, - 'You are my father.' + +'You are my father.' To an idol chiseled from a block of stone they say, - 'You are my mother.' + +'You are my mother.' They turn their backs on me, - but in times of trouble they cry out to me, - 'Come and save us!' + +but in times of trouble they cry out to me, + +'Come and save us!' + 28. But why not call on these gods you have made? - When trouble comes, let them save you if they can! + +When trouble comes, let them save you if they can! For you have as many gods - as there are towns in Judah. + +as there are towns in Judah. + 29. Why do you accuse me of doing wrong? - You are the ones who have rebelled," + +You are the ones who have rebelled," says the LORD. 30. "I have punished your children, - but they did not respond to my discipline. + +but they did not respond to my discipline. + You yourselves have killed your prophets - as a lion kills its prey. + +as a lion kills its prey. + 31. "O my people, listen to the words of the LORD! - Have I been like a desert to Israel? - Have I been to them a land of darkness? + +Have I been like a desert to Israel? + +Have I been to them a land of darkness? Why then do my people say, 'At last we are free from God! - We don't need him anymore!' + +We don't need him anymore!' + 32. Does a young woman forget her jewelry, - or a bride her wedding dress? + +or a bride her wedding dress? Yet for years on end - my people have forgotten me. + +my people have forgotten me. + 33. "How you plot and scheme to win your lovers. - Even an experienced prostitute could learn from you! + +Even an experienced prostitute could learn from you! + 34. Your clothing is stained with the blood of the innocent and the poor, - though you didn't catch them breaking into your houses! + +though you didn't catch them breaking into your houses! + 35. And yet you say, 'I have done nothing wrong. - Surely God isn't angry with me!' + +Surely God isn't angry with me!' But now I will punish you severely - because you claim you have not sinned. + +because you claim you have not sinned. + 36. First here, then there-- - you flit from one ally to another asking for help. + +you flit from one ally to another asking for help. + But your new friends in Egypt will let you down, - just as Assyria did before. + +just as Assyria did before. + 37. In despair, you will be led into exile - with your hands on your heads, + +with your hands on your heads, for the LORD has rejected the nations you trust. - They will not help you at all. + +They will not help you at all. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_03.md index 45951eb3..5f5a3c62 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_03.md @@ -1,102 +1,153 @@ # Chapter 3 1. "If a man divorces a woman - and she goes and marries someone else, + +and she goes and marries someone else, he will not take her back again, - for that would surely corrupt the land. + +for that would surely corrupt the land. + But you have prostituted yourself with many lovers, - so why are you trying to come back to me?" + +so why are you trying to come back to me?" says the LORD. 2. "Look at the shrines on every hilltop. - Is there any place you have not been defiled - by your adultery with other gods? + +Is there any place you have not been defiled + +by your adultery with other gods? You sit like a prostitute beside the road waiting for a customer. - You sit alone like a nomad in the desert. + +You sit alone like a nomad in the desert. + You have polluted the land with your prostitution - and your wickedness. + +and your wickedness. + 3. That's why even the spring rains have failed. - For you are a brazen prostitute and completely shameless. + +For you are a brazen prostitute and completely shameless. + 4. Yet you say to me, - 'Father, you have been my guide since my youth. + +'Father, you have been my guide since my youth. + 5. Surely you won't be angry forever! - Surely you can forget about it!' + +Surely you can forget about it!' So you talk, - but you keep on doing all the evil you can."Judah Follows Israel's Example + +but you keep on doing all the evil you can." +Judah Follows Israel's Example + 6. During the reign of King Josiah, the LORD said to me, "Have you seen what fickle Israel has done? Like a wife who commits adultery, Israel has worshiped other gods on every hill and under every green tree. 7. I thought, 'After she has done all this, she will return to me.' But she did not return, and her faithless sister Judah saw this. 8. She saw that I divorced faithless Israel because of her adultery. But that treacherous sister Judah had no fear, and now she, too, has left me and given herself to prostitution. 9. Israel treated it all so lightly--she thought nothing of committing adultery by worshiping idols made of wood and stone. So now the land has been polluted. -10. But despite all this, her faithless sister Judah has never sincerely returned to me. She has only pretended to be sorry. I, the LORD, have spoken!"Hope for Wayward Israel +10. But despite all this, her faithless sister Judah has never sincerely returned to me. She has only pretended to be sorry. I, the LORD, have spoken!" +Hope for Wayward Israel + 11. Then the LORD said to me, "Even faithless Israel is less guilty than treacherous Judah! 12. Therefore, go and give this message to Israel. This is what the LORD says: "O Israel, my faithless people, - come home to me again, + +come home to me again, for I am merciful. - I will not be angry with you forever. + +I will not be angry with you forever. + 13. Only acknowledge your guilt. Admit that you rebelled against the LORD your God and committed adultery against him - by worshiping idols under every green tree. + +by worshiping idols under every green tree. + Confess that you refused to listen to my voice. I, the LORD, have spoken! 14. "Return home, you wayward children," says the LORD, - "for I am your master. + +"for I am your master. I will bring you back to the land of Israel-- - one from this town and two from that family-- - from wherever you are scattered. + +one from this town and two from that family-- + +from wherever you are scattered. + 15. And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, - who will guide you with knowledge and understanding. + +who will guide you with knowledge and understanding. + 16. "And when your land is once more filled with people," says the LORD, "you will no longer wish for 'the good old days' when you possessed the Ark of the LORD's Covenant. You will not miss those days or even remember them, and there will be no need to rebuild the Ark. 17. In that day Jerusalem will be known as 'The Throne of the LORD.' All nations will come there to honor the LORD. They will no longer stubbornly follow their own evil desires. 18. In those days the people of Judah and Israel will return together from exile in the north. They will return to the land I gave your ancestors as an inheritance forever. 19. "I thought to myself, - 'I would love to treat you as my own children!' + +'I would love to treat you as my own children!' I wanted nothing more than to give you this beautiful land-- - the finest possession in the world. + +the finest possession in the world. + I looked forward to your calling me 'Father,' - and I wanted you never to turn from me. + +and I wanted you never to turn from me. + 20. But you have been unfaithful to me, you people of Israel! - You have been like a faithless wife who leaves her husband. + +You have been like a faithless wife who leaves her husband. I, the LORD, have spoken." 21. Voices are heard high on the windswept mountains, - the weeping and pleading of Israel's people. + +the weeping and pleading of Israel's people. + For they have chosen crooked paths and have forgotten the LORD their God. 22. "My wayward children," says the LORD, - "come back to me, and I will heal your wayward hearts." + +"come back to me, and I will heal your wayward hearts." "Yes, we're coming," the people reply, "for you are the LORD our God. 23. Our worship of idols on the hills - and our religious orgies on the mountains - are a delusion. + +and our religious orgies on the mountains + +are a delusion. Only in the LORD our God - will Israel ever find salvation. + +will Israel ever find salvation. + 24. From childhood we have watched - as everything our ancestors worked for-- + +as everything our ancestors worked for-- their flocks and herds, their sons and daughters-- - was squandered on a delusion. + +was squandered on a delusion. + 25. Let us now lie down in shame - and cover ourselves with dishonor, + +and cover ourselves with dishonor, for we and our ancestors have sinned against the LORD our God. + From our childhood to this day - we have never obeyed him." + +we have never obeyed him." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_04.md index a9b2f072..fe5d6da4 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,153 +1,255 @@ # Chapter 4 1. "O Israel," says the LORD, - "if you wanted to return to me, you could. + +"if you wanted to return to me, you could. + You could throw away your detestable idols - and stray away no more. + +and stray away no more. + 2. Then when you swear by my name, saying, 'As surely as the LORD lives,' you could do so - with truth, justice, and righteousness. + +with truth, justice, and righteousness. + Then you would be a blessing to the nations of the world, - and all people would come and praise my name."Coming Judgment against Judah + +and all people would come and praise my name." +Coming Judgment against Judah + 3. This is what the LORD says to the people of Judah and Jerusalem: "Plow up the hard ground of your hearts! - Do not waste your good seed among thorns. + +Do not waste your good seed among thorns. + 4. O people of Judah and Jerusalem, - surrender your pride and power. + +surrender your pride and power. Change your hearts before the LORD, - or my anger will burn like an unquenchable fire - because of all your sins. + +or my anger will burn like an unquenchable fire + +because of all your sins. + 5. "Shout to Judah, and broadcast to Jerusalem! - Tell them to sound the alarm throughout the land: + +Tell them to sound the alarm throughout the land: 'Run for your lives! - Flee to the fortified cities!' + +Flee to the fortified cities!' + 6. Raise a signal flag as a warning for Jerusalem: - 'Flee now! Do not delay!' + +'Flee now! Do not delay!' For I am bringing terrible destruction upon you - from the north." + +from the north." + 7. A lion stalks from its den, - a destroyer of nations. + +a destroyer of nations. + It has left its lair and is headed your way. - It's going to devastate your land! + +It's going to devastate your land! Your towns will lie in ruins, - with no one living in them anymore. + +with no one living in them anymore. + 8. So put on clothes of mourning - and weep with broken hearts, + +and weep with broken hearts, for the fierce anger of the LORD - is still upon us. + +is still upon us. + 9. "In that day," says the LORD, - "the king and the officials will tremble in fear. + +"the king and the officials will tremble in fear. + The priests will be struck with horror, - and the prophets will be appalled." + +and the prophets will be appalled." + 10. Then I said, "O Sovereign LORD, - the people have been deceived by what you said, + +the people have been deceived by what you said, for you promised peace for Jerusalem. - But the sword is held at their throats!" + +But the sword is held at their throats!" + 11. The time is coming when the LORD will say - to the people of Jerusalem, + +to the people of Jerusalem, "My dear people, a burning wind is blowing in from the desert, - and it's not a gentle breeze useful for winnowing grain. + +and it's not a gentle breeze useful for winnowing grain. + 12. It is a roaring blast sent by me! - Now I will pronounce your destruction!" + +Now I will pronounce your destruction!" + 13. Our enemy rushes down on us like storm clouds! - His chariots are like whirlwinds. + +His chariots are like whirlwinds. + His horses are swifter than eagles. - How terrible it will be, for we are doomed! + +How terrible it will be, for we are doomed! + 14. O Jerusalem, cleanse your heart - that you may be saved. + +that you may be saved. + How long will you harbor - your evil thoughts? + +your evil thoughts? + 15. Your destruction has been announced - from Dan and the hill country of Ephraim. + +from Dan and the hill country of Ephraim. + 16. "Warn the surrounding nations - and announce this to Jerusalem: + +and announce this to Jerusalem: The enemy is coming from a distant land, - raising a battle cry against the towns of Judah. + +raising a battle cry against the towns of Judah. + 17. They surround Jerusalem like watchmen around a field, - for my people have rebelled against me," + +for my people have rebelled against me," says the LORD. 18. "Your own actions have brought this upon you. - This punishment is bitter, piercing you to the heart!"Jeremiah Weeps for His People + +This punishment is bitter, piercing you to the heart!" +Jeremiah Weeps for His People + 19. My heart, my heart--I writhe in pain! - My heart pounds within me! I cannot be still. + +My heart pounds within me! I cannot be still. + For I have heard the blast of enemy trumpets - and the roar of their battle cries. + +and the roar of their battle cries. + 20. Waves of destruction roll over the land, - until it lies in complete desolation. + +until it lies in complete desolation. + Suddenly my tents are destroyed; - in a moment my shelters are crushed. + +in a moment my shelters are crushed. + 21. How long must I see the battle flags - and hear the trumpets of war? + +and hear the trumpets of war? + 22. "My people are foolish and do not know me," says the LORD. + "They are stupid children - who have no understanding. + +who have no understanding. + They are clever enough at doing wrong, - but they have no idea how to do right!"Jeremiah's Vision of Coming Disaster + +but they have no idea how to do right!" +Jeremiah's Vision of Coming Disaster + 23. I looked at the earth, and it was empty and formless. - I looked at the heavens, and there was no light. + +I looked at the heavens, and there was no light. + 24. I looked at the mountains and hills, - and they trembled and shook. + +and they trembled and shook. + 25. I looked, and all the people were gone. - All the birds of the sky had flown away. + +All the birds of the sky had flown away. + 26. I looked, and the fertile fields had become a wilderness. - The towns lay in ruins, + +The towns lay in ruins, crushed by the LORD's fierce anger. 27. This is what the LORD says: "The whole land will be ruined, - but I will not destroy it completely. + +but I will not destroy it completely. + 28. The earth will mourn - and the heavens will be draped in black + +and the heavens will be draped in black because of my decree against my people. - I have made up my mind and will not change it." + +I have made up my mind and will not change it." + 29. At the noise of charioteers and archers, - the people flee in terror. + +the people flee in terror. + They hide in the bushes - and run for the mountains. + +and run for the mountains. + All the towns have been abandoned-- - not a person remains! + +not a person remains! + 30. What are you doing, - you who have been plundered? + +you who have been plundered? Why do you dress up in beautiful clothing - and put on gold jewelry? + +and put on gold jewelry? Why do you brighten your eyes with mascara? - Your primping will do you no good! + +Your primping will do you no good! The allies who were your lovers - despise you and seek to kill you. + +despise you and seek to kill you. + 31. I hear a cry, like that of a woman in labor, - the groans of a woman giving birth to her first child. + +the groans of a woman giving birth to her first child. It is beautiful Jerusalem - gasping for breath and crying out, - "Help! I'm being murdered!" + +gasping for breath and crying out, + +" +Help! I'm being murdered!" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_05.md index dfbc8ddc..1ebe2064 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_05.md @@ -2,145 +2,240 @@ The Sins of Judah # Chapter 5 1. "Run up and down every street in Jerusalem," says the LORD. - "Look high and low; search throughout the city! + +"Look high and low; search throughout the city! If you can find even one just and honest person, - I will not destroy the city. + +I will not destroy the city. + 2. But even when they are under oath, saying, 'As surely as the LORD lives,' - they are still telling lies!" + +they are still telling lies!" + 3. LORD, you are searching for honesty. + You struck your people, - but they paid no attention. + +but they paid no attention. + You crushed them, - but they refused to be corrected. + +but they refused to be corrected. + They are determined, with faces set like stone; - they have refused to repent. + +they have refused to repent. + 4. Then I said, "But what can we expect from the poor? - They are ignorant. + +They are ignorant. They don't know the ways of the LORD. - They don't understand God's laws. + +They don't understand God's laws. + 5. So I will go and speak to their leaders. Surely they know the ways of the LORD - and understand God's laws." + +and understand God's laws." But the leaders, too, as one man, - had thrown off God's yoke - and broken his chains. + +had thrown off God's yoke + +and broken his chains. + 6. So now a lion from the forest will attack them; - a wolf from the desert will pounce on them. + +a wolf from the desert will pounce on them. + A leopard will lurk near their towns, - tearing apart any who dare to venture out. + +tearing apart any who dare to venture out. + For their rebellion is great, - and their sins are many. + +and their sins are many. + 7. "How can I pardon you? - For even your children have turned from me. + +For even your children have turned from me. + They have sworn by gods that are not gods at all! - I fed my people until they were full. + +I fed my people until they were full. + But they thanked me by committing adultery - and lining up at the brothels. + +and lining up at the brothels. + 8. They are well-fed, lusty stallions, - each neighing for his neighbor's wife. + +each neighing for his neighbor's wife. + 9. Should I not punish them for this?" says the LORD. - "Should I not avenge myself against such a nation? + +"Should I not avenge myself against such a nation? + 10. "Go down the rows of the vineyards and destroy the grapevines, - leaving a scattered few alive. + +leaving a scattered few alive. + Strip the branches from the vines, for these people do not belong to the LORD. 11. The people of Israel and Judah - are full of treachery against me," + +are full of treachery against me," says the LORD. 12. "They have lied about the LORD - and said, 'He won't bother us! + +and said, 'He won't bother us! No disasters will come upon us. - There will be no war or famine. + +There will be no war or famine. + 13. God's prophets are all windbags - who don't really speak for him. - Let their predictions of disaster fall on themselves!'" + +who don't really speak for him. + +Let their predictions of disaster fall on themselves!'" + 14. Therefore, this is what the LORD God of Heaven's Armies says: "Because the people are talking like this, - my messages will flame out of your mouth - and burn the people like kindling wood. + +my messages will flame out of your mouth + +and burn the people like kindling wood. + 15. O Israel, I will bring a distant nation against you," says the LORD. + "It is a mighty nation, - an ancient nation, + +an ancient nation, a people whose language you do not know, - whose speech you cannot understand. + +whose speech you cannot understand. + 16. Their weapons are deadly; - their warriors are mighty. + +their warriors are mighty. + 17. They will devour the food of your harvest; - they will devour your sons and daughters. + +they will devour your sons and daughters. + They will devour your flocks and herds; - they will devour your grapes and figs. + +they will devour your grapes and figs. + And they will destroy your fortified towns, - which you think are so safe. + +which you think are so safe. + 18. "Yet even in those days I will not blot you out completely," says the LORD. -19. "And when your people ask, 'Why did the LORD our God do all this to us?' you must reply, 'You rejected him and gave yourselves to foreign gods in your own land. Now you will serve foreigners in a land that is not your own.'A Warning for God's People +19. "And when your people ask, 'Why did the LORD our God do all this to us?' you must reply, 'You rejected him and gave yourselves to foreign gods in your own land. Now you will serve foreigners in a land that is not your own.' +A Warning for God's People + 20. "Make this announcement to Israel, - and say this to Judah: + +and say this to Judah: + 21. Listen, you foolish and senseless people, - with eyes that do not see - and ears that do not hear. + +with eyes that do not see + +and ears that do not hear. + 22. Have you no respect for me? - Why don't you tremble in my presence? + +Why don't you tremble in my presence? I, the LORD, define the ocean's sandy shoreline - as an everlasting boundary that the waters cannot cross. + +as an everlasting boundary that the waters cannot cross. + The waves may toss and roar, - but they can never pass the boundaries I set. + +but they can never pass the boundaries I set. + 23. But my people have stubborn and rebellious hearts. - They have turned away and abandoned me. + +They have turned away and abandoned me. + 24. They do not say from the heart, 'Let us live in awe of the LORD our God, for he gives us rain each spring and fall, - assuring us of a harvest when the time is right.' + +assuring us of a harvest when the time is right.' + 25. Your wickedness has deprived you of these wonderful blessings. - Your sin has robbed you of all these good things. + +Your sin has robbed you of all these good things. + 26. "Among my people are wicked men - who lie in wait for victims like a hunter hiding in a blind. + +who lie in wait for victims like a hunter hiding in a blind. + They continually set traps - to catch people. + +to catch people. + 27. Like a cage filled with birds, - their homes are filled with evil plots. - And now they are great and rich. + +their homes are filled with evil plots. + +And now they are great and rich. + 28. They are fat and sleek, - and there is no limit to their wicked deeds. + +and there is no limit to their wicked deeds. + They refuse to provide justice to orphans - and deny the rights of the poor. + +and deny the rights of the poor. + 29. Should I not punish them for this?" says the LORD. - "Should I not avenge myself against such a nation? + +"Should I not avenge myself against such a nation? + 30. A horrible and shocking thing - has happened in this land-- + +has happened in this land-- 31. the prophets give false prophecies, - and the priests rule with an iron hand. + +and the priests rule with an iron hand. + Worse yet, my people like it that way! - But what will you do when the end comes? + +But what will you do when the end comes? + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_06.md index 07cfe55f..82391a75 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_06.md @@ -2,153 +2,251 @@ Jerusalem's Last Warning # Chapter 6 1. "Run for your lives, you people of Benjamin! - Get out of Jerusalem! + +Get out of Jerusalem! Sound the alarm in Tekoa! - Send up a signal at Beth-hakkerem! + +Send up a signal at Beth-hakkerem! A powerful army is coming from the north, - coming with disaster and destruction. + +coming with disaster and destruction. + 2. O Jerusalem, you are my beautiful and delicate daughter-- - but I will destroy you! + +but I will destroy you! + 3. Enemies will surround you, like shepherds camped around the city. - Each chooses a place for his troops to devour. + +Each chooses a place for his troops to devour. + 4. They shout, 'Prepare for battle! - Attack at noon!' + +Attack at noon!' 'No, it's too late; the day is fading, - and the evening shadows are falling.' + +and the evening shadows are falling.' + 5. 'Well then, let's attack at night - and destroy her palaces!'" + +and destroy her palaces!'" + 6. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: "Cut down the trees for battering rams. - Build siege ramps against the walls of Jerusalem. + +Build siege ramps against the walls of Jerusalem. + This is the city to be punished, - for she is wicked through and through. + +for she is wicked through and through. + 7. She spouts evil like a fountain. - Her streets echo with the sounds of violence and destruction. - I always see her sickness and sores. + +Her streets echo with the sounds of violence and destruction. + +I always see her sickness and sores. + 8. Listen to this warning, Jerusalem, - or I will turn from you in disgust. + +or I will turn from you in disgust. + Listen, or I will turn you into a heap of ruins, - a land where no one lives." + +a land where no one lives." + 9. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: "Even the few who remain in Israel - will be picked over again, + +will be picked over again, as when a harvester checks each vine a second time - to pick the grapes that were missed."Judah's Constant Rebellion + +to pick the grapes that were missed." +Judah's Constant Rebellion + 10. To whom can I give warning? - Who will listen when I speak? + +Who will listen when I speak? Their ears are closed, - and they cannot hear. + +and they cannot hear. They scorn the word of the LORD. - They don't want to listen at all. + +They don't want to listen at all. + 11. So now I am filled with the LORD's fury. - Yes, I am tired of holding it in! + +Yes, I am tired of holding it in! "I will pour out my fury on children playing in the streets - and on gatherings of young men, + +and on gatherings of young men, on husbands and wives - and on those who are old and gray. + +and on those who are old and gray. + 12. Their homes will be turned over to their enemies, - as will their fields and their wives. + +as will their fields and their wives. + For I will raise my powerful fist - against the people of this land," + +against the people of this land," says the LORD. 13. "From the least to the greatest, - their lives are ruled by greed. + +their lives are ruled by greed. + From prophets to priests, - they are all frauds. + +they are all frauds. + 14. They offer superficial treatments - for my people's mortal wound. + +for my people's mortal wound. + They give assurances of peace - when there is no peace. + +when there is no peace. + 15. Are they ashamed of their disgusting actions? Not at all--they don't even know how to blush! Therefore, they will lie among the slaughtered. - They will be brought down when I punish them," + +They will be brought down when I punish them," says the LORD.Judah Rejects the LORD's Way 16. This is what the LORD says: "Stop at the crossroads and look around. - Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. + +Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. + Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls. - But you reply, 'No, that's not the road we want!' + +But you reply, 'No, that's not the road we want!' + 17. I posted watchmen over you who said, - 'Listen for the sound of the alarm.' + +'Listen for the sound of the alarm.' But you replied, - 'No! We won't pay attention!' + +'No! We won't pay attention!' + 18. "Therefore, listen to this, all you nations. - Take note of my people's situation. + +Take note of my people's situation. + 19. Listen, all the earth! - I will bring disaster on my people. + +I will bring disaster on my people. + It is the fruit of their own schemes, - because they refuse to listen to me. - They have rejected my word. + +because they refuse to listen to me. + +They have rejected my word. + 20. There's no use offering me sweet frankincense from Sheba. - Keep your fragrant calamus imported from distant lands! + +Keep your fragrant calamus imported from distant lands! I will not accept your burnt offerings. - Your sacrifices have no pleasing aroma for me." + +Your sacrifices have no pleasing aroma for me." + 21. Therefore, this is what the LORD says: - "I will put obstacles in my people's path. + +"I will put obstacles in my people's path. + Fathers and sons will both fall over them. - Neighbors and friends will die together."An Invasion from the North + +Neighbors and friends will die together." +An Invasion from the North + 22. This is what the LORD says: "Look! A great army coming from the north! - A great nation is rising against you from far-off lands. + +A great nation is rising against you from far-off lands. + 23. They are armed with bows and spears. - They are cruel and show no mercy. + +They are cruel and show no mercy. + They sound like a roaring sea - as they ride forward on horses. + +as they ride forward on horses. + They are coming in battle formation, planning to destroy you, beautiful Jerusalem." 24. We have heard reports about the enemy, - and we wring our hands in fright. + +and we wring our hands in fright. + Pangs of anguish have gripped us, - like those of a woman in labor. + +like those of a woman in labor. + 25. Don't go out to the fields! - Don't travel on the roads! + +Don't travel on the roads! The enemy's sword is everywhere - and terrorizes us at every turn! + +and terrorizes us at every turn! + 26. Oh, my people, dress yourselves in burlap - and sit among the ashes. + +and sit among the ashes. + Mourn and weep bitterly, as for the loss of an only son. - For suddenly the destroying armies will be upon you! + +For suddenly the destroying armies will be upon you! + 27. "Jeremiah, I have made you a tester of metals, - that you may determine the quality of my people. + +that you may determine the quality of my people. + 28. They are the worst kind of rebel, - full of slander. + +full of slander. + They are as hard as bronze and iron, - and they lead others into corruption. + +and they lead others into corruption. + 29. The bellows fiercely fan the flames - to burn out the corruption. + +to burn out the corruption. + But it does not purify them, - for the wickedness remains. + +for the wickedness remains. + 30. I will label them 'Rejected Silver,' for I, the LORD, am discarding them." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_07.md index 628e381a..1623e1c0 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_07.md @@ -5,6 +5,7 @@ Jeremiah Speaks at the Temple 2. "Go to the entrance of the LORD's Temple, and give this message to the people: 'O Judah, listen to this message from the LORD! Listen to it, all of you who worship here! 3. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: "'Even now, if you quit your evil ways, I will let you stay in your own land. + 4. But don't be fooled by those who promise you safety simply because the LORD's Temple is here. They chant, "The LORD's Temple is here! The LORD's Temple is here!" 5. But I will be merciful only if you stop your evil thoughts and deeds and start treating each other with justice; 6. only if you stop exploiting foreigners, orphans, and widows; only if you stop your murdering; and only if you stop harming yourselves by worshiping idols. @@ -18,7 +19,9 @@ Jeremiah Speaks at the Temple 12. "'Go now to the place at Shiloh where I once put the Tabernacle that bore my name. See what I did there because of all the wickedness of my people, the Israelites. 13. While you were doing these wicked things, says the LORD, I spoke to you about it repeatedly, but you would not listen. I called out to you, but you refused to answer. 14. So just as I destroyed Shiloh, I will now destroy this Temple that bears my name, this Temple that you trust in for help, this place that I gave to you and your ancestors. -15. And I will send you out of my sight into exile, just as I did your relatives, the people of Israel.'Judah's Persistent Idolatry +15. And I will send you out of my sight into exile, just as I did your relatives, the people of Israel.' +Judah's Persistent Idolatry + 16. "Pray no more for these people, Jeremiah. Do not weep or pray for them, and don't beg me to help them, for I will not listen to you. 17. Don't you see what they are doing throughout the towns of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem? @@ -37,7 +40,9 @@ Jeremiah Speaks at the Temple 27. "Tell them all this, but do not expect them to listen. Shout out your warnings, but do not expect them to respond. 28. Say to them, 'This is the nation whose people will not obey the LORD their God and who refuse to be taught. Truth has vanished from among them; it is no longer heard on their lips. -29. Shave your head in mourning, and weep alone on the mountains. For the LORD has rejected and forsaken this generation that has provoked his fury.'The Valley of Slaughter +29. Shave your head in mourning, and weep alone on the mountains. For the LORD has rejected and forsaken this generation that has provoked his fury.' +The Valley of Slaughter + 30. "The people of Judah have sinned before my very eyes," says the LORD. "They have set up their abominable idols right in the Temple that bears my name, defiling it. 31. They have built pagan shrines at Topheth, the garbage dump in the valley of Ben-Hinnom, and there they burn their sons and daughters in the fire. I have never commanded such a horrible deed; it never even crossed my mind to command such a thing! @@ -46,3 +51,4 @@ Jeremiah Speaks at the Temple 34. I will put an end to the happy singing and laughter in the streets of Jerusalem. The joyful voices of bridegrooms and brides will no longer be heard in the towns of Judah. The land will lie in complete desolation. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_08.md index cb9862ab..d2c34f11 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_08.md @@ -1,104 +1,161 @@ # Chapter 8 1. "In that day," says the LORD, "the enemy will break open the graves of the kings and officials of Judah, and the graves of the priests, prophets, and common people of Jerusalem. 2. They will spread out their bones on the ground before the sun, moon, and stars--the gods my people have loved, served, and worshiped. Their bones will not be gathered up again or buried but will be scattered on the ground like manure. -3. And the people of this evil nation who survive will wish to die rather than live where I will send them. I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken!Deception by False Prophets +3. And the people of this evil nation who survive will wish to die rather than live where I will send them. I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken! +Deception by False Prophets + 4. "Jeremiah, say to the people, 'This is what the LORD says: "'When people fall down, don't they get up again? - When they discover they're on the wrong road, don't they turn back? + +When they discover they're on the wrong road, don't they turn back? + 5. Then why do these people stay on their self-destructive path? - Why do the people of Jerusalem refuse to turn back? + +Why do the people of Jerusalem refuse to turn back? They cling tightly to their lies - and will not turn around. + +and will not turn around. + 6. I listen to their conversations - and don't hear a word of truth. + +and don't hear a word of truth. + Is anyone sorry for doing wrong? - Does anyone say, "What a terrible thing I have done"? + +Does anyone say, "What a terrible thing I have done"? No! All are running down the path of sin - as swiftly as a horse galloping into battle! + +as swiftly as a horse galloping into battle! + 7. Even the stork that flies across the sky - knows the time of her migration, + +knows the time of her migration, as do the turtledove, the swallow, and the crane. - They all return at the proper time each year. + +They all return at the proper time each year. + But not my people! They do not know the LORD's laws. 8. "'How can you say, "We are wise because we have the word of the LORD," - when your teachers have twisted it by writing lies? + +when your teachers have twisted it by writing lies? + 9. These wise teachers will fall - into the trap of their own foolishness, + +into the trap of their own foolishness, for they have rejected the word of the LORD. - Are they so wise after all? + +Are they so wise after all? + 10. I will give their wives to others - and their farms to strangers. + +and their farms to strangers. + From the least to the greatest, - their lives are ruled by greed. + +their lives are ruled by greed. + Yes, even my prophets and priests are like that. - They are all frauds. + +They are all frauds. + 11. They offer superficial treatments - for my people's mortal wound. + +for my people's mortal wound. + They give assurances of peace - when there is no peace. + +when there is no peace. + 12. Are they ashamed of these disgusting actions? Not at all--they don't even know how to blush! Therefore, they will lie among the slaughtered. - They will be brought down when I punish them, + +They will be brought down when I punish them, says the LORD. 13. I will surely consume them. - There will be no more harvests of figs and grapes. + +There will be no more harvests of figs and grapes. + Their fruit trees will all die. - Whatever I gave them will soon be gone. + +Whatever I gave them will soon be gone. I, the LORD, have spoken!' 14. "Then the people will say, - 'Why should we wait here to die? + +'Why should we wait here to die? Come, let's go to the fortified towns and die there. For the LORD our God has decreed our destruction and has given us a cup of poison to drink because we sinned against the LORD. 15. We hoped for peace, but no peace came. - We hoped for a time of healing, but found only terror.' + +We hoped for a time of healing, but found only terror.' + 16. "The snorting of the enemies' warhorses can be heard - all the way from the land of Dan in the north! + +all the way from the land of Dan in the north! The neighing of their stallions makes the whole land tremble. - They are coming to devour the land and everything in it-- - cities and people alike. + +They are coming to devour the land and everything in it-- + +cities and people alike. + 17. I will send these enemy troops among you - like poisonous snakes you cannot charm. + +like poisonous snakes you cannot charm. + They will bite you, and you will die. - I, the LORD, have spoken!"Jeremiah Weeps for Sinful Judah + I, the LORD, have spoken!" +Jeremiah Weeps for Sinful Judah + 18. My grief is beyond healing; - my heart is broken. + +my heart is broken. + 19. Listen to the weeping of my people; - it can be heard all across the land. + +it can be heard all across the land. "Has the LORD abandoned Jerusalem?" the people ask. - "Is her King no longer there?" + +"Is her King no longer there?" "Oh, why have they provoked my anger with their carved idols and their worthless foreign gods?" says the LORD. 20. "The harvest is finished, - and the summer is gone," the people cry, - "yet we are not saved!" + +and the summer is gone," the people cry, + +"yet we are not saved!" + 21. I hurt with the hurt of my people. - I mourn and am overcome with grief. + +I mourn and am overcome with grief. + 22. Is there no medicine in Gilead? - Is there no physician there? + +Is there no physician there? Why is there no healing - for the wounds of my people? + +for the wounds of my people? + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_09.md index 9975069c..d1044f6f 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_09.md @@ -1,103 +1,166 @@ # Chapter 9 1. If only my head were a pool of water - and my eyes a fountain of tears, + +and my eyes a fountain of tears, I would weep day and night - for all my people who have been slaughtered. + +for all my people who have been slaughtered. + 2. Oh, that I could go away and forget my people - and live in a travelers' shack in the desert. + +and live in a travelers' shack in the desert. + For they are all adulterers-- - a pack of treacherous liars.Judgment for Disobedience + +a pack of treacherous liars. + +Judgment for Disobedience + 3. "My people bend their tongues like bows - to shoot out lies. + +to shoot out lies. + They refuse to stand up for the truth. - They only go from bad to worse. + +They only go from bad to worse. + They do not know me," says the LORD. 4. "Beware of your neighbor! - Don't even trust your brother! + +Don't even trust your brother! For brother takes advantage of brother, - and friend slanders friend. + +and friend slanders friend. + 5. They all fool and defraud each other; - no one tells the truth. + +no one tells the truth. + With practiced tongues they tell lies; - they wear themselves out with all their sinning. + +they wear themselves out with all their sinning. + 6. They pile lie upon lie - and utterly refuse to acknowledge me," + +and utterly refuse to acknowledge me," says the LORD. 7. Therefore, this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: "See, I will melt them down in a crucible - and test them like metal. + +and test them like metal. What else can I do with my people? 8. For their tongues shoot lies like poisoned arrows. + They speak friendly words to their neighbors - while scheming in their heart to kill them. + +while scheming in their heart to kill them. + 9. Should I not punish them for this?" says the LORD. - "Should I not avenge myself against such a nation?" + +"Should I not avenge myself against such a nation?" + 10. I will weep for the mountains - and wail for the wilderness pastures. + +and wail for the wilderness pastures. + For they are desolate and empty of life; - the lowing of cattle is heard no more; - the birds and wild animals have all fled. + +the lowing of cattle is heard no more; + +the birds and wild animals have all fled. + 11. "I will make Jerusalem into a heap of ruins," says the LORD. - "It will be a place haunted by jackals. + +"It will be a place haunted by jackals. + The towns of Judah will be ghost towns, - with no one living in them." + +with no one living in them." + 12. Who is wise enough to understand all this? Who has been instructed by the LORD and can explain it to others? Why has the land been so ruined that no one dares to travel through it? 13. The LORD replies, "This has happened because my people have abandoned my instructions; they have refused to obey what I said. 14. Instead, they have stubbornly followed their own desires and worshiped the images of Baal, as their ancestors taught them. 15. So now, this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: Look! I will feed them with bitterness and give them poison to drink. -16. I will scatter them around the world, in places they and their ancestors never heard of, and even there I will chase them with the sword until I have destroyed them completely."Weeping in Jerusalem +16. I will scatter them around the world, in places they and their ancestors never heard of, and even there I will chase them with the sword until I have destroyed them completely." +Weeping in Jerusalem + 17. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: "Consider all this, and call for the mourners. - Send for the women who mourn at funerals. + +Send for the women who mourn at funerals. + 18. Quick! Begin your weeping! - Let the tears flow from your eyes. + +Let the tears flow from your eyes. + 19. Hear the people of Jerusalem crying in despair, - 'We are ruined! We are completely humiliated! + +'We are ruined! We are completely humiliated! We must leave our land, - because our homes have been torn down.'" + +because our homes have been torn down.'" + 20. Listen, you women, to the words of the LORD; - open your ears to what he has to say. + +open your ears to what he has to say. + Teach your daughters to wail; - teach one another how to lament. + +teach one another how to lament. + 21. For death has crept in through our windows - and has entered our mansions. + +and has entered our mansions. + It has killed off the flower of our youth: - Children no longer play in the streets, - and young men no longer gather in the squares. + +Children no longer play in the streets, + +and young men no longer gather in the squares. + 22. This is what the LORD says: "Bodies will be scattered across the fields like clumps of manure, - like bundles of grain after the harvest. - No one will be left to bury them." + +like bundles of grain after the harvest. + +No one will be left to bury them." + 23. This is what the LORD says: "Don't let the wise boast in their wisdom, - or the powerful boast in their power, - or the rich boast in their riches. + +or the powerful boast in their power, + +or the rich boast in their riches. + 24. But those who wish to boast - should boast in this alone: + +should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the LORD - who demonstrates unfailing love - and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, + +who demonstrates unfailing love + +and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the LORD, have spoken! @@ -105,3 +168,4 @@ and that I delight in these things. 26. the Egyptians, Edomites, Ammonites, Moabites, the people who live in the desert in remote places, and yes, even the people of Judah. And like all these pagan nations, the people of Israel also have uncircumcised hearts." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_10.md index b02cac98..045f1e81 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_10.md @@ -4,113 +4,191 @@ Idolatry Brings Destruction 1. Hear the word that the LORD speaks to you, O Israel! 2. This is what the LORD says: "Do not act like the other nations, - who try to read their future in the stars. + +who try to read their future in the stars. + Do not be afraid of their predictions, - even though other nations are terrified by them. + +even though other nations are terrified by them. + 3. Their ways are futile and foolish. - They cut down a tree, and a craftsman carves an idol. + +They cut down a tree, and a craftsman carves an idol. + 4. They decorate it with gold and silver - and then fasten it securely with hammer and nails - so it won't fall over. + +and then fasten it securely with hammer and nails + +so it won't fall over. + 5. Their gods are like - helpless scarecrows in a cucumber field! + +helpless scarecrows in a cucumber field! They cannot speak, - and they need to be carried because they cannot walk. + +and they need to be carried because they cannot walk. + Do not be afraid of such gods, - for they can neither harm you nor do you any good." + +for they can neither harm you nor do you any good." + 6. LORD, there is no one like you! - For you are great, and your name is full of power. + +For you are great, and your name is full of power. + 7. Who would not fear you, O King of nations? - That title belongs to you alone! + +That title belongs to you alone! Among all the wise people of the earth - and in all the kingdoms of the world, - there is no one like you. + +and in all the kingdoms of the world, + +there is no one like you. + 8. People who worship idols are stupid and foolish. - The things they worship are made of wood! + +The things they worship are made of wood! + 9. They bring beaten sheets of silver from Tarshish - and gold from Uphaz, + +and gold from Uphaz, and they give these materials to skillful craftsmen - who make their idols. + +who make their idols. + Then they dress these gods in royal blue and purple robes - made by expert tailors. + +made by expert tailors. + 10. But the LORD is the only true God. - He is the living God and the everlasting King! + +He is the living God and the everlasting King! The whole earth trembles at his anger. - The nations cannot stand up to his wrath. + +The nations cannot stand up to his wrath. + 11. Say this to those who worship other gods: "Your so-called gods, who did not make the heavens and earth, will vanish from the earth and from under the heavens." 12. But the LORD made the earth by his power, - and he preserves it by his wisdom. + +and he preserves it by his wisdom. + With his own understanding - he stretched out the heavens. + +he stretched out the heavens. + 13. When he speaks in the thunder, - the heavens roar with rain. + +the heavens roar with rain. + He causes the clouds to rise over the earth. - He sends the lightning with the rain - and releases the wind from his storehouses. + +He sends the lightning with the rain + +and releases the wind from his storehouses. + 14. The whole human race is foolish and has no knowledge! - The craftsmen are disgraced by the idols they make, + +The craftsmen are disgraced by the idols they make, for their carefully shaped works are a fraud. - These idols have no breath or power. + +These idols have no breath or power. + 15. Idols are worthless; they are ridiculous lies! - On the day of reckoning they will all be destroyed. + +On the day of reckoning they will all be destroyed. + 16. But the God of Israel is no idol! - He is the Creator of everything that exists, + +He is the Creator of everything that exists, including Israel, his own special possession. - The LORD of Heaven's Armies is his name!The Coming Destruction + The LORD of Heaven's Armies is his name! +The Coming Destruction + 17. Pack your bags and prepare to leave; - the siege is about to begin. + +the siege is about to begin. + 18. For this is what the LORD says: "Suddenly, I will fling out - all you who live in this land. + +all you who live in this land. + I will pour great troubles upon you, - and at last you will feel my anger." + +and at last you will feel my anger." + 19. My wound is severe, - and my grief is great. + +and my grief is great. + My sickness is incurable, - but I must bear it. + +but I must bear it. + 20. My home is gone, - and no one is left to help me rebuild it. + +and no one is left to help me rebuild it. + My children have been taken away, - and I will never see them again. + +and I will never see them again. + 21. The shepherds of my people have lost their senses. They no longer seek wisdom from the LORD. + Therefore, they fail completely, - and their flocks are scattered. + +and their flocks are scattered. + 22. Listen! Hear the terrifying roar of great armies - as they roll down from the north. + +as they roll down from the north. + The towns of Judah will be destroyed - and become a haunt for jackals.Jeremiah's Prayer + +and become a haunt for jackals. + +Jeremiah's Prayer + 23. I know, LORD, that our lives are not our own. - We are not able to plan our own course. + +We are not able to plan our own course. + 24. So correct me, LORD, but please be gentle. - Do not correct me in anger, for I would die. + +Do not correct me in anger, for I would die. + 25. Pour out your wrath on the nations that refuse to acknowledge you-- - on the peoples that do not call upon your name. + +on the peoples that do not call upon your name. For they have devoured your people Israel; - they have devoured and consumed them, - making the land a desolate wilderness. + +they have devoured and consumed them, + +making the land a desolate wilderness. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_11.md index c30d23d2..d9c69daa 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_11.md @@ -21,29 +21,44 @@ Then I replied, "Amen, LORD! May it be so." 14. "Pray no more for these people, Jeremiah. Do not weep or pray for them, for I will not listen to them when they cry out to me in distress. 15. "What right do my beloved people have to come to my Temple, - when they have done so many immoral things? + +when they have done so many immoral things? Can their vows and sacrifices prevent their destruction? - They actually rejoice in doing evil! + +They actually rejoice in doing evil! + 16. I, the LORD, once called them a thriving olive tree, - beautiful to see and full of good fruit. -But now I have sent the fury of their enemies - to burn them with fire, - leaving them charred and broken. + +beautiful to see and full of good fruit. + +But now I have sent the fury of their enemies + +to burn them with fire, + +leaving them charred and broken. + + +17. "I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, who planted this olive tree, have ordered it destroyed. For the people of Israel and Judah have done evil, arousing my anger by burning incense to Baal." +A Plot against Jeremiah -17. "I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, who planted this olive tree, have ordered it destroyed. For the people of Israel and Judah have done evil, arousing my anger by burning incense to Baal."A Plot against Jeremiah 18. Then the LORD told me about the plots my enemies were making against me. 19. I was like a lamb being led to the slaughter. I had no idea that they were planning to kill me! "Let's destroy this man and all his words," they said. "Let's cut him down, so his name will be forgotten forever." 20. O LORD of Heaven's Armies, you make righteous judgments, - and you examine the deepest thoughts and secrets. + +and you examine the deepest thoughts and secrets. + Let me see your vengeance against them, - for I have committed my cause to you. + +for I have committed my cause to you. + 21. This is what the LORD says about the men of Anathoth who wanted me dead. They had said, "We will kill you if you do not stop prophesying in the LORD's name." 22. So this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says about them: "I will punish them! Their young men will die in battle, and their boys and girls will starve to death. 23. Not one of these plotters from Anathoth will survive, for I will bring disaster upon them when their time of punishment comes." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_12.md index f6d186a2..aca31a46 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_12.md @@ -2,70 +2,118 @@ Jeremiah Questions the LORD's Justice # Chapter 12 1. LORD, you always give me justice - when I bring a case before you. + +when I bring a case before you. + So let me bring you this complaint: Why are the wicked so prosperous? - Why are evil people so happy? + +Why are evil people so happy? + 2. You have planted them, - and they have taken root and prospered. + +and they have taken root and prospered. + Your name is on their lips, - but you are far from their hearts. + +but you are far from their hearts. + 3. But as for me, LORD, you know my heart. - You see me and test my thoughts. + +You see me and test my thoughts. + Drag these people away like sheep to be butchered! - Set them aside to be slaughtered! + +Set them aside to be slaughtered! + 4. How long must this land mourn? - Even the grass in the fields has withered. + +Even the grass in the fields has withered. + The wild animals and birds have disappeared - because of the evil in the land. + +because of the evil in the land. + For the people have said, "The LORD doesn't see what's ahead for us!"The LORD's Reply to Jeremiah 5. "If racing against mere men makes you tired, - how will you race against horses? + +how will you race against horses? If you stumble and fall on open ground, - what will you do in the thickets near the Jordan? + +what will you do in the thickets near the Jordan? + 6. Even your brothers, members of your own family, - have turned against you. - They plot and raise complaints against you. + +have turned against you. + +They plot and raise complaints against you. + Do not trust them, - no matter how pleasantly they speak. + +no matter how pleasantly they speak. + 7. "I have abandoned my people, my special possession. - I have surrendered my dearest ones to their enemies. + +I have surrendered my dearest ones to their enemies. + 8. My chosen people have roared at me like a lion of the forest, - so I have treated them with contempt. + +so I have treated them with contempt. + 9. My chosen people act like speckled vultures, - but they themselves are surrounded by vultures. - Bring on the wild animals to pick their corpses clean! + +but they themselves are surrounded by vultures. + +Bring on the wild animals to pick their corpses clean! + 10. "Many rulers have ravaged my vineyard, - trampling down the vines - and turning all its beauty into a barren wilderness. + +trampling down the vines + +and turning all its beauty into a barren wilderness. + 11. They have made it an empty wasteland; - I hear its mournful cry. + +I hear its mournful cry. + The whole land is desolate, - and no one even cares. + +and no one even cares. + 12. On all the bare hilltops, - destroying armies can be seen. + +destroying armies can be seen. The sword of the LORD devours people - from one end of the nation to the other. - No one will escape! + +from one end of the nation to the other. + +No one will escape! + 13. My people have planted wheat - but are harvesting thorns. + +but are harvesting thorns. + They have worn themselves out, - but it has done them no good. + +but it has done them no good. + They will harvest a crop of shame - because of the fierce anger of the LORD."A Message for Israel's Neighbors + because of the fierce anger of the LORD." +A Message for Israel's Neighbors + 14. Now this is what the LORD says: "I will uproot from their land all the evil nations reaching out for the possession I gave my people Israel. And I will uproot Judah from among them. 15. But afterward I will return and have compassion on all of them. I will bring them home to their own lands again, each nation to its own possession. @@ -73,3 +121,4 @@ They will harvest a crop of shame 17. But any nation who refuses to obey me will be uprooted and destroyed. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_13.md index 38f8f0e6..37fef1ad 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_13.md @@ -19,71 +19,112 @@ Jeremiah's Linen Loincloth 12. "So tell them, 'This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: May all your jars be filled with wine.' And they will reply, 'Of course! Jars are made to be filled with wine!' 13. "Then tell them, 'No, this is what the LORD means: I will fill everyone in this land with drunkenness--from the king sitting on David's throne to the priests and the prophets, right down to the common people of Jerusalem. -14. I will smash them against each other, even parents against children, says the LORD. I will not let my pity or mercy or compassion keep me from destroying them.'"A Warning against Pride +14. I will smash them against each other, even parents against children, says the LORD. I will not let my pity or mercy or compassion keep me from destroying them.'" +A Warning against Pride + 15. Listen and pay attention! Do not be arrogant, for the LORD has spoken. 16. Give glory to the LORD your God - before it is too late. + +before it is too late. + Acknowledge him before he brings darkness upon you, - causing you to stumble and fall on the darkening mountains. + +causing you to stumble and fall on the darkening mountains. + For then, when you look for light, - you will find only terrible darkness and gloom. + +you will find only terrible darkness and gloom. + 17. And if you still refuse to listen, - I will weep alone because of your pride. + +I will weep alone because of your pride. + My eyes will overflow with tears, because the LORD's flock will be led away into exile. 18. Say to the king and his mother, "Come down from your thrones - and sit in the dust, + +and sit in the dust, for your glorious crowns - will soon be snatched from your heads." + +will soon be snatched from your heads." + 19. The towns of the Negev will close their gates, - and no one will be able to open them. + +and no one will be able to open them. + The people of Judah will be taken away as captives. - All will be carried into exile. + +All will be carried into exile. + 20. Open up your eyes and see - the armies marching down from the north! + +the armies marching down from the north! Where is your flock-- - your beautiful flock-- - that he gave you to care for? + +your beautiful flock-- + +that he gave you to care for? + 21. What will you say when the LORD takes the allies you have cultivated - and appoints them as your rulers? + +and appoints them as your rulers? Pangs of anguish will grip you, - like those of a woman in labor! + +like those of a woman in labor! + 22. You may ask yourself, "Why is all this happening to me?" - It is because of your many sins! + +It is because of your many sins! That is why you have been stripped - and raped by invading armies. + +and raped by invading armies. + 23. Can an Ethiopian change the color of his skin? - Can a leopard take away its spots? + +Can a leopard take away its spots? Neither can you start doing good, - for you have always done evil. + +for you have always done evil. + 24. "I will scatter you like chaff - that is blown away by the desert winds. + +that is blown away by the desert winds. + 25. This is your allotment, - the portion I have assigned to you," + +the portion I have assigned to you," says the LORD, "for you have forgotten me, - putting your trust in false gods. + +putting your trust in false gods. + 26. I myself will strip you - and expose you to shame. + +and expose you to shame. + 27. I have seen your adultery and lust, - and your disgusting idol worship out in the fields and on the hills. + +and your disgusting idol worship out in the fields and on the hills. + What sorrow awaits you, Jerusalem! - How long before you are pure?" + +How long before you are pure?" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_14.md index 79d292cf..8ccdd59f 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_14.md @@ -4,51 +4,85 @@ Judah's Terrible Drought 1. This message came to Jeremiah from the LORD, explaining why he was holding back the rain: 2. "Judah wilts; - commerce at the city gates grinds to a halt. + +commerce at the city gates grinds to a halt. + All the people sit on the ground in mourning, - and a great cry rises from Jerusalem. + +and a great cry rises from Jerusalem. + 3. The nobles send servants to get water, - but all the wells are dry. + +but all the wells are dry. + The servants return with empty pitchers, - confused and desperate, - covering their heads in grief. + +confused and desperate, + +covering their heads in grief. + 4. The ground is parched - and cracked for lack of rain. + +and cracked for lack of rain. + The farmers are deeply troubled; - they, too, cover their heads. + +they, too, cover their heads. + 5. Even the doe abandons her newborn fawn - because there is no grass in the field. + +because there is no grass in the field. + 6. The wild donkeys stand on the bare hills - panting like thirsty jackals. + +panting like thirsty jackals. + They strain their eyes looking for grass, - but there is none to be found." + +but there is none to be found." + 7. The people say, "Our wickedness has caught up with us, LORD, - but help us for the sake of your own reputation. + +but help us for the sake of your own reputation. + We have turned away from you - and sinned against you again and again. + +and sinned against you again and again. + 8. O Hope of Israel, our Savior in times of trouble, - why are you like a stranger to us? + +why are you like a stranger to us? Why are you like a traveler passing through the land, - stopping only for the night? + +stopping only for the night? + 9. Are you also confused? - Is our champion helpless to save us? + +Is our champion helpless to save us? You are right here among us, LORD. - We are known as your people. - Please don't abandon us now!" + +We are known as your people. + +Please don't abandon us now!" + 10. So this is what the LORD says to his people: "You love to wander far from me - and do not restrain yourselves. + +and do not restrain yourselves. + Therefore, I will no longer accept you as my people. - Now I will remember all your wickedness - and will punish you for your sins."The LORD Forbids Jeremiah to Intercede + +Now I will remember all your wickedness + +and will punish you for your sins."The LORD Forbids Jeremiah to Intercede 11. Then the LORD said to me, "Do not pray for these people anymore. 12. When they fast, I will pay no attention. When they present their burnt offerings and grain offerings to me, I will not accept them. Instead, I will devour them with war, famine, and disease." @@ -60,37 +94,62 @@ Therefore, I will no longer accept you as my people. 16. As for the people to whom they prophesy--their bodies will be thrown out into the streets of Jerusalem, victims of famine and war. There will be no one left to bury them. Husbands, wives, sons, and daughters--all will be gone. For I will pour out their own wickedness on them. 17. Now, Jeremiah, say this to them: "Night and day my eyes overflow with tears. - I cannot stop weeping, + +I cannot stop weeping, for my virgin daughter--my precious people-- - has been struck down - and lies mortally wounded. + +has been struck down + +and lies mortally wounded. + 18. If I go out into the fields, - I see the bodies of people slaughtered by the enemy. + +I see the bodies of people slaughtered by the enemy. + If I walk the city streets, - I see people who have died of starvation. + +I see people who have died of starvation. + The prophets and priests continue with their work, - but they don't know what they're doing."A Prayer for Healing + +but they don't know what they're doing." +A Prayer for Healing + 19. LORD, have you completely rejected Judah? Do you really hate Jerusalem? Why have you wounded us past all hope of healing? - We hoped for peace, but no peace came. - We hoped for a time of healing, but found only terror. + +We hoped for peace, but no peace came. + +We hoped for a time of healing, but found only terror. + 20. LORD, we confess our wickedness - and that of our ancestors, too. - We all have sinned against you. + +and that of our ancestors, too. + +We all have sinned against you. + 21. For the sake of your reputation, LORD, do not abandon us. - Do not disgrace your own glorious throne. + +Do not disgrace your own glorious throne. + Please remember us, - and do not break your covenant with us. + +and do not break your covenant with us. + 22. Can any of the worthless foreign gods send us rain? - Does it fall from the sky by itself? + +Does it fall from the sky by itself? No, you are the one, O LORD our God! - Only you can do such things. - So we will wait for you to help us. + +Only you can do such things. + +So we will wait for you to help us. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_15.md index 8957ae21..92f08a19 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_15.md @@ -4,104 +4,168 @@ Judah's Inevitable Doom 1. Then the LORD said to me, "Even if Moses and Samuel stood before me pleading for these people, I wouldn't help them. Away with them! Get them out of my sight! 2. And if they say to you, 'But where can we go?' tell them, 'This is what the LORD says: "'Those who are destined for death, to death; - those who are destined for war, to war; + +those who are destined for war, to war; those who are destined for famine, to famine; - those who are destined for captivity, to captivity.' + +those who are destined for captivity, to captivity.' + 3. "I will send four kinds of destroyers against them," says the LORD. "I will send the sword to kill, the dogs to drag away, the vultures to devour, and the wild animals to finish up what is left. 4. Because of the wicked things Manasseh son of Hezekiah, king of Judah, did in Jerusalem, I will make my people an object of horror to all the kingdoms of the earth. 5. "Who will feel sorry for you, Jerusalem? - Who will weep for you? - Who will even bother to ask how you are? + +Who will weep for you? + +Who will even bother to ask how you are? + 6. You have abandoned me - and turned your back on me," + +and turned your back on me," says the LORD. + "Therefore, I will raise my fist to destroy you. - I am tired of always giving you another chance. + +I am tired of always giving you another chance. + 7. I will winnow you like grain at the gates of your cities - and take away the children you hold dear. + +and take away the children you hold dear. + I will destroy my own people, - because they refuse to change their evil ways. + +because they refuse to change their evil ways. + 8. There will be more widows - than the grains of sand on the seashore. + +than the grains of sand on the seashore. + At noontime I will bring a destroyer - against the mothers of young men. + +against the mothers of young men. + I will cause anguish and terror - to come upon them suddenly. + +to come upon them suddenly. + 9. The mother of seven grows faint and gasps for breath; - her sun has gone down while it is still day. + +her sun has gone down while it is still day. + She sits childless now, - disgraced and humiliated. + +disgraced and humiliated. + And I will hand over those who are left - to be killed by the enemy. - I, the LORD, have spoken!"Jeremiah's Complaint + +to be killed by the enemy. + I, the LORD, have spoken!" +Jeremiah's Complaint + 10. Then I said, "What sorrow is mine, my mother. - Oh, that I had died at birth! - I am hated everywhere I go. + +Oh, that I had died at birth! + +I am hated everywhere I go. + I am neither a lender who threatens to foreclose - nor a borrower who refuses to pay-- - yet they all curse me." + +nor a borrower who refuses to pay-- + +yet they all curse me." + 11. The LORD replied, "I will take care of you, Jeremiah. - Your enemies will ask you to plead on their behalf - in times of trouble and distress. + +Your enemies will ask you to plead on their behalf + +in times of trouble and distress. + 12. Can a man break a bar of iron from the north, - or a bar of bronze? + +or a bar of bronze? + 13. At no cost to them, - I will hand over your wealth and treasures + +I will hand over your wealth and treasures as plunder to your enemies, - for sin runs rampant in your land. + +for sin runs rampant in your land. + 14. I will tell your enemies to take you - as captives to a foreign land. + +as captives to a foreign land. + For my anger blazes like a fire that will burn forever." 15. Then I said, "LORD, you know what's happening to me. - Please step in and help me. Punish my persecutors! + +Please step in and help me. Punish my persecutors! Please give me time; don't let me die young. - It's for your sake that I am suffering. + +It's for your sake that I am suffering. + 16. When I discovered your words, I devoured them. - They are my joy and my heart's delight, + +They are my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, O LORD God of Heaven's Armies. 17. I never joined the people in their merry feasts. - I sat alone because your hand was on me. - I was filled with indignation at their sins. + +I sat alone because your hand was on me. + +I was filled with indignation at their sins. + 18. Why then does my suffering continue? - Why is my wound so incurable? + +Why is my wound so incurable? Your help seems as uncertain as a seasonal brook, - like a spring that has gone dry." + +like a spring that has gone dry." + 19. This is how the LORD responds: "If you return to me, I will restore you - so you can continue to serve me. + +so you can continue to serve me. + If you speak good words rather than worthless ones, - you will be my spokesman. + +you will be my spokesman. + You must influence them; - do not let them influence you! + +do not let them influence you! + 20. They will fight against you like an attacking army, - but I will make you as secure as a fortified wall of bronze. + +but I will make you as secure as a fortified wall of bronze. + They will not conquer you, - for I am with you to protect and rescue you. + +for I am with you to protect and rescue you. I, the LORD, have spoken! 21. Yes, I will certainly keep you safe from these wicked men. - I will rescue you from their cruel hands." + +I will rescue you from their cruel hands." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_16.md index 5155a6f7..ffa79ab2 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_16.md @@ -4,7 +4,9 @@ Jeremiah Forbidden to Marry 1. The LORD gave me another message. He said, 2. "Do not get married or have children in this place. 3. For this is what the LORD says about the children born here in this city and about their mothers and fathers: -4. They will die from terrible diseases. No one will mourn for them or bury them, and they will lie scattered on the ground like manure. They will die from war and famine, and their bodies will be food for the vultures and wild animals."Judah's Coming Punishment +4. They will die from terrible diseases. No one will mourn for them or bury them, and they will lie scattered on the ground like manure. They will die from war and famine, and their bodies will be food for the vultures and wild animals." +Judah's Coming Punishment + 5. This is what the LORD says: "Do not go to funerals to mourn and show sympathy for these people, for I have removed my protection and peace from them. I have taken away my unfailing love and my mercy. 6. Both the great and the lowly will die in this land. No one will bury them or mourn for them. Their friends will not cut themselves in sorrow or shave their heads in sadness. @@ -17,29 +19,42 @@ Jeremiah Forbidden to Marry 11. "Then you will give them the LORD's reply: 'It is because your ancestors were unfaithful to me. They worshiped other gods and served them. They abandoned me and did not obey my word. 12. And you are even worse than your ancestors! You stubbornly follow your own evil desires and refuse to listen to me. -13. So I will throw you out of this land and send you into a foreign land where you and your ancestors have never been. There you can worship idols day and night--and I will grant you no favors!'Hope despite the Disaster +13. So I will throw you out of this land and send you into a foreign land where you and your ancestors have never been. There you can worship idols day and night--and I will grant you no favors!' +Hope despite the Disaster + 14. "But the time is coming," says the LORD, "when people who are taking an oath will no longer say, 'As surely as the LORD lives, who rescued the people of Israel from the land of Egypt.' 15. Instead, they will say, 'As surely as the LORD lives, who brought the people of Israel back to their own land from the land of the north and from all the countries to which he had exiled them.' For I will bring them back to this land that I gave their ancestors. 16. "But now I am sending for many fishermen who will catch them," says the LORD. "I am sending for hunters who will hunt them down in the mountains, hills, and caves. 17. I am watching them closely, and I see every sin. They cannot hope to hide from me. -18. I will double their punishment for all their sins, because they have defiled my land with lifeless images of their detestable gods and have filled my territory with their evil deeds."Jeremiah's Prayer of Confidence +18. I will double their punishment for all their sins, because they have defiled my land with lifeless images of their detestable gods and have filled my territory with their evil deeds." +Jeremiah's Prayer of Confidence + 19. LORD, you are my strength and fortress, - my refuge in the day of trouble! + +my refuge in the day of trouble! Nations from around the world - will come to you and say, + +will come to you and say, "Our ancestors left us a foolish heritage, - for they worshiped worthless idols. + +for they worshiped worthless idols. + 20. Can people make their own gods? - These are not real gods at all!" + +These are not real gods at all!" + 21. The LORD says, "Now I will show them my power; - now I will show them my might. + +now I will show them my might. + At last they will know and understand that I am the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_17.md index d8efde4d..886834a6 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_17.md @@ -2,90 +2,146 @@ Judah's Sin and Punishment # Chapter 17 1. "The sin of Judah - is inscribed with an iron chisel-- + +is inscribed with an iron chisel-- engraved with a diamond point on their stony hearts - and on the corners of their altars. + +and on the corners of their altars. + 2. Even their children go to worship - at their pagan altars and Asherah poles, + +at their pagan altars and Asherah poles, beneath every green tree - and on every high hill. + +and on every high hill. + 3. So I will hand over my holy mountain-- - along with all your wealth and treasures - and your pagan shrines-- + +along with all your wealth and treasures + +and your pagan shrines-- as plunder to your enemies, - for sin runs rampant in your land. + +for sin runs rampant in your land. + 4. The wonderful possession I have reserved for you - will slip from your hands. + +will slip from your hands. + I will tell your enemies to take you - as captives to a foreign land. + +as captives to a foreign land. + For my anger blazes like a fire - that will burn forever."Wisdom from the LORD + +that will burn forever."Wisdom from the LORD 5. This is what the LORD says: "Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, - who rely on human strength + +who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the LORD. 6. They are like stunted shrubs in the desert, - with no hope for the future. + +with no hope for the future. + They will live in the barren wilderness, - in an uninhabited salty land. + +in an uninhabited salty land. + 7. "But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. 8. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, - with roots that reach deep into the water. + +with roots that reach deep into the water. + Such trees are not bothered by the heat - or worried by long months of drought. + +or worried by long months of drought. + Their leaves stay green, - and they never stop producing fruit. + +and they never stop producing fruit. + 9. "The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, - and desperately wicked. - Who really knows how bad it is? + +and desperately wicked. + +Who really knows how bad it is? + 10. But I, the LORD, search all hearts - and examine secret motives. + +and examine secret motives. + I give all people their due rewards, - according to what their actions deserve."Jeremiah's Trust in the LORD + +according to what their actions deserve."Jeremiah's Trust in the LORD 11. Like a partridge that hatches eggs she has not laid, - so are those who get their wealth by unjust means. + +so are those who get their wealth by unjust means. + At midlife they will lose their riches; - in the end, they will become poor old fools. + +in the end, they will become poor old fools. + 12. But we worship at your throne-- - eternal, high, and glorious! + +eternal, high, and glorious! + 13. O LORD, the hope of Israel, - all who turn away from you will be disgraced. + +all who turn away from you will be disgraced. + They will be buried in the dust of the earth, for they have abandoned the LORD, the fountain of living water. 14. O LORD, if you heal me, I will be truly healed; - if you save me, I will be truly saved. - My praises are for you alone! + +if you save me, I will be truly saved. + +My praises are for you alone! + 15. People scoff at me and say, "What is this 'message from the LORD' you talk about? - Why don't your predictions come true?" + +Why don't your predictions come true?" + 16. LORD, I have not abandoned my job - as a shepherd for your people. + +as a shepherd for your people. + I have not urged you to send disaster. - You have heard everything I've said. + +You have heard everything I've said. + 17. LORD, don't terrorize me! - You alone are my hope in the day of disaster. + +You alone are my hope in the day of disaster. + 18. Bring shame and dismay on all who persecute me, - but don't let me experience shame and dismay. + +but don't let me experience shame and dismay. + Bring a day of terror on them. - Yes, bring double destruction upon them!Observing the Sabbath + +Yes, bring double destruction upon them! +Observing the Sabbath + 19. This is what the LORD said to me: "Go and stand in the gates of Jerusalem, first in the gate where the king goes in and out, and then in each of the other gates. 20. Say to all the people, 'Listen to this message from the LORD, you kings of Judah and all you people of Judah and everyone living in Jerusalem. @@ -100,3 +156,4 @@ Bring a day of terror on them. 27. "'But if you do not listen to me and refuse to keep the Sabbath holy, and if on the Sabbath day you bring loads of merchandise through the gates of Jerusalem just as on other days, then I will set fire to these gates. The fire will spread to the palaces, and no one will be able to put out the roaring flames.'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_18.md index 24f3da9b..94b4e32d 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_18.md @@ -19,52 +19,87 @@ The Potter and the Clay 13. So this is what the LORD says: "Has anyone ever heard of such a thing, - even among the pagan nations? + +even among the pagan nations? My virgin daughter Israel - has done something terrible! + +has done something terrible! + 14. Does the snow ever disappear from the mountaintops of Lebanon? - Do the cold streams flowing from those distant mountains ever run dry? + +Do the cold streams flowing from those distant mountains ever run dry? + 15. But my people are not so reliable, for they have deserted me; - they burn incense to worthless idols. + +they burn incense to worthless idols. + They have stumbled off the ancient highways - and walk in muddy paths. + +and walk in muddy paths. + 16. Therefore, their land will become desolate, - a monument to their stupidity. + +a monument to their stupidity. + All who pass by will be astonished - and will shake their heads in amazement. + +and will shake their heads in amazement. + 17. I will scatter my people before their enemies - as the east wind scatters dust. + +as the east wind scatters dust. + And in all their trouble I will turn my back on them - and refuse to notice their distress."A Plot against Jeremiah + +and refuse to notice their distress." +A Plot against Jeremiah + 18. Then the people said, "Come on, let's plot a way to stop Jeremiah. We have plenty of priests and wise men and prophets. We don't need him to teach the word and give us advice and prophecies. Let's spread rumors about him and ignore what he says." 19. LORD, hear me and help me! - Listen to what my enemies are saying. + +Listen to what my enemies are saying. + 20. Should they repay evil for good? - They have dug a pit to kill me, + +They have dug a pit to kill me, though I pleaded for them - and tried to protect them from your anger. + +and tried to protect them from your anger. + 21. So let their children starve! - Let them die by the sword! + +Let them die by the sword! Let their wives become childless widows. - Let their old men die in a plague, - and let their young men be killed in battle! + +Let their old men die in a plague, + +and let their young men be killed in battle! + 22. Let screaming be heard from their homes - as warriors come suddenly upon them. + +as warriors come suddenly upon them. + For they have dug a pit for me - and have hidden traps along my path. + +and have hidden traps along my path. + 23. LORD, you know all about their murderous plots against me. - Don't forgive their crimes and blot out their sins. + +Don't forgive their crimes and blot out their sins. + Let them die before you. - Deal with them in your anger. + +Deal with them in your anger. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_19.md index 1e3f7284..5ddcbdc8 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_19.md @@ -22,3 +22,4 @@ Jeremiah's Shattered Jar 15. "This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: 'I will bring disaster upon this city and its surrounding towns as I promised, because you have stubbornly refused to listen to me.'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_20.md index 129c569e..aed282c6 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_20.md @@ -7,68 +7,110 @@ Jeremiah and Pashhur 3. The next day, when Pashhur finally released him, Jeremiah said, "Pashhur, the LORD has changed your name. From now on you are to be called 'The Man Who Lives in Terror.' 4. For this is what the LORD says: 'I will send terror upon you and all your friends, and you will watch as they are slaughtered by the swords of the enemy. I will hand the people of Judah over to the king of Babylon. He will take them captive to Babylon or run them through with the sword. 5. And I will let your enemies plunder Jerusalem. All the famed treasures of the city--the precious jewels and gold and silver of your kings--will be carried off to Babylon. -6. As for you, Pashhur, you and all your household will go as captives to Babylon. There you will die and be buried, you and all your friends to whom you prophesied that everything would be all right.'"Jeremiah's Complaint +6. As for you, Pashhur, you and all your household will go as captives to Babylon. There you will die and be buried, you and all your friends to whom you prophesied that everything would be all right.'" +Jeremiah's Complaint + 7. O LORD, you misled me, - and I allowed myself to be misled. + +and I allowed myself to be misled. + You are stronger than I am, - and you overpowered me. + +and you overpowered me. + Now I am mocked every day; - everyone laughs at me. + +everyone laughs at me. + 8. When I speak, the words burst out. - "Violence and destruction!" I shout. + +"Violence and destruction!" I shout. So these messages from the LORD - have made me a household joke. + +have made me a household joke. + 9. But if I say I'll never mention the LORD - or speak in his name, + +or speak in his name, his word burns in my heart like a fire. - It's like a fire in my bones! + +It's like a fire in my bones! I am worn out trying to hold it in! - I can't do it! + +I can't do it! + 10. I have heard the many rumors about me. - They call me "The Man Who Lives in Terror." + +They call me "The Man Who Lives in Terror." They threaten, "If you say anything, we will report it." - Even my old friends are watching me, - waiting for a fatal slip. + +Even my old friends are watching me, + +waiting for a fatal slip. + "He will trap himself," they say, - "and then we will get our revenge on him." + +"and then we will get our revenge on him." + 11. But the LORD stands beside me like a great warrior. - Before him my persecutors will stumble. - They cannot defeat me. + +Before him my persecutors will stumble. + +They cannot defeat me. + They will fail and be thoroughly humiliated. - Their dishonor will never be forgotten. + +Their dishonor will never be forgotten. + 12. O LORD of Heaven's Armies, you test those who are righteous, - and you examine the deepest thoughts and secrets. + +and you examine the deepest thoughts and secrets. + Let me see your vengeance against them, - for I have committed my cause to you. + +for I have committed my cause to you. + 13. Sing to the LORD! Praise the LORD! For though I was poor and needy, - he rescued me from my oppressors. + +he rescued me from my oppressors. + 14. Yet I curse the day I was born! - May no one celebrate the day of my birth. + +May no one celebrate the day of my birth. + 15. I curse the messenger who told my father, "Good news--you have a son!" 16. Let him be destroyed like the cities of old that the LORD overthrew without mercy. + Terrify him all day long with battle shouts, + 17. because he did not kill me at birth. + Oh, that I had died in my mother's womb, - that her body had been my grave! + +that her body had been my grave! + 18. Why was I ever born? - My entire life has been filled - with trouble, sorrow, and shame. + +My entire life has been filled + +with trouble, sorrow, and shame. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_21.md index 82f3c3aa..1ed2ebfb 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_21.md @@ -12,24 +12,37 @@ No Deliverance from Babylon 8. "Tell all the people, 'This is what the LORD says: Take your choice of life or death! 9. Everyone who stays in Jerusalem will die from war, famine, or disease, but those who go out and surrender to the Babylonians will live. Their reward will be life! -10. For I have decided to bring disaster and not good upon this city, says the LORD. It will be handed over to the king of Babylon, and he will reduce it to ashes.'Judgment on Judah's Kings +10. For I have decided to bring disaster and not good upon this city, says the LORD. It will be handed over to the king of Babylon, and he will reduce it to ashes.' +Judgment on Judah's Kings + 11. "Say to the royal family of Judah, 'Listen to this message from the LORD! 12. This is what the LORD says to the dynasty of David: "'Give justice each morning to the people you judge! - Help those who have been robbed; - rescue them from their oppressors. + +Help those who have been robbed; + +rescue them from their oppressors. + Otherwise, my anger will burn like an unquenchable fire - because of all your sins. + +because of all your sins. + 13. I will personally fight against the people in Jerusalem, - that mighty fortress-- + +that mighty fortress-- the people who boast, "No one can touch us here. - No one can break in here." + +No one can break in here." + 14. And I myself will punish you for your sinfulness, says the LORD. + I will light a fire in your forests - that will burn up everything around you.'" + +that will burn up everything around you.'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_22.md index 42b4b371..8fab22b3 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_22.md @@ -3,84 +3,139 @@ A Message for Judah's Kings # Chapter 22 1. This is what the LORD said to me: "Go over and speak directly to the king of Judah. Say to him, 2. 'Listen to this message from the LORD, you king of Judah, sitting on David's throne. Let your attendants and your people listen, too. -3. This is what the LORD says: Be fair-minded and just. Do what is right! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors. Quit your evil deeds! Do not mistreat foreigners, orphans, and widows. Stop murdering the innocent! +3. This is what the LORD says: Be fair-minded and just. Do what is right! +Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors. Quit your evil deeds! Do not mistreat foreigners, orphans, and widows. Stop murdering the innocent! 4. If you obey me, there will always be a descendant of David sitting on the throne here in Jerusalem. The king will ride through the palace gates in chariots and on horses, with his parade of attendants and subjects. -5. But if you refuse to pay attention to this warning, I swear by my own name, says the LORD, that this palace will become a pile of rubble.'"A Message about the Palace +5. But if you refuse to pay attention to this warning, I swear by my own name, says the LORD, that this palace will become a pile of rubble.'" +A Message about the Palace + 6. Now this is what the LORD says concerning Judah's royal palace: "I love you as much as fruitful Gilead - and the green forests of Lebanon. + +and the green forests of Lebanon. + But I will turn you into a desert, - with no one living within your walls. + +with no one living within your walls. + 7. I will call for wreckers, - who will bring out their tools to dismantle you. + +who will bring out their tools to dismantle you. + They will tear out all your fine cedar beams - and throw them on the fire. + +and throw them on the fire. + 8. "People from many nations will pass by the ruins of this city and say to one another, 'Why did the LORD destroy such a great city?' -9. And the answer will be, 'Because they violated their covenant with the LORD their God by worshiping other gods.'"A Message about Jehoahaz +9. And the answer will be, 'Because they violated their covenant with the LORD their God by worshiping other gods.'" +A Message about Jehoahaz + 10. Do not weep for the dead king or mourn his loss. - Instead, weep for the captive king being led away! - For he will never return to see his native land again. + +Instead, weep for the captive king being led away! + +For he will never return to see his native land again. + 11. For this is what the LORD says about Jehoahaz, who succeeded his father, King Josiah, and was taken away as a captive: "He will never return. -12. He will die in a distant land and will never again see his own country."A Message about Jehoiakim +12. He will die in a distant land and will never again see his own country." +A Message about Jehoiakim + 13. And the LORD says, "What sorrow awaits Jehoiakim, who builds his palace with forced labor. + He builds injustice into its walls, - for he makes his neighbors work for nothing. - He does not pay them for their labor. + +for he makes his neighbors work for nothing. + +He does not pay them for their labor. + 14. He says, 'I will build a magnificent palace - with huge rooms and many windows. + +with huge rooms and many windows. + I will panel it throughout with fragrant cedar - and paint it a lovely red.' + +and paint it a lovely red.' + 15. But a beautiful cedar palace does not make a great king! - Your father, Josiah, also had plenty to eat and drink. + +Your father, Josiah, also had plenty to eat and drink. + But he was just and right in all his dealings. - That is why God blessed him. + +That is why God blessed him. + 16. He gave justice and help to the poor and needy, - and everything went well for him. + +and everything went well for him. + Isn't that what it means to know me?" says the LORD. 17. "But you! You have eyes only for greed and dishonesty! - You murder the innocent, - oppress the poor, and reign ruthlessly." + +You murder the innocent, + +oppress the poor, and reign ruthlessly." + 18. Therefore, this is what the LORD says about Jehoiakim, son of King Josiah: "The people will not mourn for him, crying to one another, - 'Alas, my brother! Alas, my sister!' + +'Alas, my brother! Alas, my sister!' His subjects will not mourn for him, crying, - 'Alas, our master is dead! Alas, his splendor is gone!' + +'Alas, our master is dead! Alas, his splendor is gone!' + 19. He will be buried like a dead donkey-- - dragged out of Jerusalem and dumped outside the gates! + +dragged out of Jerusalem and dumped outside the gates! + 20. Weep for your allies in Lebanon. - Shout for them in Bashan. + +Shout for them in Bashan. Search for them in the regions east of the river. - See, they are all destroyed. - Not one is left to help you. + +See, they are all destroyed. + +Not one is left to help you. + 21. I warned you when you were prosperous, - but you replied, 'Don't bother me.' + +but you replied, 'Don't bother me.' You have been that way since childhood-- - you simply will not obey me! + +you simply will not obey me! + 22. And now the wind will blow away your allies. - All your friends will be taken away as captives. - Surely then you will see your wickedness and be ashamed. + +All your friends will be taken away as captives. + +Surely then you will see your wickedness and be ashamed. + 23. It may be nice to live in a beautiful palace - paneled with wood from the cedars of Lebanon, + +paneled with wood from the cedars of Lebanon, but soon you will groan with pangs of anguish-- - anguish like that of a woman in labor.A Message for Jehoiachin + +anguish like that of a woman in labor. + +A Message for Jehoiachin + 24. "As surely as I live," says the LORD, "I will abandon you, Jehoiachin son of Jehoiakim, king of Judah. Even if you were the signet ring on my right hand, I would pull you off. 25. I will hand you over to those who seek to kill you, those you so desperately fear--to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon and the mighty Babylonian army. @@ -88,15 +143,20 @@ but soon you will groan with pangs of anguish-- 27. You will never again return to the land you yearn for. 28. "Why is this man Jehoiachin like a discarded, broken jar? - Why are he and his children to be exiled to a foreign land? + +Why are he and his children to be exiled to a foreign land? + 29. O earth, earth, earth! Listen to this message from the LORD! 30. This is what the LORD says: 'Let the record show that this man Jehoiachin was childless. - He is a failure, + +He is a failure, for none of his children will succeed him on the throne of David - to rule over Judah.' + +to rule over Judah.' + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_23.md index 20d3cdce..6f5c1141 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_23.md @@ -10,101 +10,162 @@ The Righteous Descendant 5. "For the time is coming," says the LORD, "when I will raise up a righteous descendant - from King David's line. + +from King David's line. + He will be a King who rules with wisdom. - He will do what is just and right throughout the land. + +He will do what is just and right throughout the land. + 6. And this will be his name: 'The LORD Is Our Righteousness.' In that day Judah will be saved, - and Israel will live in safety. + +and Israel will live in safety. + 7. "In that day," says the LORD, "when people are taking an oath, they will no longer say, 'As surely as the LORD lives, who rescued the people of Israel from the land of Egypt.' -8. Instead, they will say, 'As surely as the LORD lives, who brought the people of Israel back to their own land from the land of the north and from all the countries to which he had exiled them.' Then they will live in their own land."Judgment on False Prophets +8. Instead, they will say, 'As surely as the LORD lives, who brought the people of Israel back to their own land from the land of the north and from all the countries to which he had exiled them.' Then they will live in their own land." +Judgment on False Prophets + 9. My heart is broken because of the false prophets, - and my bones tremble. + +and my bones tremble. + I stagger like a drunkard, - like someone overcome by wine, + +like someone overcome by wine, because of the holy words the LORD has spoken against them. 10. For the land is full of adultery, - and it lies under a curse. + +and it lies under a curse. + The land itself is in mourning-- - its wilderness pastures are dried up. + +its wilderness pastures are dried up. + For they all do evil - and abuse what power they have. + +and abuse what power they have. + 11. "Even the priests and prophets - are ungodly, wicked men. + +are ungodly, wicked men. + I have seen their despicable acts - right here in my own Temple," + +right here in my own Temple," says the LORD. 12. "Therefore, the paths they take - will become slippery. + +will become slippery. + They will be chased through the dark, - and there they will fall. + +and there they will fall. + For I will bring disaster upon them - at the time fixed for their punishment. + +at the time fixed for their punishment. I, the LORD, have spoken! 13. "I saw that the prophets of Samaria were terribly evil, - for they prophesied in the name of Baal - and led my people of Israel into sin. + +for they prophesied in the name of Baal + +and led my people of Israel into sin. + 14. But now I see that the prophets of Jerusalem are even worse! - They commit adultery and love dishonesty. + +They commit adultery and love dishonesty. + They encourage those who are doing evil - so that no one turns away from their sins. + +so that no one turns away from their sins. + These prophets are as wicked - as the people of Sodom and Gomorrah once were." + +as the people of Sodom and Gomorrah once were." + 15. Therefore, this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says concerning the prophets: "I will feed them with bitterness - and give them poison to drink. + +and give them poison to drink. + For it is because of Jerusalem's prophets - that wickedness has filled this land." + +that wickedness has filled this land." + 16. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says to his people: "Do not listen to these prophets when they prophesy to you, - filling you with futile hopes. + +filling you with futile hopes. + They are making up everything they say. They do not speak for the LORD! 17. They keep saying to those who despise my word, 'Don't worry! The LORD says you will have peace!' And to those who stubbornly follow their own desires, - they say, 'No harm will come your way!' + +they say, 'No harm will come your way!' + 18. "Have any of these prophets been in the LORD's presence - to hear what he is really saying? - Has even one of them cared enough to listen? + +to hear what he is really saying? + +Has even one of them cared enough to listen? + 19. Look! The LORD's anger bursts out like a storm, - a whirlwind that swirls down on the heads of the wicked. + +a whirlwind that swirls down on the heads of the wicked. + 20. The anger of the LORD will not diminish - until it has finished all he has planned. + +until it has finished all he has planned. + In the days to come - you will understand all this very clearly. + +you will understand all this very clearly. + 21. "I have not sent these prophets, - yet they run around claiming to speak for me. + +yet they run around claiming to speak for me. + I have given them no message, - yet they go on prophesying. + +yet they go on prophesying. + 22. If they had stood before me and listened to me, - they would have spoken my words, + +they would have spoken my words, and they would have turned my people - from their evil ways and deeds. + +from their evil ways and deeds. + 23. Am I a God who is only close at hand?" says the LORD. - "No, I am far away at the same time. + +"No, I am far away at the same time. + 24. Can anyone hide from me in a secret place? - Am I not everywhere in all the heavens and earth?" + +Am I not everywhere in all the heavens and earth?" says the LORD. 25. "I have heard these prophets say, 'Listen to the dream I had from God last night.' And then they proceed to tell lies in my name. @@ -112,17 +173,25 @@ and they would have turned my people 27. By telling these false dreams, they are trying to get my people to forget me, just as their ancestors did by worshiping the idols of Baal. 28. "Let these false prophets tell their dreams, - but let my true messengers faithfully proclaim my every word. - There is a difference between straw and grain! + +but let my true messengers faithfully proclaim my every word. + +There is a difference between straw and grain! + 29. Does not my word burn like fire?" says the LORD. + "Is it not like a mighty hammer - that smashes a rock to pieces? + +that smashes a rock to pieces? + 30. "Therefore," says the LORD, "I am against these prophets who steal messages from each other and claim they are from me. 31. I am against these smooth-tongued prophets who say, 'This prophecy is from the LORD!' -32. I am against these false prophets. Their imaginary dreams are flagrant lies that lead my people into sin. I did not send or appoint them, and they have no message at all for my people. I, the LORD, have spoken!False Prophecies and False Prophets +32. I am against these false prophets. Their imaginary dreams are flagrant lies that lead my people into sin. I did not send or appoint them, and they have no message at all for my people. I, the LORD, have spoken! +False Prophecies and False Prophets + 33. "Suppose one of the people or one of the prophets or priests asks you, 'What prophecy has the LORD burdened you with now?' You must reply, 'You are the burden! The LORD says he will abandon you!' @@ -136,3 +205,4 @@ and they would have turned my people 40. And I will make you an object of ridicule, and your name will be infamous throughout the ages.'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_24.md index 06749202..e844ff7d 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_24.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ Good and Bad Figs 3. Then the LORD said to me, "What do you see, Jeremiah?" I replied, "Figs, some very good and some very bad, too rotten to eat." + 4. Then the LORD gave me this message: 5. "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: The good figs represent the exiles I sent from Judah to the land of the Babylonians. 6. I will watch over and care for them, and I will bring them back here again. I will build them up and not tear them down. I will plant them and not uproot them. @@ -17,3 +18,4 @@ I replied, "Figs, some very good and some very bad, too rotten to eat." 10. And I will send war, famine, and disease until they have vanished from the land of Israel, which I gave to them and their ancestors." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_25.md index bc212c5c..3b7d23c3 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_25.md @@ -40,41 +40,58 @@ Seventy Years of Captivity 30. "Now prophesy all these things, and say to them, "'The LORD will roar against his own land - from his holy dwelling in heaven. + +from his holy dwelling in heaven. + He will shout like those who tread grapes; - he will shout against everyone on earth. + +he will shout against everyone on earth. + 31. His cry of judgment will reach the ends of the earth, for the LORD will bring his case against all the nations. + He will judge all the people of the earth, - slaughtering the wicked with the sword. + +slaughtering the wicked with the sword. I, the LORD, have spoken!'" 32. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: - "Look! Disaster will fall upon nation after nation! + +"Look! Disaster will fall upon nation after nation! A great whirlwind of fury is rising - from the most distant corners of the earth!" + +from the most distant corners of the earth!" + 33. In that day those the LORD has slaughtered will fill the earth from one end to the other. No one will mourn for them or gather up their bodies to bury them. They will be scattered on the ground like manure. 34. Weep and moan, you evil shepherds! - Roll in the dust, you leaders of the flock! + +Roll in the dust, you leaders of the flock! The time of your slaughter has arrived; - you will fall and shatter like a fragile vase. + +you will fall and shatter like a fragile vase. + 35. You will find no place to hide; - there will be no way to escape. + +there will be no way to escape. + 36. Listen to the frantic cries of the shepherds. - The leaders of the flock are wailing in despair, + +The leaders of the flock are wailing in despair, for the LORD is ruining their pastures. 37. Peaceful meadows will be turned into a wasteland by the LORD's fierce anger. 38. He has left his den like a strong lion seeking its prey, - and their land will be made desolate + +and their land will be made desolate by the sword of the enemy and the LORD's fierce anger. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_26.md index 10a85cab..6e877d62 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_26.md @@ -27,7 +27,8 @@ Jeremiah's Escape from Death 18. They said, "Remember when Micah of Moresheth prophesied during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. He told the people of Judah, 'This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: Mount Zion will be plowed like an open field; - Jerusalem will be reduced to ruins! + +Jerusalem will be reduced to ruins! A thicket will grow on the heights where the Temple now stands.' @@ -41,3 +42,4 @@ A thicket will grow on the heights 24. Nevertheless, Ahikam son of Shaphan stood up for Jeremiah and persuaded the court not to turn him over to the mob to be killed. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_27.md index f840c222..c02597dd 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_27.md @@ -30,3 +30,4 @@ Jeremiah Wears an Ox Yoke 22. 'They will all be carried away to Babylon and will stay there until I send for them,' says the LORD. 'Then I will bring them back to Jerusalem again.'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_28.md index e3facd50..5c177c6d 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_28.md @@ -25,3 +25,4 @@ Jeremiah Condemns Hananiah 17. Two months later the prophet Hananiah died. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_29.md index 6809c9b2..c78d3898 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_29.md @@ -28,7 +28,9 @@ A Letter to the Exiles 20. Therefore, listen to this message from the LORD, all you captives there in Babylon. 21. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says about your prophets--Ahab son of Kolaiah and Zedekiah son of Maaseiah--who are telling you lies in my name: "I will turn them over to Nebuchadnezzar for execution before your eyes. 22. Their terrible fate will become proverbial, so that the Judean exiles will curse someone by saying, 'May the LORD make you like Zedekiah and Ahab, whom the king of Babylon burned alive!' -23. For these men have done terrible things among my people. They have committed adultery with their neighbors' wives and have lied in my name, saying things I did not command. I am a witness to this. I, the LORD, have spoken."A Message for Shemaiah +23. For these men have done terrible things among my people. They have committed adultery with their neighbors' wives and have lied in my name, saying things I did not command. I am a witness to this. I, the LORD, have spoken." +A Message for Shemaiah + 24. The LORD sent this message to Shemaiah the Nehelamite in Babylon: 25. "This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: You wrote a letter on your own authority to Zephaniah son of Maaseiah, the priest, and you sent copies to the other priests and people in Jerusalem. You wrote to Zephaniah, @@ -43,3 +45,4 @@ A Letter to the Exiles 32. I will punish him and his family. None of his descendants will see the good things I will do for my people, for he has incited you to rebel against me. I, the LORD, have spoken!'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_30.md index 14e8cdec..8daef1e5 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_30.md @@ -8,102 +8,165 @@ Promises of Deliverance 4. This is the message the LORD gave concerning Israel and Judah. 5. This is what the LORD says: "I hear cries of fear; - there is terror and no peace. + +there is terror and no peace. + 6. Now let me ask you a question: - Do men give birth to babies? + +Do men give birth to babies? Then why do they stand there, ashen-faced, - hands pressed against their sides - like a woman in labor? + +hands pressed against their sides + +like a woman in labor? + 7. In all history there has never been such a time of terror. It will be a time of trouble for my people Israel. - Yet in the end they will be saved! + +Yet in the end they will be saved! + 8. For in that day," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, "I will break the yoke from their necks - and snap their chains. + +and snap their chains. + Foreigners will no longer be their masters. + 9. For my people will serve the LORD their God and their king descended from David-- - the king I will raise up for them. + +the king I will raise up for them. + 10. "So do not be afraid, Jacob, my servant; - do not be dismayed, Israel," + +do not be dismayed, Israel," says the LORD. + "For I will bring you home again from distant lands, - and your children will return from their exile. + +and your children will return from their exile. + Israel will return to a life of peace and quiet, - and no one will terrorize them. + +and no one will terrorize them. + 11. For I am with you and will save you," says the LORD. + "I will completely destroy the nations where I have scattered you, - but I will not completely destroy you. + +but I will not completely destroy you. + I will discipline you, but with justice; - I cannot let you go unpunished." + +I cannot let you go unpunished." + 12. This is what the LORD says: "Your injury is incurable-- - a terrible wound. + +a terrible wound. + 13. There is no one to help you - or to bind up your injury. - No medicine can heal you. + +or to bind up your injury. + +No medicine can heal you. + 14. All your lovers--your allies--have left you - and do not care about you anymore. + +and do not care about you anymore. + I have wounded you cruelly, - as though I were your enemy. + +as though I were your enemy. + For your sins are many, - and your guilt is great. + +and your guilt is great. + 15. Why do you protest your punishment-- - this wound that has no cure? + +this wound that has no cure? I have had to punish you - because your sins are many - and your guilt is great. + +because your sins are many + +and your guilt is great. + 16. "But all who devour you will be devoured, - and all your enemies will be sent into exile. + +and all your enemies will be sent into exile. + All who plunder you will be plundered, - and all who attack you will be attacked. + +and all who attack you will be attacked. + 17. I will give you back your health and heal your wounds," says the LORD. + "For you are called an outcast-- 'Jerusalem for whom no one cares.'" 18. This is what the LORD says: "When I bring Israel home again from captivity - and restore their fortunes, + +and restore their fortunes, Jerusalem will be rebuilt on its ruins, - and the palace reconstructed as before. + +and the palace reconstructed as before. + 19. There will be joy and songs of thanksgiving, - and I will multiply my people, not diminish them; + +and I will multiply my people, not diminish them; I will honor them, not despise them. + 20. Their children will prosper as they did long ago. + I will establish them as a nation before me, - and I will punish anyone who hurts them. + +and I will punish anyone who hurts them. + 21. They will have their own ruler again, - and he will come from their own people. + +and he will come from their own people. I will invite him to approach me," says the LORD, - "for who would dare to come unless invited? + +"for who would dare to come unless invited? + 22. You will be my people, - and I will be your God." + +and I will be your God." + 23. Look! The LORD's anger bursts out like a storm, - a driving wind that swirls down on the heads of the wicked. + +a driving wind that swirls down on the heads of the wicked. + 24. The fierce anger of the LORD will not diminish - until it has finished all he has planned. + +until it has finished all he has planned. + In the days to come - you will understand all this. + +you will understand all this. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_31.md index f0a93ea3..b40e94a9 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_31.md @@ -4,114 +4,184 @@ Hope for Restoration 1. "In that day," says the LORD, "I will be the God of all the families of Israel, and they will be my people. 2. This is what the LORD says: "Those who survive the coming destruction - will find blessings even in the barren land, - for I will give rest to the people of Israel." + +will find blessings even in the barren land, + +for I will give rest to the people of Israel." + 3. Long ago the LORD said to Israel: "I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. - With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. + +With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. + 4. I will rebuild you, my virgin Israel. - You will again be happy - and dance merrily with your tambourines. + +You will again be happy + +and dance merrily with your tambourines. + 5. Again you will plant your vineyards on the mountains of Samaria - and eat from your own gardens there. + +and eat from your own gardens there. + 6. The day will come when watchmen will shout - from the hill country of Ephraim, + +from the hill country of Ephraim, 'Come, let us go up to Jerusalem to worship the LORD our God.'" 7. Now this is what the LORD says: "Sing with joy for Israel. - Shout for the greatest of nations! + +Shout for the greatest of nations! Shout out with praise and joy: 'Save your people, O LORD, - the remnant of Israel!' + +the remnant of Israel!' + 8. For I will bring them from the north - and from the distant corners of the earth. + +and from the distant corners of the earth. + I will not forget the blind and lame, - the expectant mothers and women in labor. - A great company will return! + +the expectant mothers and women in labor. + +A great company will return! + 9. Tears of joy will stream down their faces, - and I will lead them home with great care. + +and I will lead them home with great care. + They will walk beside quiet streams - and on smooth paths where they will not stumble. + +and on smooth paths where they will not stumble. + For I am Israel's father, - and Ephraim is my oldest child. + +and Ephraim is my oldest child. + 10. "Listen to this message from the LORD, - you nations of the world; - proclaim it in distant coastlands: + +you nations of the world; + +proclaim it in distant coastlands: The LORD, who scattered his people, - will gather them and watch over them - as a shepherd does his flock. + +will gather them and watch over them + +as a shepherd does his flock. + 11. For the LORD has redeemed Israel - from those too strong for them. + +from those too strong for them. + 12. They will come home and sing songs of joy on the heights of Jerusalem. They will be radiant because of the LORD's good gifts-- the abundant crops of grain, new wine, and olive oil, - and the healthy flocks and herds. + +and the healthy flocks and herds. + Their life will be like a watered garden, - and all their sorrows will be gone. + +and all their sorrows will be gone. + 13. The young women will dance for joy, and the men--old and young--will join in the celebration. + I will turn their mourning into joy. - I will comfort them and exchange their sorrow for rejoicing. + +I will comfort them and exchange their sorrow for rejoicing. + 14. The priests will enjoy abundance, - and my people will feast on my good gifts. - I, the LORD, have spoken!"Rachel's Sadness Turns to Joy + +and my people will feast on my good gifts. + I, the LORD, have spoken!" +Rachel's Sadness Turns to Joy + 15. This is what the LORD says: "A cry is heard in Ramah-- - deep anguish and bitter weeping. + +deep anguish and bitter weeping. + Rachel weeps for her children, - refusing to be comforted-- - for her children are gone." + +refusing to be comforted-- + +for her children are gone." + 16. But now this is what the LORD says: "Do not weep any longer, for I will reward you," says the LORD. + "Your children will come back to you - from the distant land of the enemy. + +from the distant land of the enemy. + 17. There is hope for your future," says the LORD. - "Your children will come again to their own land. + +"Your children will come again to their own land. + 18. I have heard Israel saying, 'You disciplined me severely, - like a calf that needs training for the yoke. + +like a calf that needs training for the yoke. + Turn me again to you and restore me, for you alone are the LORD my God. 19. I turned away from God, - but then I was sorry. + +but then I was sorry. + I kicked myself for my stupidity! - I was thoroughly ashamed of all I did in my younger days.' + +I was thoroughly ashamed of all I did in my younger days.' + 20. "Is not Israel still my son, my darling child?" says the LORD. + "I often have to punish him, - but I still love him. + +but I still love him. + That's why I long for him - and surely will have mercy on him. + +and surely will have mercy on him. + 21. Set up road signs; - put up guideposts. + +put up guideposts. + Mark well the path - by which you came. + +by which you came. + Come back again, my virgin Israel; - return to your towns here. + +return to your towns here. + 22. How long will you wander, - my wayward daughter? + +my wayward daughter? For the LORD will cause something new to happen-- Israel will embrace her God." @@ -126,7 +196,9 @@ For the LORD will cause something new to happen-- 29. "The people will no longer quote this proverb: 'The parents have eaten sour grapes, - but their children's mouths pucker at the taste.' + +but their children's mouths pucker at the taste.' + 30. All people will die for their own sins--those who eat the sour grapes will be the ones whose mouths will pucker. @@ -137,19 +209,27 @@ For the LORD will cause something new to happen-- 34. And they will not need to teach their neighbors, nor will they need to teach their relatives, saying, 'You should know the LORD.' For everyone, from the least to the greatest, will know me already," says the LORD. "And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins." 35. It is the LORD who provides the sun to light the day - and the moon and stars to light the night, - and who stirs the sea into roaring waves. + +and the moon and stars to light the night, + +and who stirs the sea into roaring waves. His name is the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - and this is what he says: + +and this is what he says: + 36. "I am as likely to reject my people Israel - as I am to abolish the laws of nature!" + +as I am to abolish the laws of nature!" + 37. This is what the LORD says: "Just as the heavens cannot be measured - and the foundations of the earth cannot be explored, + +and the foundations of the earth cannot be explored, so I will not consider casting them away - for the evil they have done. + +for the evil they have done. I, the LORD, have spoken! 38. "The day is coming," says the LORD, "when all Jerusalem will be rebuilt for me, from the Tower of Hananel to the Corner Gate. @@ -157,3 +237,4 @@ so I will not consider casting them away 40. And the entire area--including the graveyard and ash dump in the valley, and all the fields out to the Kidron Valley on the east as far as the Horse Gate--will be holy to the LORD. The city will never again be captured or destroyed." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_32.md index 4501fef5..6e80d41d 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_32.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ Jeremiah's Land Purchase 13. Then I said to Baruch as they all listened, 14. "This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: 'Take both this sealed deed and the unsealed copy, and put them into a pottery jar to preserve them for a long time.' -15. For this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: 'Someday people will again own property here in this land and will buy and sell houses and vineyards and fields.'"Jeremiah's Prayer +15. For this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: 'Someday people will again own property here in this land and will buy and sell houses and vineyards and fields.'" +Jeremiah's Prayer + 16. Then after I had given the papers to Baruch, I prayed to the LORD: @@ -33,7 +35,9 @@ Jeremiah's Land Purchase 23. Our ancestors came and conquered it and lived in it, but they refused to obey you or follow your word. They have not done anything you commanded. That is why you have sent this terrible disaster upon them. 24. "See how the siege ramps have been built against the city walls! Through war, famine, and disease, the city will be handed over to the Babylonians, who will conquer it. Everything has happened just as you said. -25. And yet, O Sovereign LORD, you have told me to buy the field--paying good money for it before these witnesses--even though the city will soon be handed over to the Babylonians."A Prediction of Jerusalem's Fall +25. And yet, O Sovereign LORD, you have told me to buy the field--paying good money for it before these witnesses--even though the city will soon be handed over to the Babylonians." +A Prediction of Jerusalem's Fall + 26. Then this message came to Jeremiah from the LORD: 27. "I am the LORD, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me? @@ -45,7 +49,9 @@ Jeremiah's Land Purchase 32. "The sins of Israel and Judah--the sins of the people of Jerusalem, the kings, the officials, the priests, and the prophets--have stirred up my anger. 33. My people have turned their backs on me and have refused to return. Even though I diligently taught them, they would not receive instruction or obey. 34. They have set up their abominable idols right in my own Temple, defiling it. -35. They have built pagan shrines to Baal in the valley of Ben-Hinnom, and there they sacrifice their sons and daughters to Molech. I have never commanded such a horrible deed; it never even crossed my mind to command such a thing. What an incredible evil, causing Judah to sin so greatly!A Promise of Restoration +35. They have built pagan shrines to Baal in the valley of Ben-Hinnom, and there they sacrifice their sons and daughters to Molech. I have never commanded such a horrible deed; it never even crossed my mind to command such a thing. What an incredible evil, causing Judah to sin so greatly! +A Promise of Restoration + 36. "Now I want to say something more about this city. You have been saying, 'It will fall to the king of Babylon through war, famine, and disease.' But this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 37. I will certainly bring my people back again from all the countries where I will scatter them in my fury. I will bring them back to this very city and let them live in peace and safety. @@ -59,3 +65,4 @@ Jeremiah's Land Purchase 44. Yes, fields will once again be bought and sold--deeds signed and sealed and witnessed--in the land of Benjamin and here in Jerusalem, in the towns of Judah and in the hill country, in the foothills of Judah and in the Negev, too. For someday I will restore prosperity to them. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_33.md index 8e598071..073184ea 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_33.md @@ -16,7 +16,8 @@ Promises of Peace and Prosperity 11. the sounds of joy and laughter. The joyful voices of bridegrooms and brides will be heard again, along with the joyous songs of people bringing thanksgiving offerings to the LORD. They will sing, 'Give thanks to the LORD of Heaven's Armies, for the LORD is good. - His faithful love endures forever!' + +His faithful love endures forever!' For I will restore the prosperity of this land to what it was in the past, says the LORD. 12. "This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: This land--though it is now desolate and has no people and animals--will once more have pastures where shepherds can lead their flocks. @@ -26,10 +27,14 @@ For I will restore the prosperity of this land to what it was in the past, says 15. "In those days and at that time I will raise up a righteous descendant from King David's line. - He will do what is just and right throughout the land. + +He will do what is just and right throughout the land. + 16. In that day Judah will be saved, - and Jerusalem will live in safety. + +and Jerusalem will live in safety. + And this will be its name: 'The LORD Is Our Righteousness.' @@ -47,3 +52,4 @@ And this will be its name: 26. I will never abandon the descendants of Jacob or David, my servant, or change the plan that David's descendants will rule the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Instead, I will restore them to their land and have mercy on them." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_34.md index b90dbe44..3367624e 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_34.md @@ -9,7 +9,10 @@ A Warning for Zedekiah 5. but will die peacefully. People will burn incense in your memory, just as they did for your ancestors, the kings who preceded you. They will mourn for you, crying, "Alas, our master is dead!" This I have decreed, says the LORD.'" 6. So Jeremiah the prophet delivered the message to King Zedekiah of Judah. -7. At this time the Babylonian army was besieging Jerusalem, Lachish, and Azekah--the only fortified cities of Judah not yet captured.Freedom for Hebrew Slaves +7. At this time the Babylonian army was besieging Jerusalem, Lachish, and Azekah--the only fortified cities of Judah not yet captured. + +Freedom for Hebrew Slaves + 8. This message came to Jeremiah from the LORD after King Zedekiah made a covenant with the people, proclaiming freedom for the slaves. 9. He had ordered all the people to free their Hebrew slaves--both men and women. No one was to keep a fellow Judean in bondage. @@ -31,3 +34,4 @@ A Warning for Zedekiah 22. I will call the Babylonian armies back again. They will fight against this city and will capture it and burn it down. I will see to it that all the towns of Judah are destroyed, with no one living there." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_35.md index eb5bc5d7..7f6ae0e9 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_35.md @@ -27,3 +27,4 @@ The Faithful Recabites 19. Therefore, this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: 'Jehonadab son of Recab will always have descendants who serve me.'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_36.md index 1873d4d4..414f6e6b 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_36.md @@ -26,7 +26,10 @@ Baruch Reads the LORD's Messages 18. So Baruch explained, "Jeremiah dictated them, and I wrote them down in ink, word for word, on this scroll." 19. "You and Jeremiah should both hide," the officials told Baruch. "Don't tell anyone where you are!" -20. Then the officials left the scroll for safekeeping in the room of Elishama the secretary and went to tell the king what had happened.King Jehoiakim Burns the Scroll +20. Then the officials left the scroll for safekeeping in the room of Elishama the secretary and went to tell the king what had happened. + +King Jehoiakim Burns the Scroll + 21. The king sent Jehudi to get the scroll. Jehudi brought it from Elishama's room and read it to the king as all his officials stood by. 22. It was late autumn, and the king was in a winterized part of the palace, sitting in front of a fire to keep warm. @@ -34,7 +37,10 @@ Baruch Reads the LORD's Messages 24. Neither the king nor his attendants showed any signs of fear or repentance at what they heard. 25. Even when Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah begged the king not to burn the scroll, he wouldn't listen. -26. Then the king commanded his son Jerahmeel, Seraiah son of Azriel, and Shelemiah son of Abdeel to arrest Baruch and Jeremiah. But the LORD had hidden them.Jeremiah Rewrites the Scroll +26. Then the king commanded his son Jerahmeel, Seraiah son of Azriel, and Shelemiah son of Abdeel to arrest Baruch and Jeremiah. But the LORD had hidden them. + +Jeremiah Rewrites the Scroll + 27. After the king had burned the scroll on which Baruch had written Jeremiah's words, the LORD gave Jeremiah another message. He said, 28. "Get another scroll, and write everything again just as you did on the scroll King Jehoiakim burned. @@ -45,3 +51,4 @@ Baruch Reads the LORD's Messages 32. So Jeremiah took another scroll and dictated again to his secretary, Baruch. He wrote everything that had been on the scroll King Jehoiakim had burned in the fire. Only this time he added much more! + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_37.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_37.md index afdc2f23..ca6bb604 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_37.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_37.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ Zedekiah Calls for Jeremiah 8. Then the Babylonians will come back and capture this city and burn it to the ground.' 9. "This is what the LORD says: Do not fool yourselves into thinking that the Babylonians are gone for good. They aren't! -10. Even if you were to destroy the entire Babylonian army, leaving only a handful of wounded survivors, they would still stagger from their tents and burn this city to the ground!"Jeremiah Is Imprisoned +10. Even if you were to destroy the entire Babylonian army, leaving only a handful of wounded survivors, they would still stagger from their tents and burn this city to the ground!" +Jeremiah Is Imprisoned + 11. When the Babylonian army left Jerusalem because of Pharaoh's approaching army, 12. Jeremiah started to leave the city on his way to the territory of Benjamin, to claim his share of the property among his relatives there. @@ -27,6 +29,7 @@ Zedekiah Calls for Jeremiah 17. Later King Zedekiah secretly requested that Jeremiah come to the palace, where the king asked him, "Do you have any messages from the LORD?" "Yes, I do!" said Jeremiah. "You will be defeated by the king of Babylon." + 18. Then Jeremiah asked the king, "What crime have I committed? What have I done against you, your attendants, or the people that I should be imprisoned like this? 19. Where are your prophets now who told you the king of Babylon would not attack you or this land? 20. Listen, my lord the king, I beg you. Don't send me back to the dungeon in the house of Jonathan the secretary, for I will die there." @@ -34,3 +37,4 @@ Zedekiah Calls for Jeremiah 21. So King Zedekiah commanded that Jeremiah not be returned to the dungeon. Instead, he was imprisoned in the courtyard of the guard in the royal palace. The king also commanded that Jeremiah be given a loaf of fresh bread every day as long as there was any left in the city. So Jeremiah was put in the palace prison. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_38.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_38.md index e7e782e7..94f13fb4 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_38.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_38.md @@ -19,7 +19,10 @@ Jeremiah in a Cistern 11. So Ebed-melech took the men with him and went to a room in the palace beneath the treasury, where he found some old rags and discarded clothing. He carried these to the cistern and lowered them to Jeremiah on a rope. 12. Ebed-melech called down to Jeremiah, "Put these rags under your armpits to protect you from the ropes." Then when Jeremiah was ready, -13. they pulled him out. So Jeremiah was returned to the courtyard of the guard--the palace prison--where he remained.Zedekiah Questions Jeremiah +13. they pulled him out. So Jeremiah was returned to the courtyard of the guard--the palace prison--where he remained. + +Zedekiah Questions Jeremiah + 14. One day King Zedekiah sent for Jeremiah and had him brought to the third entrance of the LORD's Temple. "I want to ask you something," the king said. "And don't try to hide the truth." @@ -36,9 +39,13 @@ Jeremiah in a Cistern 21. But if you refuse to surrender, this is what the LORD has revealed to me: 22. All the women left in your palace will be brought out and given to the officers of the Babylonian army. Then the women will taunt you, saying, 'What fine friends you have! - They have betrayed and misled you. + +They have betrayed and misled you. + When your feet sank in the mud, - they left you to your fate!' + +they left you to your fate!' + 23. All your wives and children will be led out to the Babylonians, and you will not escape. You will be seized by the king of Babylon, and this city will be burned down." @@ -50,3 +57,4 @@ When your feet sank in the mud, 28. And Jeremiah remained a prisoner in the courtyard of the guard until the day Jerusalem was captured. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_39.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_39.md index b6ceb95a..c8a82f36 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_39.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_39.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ The Fall of Jerusalem 8. Meanwhile, the Babylonians burned Jerusalem, including the royal palace and the houses of the people, and they tore down the walls of the city. 9. Then Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, took as exiles to Babylon the rest of the people who remained in the city, those who had defected to him, and everyone else who remained. -10. But Nebuzaradan allowed some of the poorest people to stay behind in the land of Judah, and he assigned them to care for the vineyards and fields.Jeremiah Remains in Judah +10. But Nebuzaradan allowed some of the poorest people to stay behind in the land of Judah, and he assigned them to care for the vineyards and fields. + +Jeremiah Remains in Judah + 11. King Nebuchadnezzar had told Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, to find Jeremiah. 12. "See that he isn't hurt," he said. "Look after him well, and give him anything he wants." @@ -26,3 +29,4 @@ The Fall of Jerusalem 18. Because you trusted me, I will give you your life as a reward. I will rescue you and keep you safe. I, the LORD, have spoken!'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_40.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_40.md index f3d076bf..e4be03ea 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_40.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_40.md @@ -6,7 +6,11 @@ 4. But I am going to take off your chains and let you go. If you want to come with me to Babylon, you are welcome. I will see that you are well cared for. But if you don't want to come, you may stay here. The whole land is before you--go wherever you like. 5. If you decide to stay, then return to Gedaliah son of Ahikam and grandson of Shaphan. He has been appointed governor of Judah by the king of Babylon. Stay there with the people he rules. But it's up to you; go wherever you like." Then Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, gave Jeremiah some food and money and let him go. -6. So Jeremiah returned to Gedaliah son of Ahikam at Mizpah, and he lived in Judah with the few who were still left in the land.Gedaliah Governs in Judah + +6. So Jeremiah returned to Gedaliah son of Ahikam at Mizpah, and he lived in Judah with the few who were still left in the land. + +Gedaliah Governs in Judah + 7. The leaders of the Judean military groups in the countryside heard that the king of Babylon had appointed Gedaliah son of Ahikam as governor over the poor people who were left behind in Judah--the men, women, and children who hadn't been exiled to Babylon. 8. So they went to see Gedaliah at Mizpah. These included: Ishmael son of Nethaniah, Johanan and Jonathan sons of Kareah, Seraiah son of Tanhumeth, the sons of Ephai the Netophathite, Jezaniah son of the Maacathite, and all their men. @@ -15,7 +19,10 @@ Then Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, gave Jeremiah some food and money an 10. "As for me, I will stay at Mizpah to represent you before the Babylonians who come to meet with us. Settle in the towns you have taken, and live off the land. Harvest the grapes and summer fruits and olives, and store them away." 11. When the Judeans in Moab, Ammon, Edom, and the other nearby countries heard that the king of Babylon had left a few people in Judah and that Gedaliah was the governor, -12. they began to return to Judah from the places to which they had fled. They stopped at Mizpah to meet with Gedaliah and then went into the Judean countryside to gather a great harvest of grapes and other crops.A Plot against Gedaliah +12. they began to return to Judah from the places to which they had fled. They stopped at Mizpah to meet with Gedaliah and then went into the Judean countryside to gather a great harvest of grapes and other crops. + +A Plot against Gedaliah + 13. Soon after this, Johanan son of Kareah and the other military leaders came to Gedaliah at Mizpah. 14. They said to him, "Did you know that Baalis, king of Ammon, has sent Ishmael son of Nethaniah to assassinate you?" But Gedaliah refused to believe them. @@ -25,3 +32,4 @@ Then Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, gave Jeremiah some food and money an 16. But Gedaliah said to Johanan, "I forbid you to do any such thing, for you are lying about Ishmael." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_41.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_41.md index b9283839..196d7797 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_41.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_41.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ The Murder of Gedaliah 18. They were afraid of what the Babylonians would do when they heard that Ishmael had killed Gedaliah, the governor appointed by the Babylonian king. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_42.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_42.md index 1f8c3b82..41687fc8 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_42.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_42.md @@ -31,3 +31,4 @@ Warning to Stay in Judah 22. So you can be sure that you will die from war, famine, and disease in Egypt, where you insist on going." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_43.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_43.md index f16ea817..3a4b4f77 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_43.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_43.md @@ -18,3 +18,4 @@ Jeremiah Taken to Egypt 13. He will break down the sacred pillars standing in the temple of the sun in Egypt, and he will burn down the temples of Egypt's gods.'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_44.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_44.md index e6830f69..a4a41be6 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_44.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_44.md @@ -42,3 +42,4 @@ Judgment for Idolatry 30. This is what the LORD says: 'I will turn Pharaoh Hophra, king of Egypt, over to his enemies who want to kill him, just as I turned King Zedekiah of Judah over to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_45.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_45.md index 757310ed..5497445a 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_45.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_45.md @@ -9,3 +9,4 @@ A Message for Baruch 5. Are you seeking great things for yourself? Don't do it! I will bring great disaster upon all these people; but I will give you your life as a reward wherever you go. I, the LORD, have spoken!'" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_46.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_46.md index b2fa17ca..253c98d6 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_46.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_46.md @@ -1,126 +1,202 @@ Messages for the Nations # Chapter 46 -1. The following messages were given to Jeremiah the prophet from the LORD concerning foreign nations.Messages about Egypt +1. The following messages were given to Jeremiah the prophet from the LORD concerning foreign nations. + +Messages about Egypt + 2. This message concerning Egypt was given in the fourth year of the reign of Jehoiakim son of Josiah, the king of Judah, on the occasion of the battle of Carchemish when Pharaoh Neco, king of Egypt, and his army were defeated beside the Euphrates River by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. 3. "Prepare your shields, - and advance into battle! + +and advance into battle! + 4. Harness the horses, - and mount the stallions. + +and mount the stallions. + Take your positions. - Put on your helmets. + +Put on your helmets. + Sharpen your spears, - and prepare your armor. + +and prepare your armor. + 5. But what do I see? - The Egyptian army flees in terror. + +The Egyptian army flees in terror. + The bravest of its fighting men run - without a backward glance. + +without a backward glance. + They are terrorized at every turn," says the LORD. 6. "The swiftest runners cannot flee; - the mightiest warriors cannot escape. + +the mightiest warriors cannot escape. + By the Euphrates River to the north, - they stumble and fall. + +they stumble and fall. + 7. "Who is this, rising like the Nile at floodtime, - overflowing all the land? + +overflowing all the land? + 8. It is the Egyptian army, - overflowing all the land, + +overflowing all the land, boasting that it will cover the earth like a flood, - destroying cities and their people. + +destroying cities and their people. + 9. Charge, you horses and chariots; - attack, you mighty warriors of Egypt! + +attack, you mighty warriors of Egypt! Come, all you allies from Ethiopia, Libya, and Lydia - who are skilled with the shield and bow! + +who are skilled with the shield and bow! + 10. For this is the day of the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - a day of vengeance on his enemies. + +a day of vengeance on his enemies. + The sword will devour until it is satisfied, - yes, until it is drunk with your blood! + +yes, until it is drunk with your blood! The Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, will receive a sacrifice today - in the north country beside the Euphrates River. + +in the north country beside the Euphrates River. + 11. "Go up to Gilead to get medicine, - O virgin daughter of Egypt! + +O virgin daughter of Egypt! But your many treatments - will bring you no healing. + +will bring you no healing. + 12. The nations have heard of your shame. - The earth is filled with your cries of despair. + +The earth is filled with your cries of despair. + Your mightiest warriors will run into each other - and fall down together." + +and fall down together." + 13. Then the LORD gave the prophet Jeremiah this message about King Nebuchadnezzar's plans to attack Egypt. 14. "Shout it out in Egypt! Publish it in the cities of Migdol, Memphis, and Tahpanhes! Mobilize for battle, - for the sword will devour everyone around you. + +for the sword will devour everyone around you. + 15. Why have your warriors fallen? They cannot stand, for the LORD has knocked them down. 16. They stumble and fall over each other - and say among themselves, + +and say among themselves, 'Come, let's go back to our people, - to the land of our birth. - Let's get away from the sword of the enemy!' + +to the land of our birth. + +Let's get away from the sword of the enemy!' + 17. There they will say, - 'Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, is a loudmouth - who missed his opportunity!' + +'Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, is a loudmouth + +who missed his opportunity!' + 18. "As surely as I live," says the King, whose name is the LORD of Heaven's Armies, "one is coming against Egypt - who is as tall as Mount Tabor, - or as Mount Carmel by the sea! + +who is as tall as Mount Tabor, + +or as Mount Carmel by the sea! + 19. Pack up! Get ready to leave for exile, - you citizens of Egypt! + +you citizens of Egypt! The city of Memphis will be destroyed, - without a single inhabitant. + +without a single inhabitant. + 20. Egypt is as sleek as a beautiful heifer, - but a horsefly from the north is on its way! + +but a horsefly from the north is on its way! + 21. Egypt's mercenaries have become like fattened calves. - They, too, will turn and run, + +They, too, will turn and run, for it is a day of great disaster for Egypt, - a time of great punishment. + +a time of great punishment. + 22. Egypt flees, silent as a serpent gliding away. - The invading army marches in; - they come against her with axes like woodsmen. + +The invading army marches in; + +they come against her with axes like woodsmen. + 23. They will cut down her people like trees," says the LORD, - "for they are more numerous than locusts. + +"for they are more numerous than locusts. + 24. Egypt will be humiliated; - she will be handed over to people from the north." + +she will be handed over to people from the north." + 25. The LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: "I will punish Amon, the god of Thebes, and all the other gods of Egypt. I will punish its rulers and Pharaoh, too, and all who trust in him. 26. I will hand them over to those who want them killed--to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon and his army. But afterward the land will recover from the ravages of war. I, the LORD, have spoken! 27. "But do not be afraid, Jacob, my servant; - do not be dismayed, Israel. + +do not be dismayed, Israel. + For I will bring you home again from distant lands, - and your children will return from their exile. + +and your children will return from their exile. Israel will return to a life of peace and quiet, - and no one will terrorize them. + +and no one will terrorize them. + 28. Do not be afraid, Jacob, my servant, for I am with you," says the LORD. + "I will completely destroy the nations to which I have exiled you, - but I will not completely destroy you. + +but I will not completely destroy you. + I will discipline you, but with justice; - I cannot let you go unpunished." + +I cannot let you go unpunished." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_47.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_47.md index dfe87e3a..feedc3d0 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_47.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_47.md @@ -4,36 +4,56 @@ A Message about Philistia 1. This is the LORD's message to the prophet Jeremiah concerning the Philistines of Gaza, before it was captured by the Egyptian army. 2. This is what the LORD says: "A flood is coming from the north - to overflow the land. + +to overflow the land. + It will destroy the land and everything in it-- - cities and people alike. + +cities and people alike. + People will scream in terror, - and everyone in the land will wail. + +and everyone in the land will wail. + 3. Hear the clatter of stallions' hooves - and the rumble of wheels as the chariots rush by. + +and the rumble of wheels as the chariots rush by. + Terrified fathers run madly, - without a backward glance at their helpless children. + +without a backward glance at their helpless children. + 4. "The time has come for the Philistines to be destroyed, - along with their allies from Tyre and Sidon. + +along with their allies from Tyre and Sidon. Yes, the LORD is destroying the remnant of the Philistines, those colonists from the island of Crete. 5. Gaza will be humiliated, its head shaved bald; - Ashkelon will lie silent. + +Ashkelon will lie silent. You remnant from the Mediterranean coast, - how long will you cut yourselves in mourning? + +how long will you cut yourselves in mourning? + 6. "Now, O sword of the LORD, - when will you be at rest again? + +when will you be at rest again? Go back into your sheath; - rest and be still. + +rest and be still. + 7. "But how can it be still when the LORD has sent it on a mission? For the city of Ashkelon - and the people living along the sea - must be destroyed." + +and the people living along the sea + +must be destroyed." + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_48.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_48.md index 4ec0d15e..52184cf2 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_48.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_48.md @@ -3,92 +3,142 @@ A Message about Moab # Chapter 48 1. This message was given concerning Moab. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says: "What sorrow awaits the city of Nebo; - it will soon lie in ruins. + +it will soon lie in ruins. + The city of Kiriathaim will be humiliated and captured; - the fortress will be humiliated and broken down. + +the fortress will be humiliated and broken down. + 2. No one will ever brag about Moab again, - for in Heshbon there is a plot to destroy her. + +for in Heshbon there is a plot to destroy her. + 'Come,' they say, 'we will cut her off from being a nation.' The town of Madmen, too, will be silenced; - the sword will follow you there. + +the sword will follow you there. + 3. Listen to the cries from Horonaim, - cries of devastation and great destruction. + +cries of devastation and great destruction. + 4. All Moab is destroyed. Her little ones will cry out. 5. Her refugees weep bitterly, - climbing the slope to Luhith. + +climbing the slope to Luhith. + They cry out in terror, - descending the slope to Horonaim. + +descending the slope to Horonaim. + 6. Flee for your lives! Hide in the wilderness! 7. Because you have trusted in your wealth and skill, - you will be taken captive. + +you will be taken captive. + Your god Chemosh, with his priests and officials, - will be hauled off to distant lands! + +will be hauled off to distant lands! + 8. "All the towns will be destroyed, - and no one will escape-- + +and no one will escape-- either on the plateaus or in the valleys, for the LORD has spoken. 9. Oh, that Moab had wings so she could fly away, for her towns will be left empty, - with no one living in them. + +with no one living in them. + 10. Cursed are those who refuse to do the LORD's work, - who hold back their swords from shedding blood! + +who hold back their swords from shedding blood! + 11. "From his earliest history, Moab has lived in peace, - never going into exile. + +never going into exile. + He is like wine that has been allowed to settle. - He has not been poured from flask to flask, - and he is now fragrant and smooth. + +He has not been poured from flask to flask, + +and he is now fragrant and smooth. + 12. But the time is coming soon," says the LORD, - "when I will send men to pour him from his jar. + +"when I will send men to pour him from his jar. + They will pour him out, - then shatter the jar! + +then shatter the jar! + 13. At last Moab will be ashamed of his idol Chemosh, as the people of Israel were ashamed of their gold calf at Bethel. 14. "You used to boast, 'We are heroes, - mighty men of war.' + +mighty men of war.' + 15. But now Moab and his towns will be destroyed. - His most promising youth are doomed to slaughter," + +His most promising youth are doomed to slaughter," says the King, whose name is the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 16. "Destruction is coming fast for Moab; - calamity threatens ominously. + +calamity threatens ominously. + 17. You friends of Moab, - weep for him and cry! + +weep for him and cry! See how the strong scepter is broken, - how the beautiful staff is shattered! + +how the beautiful staff is shattered! + 18. "Come down from your glory - and sit in the dust, you people of Dibon, + +and sit in the dust, you people of Dibon, for those who destroy Moab will shatter Dibon, too. - They will tear down all your towers. + +They will tear down all your towers. + 19. You people of Aroer, - stand beside the road and watch. + +stand beside the road and watch. + Shout to those who flee from Moab, - 'What has happened there?' + +'What has happened there?' + 20. "And the reply comes back, 'Moab lies in ruins, disgraced; - weep and wail! + +weep and wail! Tell it by the banks of the Arnon River: - Moab has been destroyed!' + +Moab has been destroyed!' + 21. Judgment has been poured out on the towns of the plateau-- on Holon and Jahaz and Mephaath, @@ -98,49 +148,76 @@ Tell it by the banks of the Arnon River: 23. on Kiriathaim and Beth-gamul and Beth-meon, 24. on Kerioth and Bozrah-- - all the towns of Moab, far and near. + +all the towns of Moab, far and near. + 25. "The strength of Moab has ended. His arm has been broken," says the LORD. 26. "Let him stagger and fall like a drunkard, for he has rebelled against the LORD. + Moab will wallow in his own vomit, - ridiculed by all. + +ridiculed by all. + 27. Did you not ridicule the people of Israel? - Were they caught in the company of thieves - that you should despise them as you do? + +Were they caught in the company of thieves + +that you should despise them as you do? + 28. "You people of Moab, - flee from your towns and live in the caves. + +flee from your towns and live in the caves. + Hide like doves that nest - in the clefts of the rocks. + +in the clefts of the rocks. + 29. We have all heard of the pride of Moab, - for his pride is very great. + +for his pride is very great. + We know of his lofty pride, - his arrogance, and his haughty heart. + +his arrogance, and his haughty heart. + 30. I know about his insolence," says the LORD, "but his boasts are empty-- - as empty as his deeds. + +as empty as his deeds. + 31. So now I wail for Moab; - yes, I will mourn for Moab. + +yes, I will mourn for Moab. My heart is broken for the men of Kir-hareseth. 32. "You people of Sibmah, rich in vineyards, - I will weep for you even more than I did for Jazer. + +I will weep for you even more than I did for Jazer. Your spreading vines once reached as far as the Dead Sea, - but the destroyer has stripped you bare! - He has harvested your grapes and summer fruits. + +but the destroyer has stripped you bare! + +He has harvested your grapes and summer fruits. + 33. Joy and gladness are gone from fruitful Moab. - The presses yield no wine. + +The presses yield no wine. + No one treads the grapes with shouts of joy. - There is shouting, yes, but not of joy. + +There is shouting, yes, but not of joy. + 34. "Instead, their awful cries of terror can be heard from Heshbon clear across to Elealeh and Jahaz; from Zoar all the way to Horonaim and Eglath-shelishiyah. Even the waters of Nimrim are dried up now. @@ -152,12 +229,18 @@ No one treads the grapes with shouts of joy. 40. This is what the LORD says: "Look! The enemy swoops down like an eagle, - spreading his wings over Moab. + +spreading his wings over Moab. + 41. Its cities will fall, - and its strongholds will be seized. + +and its strongholds will be seized. + Even the mightiest warriors will be in anguish - like a woman in labor. + +like a woman in labor. + 42. Moab will no longer be a nation, for it has boasted against the LORD. @@ -166,26 +249,39 @@ Even the mightiest warriors will be in anguish O Moab," says the LORD. 44. "Those who flee in terror will fall into a trap, - and those who escape the trap will step into a snare. + +and those who escape the trap will step into a snare. + I will see to it that you do not get away, - for the time of your judgment has come," + +for the time of your judgment has come," says the LORD. 45. "The people flee as far as Heshbon - but are unable to go on. + +but are unable to go on. + For a fire comes from Heshbon, - King Sihon's ancient home, + +King Sihon's ancient home, to devour the entire land - with all its rebellious people. + +with all its rebellious people. + 46. "What sorrow awaits you, O people of Moab! - The people of the god Chemosh are destroyed! + +The people of the god Chemosh are destroyed! Your sons and your daughters - have been taken away as captives. + +have been taken away as captives. + 47. But I will restore the fortunes of Moab - in days to come. + +in days to come. I, the LORD, have spoken!" This is the end of Jeremiah's prophecy concerning Moab. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_49.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_49.md index 17efb3a1..c2732bc0 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_49.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_49.md @@ -3,184 +3,306 @@ A Message about Ammon # Chapter 49 1. This message was given concerning the Ammonites. This is what the LORD says: "Are there no descendants of Israel - to inherit the land of Gad? + +to inherit the land of Gad? Why are you, who worship Molech, - living in its towns? + +living in its towns? + 2. In the days to come," says the LORD, - "I will sound the battle cry against your city of Rabbah. + +"I will sound the battle cry against your city of Rabbah. + It will become a desolate heap of ruins, - and the neighboring towns will be burned. + +and the neighboring towns will be burned. + Then Israel will take back the land you took from her," says the LORD. 3. "Cry out, O Heshbon, - for the town of Ai is destroyed. + +for the town of Ai is destroyed. + Weep, O people of Rabbah! - Put on your clothes of mourning. + +Put on your clothes of mourning. + Weep and wail, hiding in the hedges, - for your god Molech, with his priests and officials, - will be hauled off to distant lands. + +for your god Molech, with his priests and officials, + +will be hauled off to distant lands. + 4. You are proud of your fertile valleys, - but they will soon be ruined. + +but they will soon be ruined. + You trusted in your wealth, - you rebellious daughter, - and thought no one could ever harm you. + +you rebellious daughter, + +and thought no one could ever harm you. + 5. But look! I will bring terror upon you," - says the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + +says the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + "Your neighbors will chase you from your land, - and no one will help your exiles as they flee. + +and no one will help your exiles as they flee. + 6. But I will restore the fortunes of the Ammonites - in days to come. - I, the LORD, have spoken."Messages about Edom + +in days to come. + I, the LORD, have spoken." +Messages about Edom + 7. This message was given concerning Edom. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: "Is there no wisdom in Teman? - Is no one left to give wise counsel? + +Is no one left to give wise counsel? + 8. Turn and flee! - Hide in deep caves, you people of Dedan! + +Hide in deep caves, you people of Dedan! For when I bring disaster on Edom, - I will punish you, too! + +I will punish you, too! + 9. Those who harvest grapes - always leave a few for the poor. + +always leave a few for the poor. + If thieves came at night, - they would not take everything. + +they would not take everything. + 10. But I will strip bare the land of Edom, - and there will be no place left to hide. + +and there will be no place left to hide. + Its children, its brothers, and its neighbors - will all be destroyed, - and Edom itself will be no more. + +will all be destroyed, + +and Edom itself will be no more. + 11. But I will protect the orphans who remain among you. - Your widows, too, can depend on me for help." + +Your widows, too, can depend on me for help." + 12. And this is what the LORD says: "If the innocent must suffer, how much more must you! You will not go unpunished! You must drink this cup of judgment! 13. For I have sworn by my own name," says the LORD, "that Bozrah will become an object of horror and a heap of ruins; it will be mocked and cursed. All its towns and villages will be desolate forever." 14. I have heard a message from the LORD - that an ambassador was sent to the nations to say, + +that an ambassador was sent to the nations to say, "Form a coalition against Edom, - and prepare for battle!" + +and prepare for battle!" + 15. The LORD says to Edom, "I will cut you down to size among the nations. - You will be despised by all. + +You will be despised by all. + 16. You have been deceived - by the fear you inspire in others - and by your own pride. + +by the fear you inspire in others + +and by your own pride. + You live in a rock fortress - and control the mountain heights. + +and control the mountain heights. + But even if you make your nest among the peaks with the eagles, - I will bring you crashing down," + +I will bring you crashing down," says the LORD. 17. "Edom will be an object of horror. - All who pass by will be appalled - and will gasp at the destruction they see there. + +All who pass by will be appalled + +and will gasp at the destruction they see there. + 18. It will be like the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and their neighboring towns," says the LORD. -"No one will live there; - no one will inhabit it. + +" +No one will live there; + +no one will inhabit it. + 19. I will come like a lion from the thickets of the Jordan, - leaping on the sheep in the pasture. + +leaping on the sheep in the pasture. + I will chase Edom from its land, - and I will appoint the leader of my choice. + +and I will appoint the leader of my choice. + For who is like me, and who can challenge me? - What ruler can oppose my will?" + +What ruler can oppose my will?" + 20. Listen to the LORD's plans against Edom - and the people of Teman. + +and the people of Teman. + Even the little children will be dragged off like sheep, - and their homes will be destroyed. + +and their homes will be destroyed. + 21. The earth will shake with the noise of Edom's fall, and its cry of despair will be heard all the way to the Red Sea. 22. Look! The enemy swoops down like an eagle, - spreading his wings over Bozrah. + +spreading his wings over Bozrah. + Even the mightiest warriors will be in anguish - like a woman in labor.A Message about Damascus + +like a woman in labor. + +A Message about Damascus + 23. This message was given concerning Damascus. This is what the LORD says: "The towns of Hamath and Arpad are struck with fear, - for they have heard the news of their destruction. + +for they have heard the news of their destruction. + Their hearts are troubled - like a wild sea in a raging storm. + +like a wild sea in a raging storm. + 24. Damascus has become feeble, - and all her people turn to flee. + +and all her people turn to flee. + Fear, anguish, and pain have gripped her - as they grip a woman in labor. + +as they grip a woman in labor. + 25. That famous city, a city of joy, - will be forsaken! + +will be forsaken! + 26. Her young men will fall in the streets and die. - Her soldiers will all be killed," + +Her soldiers will all be killed," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 27. "And I will set fire to the walls of Damascus - that will burn up the palaces of Ben-hadad."A Message about Kedar and Hazor + +that will burn up the palaces of Ben-hadad." +A Message about Kedar and Hazor + 28. This message was given concerning Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor, which were attacked by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. This is what the LORD says: "Advance against Kedar! - Destroy the warriors from the East! + +Destroy the warriors from the East! + 29. Their flocks and tents will be captured, - and their household goods and camels will be taken away. + +and their household goods and camels will be taken away. + Everywhere shouts of panic will be heard: - 'We are terrorized at every turn!' + +'We are terrorized at every turn!' + 30. Run for your lives," says the LORD. - "Hide yourselves in deep caves, you people of Hazor, + +"Hide yourselves in deep caves, you people of Hazor, for King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has plotted against you - and is preparing to destroy you. + +and is preparing to destroy you. + 31. "Go up and attack that complacent nation," says the LORD. + "Its people live alone in the desert - without walls or gates. + +without walls or gates. + 32. Their camels and other livestock will all be yours. - I will scatter to the winds these people + +I will scatter to the winds these people who live in remote places. + I will bring calamity upon them from every direction," says the LORD. 33. "Hazor will be inhabited by jackals, - and it will be desolate forever. + +and it will be desolate forever. + No one will live there; - no one will inhabit it."A Message about Elam + +no one will inhabit it." +A Message about Elam + 34. This message concerning Elam came to the prophet Jeremiah from the LORD at the beginning of the reign of King Zedekiah of Judah. 35. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: "I will destroy the archers of Elam-- - the best of their forces. + +the best of their forces. + 36. I will bring enemies from all directions, - and I will scatter the people of Elam to the four winds. - They will be exiled to countries around the world. + +and I will scatter the people of Elam to the four winds. + +They will be exiled to countries around the world. + 37. I myself will go with Elam's enemies to shatter it. - In my fierce anger, I will bring great disaster + +In my fierce anger, I will bring great disaster upon the people of Elam," says the LORD. + "Their enemies will chase them with the sword - until I have destroyed them completely. + +until I have destroyed them completely. + 38. I will set my throne in Elam," says the LORD, - "and I will destroy its king and officials. + +"and I will destroy its king and officials. + 39. But I will restore the fortunes of Elam - in days to come. + +in days to come. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_50.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_50.md index 65c0c670..c3e62ff1 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_50.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_50.md @@ -1,237 +1,395 @@ A Message about Babylon # Chapter 50 -1. The LORD gave Jeremiah the prophet this message concerning Babylon and the land of the Babylonians. +1. The LORD gave Jeremiah the prophet this message concerning Babylon +and the land of the Babylonians. + 2. This is what the LORD says: "Tell the whole world, - and keep nothing back. + +and keep nothing back. + Raise a signal flag - to tell everyone that Babylon will fall! + +to tell everyone that Babylon will fall! Her images and idols will be shattered. - Her gods Bel and Marduk will be utterly disgraced. + +Her gods Bel and Marduk will be utterly disgraced. + 3. For a nation will attack her from the north - and bring such destruction that no one will live there again. + +and bring such destruction that no one will live there again. + Everything will be gone; - both people and animals will flee.Hope for Israel and Judah + +both people and animals will flee. + +Hope for Israel and Judah + 4. "In those coming days," says the LORD, "the people of Israel will return home - together with the people of Judah. + +together with the people of Judah. + They will come weeping and seeking the LORD their God. 5. They will ask the way to Jerusalem - and will start back home again. + +and will start back home again. They will bind themselves to the LORD - with an eternal covenant that will never be forgotten. + +with an eternal covenant that will never be forgotten. + 6. "My people have been lost sheep. - Their shepherds have led them astray - and turned them loose in the mountains. + +Their shepherds have led them astray + +and turned them loose in the mountains. + They have lost their way - and can't remember how to get back to the sheepfold. + +and can't remember how to get back to the sheepfold. + 7. All who found them devoured them. - Their enemies said, + +Their enemies said, 'We did nothing wrong in attacking them, for they sinned against the LORD, their true place of rest, - and the hope of their ancestors.' + +and the hope of their ancestors.' + 8. "But now, flee from Babylon! - Leave the land of the Babylonians. + +Leave the land of the Babylonians. + Like male goats at the head of the flock, - lead my people home again. + +lead my people home again. + 9. For I am raising up an army - of great nations from the north. + +of great nations from the north. + They will join forces to attack Babylon, - and she will be captured. + +and she will be captured. + The enemies' arrows will go straight to the mark; - they will not miss! + +they will not miss! + 10. Babylonia will be looted - until the attackers are glutted with loot. - I, the LORD, have spoken!Babylon's Sure Fall + +until the attackers are glutted with loot. + I, the LORD, have spoken! +Babylon's Sure Fall + 11. "You rejoice and are glad, - you who plundered my chosen people. + +you who plundered my chosen people. + You frisk about like a calf in a meadow - and neigh like a stallion. + +and neigh like a stallion. + 12. But your homeland will be overwhelmed - with shame and disgrace. + +with shame and disgrace. + You will become the least of nations-- - a wilderness, a dry and desolate land. + +a wilderness, a dry and desolate land. + 13. Because of the LORD's anger, - Babylon will become a deserted wasteland. + +Babylon will become a deserted wasteland. + All who pass by will be horrified - and will gasp at the destruction they see there. + +and will gasp at the destruction they see there. + 14. "Yes, prepare to attack Babylon, - all you surrounding nations. + +all you surrounding nations. + Let your archers shoot at her; spare no arrows. For she has sinned against the LORD. 15. Shout war cries against her from every side. - Look! She surrenders! - Her walls have fallen. + +Look! She surrenders! + +Her walls have fallen. It is the LORD's vengeance, - so take vengeance on her. - Do to her as she has done to others! + +so take vengeance on her. + +Do to her as she has done to others! + 16. Take from Babylon all those who plant crops; - send all the harvesters away. + +send all the harvesters away. + Because of the sword of the enemy, - everyone will run away and rush back to their own lands.Hope for God's People + +everyone will run away and rush back to their own lands. + +Hope for God's People + 17. "The Israelites are like sheep - that have been scattered by lions. + +that have been scattered by lions. + First the king of Assyria ate them up. Then King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon cracked their bones." 18. Therefore, this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - the God of Israel, says: + +the God of Israel, says: "Now I will punish the king of Babylon and his land, - just as I punished the king of Assyria. + +just as I punished the king of Assyria. + 19. And I will bring Israel home again to its own land, - to feed in the fields of Carmel and Bashan, + +to feed in the fields of Carmel and Bashan, and to be satisfied once more - in the hill country of Ephraim and Gilead. + +in the hill country of Ephraim and Gilead. + 20. In those days," says the LORD, - "no sin will be found in Israel or in Judah, - for I will forgive the remnant I preserve.The LORD's Judgment on Babylon + +"no sin will be found in Israel or in Judah, + +for I will forgive the remnant I preserve.The LORD's Judgment on Babylon 21. "Go up, my warriors, against the land of Merathaim - and against the people of Pekod. + +and against the people of Pekod. Pursue, kill, and completely destroy them, as I have commanded you," says the LORD. 22. "Let the battle cry be heard in the land, - a shout of great destruction. + +a shout of great destruction. + 23. Babylon, the mightiest hammer in all the earth, - lies broken and shattered. - Babylon is desolate among the nations! + +lies broken and shattered. + +Babylon is desolate among the nations! + 24. Listen, Babylon, for I have set a trap for you. You are caught, for you have fought against the LORD. 25. The LORD has opened his armory - and brought out weapons to vent his fury. + +and brought out weapons to vent his fury. + The terror that falls upon the Babylonians will be the work of the Sovereign LORD of Heaven's Armies. 26. Yes, come against her from distant lands. - Break open her granaries. + +Break open her granaries. + Crush her walls and houses into heaps of rubble. - Destroy her completely, and leave nothing! + +Destroy her completely, and leave nothing! + 27. Destroy even her young bulls-- - it will be terrible for them, too! + +it will be terrible for them, too! Slaughter them all! - For Babylon's day of reckoning has come. + +For Babylon's day of reckoning has come. + 28. Listen to the people who have escaped from Babylon, - as they tell in Jerusalem + +as they tell in Jerusalem how the LORD our God has taken vengeance - against those who destroyed his Temple. + +against those who destroyed his Temple. + 29. "Send out a call for archers to come to Babylon. - Surround the city so none can escape. + +Surround the city so none can escape. + Do to her as she has done to others, for she has defied the LORD, the Holy One of Israel. 30. Her young men will fall in the streets and die. - Her soldiers will all be killed," + +Her soldiers will all be killed," says the LORD. 31. "See, I am your enemy, you arrogant people," - says the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + +says the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + "Your day of reckoning has arrived-- - the day when I will punish you. + +the day when I will punish you. + 32. O land of arrogance, you will stumble and fall, - and no one will raise you up. + +and no one will raise you up. + For I will light a fire in the cities of Babylon - that will burn up everything around them." + +that will burn up everything around them." + 33. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: "The people of Israel and Judah have been wronged. - Their captors hold them and refuse to let them go. + +Their captors hold them and refuse to let them go. + 34. But the one who redeems them is strong. His name is the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + He will defend them - and give them rest again in Israel. + +and give them rest again in Israel. + But for the people of Babylon - there will be no rest! + +there will be no rest! + 35. "The sword of destruction will strike the Babylonians," says the LORD. + "It will strike the people of Babylon-- - her officials and wise men, too. + +her officials and wise men, too. + 36. The sword will strike her wise counselors, - and they will become fools. + +and they will become fools. + The sword will strike her mightiest warriors, - and panic will seize them. + +and panic will seize them. + 37. The sword will strike her horses and chariots - and her allies from other lands, - and they will all become like women. + +and her allies from other lands, + +and they will all become like women. + The sword will strike her treasures, - and they all will be plundered. + +and they all will be plundered. + 38. A drought will strike her water supply, - causing it to dry up. + +causing it to dry up. + And why? Because the whole land is filled with idols, - and the people are madly in love with them. + +and the people are madly in love with them. + 39. "Soon Babylon will be inhabited by desert animals and hyenas. - It will be a home for owls. + +It will be a home for owls. + Never again will people live there; - it will lie desolate forever. + +it will lie desolate forever. + 40. I will destroy it as I destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah and their neighboring towns," says the LORD. + "No one will live there; - no one will inhabit it. + +no one will inhabit it. + 41. "Look! A great army is coming from the north. - A great nation and many kings - are rising against you from far-off lands. + +A great nation and many kings + +are rising against you from far-off lands. + 42. They are armed with bows and spears. - They are cruel and show no mercy. + +They are cruel and show no mercy. + As they ride forward on horses, - they sound like a roaring sea. + +they sound like a roaring sea. + They are coming in battle formation, - planning to destroy you, Babylon. + +planning to destroy you, Babylon. + 43. The king of Babylon has heard reports about the enemy, - and he is weak with fright. + +and he is weak with fright. + Pangs of anguish have gripped him, - like those of a woman in labor. + +like those of a woman in labor. + 44. "I will come like a lion from the thickets of the Jordan, - leaping on the sheep in the pasture. + +leaping on the sheep in the pasture. + I will chase Babylon from its land, - and I will appoint the leader of my choice. + +and I will appoint the leader of my choice. + For who is like me, and who can challenge me? - What ruler can oppose my will?" + +What ruler can oppose my will?" + 45. Listen to the LORD's plans against Babylon - and the land of the Babylonians. + +and the land of the Babylonians. + Even the little children will be dragged off like sheep, - and their homes will be destroyed. + +and their homes will be destroyed. + 46. The earth will shake with the shout, "Babylon has been taken!" - and its cry of despair will be heard around the world. + +and its cry of despair will be heard around the world. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_51.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_51.md index 28153a8b..3eb44401 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_51.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_51.md @@ -4,45 +4,75 @@ and the people of Babylonia. 2. Foreigners will come and winnow her, - blowing her away as chaff. + +blowing her away as chaff. + They will come from every side - to rise against her in her day of trouble. + +to rise against her in her day of trouble. + 3. Don't let the archers put on their armor - or draw their bows. + +or draw their bows. + Don't spare even her best soldiers! Let her army be completely destroyed. 4. They will fall dead in the land of the Babylonians, - slashed to death in her streets. + +slashed to death in her streets. + 5. For the LORD of Heaven's Armies - has not abandoned Israel and Judah. + +has not abandoned Israel and Judah. + He is still their God, - even though their land was filled with sin - against the Holy One of Israel." + +even though their land was filled with sin + +against the Holy One of Israel." + 6. Flee from Babylon! Save yourselves! - Don't get trapped in her punishment! + +Don't get trapped in her punishment! It is the LORD's time for vengeance; - he will repay her in full. + +he will repay her in full. + 7. Babylon has been a gold cup in the LORD's hands, - a cup that made the whole earth drunk. + +a cup that made the whole earth drunk. + The nations drank Babylon's wine, - and it drove them all mad. + +and it drove them all mad. + 8. But suddenly Babylon, too, has fallen. - Weep for her. + +Weep for her. + Give her medicine. - Perhaps she can yet be healed. + +Perhaps she can yet be healed. + 9. We would have helped her if we could, - but nothing can save her now. + +but nothing can save her now. + Let her go; abandon her. - Return now to your own land. + +Return now to your own land. + For her punishment reaches to the heavens; - it is so great it cannot be measured. + +it is so great it cannot be measured. + 10. The LORD has vindicated us. Come, let us announce in Jerusalem @@ -51,66 +81,107 @@ For her punishment reaches to the heavens; 11. Sharpen the arrows! Lift up the shields! For the LORD has inspired the kings of the Medes - to march against Babylon and destroy her. + +to march against Babylon and destroy her. + This is his vengeance against those - who desecrated his Temple. + +who desecrated his Temple. + 12. Raise the battle flag against Babylon! - Reinforce the guard and station the watchmen. + +Reinforce the guard and station the watchmen. + Prepare an ambush, for the LORD will fulfill all his plans against Babylon. 13. You are a city by a great river, - a great center of commerce, + +a great center of commerce, but your end has come. - The thread of your life is cut. + +The thread of your life is cut. + 14. The LORD of Heaven's Armies has taken this vow - and has sworn to it by his own name: + +and has sworn to it by his own name: "Your cities will be filled with enemies, - like fields swarming with locusts, - and they will shout in triumph over you."A Hymn of Praise to the LORD + +like fields swarming with locusts, + +and they will shout in triumph over you."A Hymn of Praise to the LORD 15. The LORD made the earth by his power, - and he preserves it by his wisdom. + +and he preserves it by his wisdom. + With his own understanding - he stretched out the heavens. + +he stretched out the heavens. + 16. When he speaks in the thunder, - the heavens roar with rain. + +the heavens roar with rain. + He causes the clouds to rise over the earth. - He sends the lightning with the rain - and releases the wind from his storehouses. + +He sends the lightning with the rain + +and releases the wind from his storehouses. + 17. The whole human race is foolish and has no knowledge! - The craftsmen are disgraced by the idols they make, + +The craftsmen are disgraced by the idols they make, for their carefully shaped works are a fraud. - These idols have no breath or power. + +These idols have no breath or power. + 18. Idols are worthless; they are ridiculous lies! - On the day of reckoning they will all be destroyed. + +On the day of reckoning they will all be destroyed. + 19. But the God of Israel is no idol! - He is the Creator of everything that exists, + +He is the Creator of everything that exists, including his people, his own special possession. - The LORD of Heaven's Armies is his name!Babylon's Great Punishment + The LORD of Heaven's Armies is his name! +Babylon's Great Punishment + 20. "You are my battle-ax and sword," says the LORD. + "With you I will shatter nations - and destroy many kingdoms. + +and destroy many kingdoms. + 21. With you I will shatter armies-- - destroying the horse and rider, - the chariot and charioteer. + +destroying the horse and rider, + +the chariot and charioteer. + 22. With you I will shatter men and women, - old people and children, - young men and young women. + +old people and children, + +young men and young women. + 23. With you I will shatter shepherds and flocks, - farmers and oxen, - captains and officers. + +farmers and oxen, + +captains and officers. + 24. "I will repay Babylon and the people of Babylonia @@ -119,173 +190,286 @@ for all the wrong they have done 25. "Look, O mighty mountain, destroyer of the earth! I am your enemy," says the LORD. + "I will raise my fist against you, - to knock you down from the heights. + +to knock you down from the heights. + When I am finished, - you will be nothing but a heap of burnt rubble. + +you will be nothing but a heap of burnt rubble. + 26. You will be desolate forever. - Even your stones will never again be used for building. + +Even your stones will never again be used for building. + You will be completely wiped out," says the LORD. 27. Raise a signal flag to the nations. - Sound the battle cry! + +Sound the battle cry! Mobilize them all against Babylon. - Prepare them to fight against her! + +Prepare them to fight against her! Bring out the armies of Ararat, Minni, and Ashkenaz. - Appoint a commander, - and bring a multitude of horses like swarming locusts! + +Appoint a commander, + +and bring a multitude of horses like swarming locusts! + 28. Bring against her the armies of the nations-- - led by the kings of the Medes - and all their captains and officers. + +led by the kings of the Medes + and all their +captains and officers. + 29. The earth trembles and writhes in pain, for everything the LORD has planned against Babylon stands unchanged. + Babylon will be left desolate without a single inhabitant. + 30. Her mightiest warriors no longer fight. + They stay in their barracks, their courage gone. - They have become like women. + +They have become like women. + The invaders have burned the houses - and broken down the city gates. + +and broken down the city gates. + 31. The news is passed from one runner to the next - as the messengers hurry to tell the king - that his city has been captured. + +as the messengers hurry to tell the king + +that his city has been captured. + 32. All the escape routes are blocked. - The marshes have been set aflame, - and the army is in a panic. + +The marshes have been set aflame, + +and the army is in a panic. + 33. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - the God of Israel, says: + +the God of Israel, says: "Babylon is like wheat on a threshing floor, - about to be trampled. + +about to be trampled. + In just a little while - her harvest will begin." + +her harvest will begin." + 34. "King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has eaten and crushed us - and drained us of strength. + +and drained us of strength. + He has swallowed us like a great monster - and filled his belly with our riches. - He has thrown us out of our own country. + +and filled his belly with our riches. + +He has thrown us out of our own country. + 35. Make Babylon suffer as she made us suffer," - say the people of Zion. + +say the people of Zion. + "Make the people of Babylonia pay for spilling our blood," - says Jerusalem.The LORD's Vengeance on Babylon + +says Jerusalem.The LORD's Vengeance on Babylon 36. This is what the LORD says to Jerusalem: "I will be your lawyer to plead your case, - and I will avenge you. + +and I will avenge you. + I will dry up her river, - as well as her springs, + +as well as her springs, + 37. and Babylon will become a heap of ruins, - haunted by jackals. + +haunted by jackals. + She will be an object of horror and contempt, - a place where no one lives. + +a place where no one lives. + 38. Her people will roar together like strong lions. - They will growl like lion cubs. + +They will growl like lion cubs. + 39. And while they lie inflamed with all their wine, - I will prepare a different kind of feast for them. + +I will prepare a different kind of feast for them. + I will make them drink until they fall asleep, - and they will never wake up again," + +and they will never wake up again," says the LORD. 40. "I will bring them down - like lambs to the slaughter, - like rams and goats to be sacrificed. + +like lambs to the slaughter, + +like rams and goats to be sacrificed. + 41. "How Babylon is fallen-- - great Babylon, praised throughout the earth! + +great Babylon, praised throughout the earth! Now she has become an object of horror - among the nations. + +among the nations. + 42. The sea has risen over Babylon; - she is covered by its crashing waves. + +she is covered by its crashing waves. + 43. Her cities now lie in ruins; - she is a dry wasteland - where no one lives or even passes by. + +she is a dry wasteland + +where no one lives or even passes by. + 44. And I will punish Bel, the god of Babylon, - and make him vomit up all he has eaten. + +and make him vomit up all he has eaten. + The nations will no longer come and worship him. - The wall of Babylon has fallen!A Message for the Exiles + +The wall of Babylon has fallen! +A Message for the Exiles + 45. "Come out, my people, flee from Babylon. Save yourselves! Run from the LORD's fierce anger. 46. But do not panic; don't be afraid - when you hear the first rumor of approaching forces. - For rumors will keep coming year by year. + +when you hear the first rumor of approaching forces. + +For rumors will keep coming year by year. + Violence will erupt in the land - as the leaders fight against each other. + +as the leaders fight against each other. + 47. For the time is surely coming - when I will punish this great city and all her idols. + +when I will punish this great city and all her idols. + Her whole land will be disgraced, - and her dead will lie in the streets. + +and her dead will lie in the streets. + 48. Then the heavens and earth will rejoice, - for out of the north will come destroying armies + +for out of the north will come destroying armies against Babylon," says the LORD. 49. "Just as Babylon killed the people of Israel - and others throughout the world, - so must her people be killed. + +and others throughout the world, + +so must her people be killed. + 50. Get out, all you who have escaped the sword! Do not stand and watch--flee while you can! Remember the LORD, though you are in a far-off land, - and think about your home in Jerusalem." + +and think about your home in Jerusalem." + 51. "We are ashamed," the people say. - "We are insulted and disgraced + +"We are insulted and disgraced because the LORD's Temple - has been defiled by foreigners." + +has been defiled by foreigners." + 52. "Yes," says the LORD, "but the time is coming - when I will destroy Babylon's idols. + +when I will destroy Babylon's idols. + The groans of her wounded people - will be heard throughout the land. + +will be heard throughout the land. + 53. Though Babylon reaches as high as the heavens - and makes her fortifications incredibly strong, + +and makes her fortifications incredibly strong, I will still send enemies to plunder her. - I, the LORD, have spoken!Babylon's Complete Destruction + I, the LORD, have spoken! +Babylon's Complete Destruction + 54. "Listen! Hear the cry of Babylon, - the sound of great destruction from the land of the Babylonians. + +the sound of great destruction from the land of the Babylonians. + 55. For the LORD is destroying Babylon. - He will silence her loud voice. + +He will silence her loud voice. + Waves of enemies pound against her; - the noise of battle rings through the city. + +the noise of battle rings through the city. + 56. Destroying armies come against Babylon. - Her mighty men are captured, - and their weapons break in their hands. + +Her mighty men are captured, + +and their weapons break in their hands. For the LORD is a God who gives just punishment; - he always repays in full. + +he always repays in full. + 57. I will make her officials and wise men drunk, - along with her captains, officers, and warriors. + +along with her captains, officers, and warriors. + They will fall asleep - and never wake up again!" + +and never wake up again!" says the King, whose name is the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 58. This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: "The thick walls of Babylon will be leveled to the ground, - and her massive gates will be burned. + +and her massive gates will be burned. + The builders from many lands have worked in vain, - for their work will be destroyed by fire!"Jeremiah's Message Sent to Babylon + +for their work will be destroyed by fire!" +Jeremiah's Message Sent to Babylon + 59. The prophet Jeremiah gave this message to Seraiah son of Neriah and grandson of Mahseiah, a staff officer, when Seraiah went to Babylon with King Zedekiah of Judah. This was during the fourth year of Zedekiah's reign. 60. Jeremiah had recorded on a scroll all the terrible disasters that would soon come upon Babylon--all the words written here. @@ -296,3 +480,4 @@ The builders from many lands have worked in vain, This is the end of Jeremiah's messages. + diff --git a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_52.md b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_52.md index b1d4a9f8..17836d0a 100644 --- a/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_52.md +++ b/NLT/24_Jeremiah/Chapter_52.md @@ -4,7 +4,9 @@ The Fall of Jerusalem 1. Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. His mother was Hamutal, the daughter of Jeremiah from Libnah. 2. But Zedekiah did what was evil in the LORD's sight, just as Jehoiakim had done. 3. These things happened because of the LORD's anger against the people of Jerusalem and Judah, until he finally banished them from his presence and sent them into exile. + Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. + 4. So on January 15, during the ninth year of Zedekiah's reign, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon led his entire army against Jerusalem. They surrounded the city and built siege ramps against its walls. 5. Jerusalem was kept under siege until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah's reign. @@ -14,7 +16,10 @@ Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. 8. But the Babylonian troops chased King Zedekiah and overtook him on the plains of Jericho, for his men had all deserted him and scattered. 9. They captured the king and took him to the king of Babylon at Riblah in the land of Hamath. There the king of Babylon pronounced judgment upon Zedekiah. 10. The king of Babylon made Zedekiah watch as he slaughtered his sons. He also slaughtered all the officials of Judah at Riblah. -11. Then he gouged out Zedekiah's eyes and bound him in bronze chains, and the king of Babylon led him away to Babylon. Zedekiah remained there in prison until the day of his death.The Temple Destroyed +11. Then he gouged out Zedekiah's eyes and bound him in bronze chains, and the king of Babylon led him away to Babylon. Zedekiah remained there in prison until the day of his death. + +The Temple Destroyed + 12. On August 17 of that year, which was the nineteenth year of King Nebuchadnezzar's reign, Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard and an official of the Babylonian king, arrived in Jerusalem. 13. He burned down the Temple of the LORD, the royal palace, and all the houses of Jerusalem. He destroyed all the important buildings in the city. @@ -38,7 +43,10 @@ Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. 28. The number of captives taken to Babylon in the seventh year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign was 3,023. 29. Then in Nebuchadnezzar's eighteenth year he took 832 more. -30. In Nebuchadnezzar's twenty-third year he sent Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, who took 745 more--a total of 4,600 captives in all.Hope for Israel's Royal Line +30. In Nebuchadnezzar's twenty-third year he sent Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, who took 745 more--a total of 4,600 captives in all. + +Hope for Israel's Royal Line + 31. In the thirty-seventh year of the exile of King Jehoiachin of Judah, Evil-merodach ascended to the Babylonian throne. He was kind to Jehoiachin and released him from prison on March 31 of that year. 32. He spoke kindly to Jehoiachin and gave him a higher place than all the other exiled kings in Babylon. @@ -46,3 +54,4 @@ Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. 34. So the Babylonian king gave him a regular food allowance as long as he lived. This continued until the day of his death. + diff --git a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_01.md index 288919a0..f5847389 100644 --- a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_01.md @@ -2,147 +2,254 @@ Sorrow in Jerusalem # Chapter 1 1. Jerusalem, once so full of people, - is now deserted. + +is now deserted. + She who was once great among the nations - now sits alone like a widow. + +now sits alone like a widow. + Once the queen of all the earth, - she is now a slave. + +she is now a slave. + 2. She sobs through the night; - tears stream down her cheeks. + +tears stream down her cheeks. + Among all her lovers, - there is no one left to comfort her. + +there is no one left to comfort her. + All her friends have betrayed her - and become her enemies. + +and become her enemies. + 3. Judah has been led away into captivity, - oppressed with cruel slavery. + +oppressed with cruel slavery. + She lives among foreign nations - and has no place of rest. + +and has no place of rest. + Her enemies have chased her down, - and she has nowhere to turn. + +and she has nowhere to turn. + 4. The roads to Jerusalem are in mourning, - for crowds no longer come to celebrate the festivals. + +for crowds no longer come to celebrate the festivals. + The city gates are silent, - her priests groan, + +her priests groan, her young women are crying-- - how bitter is her fate! + +how bitter is her fate! + 5. Her oppressors have become her masters, - and her enemies prosper, + +and her enemies prosper, for the LORD has punished Jerusalem - for her many sins. + +for her many sins. + Her children have been captured - and taken away to distant lands. + +and taken away to distant lands. + 6. All the majesty of beautiful Jerusalem - has been stripped away. + +has been stripped away. + Her princes are like starving deer - searching for pasture. + +searching for pasture. + They are too weak to run - from the pursuing enemy. + +from the pursuing enemy. + 7. In the midst of her sadness and wandering, - Jerusalem remembers her ancient splendor. + +Jerusalem remembers her ancient splendor. + But now she has fallen to her enemy, - and there is no one to help her. + +and there is no one to help her. + Her enemy struck her down - and laughed as she fell. + +and laughed as she fell. + 8. Jerusalem has sinned greatly, - so she has been tossed away like a filthy rag. + +so she has been tossed away like a filthy rag. + All who once honored her now despise her, - for they have seen her stripped naked and humiliated. + +for they have seen her stripped naked and humiliated. + All she can do is groan - and hide her face. + +and hide her face. + 9. She defiled herself with immorality - and gave no thought to her future. + +and gave no thought to her future. + Now she lies in the gutter - with no one to lift her out. + +with no one to lift her out. "LORD, see my misery," she cries. - "The enemy has triumphed." + +"The enemy has triumphed." + 10. The enemy has plundered her completely, - taking every precious thing she owns. + +taking every precious thing she owns. + She has seen foreigners violate her sacred Temple, the place the LORD had forbidden them to enter. 11. Her people groan as they search for bread. - They have sold their treasures for food to stay alive. + +They have sold their treasures for food to stay alive. "O LORD, look," she mourns, - "and see how I am despised. + +"and see how I am despised. + 12. "Does it mean nothing to you, all you who pass by? - Look around and see if there is any suffering like mine, + +Look around and see if there is any suffering like mine, which the LORD brought on me - when he erupted in fierce anger. + +when he erupted in fierce anger. + 13. "He has sent fire from heaven that burns in my bones. - He has placed a trap in my path and turned me back. + +He has placed a trap in my path and turned me back. + He has left me devastated, - racked with sickness all day long. + +racked with sickness all day long. + 14. "He wove my sins into ropes - to hitch me to a yoke of captivity. + +to hitch me to a yoke of captivity. + The Lord sapped my strength and turned me over to my enemies; - I am helpless in their hands. + +I am helpless in their hands. + 15. "The Lord has treated my mighty men - with contempt. + +with contempt. + At his command a great army has come - to crush my young warriors. + +to crush my young warriors. The Lord has trampled his beloved city - like grapes are trampled in a winepress. + +like grapes are trampled in a winepress. + 16. "For all these things I weep; - tears flow down my cheeks. + +tears flow down my cheeks. + No one is here to comfort me; - any who might encourage me are far away. + +any who might encourage me are far away. + My children have no future, - for the enemy has conquered us." + +for the enemy has conquered us." + 17. Jerusalem reaches out for help, - but no one comforts her. + +but no one comforts her. Regarding his people Israel, the LORD has said, "Let their neighbors be their enemies! - Let them be thrown away like a filthy rag!" + +Let them be thrown away like a filthy rag!" + 18. "The LORD is right," Jerusalem says, - "for I rebelled against him. + +"for I rebelled against him. + Listen, people everywhere; - look upon my anguish and despair, + +look upon my anguish and despair, for my sons and daughters - have been taken captive to distant lands. + +have been taken captive to distant lands. + 19. "I begged my allies for help, - but they betrayed me. + +but they betrayed me. + My priests and leaders - starved to death in the city, + +starved to death in the city, even as they searched for food - to save their lives. + +to save their lives. + 20. "LORD, see my anguish! - My heart is broken + +My heart is broken and my soul despairs, - for I have rebelled against you. + +for I have rebelled against you. + In the streets the sword kills, - and at home there is only death. + +and at home there is only death. + 21. "Others heard my groans, - but no one turned to comfort me. + +but no one turned to comfort me. + When my enemies heard about my troubles, - they were happy to see what you had done. + +they were happy to see what you had done. + Oh, bring the day you promised, - when they will suffer as I have suffered. + +when they will suffer as I have suffered. + 22. "Look at all their evil deeds, LORD. - Punish them, + +Punish them, as you have punished me - for all my sins. + +for all my sins. + My groans are many, - and I am sick at heart." + +and I am sick at heart." + diff --git a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_02.md index 55af7e3a..d22cf4fe 100644 --- a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,157 +1,267 @@ God's Anger at Sin # Chapter 2 -1. The Lord in his anger +1. +The Lord in his anger has cast a dark shadow over beautiful Jerusalem. + The fairest of Israel's cities lies in the dust, - thrown down from the heights of heaven. + +thrown down from the heights of heaven. + In his day of great anger, the Lord has shown no mercy even to his Temple. 2. Without mercy the Lord has destroyed every home in Israel. + In his anger he has broken down the fortress walls of beautiful Jerusalem. + He has brought them to the ground, - dishonoring the kingdom and its rulers. + +dishonoring the kingdom and its rulers. + 3. All the strength of Israel - vanishes beneath his fierce anger. + +vanishes beneath his fierce anger. + + The Lord has withdrawn his protection - as the enemy attacks. + +as the enemy attacks. + He consumes the whole land of Israel - like a raging fire. + +like a raging fire. + 4. He bends his bow against his people, - as though he were their enemy. + +as though he were their enemy. + His strength is used against them - to kill their finest youth. + +to kill their finest youth. + His fury is poured out like fire on beautiful Jerusalem. 5. Yes, the Lord has vanquished Israel - like an enemy. + +like an enemy. + He has destroyed her palaces - and demolished her fortresses. + +and demolished her fortresses. + He has brought unending sorrow and tears - upon beautiful Jerusalem. + +upon beautiful Jerusalem. + 6. He has broken down his Temple - as though it were merely a garden shelter. + +as though it were merely a garden shelter. The LORD has blotted out all memory - of the holy festivals and Sabbath days. -Kings and priests fall together - before his fierce anger. + +of the holy festivals and Sabbath days. + +Kings and priests fall together + +before his fierce anger. + + +7. +The Lord has rejected his own altar; + +he despises his own sanctuary. -7. The Lord has rejected his own altar; - he despises his own sanctuary. He has given Jerusalem's palaces - to her enemies. + +to her enemies. They shout in the LORD's Temple - as though it were a day of celebration. + +as though it were a day of celebration. + 8. The LORD was determined - to destroy the walls of beautiful Jerusalem. + +to destroy the walls of beautiful Jerusalem. + He made careful plans for their destruction, - then did what he had planned. + +then did what he had planned. + Therefore, the ramparts and walls - have fallen down before him. + +have fallen down before him. + 9. Jerusalem's gates have sunk into the ground. - He has smashed their locks and bars. + +He has smashed their locks and bars. + Her kings and princes have been exiled to distant lands; - her law has ceased to exist. + +her law has ceased to exist. + Her prophets receive no more visions from the LORD. 10. The leaders of beautiful Jerusalem - sit on the ground in silence. + +sit on the ground in silence. + They are clothed in burlap - and throw dust on their heads. + +and throw dust on their heads. + The young women of Jerusalem - hang their heads in shame. + +hang their heads in shame. + 11. I have cried until the tears no longer come; - my heart is broken. + +my heart is broken. + My spirit is poured out in agony - as I see the desperate plight of my people. + +as I see the desperate plight of my people. + Little children and tiny babies - are fainting and dying in the streets. + +are fainting and dying in the streets. + 12. They cry out to their mothers, - "We need food and drink!" + +"We need food and drink!" Their lives ebb away in the streets - like the life of a warrior wounded in battle. + +like the life of a warrior wounded in battle. + They gasp for life - as they collapse in their mothers' arms. + +as they collapse in their mothers' arms. + 13. What can I say about you? - Who has ever seen such sorrow? + +Who has ever seen such sorrow? O daughter of Jerusalem, - to what can I compare your anguish? + +to what can I compare your anguish? O virgin daughter of Zion, - how can I comfort you? + +how can I comfort you? For your wound is as deep as the sea. - Who can heal you? + +Who can heal you? + 14. Your prophets have said - so many foolish things, false to the core. + +so many foolish things, false to the core. + They did not save you from exile - by pointing out your sins. + +by pointing out your sins. + Instead, they painted false pictures, - filling you with false hope. + +filling you with false hope. + 15. All who pass by jeer at you. They scoff and insult beautiful Jerusalem, saying, "Is this the city called 'Most Beautiful in All the World' - and 'Joy of All the Earth'?" + +and 'Joy of All the Earth'?" + 16. All your enemies mock you. - They scoff and snarl and say, + +They scoff and snarl and say, "We have destroyed her at last! - We have long waited for this day, - and it is finally here!" + +We have long waited for this day, + +and it is finally here!" + 17. But it is the LORD who did just as he planned. - He has fulfilled the promises of disaster - he made long ago. + +He has fulfilled the promises of disaster + +he made long ago. + He has destroyed Jerusalem without mercy. - He has caused her enemies to gloat over her - and has given them power over her. + +He has caused her enemies to gloat over her + +and has given them power over her. + 18. Cry aloud before the Lord, - O walls of beautiful Jerusalem! + +O walls of beautiful Jerusalem! Let your tears flow like a river - day and night. + +day and night. + Give yourselves no rest; - give your eyes no relief. + +give your eyes no relief. + 19. Rise during the night and cry out. - Pour out your hearts like water to the Lord. + +Pour out your hearts like water to the Lord. + Lift up your hands to him in prayer, - pleading for your children, + +pleading for your children, for in every street - they are faint with hunger. + +they are faint with hunger. + 20. "O LORD, think about this! - Should you treat your own people this way? + +Should you treat your own people this way? Should mothers eat their own children, - those they once bounced on their knees? + +those they once bounced on their knees? Should priests and prophets be killed - within the Lord's Temple? + +within the Lord's Temple? + 21. "See them lying in the streets-- - young and old, + +young and old, boys and girls, - killed by the swords of the enemy. + +killed by the swords of the enemy. + You have killed them in your anger, - slaughtering them without mercy. + +slaughtering them without mercy. + 22. "You have invited terrors from all around, - as though you were calling them to a day of feasting. + +as though you were calling them to a day of feasting. In the day of the LORD's anger, - no one has escaped or survived. + +no one has escaped or survived. + The enemy has killed all the children - whom I carried and raised." + +whom I carried and raised." + diff --git a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_03.md index b7cb119d..613086c8 100644 --- a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_03.md @@ -5,52 +5,84 @@ Hope in the LORD's Faithfulness that come from the rod of the LORD's anger. 2. He has led me into darkness, - shutting out all light. + +shutting out all light. + 3. He has turned his hand against me - again and again, all day long. + +again and again, all day long. + 4. He has made my skin and flesh grow old. - He has broken my bones. + +He has broken my bones. + 5. He has besieged and surrounded me - with anguish and distress. + +with anguish and distress. + 6. He has buried me in a dark place, - like those long dead. + +like those long dead. + 7. He has walled me in, and I cannot escape. - He has bound me in heavy chains. + +He has bound me in heavy chains. + 8. And though I cry and shout, - he has shut out my prayers. + +he has shut out my prayers. + 9. He has blocked my way with a high stone wall; - he has made my road crooked. + +he has made my road crooked. + 10. He has hidden like a bear or a lion, - waiting to attack me. + +waiting to attack me. + 11. He has dragged me off the path and torn me in pieces, - leaving me helpless and devastated. + +leaving me helpless and devastated. + 12. He has drawn his bow - and made me the target for his arrows. + +and made me the target for his arrows. + 13. He shot his arrows - deep into my heart. + +deep into my heart. + 14. My own people laugh at me. - All day long they sing their mocking songs. + +All day long they sing their mocking songs. + 15. He has filled me with bitterness - and given me a bitter cup of sorrow to drink. + +and given me a bitter cup of sorrow to drink. + 16. He has made me chew on gravel. - He has rolled me in the dust. + +He has rolled me in the dust. + 17. Peace has been stripped away, - and I have forgotten what prosperity is. + +and I have forgotten what prosperity is. + 18. I cry out, "My splendor is gone! Everything I had hoped for from the LORD is lost!" @@ -59,144 +91,231 @@ Hope in the LORD's Faithfulness is bitter beyond words. 20. I will never forget this awful time, - as I grieve over my loss. + +as I grieve over my loss. + 21. Yet I still dare to hope - when I remember this: + +when I remember this: + 22. The faithful love of the LORD never ends! - His mercies never cease. + +His mercies never cease. + 23. Great is his faithfulness; - his mercies begin afresh each morning. + +his mercies begin afresh each morning. + 24. I say to myself, "The LORD is my inheritance; - therefore, I will hope in him!" + +therefore, I will hope in him!" + 25. The LORD is good to those who depend on him, - to those who search for him. + +to those who search for him. + 26. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the LORD. 27. And it is good for people to submit at an early age - to the yoke of his discipline: + +to the yoke of his discipline: + 28. Let them sit alone in silence beneath the LORD's demands. 29. Let them lie face down in the dust, - for there may be hope at last. + +for there may be hope at last. + 30. Let them turn the other cheek to those who strike them - and accept the insults of their enemies. + +and accept the insults of their enemies. + 31. For no one is abandoned - by the Lord forever. + +by the Lord forever. + 32. Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion - because of the greatness of his unfailing love. + +because of the greatness of his unfailing love. + 33. For he does not enjoy hurting people - or causing them sorrow. + +or causing them sorrow. + 34. If people crush underfoot - all the prisoners of the land, + +all the prisoners of the land, + 35. if they deprive others of their rights - in defiance of the Most High, + +in defiance of the Most High, + 36. if they twist justice in the courts-- - doesn't the Lord see all these things? + +doesn't the Lord see all these things? + 37. Who can command things to happen - without the Lord's permission? + +without the Lord's permission? + 38. Does not the Most High - send both calamity and good? + +send both calamity and good? + 39. Then why should we, mere humans, complain - when we are punished for our sins? + +when we are punished for our sins? + 40. Instead, let us test and examine our ways. Let us turn back to the LORD. 41. Let us lift our hearts and hands - to God in heaven and say, + +to God in heaven and say, + 42. "We have sinned and rebelled, - and you have not forgiven us. + +and you have not forgiven us. + 43. "You have engulfed us with your anger, chased us down, - and slaughtered us without mercy. + +and slaughtered us without mercy. + 44. You have hidden yourself in a cloud - so our prayers cannot reach you. + +so our prayers cannot reach you. + 45. You have discarded us as refuse and garbage - among the nations. + +among the nations. + 46. "All our enemies - have spoken out against us. + +have spoken out against us. + 47. We are filled with fear, - for we are trapped, devastated, and ruined." + +for we are trapped, devastated, and ruined." + 48. Tears stream from my eyes - because of the destruction of my people! + +because of the destruction of my people! + 49. My tears flow endlessly; - they will not stop + +they will not stop + 50. until the LORD looks down - from heaven and sees. + +from heaven and sees. + 51. My heart is breaking - over the fate of all the women of Jerusalem. + +over the fate of all the women of Jerusalem. + 52. My enemies, whom I have never harmed, - hunted me down like a bird. + +hunted me down like a bird. + 53. They threw me into a pit - and dropped stones on me. + +and dropped stones on me. + 54. The water rose over my head, - and I cried out, "This is the end!" + +and I cried out, "This is the end!" + 55. But I called on your name, LORD, - from deep within the pit. + +from deep within the pit. + 56. You heard me when I cried, "Listen to my pleading! - Hear my cry for help!" + +Hear my cry for help!" + 57. Yes, you came when I called; - you told me, "Do not fear." + +you told me, "Do not fear." + 58. Lord, you have come to my defense; - you have redeemed my life. + +you have redeemed my life. + 59. You have seen the wrong they have done to me, LORD. - Be my judge, and prove me right. + +Be my judge, and prove me right. + 60. You have seen the vengeful plots - my enemies have laid against me. + +my enemies have laid against me. + 61. LORD, you have heard the vile names they call me. - You know all about the plans they have made. + +You know all about the plans they have made. + 62. My enemies whisper and mutter - as they plot against me all day long. + +as they plot against me all day long. + 63. Look at them! Whether they sit or stand, - I am the object of their mocking songs. + +I am the object of their mocking songs. + 64. Pay them back, LORD, - for all the evil they have done. + +for all the evil they have done. + 65. Give them hard and stubborn hearts, - and then let your curse fall on them! + +and then let your curse fall on them! + 66. Chase them down in your anger, destroying them beneath the LORD's heavens. + diff --git a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_04.md index 4a3ad490..1968ac3c 100644 --- a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_04.md @@ -2,114 +2,192 @@ God's Anger Satisfied # Chapter 4 1. How the gold has lost its luster! - Even the finest gold has become dull. + +Even the finest gold has become dull. + The sacred gemstones - lie scattered in the streets! + +lie scattered in the streets! + 2. See how the precious children of Jerusalem, - worth their weight in fine gold, + +worth their weight in fine gold, are now treated like pots of clay - made by a common potter. + +made by a common potter. + 3. Even the jackals feed their young, - but not my people Israel. + +but not my people Israel. + They ignore their children's cries, - like ostriches in the desert. + +like ostriches in the desert. + 4. The parched tongues of their little ones - stick to the roofs of their mouths in thirst. + +stick to the roofs of their mouths in thirst. + The children cry for bread, - but no one has any to give them. + +but no one has any to give them. + 5. The people who once ate the richest foods - now beg in the streets for anything they can get. + +now beg in the streets for anything they can get. + Those who once wore the finest clothes - now search the garbage dumps for food. + +now search the garbage dumps for food. + 6. The guilt of my people - is greater than that of Sodom, + +is greater than that of Sodom, where utter disaster struck in a moment - and no hand offered help. + +and no hand offered help. + 7. Our princes once glowed with health-- - brighter than snow, whiter than milk. + +brighter than snow, whiter than milk. + Their faces were as ruddy as rubies, their appearance like fine jewels. 8. But now their faces are blacker than soot. - No one recognizes them in the streets. + +No one recognizes them in the streets. + Their skin sticks to their bones; - it is as dry and hard as wood. + +it is as dry and hard as wood. + 9. Those killed by the sword are better off - than those who die of hunger. + +than those who die of hunger. + Starving, they waste away - for lack of food from the fields. + +for lack of food from the fields. + 10. Tenderhearted women - have cooked their own children. + +have cooked their own children. + They have eaten them - to survive the siege. + +to survive the siege. + 11. But now the anger of the LORD is satisfied. - His fierce anger has been poured out. + +His fierce anger has been poured out. He started a fire in Jerusalem - that burned the city to its foundations. + +that burned the city to its foundations. + 12. Not a king in all the earth-- - no one in all the world-- + +no one in all the world-- would have believed that an enemy - could march through the gates of Jerusalem. + +could march through the gates of Jerusalem. + 13. Yet it happened because of the sins of her prophets - and the sins of her priests, + +and the sins of her priests, who defiled the city - by shedding innocent blood. + +by shedding innocent blood. + 14. They wandered blindly - through the streets, + +through the streets, so defiled by blood - that no one dared touch them. + +that no one dared touch them. + 15. "Get away!" the people shouted at them. - "You're defiled! Don't touch us!" + +"You're defiled! Don't touch us!" So they fled to distant lands - and wandered among foreign nations, - but none would let them stay. + +and wandered among foreign nations, + +but none would let them stay. + 16. The LORD himself has scattered them, - and he no longer helps them. + +and he no longer helps them. + People show no respect for the priests - and no longer honor the leaders. + +and no longer honor the leaders. + 17. We looked in vain for our allies - to come and save us, + +to come and save us, but we were looking to nations - that could not help us. + +that could not help us. + 18. We couldn't go into the streets - without danger to our lives. + +without danger to our lives. + Our end was near; our days were numbered. - We were doomed! + +We were doomed! + 19. Our enemies were swifter than eagles in flight. - If we fled to the mountains, they found us. + +If we fled to the mountains, they found us. + If we hid in the wilderness, - they were waiting for us there. + +they were waiting for us there. + 20. Our king--the LORD's anointed, the very life of our nation-- - was caught in their snares. + +was caught in their snares. + We had thought that his shadow - would protect us against any nation on earth! + +would protect us against any nation on earth! + 21. Are you rejoicing in the land of Uz, - O people of Edom? + +O people of Edom? But you, too, must drink from the cup of the LORD's anger. - You, too, will be stripped naked in your drunkenness. + +You, too, will be stripped naked in your drunkenness. + 22. O beautiful Jerusalem, your punishment will end; - you will soon return from exile. + +you will soon return from exile. + But Edom, your punishment is just beginning; - soon your many sins will be exposed. + +soon your many sins will be exposed. + diff --git a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_05.md index d0469e72..45649948 100644 --- a/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/25_Lamentations/Chapter_05.md @@ -2,69 +2,113 @@ Prayer for Restoration # Chapter 5 1. LORD, remember what has happened to us. - See how we have been disgraced! + +See how we have been disgraced! + 2. Our inheritance has been turned over to strangers, - our homes to foreigners. + +our homes to foreigners. + 3. We are orphaned and fatherless. - Our mothers are widowed. + +Our mothers are widowed. + 4. We have to pay for water to drink, - and even firewood is expensive. + +and even firewood is expensive. + 5. Those who pursue us are at our heels; - we are exhausted but are given no rest. + +we are exhausted but are given no rest. + 6. We submitted to Egypt and Assyria - to get enough food to survive. + +to get enough food to survive. + 7. Our ancestors sinned, but they have died-- - and we are suffering the punishment they deserved! + +and we are suffering the punishment they deserved! + 8. Slaves have now become our masters; - there is no one left to rescue us. + +there is no one left to rescue us. + 9. We hunt for food at the risk of our lives, - for violence rules the countryside. + +for violence rules the countryside. + 10. The famine has blackened our skin - as though baked in an oven. + +as though baked in an oven. + 11. Our enemies rape the women in Jerusalem - and the young girls in all the towns of Judah. + +and the young girls in all the towns of Judah. + 12. Our princes are being hanged by their thumbs, - and our elders are treated with contempt. + +and our elders are treated with contempt. + 13. Young men are led away to work at millstones, - and boys stagger under heavy loads of wood. + +and boys stagger under heavy loads of wood. + 14. The elders no longer sit in the city gates; - the young men no longer dance and sing. + +the young men no longer dance and sing. + 15. Joy has left our hearts; - our dancing has turned to mourning. + +our dancing has turned to mourning. + 16. The garlands have fallen from our heads. - Weep for us because we have sinned. + +Weep for us because we have sinned. + 17. Our hearts are sick and weary, - and our eyes grow dim with tears. + +and our eyes grow dim with tears. + 18. For Jerusalem is empty and desolate, - a place haunted by jackals. + +a place haunted by jackals. + 19. But LORD, you remain the same forever! - Your throne continues from generation to generation. + +Your throne continues from generation to generation. + 20. Why do you continue to forget us? - Why have you abandoned us for so long? + +Why have you abandoned us for so long? + 21. Restore us, O LORD, and bring us back to you again! - Give us back the joys we once had! + +Give us back the joys we once had! + 22. Or have you utterly rejected us? - Are you angry with us still? + +Are you angry with us still? + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_01.md index 686bda82..f7f0189c 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_01.md @@ -38,3 +38,4 @@ A Vision of Living Beings 28. All around him was a glowing halo, like a rainbow shining in the clouds on a rainy day. This is what the glory of the LORD looked like to me. When I saw it, I fell face down on the ground, and I heard someone's voice speaking to me. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_02.md index 98d3642c..eded19bb 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_02.md @@ -15,3 +15,4 @@ Ezekiel's Call and Commission 10. which he unrolled. And I saw that both sides were covered with funeral songs, words of sorrow, and pronouncements of doom. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_03.md index 7fc9c297..7617ca2d 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_03.md @@ -17,7 +17,10 @@ 13. It was the sound of the wings of the living beings as they brushed against each other and the rumbling of their wheels beneath them. 14. The Spirit lifted me up and took me away. I went in bitterness and turmoil, but the LORD's hold on me was strong. -15. Then I came to the colony of Judean exiles in Tel-abib, beside the Kebar River. I was overwhelmed and sat among them for seven days.A Watchman for Israel +15. Then I came to the colony of Judean exiles in Tel-abib, beside the Kebar River. I was overwhelmed and sat among them for seven days. + +A Watchman for Israel + 16. After seven days the LORD gave me a message. He said, 17. "Son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for Israel. Whenever you receive a message from me, warn people immediately. @@ -36,3 +39,4 @@ 27. But when I give you a message, I will loosen your tongue and let you speak. Then you will say to them, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says!' Those who choose to listen will listen, but those who refuse will refuse, for they are rebels. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_04.md index 97f8b2e0..88e919d8 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_04.md @@ -25,3 +25,4 @@ A Sign of the Coming Siege 17. Lacking food and water, people will look at one another in terror, and they will waste away under their punishment. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_05.md index b767b275..ec6c98a1 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_05.md @@ -25,3 +25,4 @@ A Sign of the Coming Judgment 17. And along with the famine, wild animals will attack you and rob you of your children. Disease and war will stalk your land, and I will bring the sword of the enemy against you. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_06.md index 32e43735..ea76e9f5 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_06.md @@ -19,3 +19,4 @@ Judgment against Israel's Mountains 14. I will crush them and make their cities desolate from the wilderness in the south to Riblah in the north. Then they will know that I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_07.md index ab55440d..154da89a 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_07.md @@ -4,134 +4,228 @@ The Coming of the End 1. Then this message came to me from the LORD: 2. "Son of man, this is what the Sovereign LORD says to Israel: "The end is here! - Wherever you look-- + +Wherever you look-- east, west, north, or south-- - your land is finished. + +your land is finished. + 3. No hope remains, - for I will unleash my anger against you. + +for I will unleash my anger against you. + I will call you to account - for all your detestable sins. + +for all your detestable sins. + 4. I will turn my eyes away and show no pity. - I will repay you for all your detestable sins. + I will repay you +for all your detestable sins. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 5. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Disaster after disaster - is coming your way! + +is coming your way! + 6. The end has come. - It has finally arrived. - Your final doom is waiting! + +It has finally arrived. + +Your final doom is waiting! + 7. O people of Israel, the day of your destruction is dawning. - The time has come; the day of trouble is near. + +The time has come; the day of trouble is near. + Shouts of anguish will be heard on the mountains, - not shouts of joy. + +not shouts of joy. + 8. Soon I will pour out my fury on you - and unleash my anger against you. + +and unleash my anger against you. + I will call you to account - for all your detestable sins. + +for all your detestable sins. + 9. I will turn my eyes away and show no pity. - I will repay you for all your detestable sins. + I will repay you +for all your detestable sins. Then you will know that it is I, the LORD, - who is striking the blow. + +who is striking the blow. + 10. "The day of judgment is here; - your destruction awaits! + +your destruction awaits! The people's wickedness and pride - have blossomed to full flower. + +have blossomed to full flower. + 11. Their violence has grown into a rod - that will beat them for their wickedness. + +that will beat them for their wickedness. + None of these proud and wicked people will survive. - All their wealth and prestige will be swept away. + +All their wealth and prestige will be swept away. + 12. Yes, the time has come; - the day is here! + +the day is here! Buyers should not rejoice over bargains, - nor sellers grieve over losses, + +nor sellers grieve over losses, for all of them will fall - under my terrible anger. + +under my terrible anger. + 13. Even if the merchants survive, - they will never return to their business. + +they will never return to their business. + For what God has said applies to everyone-- - it will not be changed! + +it will not be changed! Not one person whose life is twisted by sin - will ever recover.The Desolation of Israel + +will ever recover. + +The Desolation of Israel + 14. "The trumpet calls Israel's army to mobilize, - but no one listens, - for my fury is against them all. + +but no one listens, + +for my fury is against them all. + 15. There is war outside the city - and disease and famine within. + +and disease and famine within. + Those outside the city walls - will be killed by enemy swords. + +will be killed by enemy swords. + Those inside the city - will die of famine and disease. + +will die of famine and disease. + 16. The survivors who escape to the mountains - will moan like doves, weeping for their sins. + +will moan like doves, weeping for their sins. + 17. Their hands will hang limp, - their knees will be weak as water. + +their knees will be weak as water. + 18. They will dress themselves in burlap; - horror and shame will cover them. + +horror and shame will cover them. + They will shave their heads - in sorrow and remorse. + +in sorrow and remorse. + 19. "They will throw their money in the streets, - tossing it out like worthless trash. + +tossing it out like worthless trash. + Their silver and gold won't save them on that day of the LORD's anger. + It will neither satisfy nor feed them, - for their greed can only trip them up. + +for their greed can only trip them up. + 20. They were proud of their beautiful jewelry - and used it to make detestable idols and vile images. + +and used it to make detestable idols and vile images. + Therefore, I will make all their wealth - disgusting to them. + +disgusting to them. + 21. I will give it as plunder to foreigners, - to the most wicked of nations, - and they will defile it. + +to the most wicked of nations, + +and they will defile it. + 22. I will turn my eyes from them - as these robbers invade and defile my treasured land. + +as these robbers invade and defile my treasured land. + 23. "Prepare chains for my people, - for the land is bloodied by terrible crimes. - Jerusalem is filled with violence. + +for the land is bloodied by terrible crimes. + +Jerusalem is filled with violence. + 24. I will bring the most ruthless of nations - to occupy their homes. + +to occupy their homes. + I will break down their proud fortresses - and defile their sanctuaries. + +and defile their sanctuaries. + 25. Terror and trembling will overcome my people. - They will look for peace but not find it. + +They will look for peace but not find it. + 26. Calamity will follow calamity; - rumor will follow rumor. + +rumor will follow rumor. + They will look in vain - for a vision from the prophets. + +for a vision from the prophets. + They will receive no teaching from the priests - and no counsel from the leaders. + +and no counsel from the leaders. + 27. The king and the prince will stand helpless, - weeping in despair, + +weeping in despair, and the people's hands - will tremble with fear. + +will tremble with fear. + I will bring on them - the evil they have done to others, + +the evil they have done to others, and they will receive the punishment - they so richly deserve. + +they so richly deserve. Then they will know that I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_08.md index 503b3d54..47c8ddeb 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_08.md @@ -28,3 +28,4 @@ Idolatry in the Temple 18. Therefore, I will respond in fury. I will neither pity nor spare them. And though they cry for mercy, I will not listen." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_09.md index ede2f2ff..b8b081cf 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_09.md @@ -20,3 +20,4 @@ The Slaughter of Idolaters 11. Then the man in linen clothing, who carried the writer's case, reported back and said, "I have done as you commanded." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_10.md index a2f4a946..48f033e0 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_10.md @@ -31,3 +31,4 @@ The LORD's Glory Leaves the Temple 22. And their faces were just like the faces of the beings I had seen at the Kebar, and they traveled straight ahead, just as the others had. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_11.md index 28812c5a..3f722dff 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_11.md @@ -17,7 +17,9 @@ Judgment on Israel's Leaders 11. No, this city will not be an iron pot for you, and you will not be like meat safe inside it. I will judge you even to the borders of Israel, 12. and you will know that I am the LORD. For you have refused to obey my decrees and regulations; instead, you have copied the standards of the nations around you." -13. While I was still prophesying, Pelatiah son of Benaiah suddenly died. Then I fell face down on the ground and cried out, "O Sovereign LORD, are you going to kill everyone in Israel?"Hope for Exiled Israel +13. While I was still prophesying, Pelatiah son of Benaiah suddenly died. Then I fell face down on the ground and cried out, "O Sovereign LORD, are you going to kill everyone in Israel?" +Hope for Exiled Israel + 14. Then this message came to me from the LORD: 15. "Son of man, the people still left in Jerusalem are talking about you and your relatives and all the people of Israel who are in exile. They are saying, 'Those people are far away from the LORD, so now he has given their land to us!' @@ -37,3 +39,4 @@ Judgment on Israel's Leaders 25. And I told the exiles everything the LORD had shown me. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_12.md index b4ec330e..fdd47bdc 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_12.md @@ -25,7 +25,9 @@ Signs of the Coming Exile 17. Then this message came to me from the LORD: 18. "Son of man, tremble as you eat your food. Shake with fear as you drink your water. 19. Tell the people, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says concerning those living in Israel and Jerusalem: They will eat their food with trembling and sip their water in despair, for their land will be stripped bare because of their violence. -20. The cities will be destroyed and the farmland made desolate. Then you will know that I am the LORD.'"A New Proverb for Israel +20. The cities will be destroyed and the farmland made desolate. Then you will know that I am the LORD.'" +A New Proverb for Israel + 21. Again a message came to me from the LORD: 22. "Son of man, you've heard that proverb they quote in Israel: 'Time passes, and prophecies come to nothing.' @@ -39,3 +41,4 @@ Signs of the Coming Exile 28. Therefore, tell them, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: No more delay! I will now do everything I have threatened. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!'" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_13.md index 95f96af7..30dd0d56 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_13.md @@ -20,7 +20,9 @@ Judgment against False Prophets 13. "Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will sweep away your whitewashed wall with a storm of indignation, with a great flood of anger, and with hailstones of fury. 14. I will break down your wall right to its foundation, and when it falls, it will crush you. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 15. At last my anger against the wall and those who covered it with whitewash will be satisfied. Then I will say to you: 'The wall and those who whitewashed it are both gone. -16. They were lying prophets who claimed peace would come to Jerusalem when there was no peace. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!'Judgment against False Women Prophets +16. They were lying prophets who claimed peace would come to Jerusalem when there was no peace. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!' +Judgment against False Women Prophets + 17. "Now, son of man, speak out against the women who prophesy from their own imaginations. 18. This is what the Sovereign LORD says: What sorrow awaits you women who are ensnaring the souls of my people, young and old alike. You tie magic charms on their wrists and furnish them with magic veils. Do you think you can trap others without bringing destruction on yourselves? @@ -32,3 +34,4 @@ Judgment against False Prophets 23. Because of all this, you will no longer talk of seeing visions that you never saw, nor will you make predictions. For I will rescue my people from your grasp. Then you will know that I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_14.md index fd70f988..bfc28aad 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_14.md @@ -33,3 +33,4 @@ The Idolatry of Israel's Leaders 23. When you meet them and see their behavior, you will understand that these things are not being done to Israel without cause. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_15.md index 49dfc971..eee97147 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_15.md @@ -12,3 +12,4 @@ Jerusalem--a Useless Vine 8. And I will make the land desolate because my people have been unfaithful to me. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_16.md index 41bb4676..16e06aaa 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_16.md @@ -40,7 +40,9 @@ Jerusalem--an Unfaithful Wife 31. You build your pagan shrines on every street corner and your altars to idols in every square. In fact, you have been worse than a prostitute, so eager for sin that you have not even demanded payment. 32. Yes, you are an adulterous wife who takes in strangers instead of her own husband. 33. Prostitutes charge for their services--but not you! You give gifts to your lovers, bribing them to come and have sex with you. -34. So you are the opposite of other prostitutes. You pay your lovers instead of their paying you!Judgment on Jerusalem's Prostitution +34. So you are the opposite of other prostitutes. You pay your lovers instead of their paying you! +Judgment on Jerusalem's Prostitution + 35. "Therefore, you prostitute, listen to this message from the LORD! 36. This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Because you have poured out your lust and exposed yourself in prostitution to all your lovers, and because you have worshiped detestable idols, and because you have slaughtered your children as sacrifices to your gods, @@ -78,3 +80,4 @@ Jerusalem--an Unfaithful Wife 63. You will remember your sins and cover your mouth in silent shame when I forgive you of all that you have done. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_17.md index 414a5626..cfa3b159 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_17.md @@ -5,50 +5,85 @@ A Story of Two Eagles 2. "Son of man, give this riddle, and tell this story to the people of Israel. 3. Give them this message from the Sovereign LORD: "A great eagle with broad wings and long feathers, - covered with many-colored plumage, - came to Lebanon. + +covered with many-colored plumage, + +came to Lebanon. + He seized the top of a cedar tree + 4. and plucked off its highest branch. + He carried it away to a city filled with merchants. - He planted it in a city of traders. + +He planted it in a city of traders. + 5. He also took a seedling from the land - and planted it in fertile soil. + +and planted it in fertile soil. + He placed it beside a broad river, - where it could grow like a willow tree. + +where it could grow like a willow tree. + 6. It took root there and - grew into a low, spreading vine. + +grew into a low, spreading vine. + Its branches turned up toward the eagle, - and its roots grew down into the ground. + +and its roots grew down into the ground. + It produced strong branches - and put out shoots. + +and put out shoots. + 7. But then another great eagle came - with broad wings and full plumage. + +with broad wings and full plumage. + So the vine now sent its roots and branches - toward him for water, + +toward him for water, + 8. even though it was already planted in good soil - and had plenty of water + +and had plenty of water so it could grow into a splendid vine - and produce rich leaves and luscious fruit. + +and produce rich leaves and luscious fruit. + 9. "So now the Sovereign LORD asks: Will this vine grow and prosper? - No! I will pull it up, roots and all! + +No! I will pull it up, roots and all! I will cut off its fruit - and let its leaves wither and die. + +and let its leaves wither and die. + I will pull it up easily - without a strong arm or a large army. + +without a strong arm or a large army. + 10. But when the vine is transplanted, - will it thrive? + +will it thrive? No, it will wither away - when the east wind blows against it. + +when the east wind blows against it. + It will die in the same good soil - where it had grown so well."The Riddle Explained + +where it had grown so well." +The Riddle Explained + 11. Then this message came to me from the LORD: 12. "Say to these rebels of Israel: Don't you understand the meaning of this riddle of the eagles? The king of Babylon came to Jerusalem, took away her king and princes, and brought them to Babylon. @@ -69,3 +104,4 @@ It will die in the same good soil 24. And all the trees will know that it is I, the LORD, who cuts the tall tree down and makes the short tree grow tall. It is I who makes the green tree wither and gives the dead tree new life. I, the LORD, have spoken, and I will do what I said!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_18.md index 3d0c897e..0d2c1c25 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_18.md @@ -42,3 +42,4 @@ The Justice of a Righteous God 32. I don't want you to die, says the Sovereign LORD. Turn back and live! + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_19.md index d89f63d1..c689455e 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_19.md @@ -4,74 +4,129 @@ A Funeral Song for Israel's Kings 1. "Sing this funeral song for the princes of Israel: 2. "What is your mother? - A lioness among lions! + +A lioness among lions! She lay down among the young lions - and reared her cubs. + +and reared her cubs. + 3. She raised one of her cubs - to become a strong young lion. + +to become a strong young lion. + He learned to hunt and devour prey, - and he became a man-eater. + +and he became a man-eater. + 4. Then the nations heard about him, - and he was trapped in their pit. + +and he was trapped in their pit. + They led him away with hooks - to the land of Egypt. + +to the land of Egypt. + 5. "When the lioness saw - that her hopes for him were gone, + +that her hopes for him were gone, she took another of her cubs - and taught him to be a strong young lion. + +and taught him to be a strong young lion. + 6. He prowled among the other lions - and stood out among them in his strength. + +and stood out among them in his strength. + He learned to hunt and devour prey, - and he, too, became a man-eater. + +and he, too, became a man-eater. + 7. He demolished fortresses - and destroyed their towns and cities. + +and destroyed their towns and cities. + Their farms were desolated, - and their crops were destroyed. + +and their crops were destroyed. + The land and its people trembled in fear - when they heard him roar. + +when they heard him roar. + 8. Then the armies of the nations attacked him, - surrounding him from every direction. + +surrounding him from every direction. + They threw a net over him - and captured him in their pit. + +and captured him in their pit. + 9. With hooks, they dragged him into a cage - and brought him before the king of Babylon. + +and brought him before the king of Babylon. + They held him in captivity, - so his voice could never again be heard - on the mountains of Israel. + +so his voice could never again be heard + +on the mountains of Israel. + 10. "Your mother was like a vine - planted by the water's edge. + +planted by the water's edge. + It had lush, green foliage - because of the abundant water. + +because of the abundant water. + 11. Its branches became strong-- - strong enough to be a ruler's scepter. + +strong enough to be a ruler's scepter. + It grew very tall, - towering above all others. + +towering above all others. + It stood out because of its height - and its many lush branches. + +and its many lush branches. + 12. But the vine was uprooted in fury - and thrown down to the ground. + +and thrown down to the ground. + The desert wind dried up its fruit - and tore off its strong branches, + +and tore off its strong branches, so that it withered - and was destroyed by fire. + +and was destroyed by fire. + 13. Now the vine is transplanted to the wilderness, - where the ground is hard and dry. + +where the ground is hard and dry. + 14. A fire has burst out from its branches - and devoured its fruit. + +and devoured its fruit. + Its remaining limbs are not - strong enough to be a ruler's scepter. + +strong enough to be a ruler's scepter. + "This is a funeral song, and it will be used in a funeral." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_20.md index 27561470..a34662f0 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_20.md @@ -31,7 +31,10 @@ The Rebellion of Israel 23. But I took a solemn oath against them in the wilderness. I swore I would scatter them among all the nations 24. because they did not obey my regulations. They scorned my decrees by violating my Sabbath days and longing for the idols of their ancestors. 25. I gave them over to worthless decrees and regulations that would not lead to life. -26. I let them pollute themselves with the very gifts I had given them, and I allowed them to give their firstborn children as offerings to their gods--so I might devastate them and remind them that I alone am the LORD.Judgment and Restoration +26. I let them pollute themselves with the very gifts I had given them, and I allowed them to give their firstborn children as offerings to their gods--so I might devastate them and remind them that I alone am the LORD. + +Judgment and Restoration + 27. "Therefore, son of man, give the people of Israel this message from the Sovereign LORD: Your ancestors continued to blaspheme and betray me, 28. for when I brought them into the land I had promised them, they offered sacrifices on every high hill and under every green tree they saw! They roused my fury as they offered up sacrifices to their gods. They brought their perfumes and incense and poured out their liquid offerings to them. @@ -53,7 +56,9 @@ The Rebellion of Israel 41. When I bring you home from exile, you will be like a pleasing sacrifice to me. And I will display my holiness through you as all the nations watch. 42. Then when I have brought you home to the land I promised with a solemn oath to give to your ancestors, you will know that I am the LORD. 43. You will look back on all the ways you defiled yourselves and will hate yourselves because of the evil you have done. -44. You will know that I am the LORD, O people of Israel, when I have honored my name by treating you mercifully in spite of your wickedness. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!"Judgment against the Negev +44. You will know that I am the LORD, O people of Israel, when I have honored my name by treating you mercifully in spite of your wickedness. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" +Judgment against the Negev + 45. Then this message came to me from the LORD: 46. "Son of man, turn and face the south and speak out against it; prophesy against the brushlands of the Negev. @@ -63,3 +68,4 @@ The Rebellion of Israel 49. Then I said, "O Sovereign LORD, they are saying of me, 'He only talks in riddles!'" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_21.md index 017dfc71..4610266c 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_21.md @@ -13,45 +13,68 @@ The LORD's Sword of Judgment 8. Then the LORD said to me, 9. "Son of man, give the people this message from the Lord: "A sword, a sword - is being sharpened and polished. + +is being sharpened and polished. + 10. It is sharpened for terrible slaughter - and polished to flash like lightning! + +and polished to flash like lightning! Now will you laugh? Those far stronger than you have fallen beneath its power! 11. Yes, the sword is now being sharpened and polished; - it is being prepared for the executioner. + +it is being prepared for the executioner. + 12. "Son of man, cry out and wail; - pound your thighs in anguish, + +pound your thighs in anguish, for that sword will slaughter my people and their leaders-- - everyone will die! + +everyone will die! + 13. It will put them all to the test. What chance do they have? says the Sovereign LORD. 14. "Son of man, prophesy to them - and clap your hands. + +and clap your hands. + Then take the sword and brandish it twice, - even three times, + +even three times, to symbolize the great massacre, - the great massacre facing them on every side. + +the great massacre facing them on every side. + 15. Let their hearts melt with terror, - for the sword glitters at every gate. + +for the sword glitters at every gate. + It flashes like lightning - and is polished for slaughter! + +and is polished for slaughter! + 16. O sword, slash to the right, - then slash to the left, + +then slash to the left, wherever you will, - wherever you want. + +wherever you want. + 17. I, too, will clap my hands, - and I will satisfy my fury. - I, the LORD, have spoken!"Omens for Babylon's King + +and I will satisfy my fury. + I, the LORD, have spoken!" +Omens for Babylon's King + 18. Then this message came to me from the LORD: 19. "Son of man, make a map and trace two routes on it for the sword of Babylon's king to follow. Put a signpost on the road that comes out of Babylon where the road forks into two-- @@ -65,41 +88,71 @@ wherever you will, 25. "O you corrupt and wicked prince of Israel, your final day of reckoning is here! 26. This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "Take off your jeweled crown, - for the old order changes. + +for the old order changes. + Now the lowly will be exalted, - and the mighty will be brought down. + +and the mighty will be brought down. + 27. Destruction! Destruction! - I will surely destroy the kingdom. + +I will surely destroy the kingdom. + And it will not be restored until the one appears - who has the right to judge it. -Then I will hand it over to him.A Message for the Ammonites + +who has the right to judge it. + +Then I will hand it over to him. + +A Message for the Ammonites + 28. "And now, son of man, prophesy concerning the Ammonites and their mockery. Give them this message from the Sovereign LORD: "A sword, a sword - is drawn for your slaughter. + +is drawn for your slaughter. + It is polished to destroy, - flashing like lightning! + +flashing like lightning! + 29. Your prophets have given false visions, - and your fortune-tellers have told lies. + +and your fortune-tellers have told lies. + The sword will fall on the necks of the wicked - for whom the day of final reckoning has come. + +for whom the day of final reckoning has come. + 30. "Now return the sword to its sheath, - for in your own country, + +for in your own country, the land of your birth, - I will pass judgment upon you. + +I will pass judgment upon you. + 31. I will pour out my fury on you - and blow on you with the fire of my anger. + +and blow on you with the fire of my anger. + I will hand you over to cruel men - who are skilled in destruction. + +who are skilled in destruction. + 32. You will be fuel for the fire, - and your blood will be spilled in your own land. + +and your blood will be spilled in your own land. + You will be utterly wiped out, - your memory lost to history, + +your memory lost to history, for I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_22.md index 951ced99..0e6006db 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_22.md @@ -25,7 +25,9 @@ The Sins of Jerusalem 19. So tell them, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Because you are all worthless slag, I will bring you to my crucible in Jerusalem. 20. Just as silver, copper, iron, lead, and tin are melted down in a furnace, I will melt you down in the heat of my fury. 21. I will gather you together and blow the fire of my anger upon you, -22. and you will melt like silver in fierce heat. Then you will know that I, the LORD, have poured out my fury on you.'"The Sins of Israel's Leaders +22. and you will melt like silver in fierce heat. Then you will know that I, the LORD, have poured out my fury on you.'" +The Sins of Israel's Leaders + 23. Again a message came to me from the LORD: 24. "Son of man, give the people of Israel this message: In the day of my indignation, you will be like a polluted land, a land without rain. @@ -39,3 +41,4 @@ The Sins of Jerusalem 31. So now I will pour out my fury on them, consuming them with the fire of my anger. I will heap on their heads the full penalty for all their sins. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_23.md index 0d8f9199..b62f5b7c 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_23.md @@ -42,18 +42,28 @@ The Adultery of Two Sisters 32. "Yes, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "You will drink from your sister's cup of terror, - a cup that is large and deep. + +a cup that is large and deep. + It is filled to the brim - with scorn and derision. + +with scorn and derision. + 33. Drunkenness and anguish will fill you, - for your cup is filled to the brim with distress and desolation, - the same cup your sister Samaria drank. + +for your cup is filled to the brim with distress and desolation, + +the same cup your sister Samaria drank. + 34. You will drain that cup of terror - to the very bottom. + +to the very bottom. + Then you will smash it to pieces - and beat your breast in anguish. + +and beat your breast in anguish. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken! 35. "And because you have forgotten me and turned your back on me, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: You must bear the consequences of all your lewdness and prostitution."The LORD's Judgment on Both Sisters @@ -76,3 +86,4 @@ Then you will smash it to pieces 49. You will be fully repaid for all your prostitution--your worship of idols. Yes, you will suffer the full penalty. Then you will know that I am the Sovereign LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_24.md index f295c3c0..9377aba1 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_24.md @@ -5,61 +5,103 @@ The Sign of the Cooking Pot 2. "Son of man, write down today's date, because on this very day the king of Babylon is beginning his attack against Jerusalem. 3. Then give these rebels an illustration with this message from the Sovereign LORD: "Put a pot on the fire, - and pour in some water. + +and pour in some water. + 4. Fill it with choice pieces of meat-- - the rump and the shoulder - and all the most tender cuts. + +the rump and the shoulder + +and all the most tender cuts. + 5. Use only the best sheep from the flock, - and heap fuel on the fire beneath the pot. + +and heap fuel on the fire beneath the pot. + Bring the pot to a boil, - and cook the bones along with the meat. + +and cook the bones along with the meat. + 6. "Now this is what the Sovereign LORD says: What sorrow awaits Jerusalem, - the city of murderers! + +the city of murderers! She is a cooking pot - whose corruption can't be cleaned out. + +whose corruption can't be cleaned out. + Take the meat out in random order, - for no piece is better than another. + +for no piece is better than another. + 7. For the blood of her murders - is splashed on the rocks. + +is splashed on the rocks. + It isn't even spilled on the ground, - where the dust could cover it! + +where the dust could cover it! + 8. So I will splash her blood on a rock - for all to see, + +for all to see, an expression of my anger - and vengeance against her. + +and vengeance against her. + 9. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: What sorrow awaits Jerusalem, - the city of murderers! - I myself will pile up the fuel beneath her. + +the city of murderers! + +I myself will pile up the fuel beneath her. + 10. Yes, heap on the wood! - Let the fire roar to make the pot boil. + +Let the fire roar to make the pot boil. + Cook the meat with many spices, - and afterward burn the bones. + +and afterward burn the bones. + 11. Now set the empty pot on the coals. - Heat it red hot! - Burn away the filth and corruption. + +Heat it red hot! + +Burn away the filth and corruption. + 12. But it's hopeless; - the corruption can't be cleaned out. - So throw it into the fire. + +the corruption can't be cleaned out. + +So throw it into the fire. + 13. Your impurity is your lewdness - and the corruption of your idolatry. -I tried to cleanse you, - but you refused. -So now you will remain in your filth - until my fury against you has been satisfied. + +and the corruption of your idolatry. + +I tried to cleanse you, + +but you refused. + +So now you will remain in your filth + +until my fury against you has been satisfied. + + +14. "I, the LORD, have spoken! The time has come, and I won't hold back. I will not change my mind, and I will have no pity on you. You will be judged on the basis of all your wicked actions, says the Sovereign LORD." +The Death of Ezekiel's Wife -14. "I, the LORD, have spoken! The time has come, and I won't hold back. I will not change my mind, and I will have no pity on you. You will be judged on the basis of all your wicked actions, says the Sovereign LORD."The Death of Ezekiel's Wife 15. Then this message came to me from the LORD: 16. "Son of man, with one blow I will take away your dearest treasure. Yet you must not show any sorrow at her death. Do not weep; let there be no tears. @@ -79,3 +121,4 @@ So now you will remain in your filth 27. And when he arrives, your voice will suddenly return so you can talk to him, and you will be a symbol for these people. Then they will know that I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_25.md index 2967f379..22c6a13e 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_25.md @@ -8,19 +8,28 @@ A Message for Ammon 5. And I will turn the city of Rabbah into a pasture for camels, and all the land of the Ammonites into a resting place for sheep and goats. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 6. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Because you clapped and danced and cheered with glee at the destruction of my people, -7. I will raise my fist of judgment against you. I will give you as plunder to many nations. I will cut you off from being a nation and destroy you completely. Then you will know that I am the LORD.A Message for Moab +7. I will raise my fist of judgment against you. I will give you as plunder to many nations. I will cut you off from being a nation and destroy you completely. Then you will know that I am the LORD. + +A Message for Moab + 8. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Because the people of Moab have said that Judah is just like all the other nations, 9. I will open up their eastern flank and wipe out their glorious frontier towns--Beth-jeshimoth, Baal-meon, and Kiriathaim. 10. And I will hand Moab over to nomads from the eastern deserts, just as I handed over Ammon. Yes, the Ammonites will no longer be counted among the nations. -11. In the same way, I will bring my judgment down on the Moabites. Then they will know that I am the LORD.A Message for Edom +11. In the same way, I will bring my judgment down on the Moabites. Then they will know that I am the LORD. + +A Message for Edom + 12. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: The people of Edom have sinned greatly by avenging themselves against the people of Judah. 13. Therefore, says the Sovereign LORD, I will raise my fist of judgment against Edom. I will wipe out its people and animals with the sword. I will make a wasteland of everything from Teman to Dedan. -14. I will accomplish this by the hand of my people of Israel. They will carry out my vengeance with anger, and Edom will know that this vengeance is from me. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!A Message for Philistia +14. I will accomplish this by the hand of my people of Israel. They will carry out my vengeance with anger, and Edom will know that this vengeance is from me. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken! +A Message for Philistia + 15. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: The people of Philistia have acted against Judah out of bitter revenge and long-standing contempt. 16. Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will raise my fist of judgment against the land of the Philistines. I will wipe out the Kerethites and utterly destroy the people who live by the sea. 17. I will execute terrible vengeance against them to punish them for what they have done. And when I have inflicted my revenge, they will know that I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_26.md index f8bc97c1..dda4e363 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_26.md @@ -17,22 +17,31 @@ A Message for Tyre 12. "They will plunder all your riches and merchandise and break down your walls. They will destroy your lovely homes and dump your stones and timbers and even your dust into the sea. 13. I will stop the music of your songs. No more will the sound of harps be heard among your people. -14. I will make your island a bare rock, a place for fishermen to spread their nets. You will never be rebuilt, for I, the LORD, have spoken. Yes, the Sovereign LORD has spoken!The Effect of Tyre's Destruction +14. I will make your island a bare rock, a place for fishermen to spread their nets. You will never be rebuilt, for I, the LORD, have spoken. Yes, the Sovereign LORD has spoken! +The Effect of Tyre's Destruction + 15. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says to Tyre: The whole coastline will tremble at the sound of your fall, as the screams of the wounded echo in the continuing slaughter. 16. All the seaport rulers will step down from their thrones and take off their royal robes and beautiful clothing. They will sit on the ground trembling with horror at your destruction. 17. Then they will wail for you, singing this funeral song: "O famous island city, - once ruler of the sea, - how you have been destroyed! + +once ruler of the sea, + +how you have been destroyed! Your people, with their naval power, - once spread fear around the world. + +once spread fear around the world. + 18. Now the coastlands tremble at your fall. - The islands are dismayed as you disappear. + +The islands are dismayed as you disappear. + 19. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will make Tyre an uninhabited ruin, like many others. I will bury you beneath the terrible waves of enemy attack. Great seas will swallow you. 20. I will send you to the pit to join those who descended there long ago. Your city will lie in ruins, buried beneath the earth, like those in the pit who have entered the world of the dead. You will have no place of respect here in the land of the living. 21. I will bring you to a terrible end, and you will exist no more. You will be looked for, but you will never again be found. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_27.md index 8b6ac695..3a5db35b 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_27.md @@ -5,31 +5,49 @@ The End of Tyre's Glory 2. "Son of man, sing a funeral song for Tyre, 3. that mighty gateway to the sea, the trading center of the world. Give Tyre this message from the Sovereign LORD: "You boasted, O Tyre, - 'My beauty is perfect!' + +'My beauty is perfect!' + 4. You extended your boundaries into the sea. - Your builders made your beauty perfect. + +Your builders made your beauty perfect. + 5. You were like a great ship built of the finest cypress from Senir. + They took a cedar from Lebanon - to make a mast for you. + +to make a mast for you. + 6. They carved your oars - from the oaks of Bashan. + +from the oaks of Bashan. Your deck of pine from the coasts of Cyprus - was inlaid with ivory. + +was inlaid with ivory. + 7. Your sails were made of Egypt's finest linen, - and they flew as a banner above you. + +and they flew as a banner above you. + You stood beneath blue and purple awnings - made bright with dyes from the coasts of Elishah. + +made bright with dyes from the coasts of Elishah. + 8. Your oarsmen came from Sidon and Arvad; - your helmsmen were skilled men from Tyre itself. + +your helmsmen were skilled men from Tyre itself. + 9. Wise old craftsmen from Gebal did the caulking. - Ships from every land came with goods to barter for your trade. + +Ships from every land came with goods to barter for your trade. + 10. "Men from distant Persia, Lydia, and Libya served in your great army. They hung their shields and helmets on your walls, giving you great honor. 11. Men from Arvad and Helech stood on your walls. Your towers were manned by men from Gammad. Their shields hung on your walls, completing your beauty. @@ -52,59 +70,98 @@ You stood beneath blue and purple awnings 23. "Haran, Canneh, Eden, Sheba, Asshur, and Kilmad came with their merchandise, too. 24. They brought choice fabrics to trade--blue cloth, embroidery, and multicolored carpets rolled up and bound with cords. -25. The ships of Tarshish were your ocean caravans. Your island warehouse was filled to the brim!The Destruction of Tyre +25. The ships of Tarshish were your ocean caravans. Your island warehouse was filled to the brim! +The Destruction of Tyre + 26. "But look! Your oarsmen - have taken you into stormy seas! + +have taken you into stormy seas! A mighty eastern gale - has wrecked you in the heart of the sea! + +has wrecked you in the heart of the sea! + 27. Everything is lost-- - your riches and wares, + +your riches and wares, your sailors and pilots, - your ship builders, merchants, and warriors. + +your ship builders, merchants, and warriors. + On the day of your ruin, - everyone on board sinks into the depths of the sea. + +everyone on board sinks into the depths of the sea. + 28. Your cities by the sea tremble - as your pilots cry out in terror. + +as your pilots cry out in terror. + 29. All the oarsmen abandon their ships; - the sailors and pilots stand on the shore. + +the sailors and pilots stand on the shore. + 30. They cry aloud over you - and weep bitterly. + +and weep bitterly. + They throw dust on their heads - and roll in ashes. + +and roll in ashes. + 31. They shave their heads in grief for you - and dress themselves in burlap. + +and dress themselves in burlap. + They weep for you with bitter anguish - and deep mourning. + +and deep mourning. + 32. As they wail and mourn over you, - they sing this sad funeral song: + +they sing this sad funeral song: 'Was there ever such a city as Tyre, - now silent at the bottom of the sea? + +now silent at the bottom of the sea? + 33. The merchandise you traded - satisfied the desires of many nations. + +satisfied the desires of many nations. + Kings at the ends of the earth - were enriched by your trade. + +were enriched by your trade. + 34. Now you are a wrecked ship, - broken at the bottom of the sea. + +broken at the bottom of the sea. + All your merchandise and crew - have gone down with you. + +have gone down with you. + 35. All who live along the coastlands - are appalled at your terrible fate. + +are appalled at your terrible fate. + Their kings are filled with horror - and look on with twisted faces. + +and look on with twisted faces. + 36. The merchants among the nations shake their heads at the sight of you, for you have come to a horrible end - and will exist no more.'" + +and will exist no more.'" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_28.md index 5c14adea..98a38f59 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_28.md @@ -4,113 +4,185 @@ A Message for Tyre's King 1. Then this message came to me from the LORD: 2. "Son of man, give the prince of Tyre this message from the Sovereign LORD: "In your great pride you claim, 'I am a god! - I sit on a divine throne in the heart of the sea.' + +I sit on a divine throne in the heart of the sea.' But you are only a man and not a god, - though you boast that you are a god. + +though you boast that you are a god. + 3. You regard yourself as wiser than Daniel - and think no secret is hidden from you. + +and think no secret is hidden from you. + 4. With your wisdom and understanding you have amassed great wealth-- - gold and silver for your treasuries. + +gold and silver for your treasuries. + 5. Yes, your wisdom has made you very rich, - and your riches have made you very proud. + +and your riches have made you very proud. + 6. "Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: Because you think you are as wise as a god, + 7. I will now bring against you a foreign army, - the terror of the nations. + +the terror of the nations. + They will draw their swords against your marvelous wisdom - and defile your splendor! + +and defile your splendor! + 8. They will bring you down to the pit, - and you will die in the heart of the sea, - pierced with many wounds. + +and you will die in the heart of the sea, + +pierced with many wounds. + 9. Will you then boast, 'I am a god!' - to those who kill you? + +to those who kill you? To them you will be no god - but merely a man! + +but merely a man! + 10. You will die like an outcast - at the hands of foreigners. + +at the hands of foreigners. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" 11. Then this further message came to me from the LORD: 12. "Son of man, sing this funeral song for the king of Tyre. Give him this message from the Sovereign LORD: "You were the model of perfection, - full of wisdom and exquisite in beauty. + +full of wisdom and exquisite in beauty. + 13. You were in Eden, - the garden of God. + +the garden of God. Your clothing was adorned with every precious stone-- - red carnelian, pale-green peridot, white moonstone, - blue-green beryl, onyx, green jasper, - blue lapis lazuli, turquoise, and emerald-- + +red carnelian, pale-green peridot, white moonstone, + +blue-green beryl, onyx, green jasper, + +blue lapis lazuli, turquoise, and emerald-- all beautifully crafted for you - and set in the finest gold. + +and set in the finest gold. + They were given to you - on the day you were created. + +on the day you were created. + 14. I ordained and anointed you as the mighty angelic guardian. + You had access to the holy mountain of God - and walked among the stones of fire. + +and walked among the stones of fire. + 15. "You were blameless in all you did - from the day you were created - until the day evil was found in you. + +from the day you were created + +until the day evil was found in you. + 16. Your rich commerce led you to violence, - and you sinned. + +and you sinned. + So I banished you in disgrace - from the mountain of God. + +from the mountain of God. + I expelled you, O mighty guardian, - from your place among the stones of fire. + +from your place among the stones of fire. + 17. Your heart was filled with pride - because of all your beauty. + +because of all your beauty. + Your wisdom was corrupted - by your love of splendor. + +by your love of splendor. + So I threw you to the ground - and exposed you to the curious gaze of kings. + +and exposed you to the curious gaze of kings. + 18. You defiled your sanctuaries - with your many sins and your dishonest trade. + +with your many sins and your dishonest trade. + So I brought fire out from within you, - and it consumed you. + +and it consumed you. + I reduced you to ashes on the ground - in the sight of all who were watching. + +in the sight of all who were watching. + 19. All who knew you are appalled at your fate. - You have come to a terrible end, - and you will exist no more."A Message for Sidon + +You have come to a terrible end, + +and you will exist no more." +A Message for Sidon + 20. Then another message came to me from the LORD: 21. "Son of man, turn and face the city of Sidon and prophesy against it. 22. Give the people of Sidon this message from the Sovereign LORD: "I am your enemy, O Sidon, - and I will reveal my glory by what I do to you. + +and I will reveal my glory by what I do to you. + When I bring judgment against you - and reveal my holiness among you, + +and reveal my holiness among you, everyone watching will know that I am the LORD. 23. I will send a plague against you, - and blood will be spilled in your streets. + +and blood will be spilled in your streets. + The attack will come from every direction, - and your people will lie slaughtered within your walls. + +and your people will lie slaughtered within your walls. + Then everyone will know that I am the LORD. 24. No longer will Israel's scornful neighbors - prick and tear at her like briers and thorns. + +prick and tear at her like briers and thorns. + For then they will know - that I am the Sovereign LORD.Restoration for Israel + that I am the Sovereign LORD. + +Restoration for Israel + 25. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: The people of Israel will again live in their own land, the land I gave my servant Jacob. For I will gather them from the distant lands where I have scattered them. I will reveal to the nations of the world my holiness among my people. 26. They will live safely in Israel and build homes and plant vineyards. And when I punish the neighboring nations that treated them with contempt, they will know that I am the LORD their God." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_29.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_29.md index 1afb4c4a..beb54bd0 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_29.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_29.md @@ -5,31 +5,51 @@ A Message for Egypt 2. "Son of man, turn and face Egypt and prophesy against Pharaoh the king and all the people of Egypt. 3. Give them this message from the Sovereign LORD: "I am your enemy, O Pharaoh, king of Egypt-- - you great monster, lurking in the streams of the Nile. + +you great monster, lurking in the streams of the Nile. + For you have said, 'The Nile River is mine; - I made it for myself.' + +I made it for myself.' + 4. I will put hooks in your jaws - and drag you out on the land - with fish sticking to your scales. + +and drag you out on the land + +with fish sticking to your scales. + 5. I will leave you and all your fish - stranded in the wilderness to die. + +stranded in the wilderness to die. + You will lie unburied on the open ground, - for I have given you as food to the wild animals and birds. + +for I have given you as food to the wild animals and birds. + 6. All the people of Egypt will know that I am the LORD, - for to Israel you were just a staff made of reeds. + +for to Israel you were just a staff made of reeds. + 7. When Israel leaned on you, - you splintered and broke - and stabbed her in the armpit. + +you splintered and broke + +and stabbed her in the armpit. + When she put her weight on you, - you collapsed, and her legs gave way. + +you collapsed, and her legs gave way. + 8. "Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will bring an army against you, O Egypt, and destroy both people and animals. 9. The land of Egypt will become a desolate wasteland, and the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD. + "Because you said, 'The Nile River is mine; I made it,' + 10. I am now the enemy of both you and your river. I will make the land of Egypt a totally desolate wasteland, from Migdol to Aswan, as far south as the border of Ethiopia. 11. For forty years not a soul will pass that way, neither people nor animals. It will be completely uninhabited. 12. I will make Egypt desolate, and it will be surrounded by other desolate nations. Its cities will be empty and desolate for forty years, surrounded by other ruined cities. I will scatter the Egyptians to distant lands. @@ -38,7 +58,9 @@ When she put her weight on you, 14. I will restore the prosperity of Egypt and bring its people back to the land of Pathros in southern Egypt from which they came. But Egypt will remain an unimportant, minor kingdom. 15. It will be the lowliest of all the nations, never again great enough to rise above its neighbors. -16. "Then Israel will no longer be tempted to trust in Egypt for help. Egypt's shattered condition will remind Israel of how sinful she was to trust Egypt in earlier days. Then Israel will know that I am the Sovereign LORD."Nebuchadnezzar to Conquer Egypt +16. "Then Israel will no longer be tempted to trust in Egypt for help. Egypt's shattered condition will remind Israel of how sinful she was to trust Egypt in earlier days. Then Israel will know that I am the Sovereign LORD." +Nebuchadnezzar to Conquer Egypt + 17. On April 26, the first day of the new year, during the twenty-seventh year of King Jehoiachin's captivity, this message came to me from the LORD: 18. "Son of man, the army of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon fought so hard against Tyre that the warriors' heads were rubbed bare and their shoulders were raw and blistered. Yet Nebuchadnezzar and his army won no plunder to compensate them for all their work. @@ -48,3 +70,4 @@ When she put her weight on you, 21. "And the day will come when I will cause the ancient glory of Israel to revive, and then, Ezekiel, your words will be respected. Then they will know that I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_30.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_30.md index ac868f82..5628d7d5 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_30.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_30.md @@ -4,91 +4,139 @@ A Sad Day for Egypt 1. This is another message that came to me from the LORD: 2. "Son of man, prophesy and give this message from the Sovereign LORD: "Weep and wail - for that day, + +for that day, + 3. for the terrible day is almost here-- the day of the LORD! It is a day of clouds and gloom, - a day of despair for the nations. + +a day of despair for the nations. + 4. A sword will come against Egypt, - and those who are slaughtered will cover the ground. + +and those who are slaughtered will cover the ground. + Its wealth will be carried away - and its foundations destroyed. + +and its foundations destroyed. The land of Ethiopia will be ravished. 5. Ethiopia, Libya, Lydia, all Arabia, and all their other allies - will be destroyed in that war. + +will be destroyed in that war. + 6. "For this is what the LORD says: All of Egypt's allies will fall, - and the pride of her power will end. + +and the pride of her power will end. From Migdol to Aswan - they will be slaughtered by the sword, + +they will be slaughtered by the sword, says the Sovereign LORD. 7. Egypt will be desolate, - surrounded by desolate nations, + +surrounded by desolate nations, and its cities will be in ruins, - surrounded by other ruined cities. + +surrounded by other ruined cities. + 8. And the people of Egypt will know that I am the LORD - when I have set Egypt on fire - and destroyed all their allies. + +when I have set Egypt on fire + +and destroyed all their allies. + 9. At that time I will send swift messengers in ships - to terrify the complacent Ethiopians. + +to terrify the complacent Ethiopians. + Great panic will come upon them - on that day of Egypt's certain destruction. + +on that day of Egypt's certain destruction. + Watch for it! - It is sure to come! + +It is sure to come! + 10. "For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: By the power of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, - I will destroy the hordes of Egypt. + +I will destroy the hordes of Egypt. + 11. He and his armies--the most ruthless of all-- - will be sent to demolish the land. + +will be sent to demolish the land. + They will make war against Egypt - until slaughtered Egyptians cover the ground. + +until slaughtered Egyptians cover the ground. + 12. I will dry up the Nile River - and sell the land to wicked men. + +and sell the land to wicked men. + I will destroy the land of Egypt and everything in it - by the hands of foreigners. + +by the hands of foreigners. I, the LORD, have spoken! 13. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will smash the idols of Egypt and the images at Memphis. + There will be no rulers left in Egypt; - terror will sweep the land. + +terror will sweep the land. + 14. I will destroy southern Egypt, - set fire to Zoan, + +set fire to Zoan, and bring judgment against Thebes. 15. I will pour out my fury on Pelusium, - the strongest fortress of Egypt, + +the strongest fortress of Egypt, and I will stamp out - the hordes of Thebes. + +the hordes of Thebes. + 16. Yes, I will set fire to all Egypt! - Pelusium will be racked with pain; + +Pelusium will be racked with pain; Thebes will be torn apart; - Memphis will live in constant terror. + +Memphis will live in constant terror. + 17. The young men of Heliopolis and Bubastis will die in battle, and the women will be taken away as slaves. 18. When I come to break the proud strength of Egypt, - it will be a dark day for Tahpanhes, too. + +it will be a dark day for Tahpanhes, too. + A dark cloud will cover Tahpanhes, - and its daughters will be led away as captives. + +and its daughters will be led away as captives. + 19. And so I will greatly punish Egypt, - and they will know that I am the LORD."The Broken Arms of Pharaoh + and they will know that I am the LORD." +The Broken Arms of Pharaoh + 20. On April 29, during the eleventh year of King Jehoiachin's captivity, this message came to me from the LORD: 21. "Son of man, I have broken the arm of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. His arm has not been put in a cast so that it may heal. Neither has it been bound up with a splint to make it strong enough to hold a sword. @@ -99,3 +147,4 @@ A dark cloud will cover Tahpanhes, 26. I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, dispersing them throughout the earth. Then they will know that I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_31.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_31.md index b4ffe5d8..654d3d56 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_31.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_31.md @@ -5,58 +5,95 @@ Egypt Compared to Fallen Assyria 2. "Son of man, give this message to Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and all his hordes: "To whom would you compare your greatness? + 3. You are like mighty Assyria, - which was once like a cedar of Lebanon, + +which was once like a cedar of Lebanon, with beautiful branches that cast deep forest shade - and with its top high among the clouds. + +and with its top high among the clouds. + 4. Deep springs watered it - and helped it to grow tall and luxuriant. + +and helped it to grow tall and luxuriant. + The water flowed around it like a river, - streaming to all the trees nearby. + +streaming to all the trees nearby. + 5. This great tree towered high, - higher than all the other trees around it. + +higher than all the other trees around it. + It prospered and grew long thick branches - because of all the water at its roots. + +because of all the water at its roots. + 6. The birds nested in its branches, - and in its shade all the wild animals gave birth. + +and in its shade all the wild animals gave birth. + All the great nations of the world - lived in its shadow. + +lived in its shadow. + 7. It was strong and beautiful, - with wide-spreading branches, + +with wide-spreading branches, for its roots went deep - into abundant water. + +into abundant water. + 8. No other cedar in the garden of God - could rival it. + +could rival it. + No cypress had branches to equal it; - no plane tree had boughs to compare. + +no plane tree had boughs to compare. + No tree in the garden of God - came close to it in beauty. + +came close to it in beauty. + 9. Because I made this tree so beautiful, - and gave it such magnificent foliage, + +and gave it such magnificent foliage, it was the envy of all the other trees of Eden, - the garden of God. + +the garden of God. + 10. "Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: Because Egypt became proud and arrogant, and because it set itself so high above the others, with its top reaching to the clouds, 11. I will hand it over to a mighty nation that will destroy it as its wickedness deserves. I have already discarded it. 12. A foreign army--the terror of the nations--has cut it down and left it fallen on the ground. Its branches are scattered across the mountains and valleys and ravines of the land. All those who lived in its shadow have gone away and left it lying there. 13. "The birds roost on its fallen trunk, - and the wild animals lie among its branches. + +and the wild animals lie among its branches. + 14. Let the tree of no other nation - proudly exult in its own prosperity, + +proudly exult in its own prosperity, though it be higher than the clouds - and it be watered from the depths. + +and it be watered from the depths. + For all are doomed to die, - to go down to the depths of the earth. + +to go down to the depths of the earth. + They will land in the pit - along with everyone else on earth. + +along with everyone else on earth. + 15. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: When Assyria went down to the grave, I made the deep springs mourn. I stopped its rivers and dried up its abundant water. I clothed Lebanon in black and caused the trees of the field to wilt. 16. I made the nations shake with fear at the sound of its fall, for I sent it down to the grave with all the others who descend to the pit. And all the other proud trees of Eden, the most beautiful and the best of Lebanon, the ones whose roots went deep into the water, took comfort to find it there with them in the depths of the earth. @@ -65,3 +102,4 @@ They will land in the pit 18. "O Egypt, to which of the trees of Eden will you compare your strength and glory? You, too, will be brought down to the depths with all these other nations. You will lie there among the outcasts who have died by the sword. This will be the fate of Pharaoh and all his hordes. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_32.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_32.md index 217770bb..8fa58435 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_32.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_32.md @@ -4,66 +4,102 @@ A Warning for Pharaoh 1. On March 3, during the twelfth year of King Jehoiachin's captivity, this message came to me from the LORD: 2. "Son of man, mourn for Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and give him this message: "You think of yourself as a strong young lion among the nations, - but you are really just a sea monster, + +but you are really just a sea monster, heaving around in your own rivers, - stirring up mud with your feet. + +stirring up mud with your feet. + 3. Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will send many people - to catch you in my net - and haul you out of the water. + +to catch you in my net + +and haul you out of the water. + 4. I will leave you stranded on the land to die. - All the birds of the heavens will land on you, + +All the birds of the heavens will land on you, and the wild animals of the whole earth - will gorge themselves on you. + +will gorge themselves on you. + 5. I will scatter your flesh on the hills - and fill the valleys with your bones. + +and fill the valleys with your bones. + 6. I will drench the earth with your gushing blood - all the way to the mountains, - filling the ravines to the brim. + +all the way to the mountains, + +filling the ravines to the brim. + 7. When I blot you out, - I will veil the heavens and darken the stars. + +I will veil the heavens and darken the stars. + I will cover the sun with a cloud, - and the moon will not give you its light. + +and the moon will not give you its light. + 8. I will darken the bright stars overhead - and cover your land in darkness. + +and cover your land in darkness. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken! 9. "I will disturb many hearts when I bring news of your downfall to distant nations you have never seen. 10. Yes, I will shock many lands, and their kings will be terrified at your fate. They will shudder in fear for their lives as I brandish my sword before them on the day of your fall. 11. For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "The sword of the king of Babylon - will come against you. + +will come against you. + 12. I will destroy your hordes with the swords of mighty warriors-- - the terror of the nations. + +the terror of the nations. + They will shatter the pride of Egypt, - and all its hordes will be destroyed. + +and all its hordes will be destroyed. + 13. I will destroy all your flocks and herds - that graze beside the streams. + +that graze beside the streams. + Never again will people or animals - muddy those waters with their feet. + +muddy those waters with their feet. + 14. Then I will let the waters of Egypt become calm again, - and they will flow as smoothly as olive oil, + +and they will flow as smoothly as olive oil, says the Sovereign LORD. 15. And when I destroy Egypt - and strip you of everything you own + +and strip you of everything you own and strike down all your people, then you will know that I am the LORD. 16. Yes, this is the funeral song - they will sing for Egypt. + +they will sing for Egypt. + Let all the nations mourn. - Let them mourn for Egypt and its hordes. - I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!"Egypt Falls into the Pit + +Let them mourn for Egypt and its hordes. + I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" +Egypt Falls into the Pit + 17. On March 17, during the twelfth year, another message came to me from the LORD: 18. "Son of man, weep for the hordes of Egypt and for the other mighty nations. For I will send them down to the world below in company with those who descend to the pit. @@ -93,3 +129,4 @@ Let all the nations mourn. 32. Although I have caused his terror to fall upon all the living, Pharaoh and his hordes will lie there among the outcasts who were slaughtered by the sword. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_33.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_33.md index 79cdfdd0..2453d55f 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_33.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_33.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ Ezekiel as Israel's Watchman 7. "Now, son of man, I am making you a watchman for the people of Israel. Therefore, listen to what I say and warn them for me. 8. If I announce that some wicked people are sure to die and you fail to tell them to change their ways, then they will die in their sins, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths. -9. But if you warn them to repent and they don't repent, they will die in their sins, but you will have saved yourself.The Watchman's Message +9. But if you warn them to repent and they don't repent, they will die in their sins, but you will have saved yourself. + +The Watchman's Message + 10. "Son of man, give the people of Israel this message: You are saying, 'Our sins are heavy upon us; we are wasting away! How can we survive?' 11. As surely as I live, says the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die? @@ -24,7 +27,9 @@ Ezekiel as Israel's Watchman 17. "Your people are saying, 'The Lord isn't doing what's right,' but it is they who are not doing what's right. 18. For again I say, when righteous people turn away from their righteous behavior and turn to evil, they will die. 19. But if wicked people turn from their wickedness and do what is just and right, they will live. -20. O people of Israel, you are saying, 'The Lord isn't doing what's right.' But I judge each of you according to your deeds."Explanation of Jerusalem's Fall +20. O people of Israel, you are saying, 'The Lord isn't doing what's right.' But I judge each of you according to your deeds." +Explanation of Jerusalem's Fall + 21. On January 8, during the twelfth year of our captivity, a survivor from Jerusalem came to me and said, "The city has fallen!" 22. The previous evening the LORD had taken hold of me and given me back my voice. So I was able to speak when this man arrived the next morning. @@ -44,3 +49,4 @@ Ezekiel as Israel's Watchman 33. But when all these terrible things happen to them--as they certainly will--then they will know a prophet has been among them." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_34.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_34.md index 3c678fe7..9879a82d 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_34.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_34.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ The Shepherds of Israel 7. "Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD: 8. As surely as I live, says the Sovereign LORD, you abandoned my flock and left them to be attacked by every wild animal. And though you were my shepherds, you didn't search for my sheep when they were lost. You took care of yourselves and left the sheep to starve. 9. Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD. -10. This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I now consider these shepherds my enemies, and I will hold them responsible for what has happened to my flock. I will take away their right to feed the flock, and I will stop them from feeding themselves. I will rescue my flock from their mouths; the sheep will no longer be their prey.The Good Shepherd +10. This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I now consider these shepherds my enemies, and I will hold them responsible for what has happened to my flock. I will take away their right to feed the flock, and I will stop them from feeding themselves. I will rescue my flock from their mouths; the sheep will no longer be their prey. + +The Good Shepherd + 11. "For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search and find my sheep. 12. I will be like a shepherd looking for his scattered flock. I will find my sheep and rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on that dark and cloudy day. @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ The Shepherds of Israel 31. You are my flock, the sheep of my pasture. You are my people, and I am your God. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_35.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_35.md index 5f8cae7d..78cead0e 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_35.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_35.md @@ -5,11 +5,15 @@ A Message for Edom 2. "Son of man, turn and face Mount Seir, and prophesy against its people. 3. Give them this message from the Sovereign LORD: "I am your enemy, O Mount Seir, - and I will raise my fist against you - to destroy you completely. + +and I will raise my fist against you + +to destroy you completely. + 4. I will demolish your cities - and make you desolate. + +and make you desolate. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 5. "Your eternal hatred for the people of Israel led you to butcher them when they were helpless, when I had already punished them for all their sins. @@ -27,3 +31,4 @@ Then you will know that I am the LORD. 15. You rejoiced at the desolation of Israel's territory. Now I will rejoice at yours! You will be wiped out, you people of Mount Seir and all who live in Edom! Then you will know that I am the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_36.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_36.md index b51e8759..0f830e51 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_36.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_36.md @@ -50,3 +50,4 @@ Restoration for Israel 38. They will be as numerous as the sacred flocks that fill Jerusalem's streets at the time of her festivals. The ruined cities will be crowded with people once more, and everyone will know that I am the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_37.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_37.md index 23988a5b..026f0d36 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_37.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_37.md @@ -20,7 +20,9 @@ A Valley of Dry Bones 11. Then he said to me, "Son of man, these bones represent the people of Israel. They are saying, 'We have become old, dry bones--all hope is gone. Our nation is finished.' 12. Therefore, prophesy to them and say, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: O my people, I will open your graves of exile and cause you to rise again. Then I will bring you back to the land of Israel. 13. When this happens, O my people, you will know that I am the LORD. -14. I will put my Spirit in you, and you will live again and return home to your own land. Then you will know that I, the LORD, have spoken, and I have done what I said. Yes, the LORD has spoken!'"Reunion of Israel and Judah +14. I will put my Spirit in you, and you will live again and return home to your own land. Then you will know that I, the LORD, have spoken, and I have done what I said. Yes, the LORD has spoken!'" +Reunion of Israel and Judah + 15. Again a message came to me from the LORD: 16. "Son of man, take a piece of wood and carve on it these words: 'This represents Judah and its allied tribes.' Then take another piece and carve these words on it: 'This represents Ephraim and the northern tribes of Israel.' @@ -40,3 +42,4 @@ A Valley of Dry Bones 28. And when my Temple is among them forever, the nations will know that I am the LORD, who makes Israel holy." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_38.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_38.md index a0603302..09a75d7b 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_38.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_38.md @@ -30,3 +30,4 @@ A Message for Gog 23. In this way, I will show my greatness and holiness, and I will make myself known to all the nations of the world. Then they will know that I am the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_39.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_39.md index c00220ff..797ade57 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_39.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_39.md @@ -30,7 +30,10 @@ The Slaughter of Gog's Hordes 21. "In this way, I will demonstrate my glory to the nations. Everyone will see the punishment I have inflicted on them and the power of my fist when I strike. 22. And from that time on the people of Israel will know that I am the LORD their God. 23. The nations will then know why Israel was sent away to exile--it was punishment for sin, for they were unfaithful to their God. Therefore, I turned away from them and let their enemies destroy them. -24. I turned my face away and punished them because of their defilement and their sins.Restoration for God's People +24. I turned my face away and punished them because of their defilement and their sins. + +Restoration for God's People + 25. "So now, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will end the captivity of my people; I will have mercy on all Israel, for I jealously guard my holy reputation! 26. They will accept responsibility for their past shame and unfaithfulness after they come home to live in peace in their own land, with no one to bother them. @@ -39,3 +42,4 @@ The Slaughter of Gog's Hordes 29. And I will never again turn my face from them, for I will pour out my Spirit upon the people of Israel. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_40.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_40.md index ebdf0985..745d5228 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_40.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_40.md @@ -5,7 +5,9 @@ The New Temple Area 2. In a vision from God he took me to the land of Israel and set me down on a very high mountain. From there I could see toward the south what appeared to be a city. 3. As he brought me nearer, I saw a man whose face shone like bronze standing beside a gateway entrance. He was holding in his hand a linen measuring cord and a measuring rod. -4. He said to me, "Son of man, watch and listen. Pay close attention to everything I show you. You have been brought here so I can show you many things. Then you will return to the people of Israel and tell them everything you have seen."The East Gateway +4. He said to me, "Son of man, watch and listen. Pay close attention to everything I show you. You have been brought here so I can show you many things. Then you will return to the people of Israel and tell them everything you have seen." +The East Gateway + 5. I could see a wall completely surrounding the Temple area. The man took a measuring rod that was 10 1/2 feet long and measured the wall, and the wall was 10 1/2 feet thick and 10 1/2 feet high. @@ -21,21 +23,33 @@ The New Temple Area 13. Then he measured the entire width of the gateway, measuring the distance between the back walls of facing guard alcoves; this distance was 43 3/4 feet. 14. He measured the dividing walls all along the inside of the gateway up to the entry room of the gateway; this distance was 105 feet. 15. The full length of the gateway passage was 87 1/2 feet from one end to the other. -16. There were recessed windows that narrowed inward through the walls of the guard alcoves and their dividing walls. There were also windows in the entry room. The surfaces of the dividing walls were decorated with carved palm trees.The Outer Courtyard +16. There were recessed windows that narrowed inward through the walls of the guard alcoves and their dividing walls. There were also windows in the entry room. The surfaces of the dividing walls were decorated with carved palm trees. + +The Outer Courtyard + 17. Then the man brought me through the gateway into the outer courtyard of the Temple. A stone pavement ran along the walls of the courtyard, and thirty rooms were built against the walls, opening onto the pavement. 18. This pavement flanked the gates and extended out from the walls into the courtyard the same distance as the gateway entrance. This was the lower pavement. -19. Then the man measured across the Temple's outer courtyard between the outer and inner gateways; the distance was 175 feet.The North Gateway +19. Then the man measured across the Temple's outer courtyard between the outer and inner gateways; the distance was 175 feet. + +The North Gateway + 20. The man measured the gateway on the north just like the one on the east. 21. Here, too, there were three guard alcoves on each side, with dividing walls and an entry room. All the measurements matched those of the east gateway. The gateway passage was 87 1/2 feet long and 43 3/4 feet wide between the back walls of facing guard alcoves. 22. The windows, the entry room, and the palm tree decorations were identical to those in the east gateway. There were seven steps leading up to the gateway entrance, and the entry room was at the inner end of the gateway passage. -23. Here on the north side, just as on the east, there was another gateway leading to the Temple's inner courtyard directly opposite this outer gateway. The distance between the two gateways was 175 feet.The South Gateway +23. Here on the north side, just as on the east, there was another gateway leading to the Temple's inner courtyard directly opposite this outer gateway. The distance between the two gateways was 175 feet. + +The South Gateway + 24. Then the man took me around to the south gateway and measured its various parts, and they were exactly the same as in the others. 25. It had windows along the walls as the others did, and there was an entry room where the gateway passage opened into the outer courtyard. And like the others, the gateway passage was 87 1/2 feet long and 43 3/4 feet wide between the back walls of facing guard alcoves. 26. This gateway also had a stairway of seven steps leading up to it, and an entry room at the inner end, and palm tree decorations along the dividing walls. -27. And here again, directly opposite the outer gateway, was another gateway that led into the inner courtyard. The distance between the two gateways was 175 feet.Gateways to the Inner Courtyard +27. And here again, directly opposite the outer gateway, was another gateway that led into the inner courtyard. The distance between the two gateways was 175 feet. + +Gateways to the Inner Courtyard + 28. Then the man took me to the south gateway leading into the inner courtyard. He measured it, and it had the same measurements as the other gateways. 29. Its guard alcoves, dividing walls, and entry room were the same size as those in the others. It also had windows along its walls and in the entry room. And like the others, the gateway passage was 87 1/2 feet long and 43 3/4 feet wide. @@ -48,21 +62,30 @@ The New Temple Area 35. Then he took me around to the north gateway leading to the inner courtyard. He measured it, and it had the same measurements as the other gateways. 36. The guard alcoves, dividing walls, and entry room of this gateway had the same measurements as in the others and the same window arrangements. The gateway passage measured 87 1/2 feet long and 43 3/4 feet wide. -37. Its entry room faced into the outer courtyard, and it had palm tree decorations on the columns. There were eight steps leading to its entrance.Rooms for Preparing Sacrifices +37. Its entry room faced into the outer courtyard, and it had palm tree decorations on the columns. There were eight steps leading to its entrance. + +Rooms for Preparing Sacrifices + 38. A door led from the entry room of one of the inner gateways into a side room, where the meat for sacrifices was washed. 39. On each side of this entry room were two tables, where the sacrificial animals were slaughtered for the burnt offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings. 40. Outside the entry room, on each side of the stairs going up to the north entrance, were two more tables. 41. So there were eight tables in all--four inside and four outside--where the sacrifices were cut up and prepared. 42. There were also four tables of finished stone for preparation of the burnt offerings, each 31 1/2 inches square and 21 inches high. On these tables were placed the butchering knives and other implements for slaughtering the sacrificial animals. -43. There were hooks, each 3 inches long, fastened all around the foyer walls. The sacrificial meat was laid on the tables.Rooms for the Priests +43. There were hooks, each 3 inches long, fastened all around the foyer walls. The sacrificial meat was laid on the tables. + +Rooms for the Priests + 44. Inside the inner courtyard were two rooms, one beside the north gateway, facing south, and the other beside the south gateway, facing north. 45. And the man said to me, "The room beside the north inner gate is for the priests who supervise the Temple maintenance. -46. The room beside the south inner gate is for the priests in charge of the altar--the descendants of Zadok--for they alone of all the Levites may approach the LORD to minister to him."The Inner Courtyard and Temple +46. The room beside the south inner gate is for the priests in charge of the altar--the descendants of Zadok--for they alone of all the Levites may approach the LORD to minister to him." +The Inner Courtyard and Temple + 47. Then the man measured the inner courtyard, and it was a square, 175 feet wide and 175 feet across. The altar stood in the courtyard in front of the Temple. 48. Then he brought me to the entry room of the Temple. He measured the walls on either side of the opening to the entry room, and they were 8 3/4 feet thick. The entrance itself was 24 1/2 feet wide, and the walls on each side of the entrance were an additional 5 1/4 feet long. 49. The entry room was 35 feet wide and 21 feet deep. There were ten steps leading up to it, with a column on each side. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_41.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_41.md index 2aa23785..7048e95f 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_41.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_41.md @@ -18,7 +18,9 @@ 13. Then the man measured the Temple, and it was 175 feet long. The courtyard around the building, including its walls, was an additional 175 feet in length. 14. The inner courtyard to the east of the Temple was also 175 feet wide. 15. The building to the west, including its two walls, was also 175 feet wide. + The sanctuary, the inner room, and the entry room of the Temple + 16. were all paneled with wood, as were the frames of the recessed windows. The inner walls of the Temple were paneled with wood above and below the windows. 17. The space above the door leading into the inner room, and its walls inside and out, were also paneled. 18. All the walls were decorated with carvings of cherubim, each with two faces, and there was a carving of a palm tree between each of the cherubim. @@ -34,3 +36,4 @@ The sanctuary, the inner room, and the entry room of the Temple 26. On both sides of the entry room were recessed windows decorated with carved palm trees. The side rooms along the outside wall also had roofs. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_42.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_42.md index aaea1051..ab9e4f4c 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_42.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_42.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ Rooms for the Priests 20. So the area was 875 feet on each side with a wall all around it to separate what was holy from what was common. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_43.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_43.md index 04ba33d6..19bca843 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_43.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_43.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ The LORD's Glory Returns 10. "Son of man, describe to the people of Israel the Temple I have shown you, so they will be ashamed of all their sins. Let them study its plan, 11. and they will be ashamed of what they have done. Describe to them all the specifications of the Temple--including its entrances and exits--and everything else about it. Tell them about its decrees and laws. Write down all these specifications and decrees as they watch so they will be sure to remember and follow them. -12. And this is the basic law of the Temple: absolute holiness! The entire top of the mountain where the Temple is built is holy. Yes, this is the basic law of the Temple.The Altar +12. And this is the basic law of the Temple: absolute holiness! The entire top of the mountain where the Temple is built is holy. Yes, this is the basic law of the Temple. + +The Altar + 13. "These are the measurements of the altar: There is a gutter all around the altar 21 inches deep and 21 inches wide, with a curb 9 inches wide around its edge. And this is the height of the altar: 14. From the gutter the altar rises 3 1/2 feet to a lower ledge that surrounds the altar and is 21 inches wide. From the lower ledge the altar rises 7 feet to the upper ledge that is also 21 inches wide. @@ -36,3 +39,4 @@ The LORD's Glory Returns 27. On the eighth day, and on each day afterward, the priests will sacrifice on the altar the burnt offerings and peace offerings of the people. Then I will accept you. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_44.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_44.md index bdc382ef..6dc65d52 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_44.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_44.md @@ -43,3 +43,4 @@ The Prince, Levites, and Priests 31. The priests may not eat meat from any bird or animal that dies a natural death or that dies after being attacked by another animal. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_45.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_45.md index 7760b7f5..06616aaa 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_45.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_45.md @@ -10,12 +10,18 @@ Division of the Land 6. "Adjacent to the larger sacred area will be a section of land 8 1/3 miles long and 1 2/3 miles wide. This will be set aside for a city where anyone in Israel can live. 7. "Two special sections of land will be set apart for the prince. One section will share a border with the east side of the sacred lands and city, and the second section will share a border on the west side. Then the far eastern and western borders of the prince's lands will line up with the eastern and western boundaries of the tribal areas. -8. These sections of land will be the prince's allotment. Then my princes will no longer oppress and rob my people; they will assign the rest of the land to the people, giving an allotment to each tribe.Rules for the Princes +8. These sections of land will be the prince's allotment. Then my princes will no longer oppress and rob my people; they will assign the rest of the land to the people, giving an allotment to each tribe. + +Rules for the Princes + 9. "For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: Enough, you princes of Israel! Stop your violence and oppression and do what is just and right. Quit robbing and cheating my people out of their land. Stop expelling them from their homes, says the Sovereign LORD. 10. Use only honest weights and scales and honest measures, both dry and liquid. 11. The homer will be your standard unit for measuring volume. The ephah and the bath will each measure one-tenth of a homer. -12. The standard unit for weight will be the silver shekel. One shekel will consist of twenty gerahs, and sixty shekels will be equal to one mina.Special Offerings and Celebrations +12. The standard unit for weight will be the silver shekel. One shekel will consist of twenty gerahs, and sixty shekels will be equal to one mina. + +Special Offerings and Celebrations + 13. "You must give this tax to the prince: one bushel of wheat or barley for every 60 you harvest, 14. one percent of your olive oil, @@ -35,3 +41,4 @@ Division of the Land 25. "During the seven days of the Festival of Shelters, which occurs every year in early autumn, the prince will provide these same sacrifices for the sin offering, the burnt offering, and the grain offering, along with the required olive oil. + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_46.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_46.md index 7a194ce5..15475b99 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_46.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_46.md @@ -21,7 +21,9 @@ 16. "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: If the prince gives a gift of land to one of his sons as his inheritance, it will belong to him and his descendants forever. 17. But if the prince gives a gift of land from his inheritance to one of his servants, the servant may keep it only until the Year of Jubilee, which comes every fiftieth year. At that time the land will return to the prince. But when the prince gives gifts to his sons, those gifts will be permanent. -18. And the prince may never take anyone's property by force. If he gives property to his sons, it must be from his own land, for I do not want any of my people unjustly evicted from their property."The Temple Kitchens +18. And the prince may never take anyone's property by force. If he gives property to his sons, it must be from his own land, for I do not want any of my people unjustly evicted from their property." +The Temple Kitchens + 19. In my vision, the man brought me through the entrance beside the gateway and led me to the sacred rooms assigned to the priests, which faced toward the north. He showed me a place at the extreme west end of these rooms. 20. He explained, "This is where the priests will cook the meat from the guilt offerings and sin offerings and bake the flour from the grain offerings into bread. They will do it here to avoid carrying the sacrifices through the outer courtyard and endangering the people by transmitting holiness to them." @@ -32,3 +34,4 @@ 24. The man said to me, "These are the kitchens to be used by the Temple assistants to boil the sacrifices offered by the people." + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_47.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_47.md index 5d93f9dc..2d212ddf 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_47.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_47.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ The River of Healing 9. There will be swarms of living things wherever the water of this river flows. Fish will abound in the Dead Sea, for its waters will become fresh. Life will flourish wherever this water flows. 10. Fishermen will stand along the shores of the Dead Sea. All the way from En-gedi to En-eglaim, the shores will be covered with nets drying in the sun. Fish of every kind will fill the Dead Sea, just as they fill the Mediterranean. 11. But the marshes and swamps will not be purified; they will still be salty. -12. Fruit trees of all kinds will grow along both sides of the river. The leaves of these trees will never turn brown and fall, and there will always be fruit on their branches. There will be a new crop every month, for they are watered by the river flowing from the Temple. The fruit will be for food and the leaves for healing."Boundaries for the Land +12. Fruit trees of all kinds will grow along both sides of the river. The leaves of these trees will never turn brown and fall, and there will always be fruit on their branches. There will be a new crop every month, for they are watered by the river flowing from the Temple. The fruit will be for food and the leaves for healing." +Boundaries for the Land + 13. This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "Divide the land in this way for the twelve tribes of Israel: The descendants of Joseph will be given two shares of land. 14. Otherwise each tribe will receive an equal share. I took a solemn oath and swore that I would give this land to your ancestors, and it will now come to you as your possession. @@ -34,3 +36,4 @@ The River of Healing 23. These foreigners are to be given land within the territory of the tribe with whom they now live. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken! + diff --git a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_48.md b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_48.md index 78782821..5b3fc968 100644 --- a/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_48.md +++ b/NLT/26_Ezekiel/Chapter_48.md @@ -38,7 +38,9 @@ Division of the Land 27. The territory of Gad is just south of Zebulun with the same borders to the east and west. 28. The southern border of Gad runs from Tamar to the waters of Meribah at Kadesh and then follows the Brook of Egypt to the Mediterranean. -29. "These are the allotments that will be set aside for each tribe's exclusive possession. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!The Gates of the City +29. "These are the allotments that will be set aside for each tribe's exclusive possession. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken! +The Gates of the City + 30. "These will be the exits to the city: On the north wall, which is 1 1/2 miles long, 31. there will be three gates, each one named after a tribe of Israel. The first will be named for Reuben, the second for Judah, and the third for Levi. @@ -49,3 +51,4 @@ Division of the Land 35. "The distance around the entire city will be 6 miles. And from that day the name of the city will be 'The LORD Is There.'" + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_01.md index 75233ae7..ba5417f8 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_01.md @@ -11,10 +11,14 @@ Daniel in Nebuchadnezzar's Court 6. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were four of the young men chosen, all from the tribe of Judah. 7. The chief of staff renamed them with these Babylonian names: Daniel was called Belteshazzar. + Hananiah was called Shadrach. + Mishael was called Meshach. + Azariah was called Abednego. + 8. But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. 9. Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel. 10. But he responded, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded." @@ -36,3 +40,4 @@ Azariah was called Abednego. 21. Daniel remained in the royal service until the first year of the reign of King Cyrus. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_02.md index e7a8d334..2cf5b9ab 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_02.md @@ -30,21 +30,35 @@ Nebuchadnezzar's Dream 19. That night the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven. 20. He said, "Praise the name of God forever and ever, - for he has all wisdom and power. + +for he has all wisdom and power. + 21. He controls the course of world events; - he removes kings and sets up other kings. + +he removes kings and sets up other kings. + He gives wisdom to the wise - and knowledge to the scholars. + +and knowledge to the scholars. + 22. He reveals deep and mysterious things - and knows what lies hidden in darkness, - though he is surrounded by light. + +and knows what lies hidden in darkness, + +though he is surrounded by light. + 23. I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors, - for you have given me wisdom and strength. + +for you have given me wisdom and strength. + You have told me what we asked of you - and revealed to us what the king demanded."Daniel Interprets the Dream + +and revealed to us what the king demanded." +Daniel Interprets the Dream + 24. Then Daniel went in to see Arioch, whom the king had ordered to execute the wise men of Babylon. Daniel said to him, "Don't kill the wise men. Take me to the king, and I will tell him the meaning of his dream." @@ -75,7 +89,9 @@ You have told me what we asked of you 43. This mixture of iron and clay also shows that these kingdoms will try to strengthen themselves by forming alliances with each other through intermarriage. But they will not hold together, just as iron and clay do not mix. 44. "During the reigns of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed or conquered. It will crush all these kingdoms into nothingness, and it will stand forever. -45. That is the meaning of the rock cut from the mountain, though not by human hands, that crushed to pieces the statue of iron, bronze, clay, silver, and gold. The great God was showing the king what will happen in the future. The dream is true, and its meaning is certain."Nebuchadnezzar Rewards Daniel +45. That is the meaning of the rock cut from the mountain, though not by human hands, that crushed to pieces the statue of iron, bronze, clay, silver, and gold. The great God was showing the king what will happen in the future. The dream is true, and its meaning is certain." +Nebuchadnezzar Rewards Daniel + 46. Then King Nebuchadnezzar threw himself down before Daniel and worshiped him, and he commanded his people to offer sacrifices and burn sweet incense before him. 47. The king said to Daniel, "Truly, your God is the greatest of gods, the Lord over kings, a revealer of mysteries, for you have been able to reveal this secret." @@ -84,3 +100,4 @@ You have told me what we asked of you 49. At Daniel's request, the king appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to be in charge of all the affairs of the province of Babylon, while Daniel remained in the king's court. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_03.md index 2c607261..078dfb77 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_03.md @@ -23,7 +23,9 @@ Nebuchadnezzar's Gold Statue 16. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. 17. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. -18. But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up."The Blazing Furnace +18. But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up." +The Blazing Furnace + 19. Nebuchadnezzar was so furious with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego that his face became distorted with rage. He commanded that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than usual. 20. Then he ordered some of the strongest men of his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. @@ -34,10 +36,12 @@ Nebuchadnezzar's Gold Statue 24. But suddenly, Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in amazement and exclaimed to his advisers, "Didn't we tie up three men and throw them into the furnace?" "Yes, Your Majesty, we certainly did," they replied. + 25. "Look!" Nebuchadnezzar shouted. "I see four men, unbound, walking around in the fire unharmed! And the fourth looks like a god!" 26. Then Nebuchadnezzar came as close as he could to the door of the flaming furnace and shouted: "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!" So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stepped out of the fire. + 27. Then the high officers, officials, governors, and advisers crowded around them and saw that the fire had not touched them. Not a hair on their heads was singed, and their clothing was not scorched. They didn't even smell of smoke! 28. Then Nebuchadnezzar said, "Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king's command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. @@ -46,3 +50,4 @@ So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stepped out of the fire. 30. Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to even higher positions in the province of Babylon. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_04.md index e4556f74..57b48e64 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_04.md @@ -4,12 +4,16 @@ Nebuchadnezzar's Dream about a Tree 1. King Nebuchadnezzar sent this message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world: "Peace and prosperity to you! + 2. "I want you all to know about the miraculous signs and wonders the Most High God has performed for me. 3. How great are his signs, - how powerful his wonders! + +how powerful his wonders! His kingdom will last forever, - his rule through all generations. + +his rule through all generations. + 4. "I, Nebuchadnezzar, was living in my palace in comfort and prosperity. 5. But one night I had a dream that frightened me; I saw visions that terrified me as I lay in my bed. @@ -26,42 +30,65 @@ His kingdom will last forever, 13. "'Then as I lay there dreaming, I saw a messenger, a holy one, coming down from heaven. 14. The messenger shouted, "Cut down the tree and lop off its branches! - Shake off its leaves and scatter its fruit! + +Shake off its leaves and scatter its fruit! Chase the wild animals from its shade - and the birds from its branches. + +and the birds from its branches. + 15. But leave the stump and the roots in the ground, - bound with a band of iron and bronze - and surrounded by tender grass. + +bound with a band of iron and bronze + +and surrounded by tender grass. + Now let him be drenched with the dew of heaven, - and let him live with the wild animals among the plants of the field. + +and let him live with the wild animals among the plants of the field. + 16. For seven periods of time, - let him have the mind of a wild animal - instead of the mind of a human. + +let him have the mind of a wild animal + +instead of the mind of a human. + 17. For this has been decreed by the messengers; - it is commanded by the holy ones, + +it is commanded by the holy ones, so that everyone may know - that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world. -He gives them to anyone he chooses-- - even to the lowliest of people." + +that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world. + +He gives them to anyone he chooses-- + +even to the lowliest of people." + + +18. "'Belteshazzar, that was the dream that I, King Nebuchadnezzar, had. Now tell me what it means, for none of the wise men of my kingdom can do so. But you can tell me because the spirit of the holy gods is in you.' +Daniel Explains the Dream -18. "'Belteshazzar, that was the dream that I, King Nebuchadnezzar, had. Now tell me what it means, for none of the wise men of my kingdom can do so. But you can tell me because the spirit of the holy gods is in you.'Daniel Explains the Dream 19. "Upon hearing this, Daniel (also known as Belteshazzar) was overcome for a time, frightened by the meaning of the dream. Then the king said to him, 'Belteshazzar, don't be alarmed by the dream and what it means.' "Belteshazzar replied, 'I wish the events foreshadowed in this dream would happen to your enemies, my lord, and not to you! + 20. The tree you saw was growing very tall and strong, reaching high into the heavens for all the world to see. 21. It had fresh green leaves and was loaded with fruit for all to eat. Wild animals lived in its shade, and birds nested in its branches. 22. That tree, Your Majesty, is you. For you have grown strong and great; your greatness reaches up to heaven, and your rule to the ends of the earth. -23. "'Then you saw a messenger, a holy one, coming down from heaven and saying, "Cut down the tree and destroy it. But leave the stump and the roots in the ground, bound with a band of iron and bronze and surrounded by tender grass. Let him be drenched with the dew of heaven. Let him live with the animals of the field for seven periods of time." +23. "'Then you saw a messenger, a holy one, coming down from heaven and saying, "Cut down the tree and destroy it. But leave the stump and the roots in the ground, +bound with a band of iron and bronze +and surrounded by tender grass. Let him be drenched with the dew of heaven. Let him live with the animals of the field for seven periods of time." 24. "'This is what the dream means, Your Majesty, and what the Most High has declared will happen to my lord the king. 25. You will be driven from human society, and you will live in the fields with the wild animals. You will eat grass like a cow, and you will be drenched with the dew of heaven. Seven periods of time will pass while you live this way, until you learn that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world and gives them to anyone he chooses. 26. But the stump and roots of the tree were left in the ground. This means that you will receive your kingdom back again when you have learned that heaven rules. -27. "'King Nebuchadnezzar, please accept my advice. Stop sinning and do what is right. Break from your wicked past and be merciful to the poor. Perhaps then you will continue to prosper.'The Dream's Fulfillment +27. "'King Nebuchadnezzar, please accept my advice. Stop sinning and do what is right. Break from your wicked past and be merciful to the poor. Perhaps then you will continue to prosper.' +The Dream's Fulfillment + 28. "But all these things did happen to King Nebuchadnezzar. 29. Twelve months later he was taking a walk on the flat roof of the royal palace in Babylon. @@ -70,22 +97,36 @@ He gives them to anyone he chooses-- 31. "While these words were still in his mouth, a voice called down from heaven, 'O King Nebuchadnezzar, this message is for you! You are no longer ruler of this kingdom. 32. You will be driven from human society. You will live in the fields with the wild animals, and you will eat grass like a cow. Seven periods of time will pass while you live this way, until you learn that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world and gives them to anyone he chooses.' -33. "That same hour the judgment was fulfilled, and Nebuchadnezzar was driven from human society. He ate grass like a cow, and he was drenched with the dew of heaven. He lived this way until his hair was as long as eagles' feathers and his nails were like birds' claws.Nebuchadnezzar Praises God +33. "That same hour the judgment was fulfilled, and Nebuchadnezzar was driven from human society. He ate grass like a cow, and he was drenched with the dew of heaven. He lived this way until his hair was as long as eagles' feathers and his nails were like birds' claws. + +Nebuchadnezzar Praises God + 34. "After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. + His rule is everlasting, - and his kingdom is eternal. + +and his kingdom is eternal. + 35. All the people of the earth - are nothing compared to him. + +are nothing compared to him. + He does as he pleases - among the angels of heaven - and among the people of the earth. + +among the angels of heaven + +and among the people of the earth. + No one can stop him or say to him, - 'What do you mean by doing these things?' + +'What do you mean by doing these things?' + 36. "When my sanity returned to me, so did my honor and glory and kingdom. My advisers and nobles sought me out, and I was restored as head of my kingdom, with even greater honor than before. 37. "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and glorify and honor the King of heaven. All his acts are just and true, and he is able to humble the proud." + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_05.md index 22fa6fe0..be100e0a 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_05.md @@ -16,7 +16,9 @@ The Writing on the Wall 10. But when the queen mother heard what was happening, she hurried to the banquet hall. She said to Belshazzar, "Long live the king! Don't be so pale and frightened. 11. There is a man in your kingdom who has within him the spirit of the holy gods. During Nebuchadnezzar's reign, this man was found to have insight, understanding, and wisdom like that of the gods. Your predecessor, the king--your predecessor King Nebuchadnezzar--made him chief over all the magicians, enchanters, astrologers, and fortune-tellers of Babylon. -12. This man Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar, has exceptional ability and is filled with divine knowledge and understanding. He can interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means."Daniel Explains the Writing +12. This man Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar, has exceptional ability and is filled with divine knowledge and understanding. He can interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means." +Daniel Explains the Writing + 13. So Daniel was brought in before the king. The king asked him, "Are you Daniel, one of the exiles brought from Judah by my predecessor, King Nebuchadnezzar? 14. I have heard that you have the spirit of the gods within you and that you are filled with insight, understanding, and wisdom. @@ -48,3 +50,4 @@ Mene means 'numbered'--God has numbered the days of your reign and has brought i 31. And Darius the Mede took over the kingdom at the age of sixty-two. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_06.md index 765fa6a8..cb37fdb1 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_06.md @@ -18,6 +18,7 @@ Daniel in the Lions' Den 12. So they went straight to the king and reminded him about his law. "Did you not sign a law that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human--except to you, Your Majesty--will be thrown into the den of lions?" "Yes," the king replied, "that decision stands; it is an official law of the Medes and Persians that cannot be revoked." + 13. Then they told the king, "That man Daniel, one of the captives from Judah, is ignoring you and your law. He still prays to his God three times a day." 14. Hearing this, the king was deeply troubled, and he tried to think of a way to save Daniel. He spent the rest of the day looking for a way to get Daniel out of this predicament. @@ -42,18 +43,30 @@ Daniel in the Lions' Den 25. Then King Darius sent this message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world: "Peace and prosperity to you! + 26. "I decree that everyone throughout my kingdom should tremble with fear before the God of Daniel. + For he is the living God, - and he will endure forever. + +and he will endure forever. + His kingdom will never be destroyed, - and his rule will never end. + +and his rule will never end. + 27. He rescues and saves his people; - he performs miraculous signs and wonders - in the heavens and on earth. + +he performs miraculous signs and wonders + +in the heavens and on earth. + He has rescued Daniel - from the power of the lions." + +from the power of the lions." + 28. So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_07.md index 32e15b55..27839360 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_07.md @@ -18,23 +18,37 @@ Daniel's Vision of Four Beasts 9. I watched as thrones were put in place and the Ancient One sat down to judge. + His clothing was as white as snow, - his hair like purest wool. + +his hair like purest wool. + He sat on a fiery throne - with wheels of blazing fire, + +with wheels of blazing fire, + 10. and a river of fire was pouring out, - flowing from his presence. + +flowing from his presence. + Millions of angels ministered to him; - many millions stood to attend him. + +many millions stood to attend him. + Then the court began its session, - and the books were opened. + +and the books were opened. + 11. I continued to watch because I could hear the little horn's boastful speech. I kept watching until the fourth beast was killed and its body was destroyed by fire. 12. The other three beasts had their authority taken from them, but they were allowed to live a while longer. 13. As my vision continued that night, I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. -14. He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal--it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed.The Vision Is Explained +14. He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal--it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed. + +The Vision Is Explained + 15. I, Daniel, was troubled by all I had seen, and my visions terrified me. 16. So I approached one of those standing beside the throne and asked him what it all meant. He explained it to me like this: @@ -56,3 +70,4 @@ Then the court began its session, 28. That was the end of the vision. I, Daniel, was terrified by my thoughts and my face was pale with fear, but I kept these things to myself. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_08.md index 82d0bc73..d2a3dcef 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_08.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ Daniel's Vision of a Ram and Goat 13. Then I heard two holy ones talking to each other. One of them asked, "How long will the events of this vision last? How long will the rebellion that causes desecration stop the daily sacrifices? How long will the Temple and heaven's army be trampled on?" -14. The other replied, "It will take 2,300 evenings and mornings; then the Temple will be made right again."Gabriel Explains the Vision +14. The other replied, "It will take 2,300 evenings and mornings; then the Temple will be made right again." +Gabriel Explains the Vision + 15. As I, Daniel, was trying to understand the meaning of this vision, someone who looked like a man stood in front of me. 16. And I heard a human voice calling out from the Ulai River, "Gabriel, tell this man the meaning of his vision." @@ -42,3 +44,4 @@ Daniel's Vision of a Ram and Goat 27. Then I, Daniel, was overcome and lay sick for several days. Afterward I got up and performed my duties for the king, but I was greatly troubled by the vision and could not understand it. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_09.md index 6b99eb6b..3e749af8 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_09.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ Daniel's Prayer for His People 4. I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: "O Lord, you are a great and awesome God! You always fulfill your covenant and keep your promises of unfailing love to those who love you and obey your commands. + 5. But we have sinned and done wrong. We have rebelled against you and scorned your commands and regulations. 6. We have refused to listen to your servants the prophets, who spoke on your authority to our kings and princes and ancestors and to all the people of the land. @@ -15,7 +16,9 @@ Daniel's Prayer for His People 9. But the Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him. 10. We have not obeyed the LORD our God, for we have not followed the instructions he gave us through his servants the prophets. 11. All Israel has disobeyed your instruction and turned away, refusing to listen to your voice. + "So now the solemn curses and judgments written in the Law of Moses, the servant of God, have been poured down on us because of our sin. + 12. You have kept your word and done to us and our rulers exactly as you warned. Never has there been such a disaster as happened in Jerusalem. 13. Every curse written against us in the Law of Moses has come true. Yet we have refused to seek mercy from the LORD our God by turning from our sins and recognizing his truth. 14. Therefore, the LORD has brought upon us the disaster he prepared. The LORD our God was right to do all of these things, for we did not obey him. @@ -27,7 +30,9 @@ Daniel's Prayer for His People 18. "O my God, lean down and listen to me. Open your eyes and see our despair. See how your city--the city that bears your name--lies in ruins. We make this plea, not because we deserve help, but because of your mercy. -19. "O Lord, hear. O Lord, forgive. O Lord, listen and act! For your own sake, do not delay, O my God, for your people and your city bear your name."Gabriel's Message about the Anointed One +19. "O Lord, hear. O Lord, forgive. O Lord, listen and act! For your own sake, do not delay, O my God, for your people and your city bear your name." +Gabriel's Message about the Anointed One + 20. I went on praying and confessing my sin and the sin of my people, pleading with the LORD my God for Jerusalem, his holy mountain. 21. As I was praying, Gabriel, whom I had seen in the earlier vision, came swiftly to me at the time of the evening sacrifice. @@ -41,3 +46,4 @@ Daniel's Prayer for His People 27. The ruler will make a treaty with the people for a period of one set of seven, but after half this time, he will put an end to the sacrifices and offerings. And as a climax to all his terrible deeds, he will set up a sacrilegious object that causes desecration, until the fate decreed for this defiler is finally poured out on him." + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_10.md index eab1358e..49a00d19 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_10.md @@ -29,7 +29,9 @@ Daniel's Vision of a Messenger 19. "Don't be afraid," he said, "for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!" As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, "Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me." + 20. He replied, "Do you know why I have come? Soon I must return to fight against the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia, and after that the spirit prince of the kingdom of Greece will come. 21. Meanwhile, I will tell you what is written in the Book of Truth. (No one helps me against these spirit princes except Michael, your spirit prince. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_11.md index 21e831b6..4fbc89d1 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_11.md @@ -1,6 +1,8 @@ # Chapter 11 1. -1. I have been standing beside Michael to support and strengthen him since the first year of the reign of Darius the Mede.)Kings of the South and North +1. I have been standing beside Michael to support and strengthen him since the first year of the reign of Darius the Mede.) +Kings of the South and North + 2. "Now then, I will reveal the truth to you. Three more Persian kings will reign, to be succeeded by a fourth, far richer than the others. He will use his wealth to stir up everyone to fight against the kingdom of Greece. @@ -66,3 +68,4 @@ 45. He will stop between the glorious holy mountain and the sea and will pitch his royal tents. But while he is there, his time will suddenly run out, and no one will help him. + diff --git a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_12.md index 15b8661d..336ea1de 100644 --- a/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/27_Daniel/Chapter_12.md @@ -22,3 +22,4 @@ The Time of the End 13. "As for you, go your way until the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days, you will rise again to receive the inheritance set aside for you." + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_01.md index 112c0360..daafd211 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,5 +1,8 @@ # Chapter 1 -1. The LORD gave this message to Hosea son of Beeri during the years when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah, and Jeroboam son of Jehoash was king of Israel.Hosea's Wife and Children +1. The LORD gave this message to Hosea son of Beeri during the years when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah, and Jeroboam son of Jehoash was king of Israel. + +Hosea's Wife and Children + 2. When the LORD first began speaking to Israel through Hosea, he said to him, "Go and marry a prostitute, so that some of her children will be conceived in prostitution. This will illustrate how Israel has acted like a prostitute by turning against the LORD and worshiping other gods." @@ -17,3 +20,4 @@ 11. Then the people of Judah and Israel will unite together. They will choose one leader for themselves, and they will return from exile together. What a day that will be--the day of Jezreel--when God will again plant his people in his land. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_02.md index 4bf04211..521996ef 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,119 +1,194 @@ # Chapter 2 -1. "In that day you will call your brothers Ammi--'My people.' And you will call your sisters Ruhamah--'The ones I love.'Charges against an Unfaithful Wife +1. "In that day you will call your brothers Ammi--'My people.' And you will call your sisters Ruhamah--'The ones I love.' +Charges against an Unfaithful Wife + 2. "But now bring charges against Israel--your mother-- - for she is no longer my wife, - and I am no longer her husband. + +for she is no longer my wife, + +and I am no longer her husband. + Tell her to remove the prostitute's makeup from her face - and the clothing that exposes her breasts. + +and the clothing that exposes her breasts. + 3. Otherwise, I will strip her as naked - as she was on the day she was born. + +as she was on the day she was born. + I will leave her to die of thirst, - as in a dry and barren wilderness. + +as in a dry and barren wilderness. + 4. And I will not love her children, - for they were conceived in prostitution. + +for they were conceived in prostitution. + 5. Their mother is a shameless prostitute - and became pregnant in a shameful way. + +and became pregnant in a shameful way. + She said, 'I'll run after other lovers - and sell myself to them for food and water, + +and sell myself to them for food and water, for clothing of wool and linen, - and for olive oil and drinks.' + +and for olive oil and drinks.' + 6. "For this reason I will fence her in with thornbushes. - I will block her path with a wall - to make her lose her way. + +I will block her path with a wall + +to make her lose her way. + 7. When she runs after her lovers, - she won't be able to catch them. + +she won't be able to catch them. + She will search for them - but not find them. + +but not find them. + Then she will think, 'I might as well return to my husband, - for I was better off with him than I am now.' + +for I was better off with him than I am now.' + 8. She doesn't realize it was I who gave her everything she has-- - the grain, the new wine, the olive oil; + +the grain, the new wine, the olive oil; I even gave her silver and gold. - But she gave all my gifts to Baal. + +But she gave all my gifts to Baal. + 9. "But now I will take back the ripened grain and new wine - I generously provided each harvest season. + +I generously provided each harvest season. + I will take away the wool and linen clothing - I gave her to cover her nakedness. + +I gave her to cover her nakedness. + 10. I will strip her naked in public, - while all her lovers look on. + +while all her lovers look on. + No one will be able - to rescue her from my hands. + +to rescue her from my hands. + 11. I will put an end to her annual festivals, - her new moon celebrations, and her Sabbath days-- - all her appointed festivals. + +her new moon celebrations, and her Sabbath days-- + +all her appointed festivals. + 12. I will destroy her grapevines and fig trees, - things she claims her lovers gave her. + +things she claims her lovers gave her. + I will let them grow into tangled thickets, - where only wild animals will eat the fruit. + +where only wild animals will eat the fruit. + 13. I will punish her for all those times - when she burned incense to her images of Baal, + +when she burned incense to her images of Baal, when she put on her earrings and jewels - and went out to look for her lovers + +and went out to look for her lovers but forgot all about me," says the LORD.The LORD's Love for Unfaithful Israel 14. "But then I will win her back once again. - I will lead her into the desert - and speak tenderly to her there. + +I will lead her into the desert + +and speak tenderly to her there. + 15. I will return her vineyards to her and transform the Valley of Trouble into a gateway of hope. + She will give herself to me there, - as she did long ago when she was young, - when I freed her from her captivity in Egypt. + +as she did long ago when she was young, + +when I freed her from her captivity in Egypt. + 16. When that day comes," says the LORD, - "you will call me 'my husband' + +"you will call me 'my husband' instead of 'my master.' 17. O Israel, I will wipe the many names of Baal from your lips, - and you will never mention them again. + +and you will never mention them again. + 18. On that day I will make a covenant - with all the wild animals and the birds of the sky + +with all the wild animals and the birds of the sky and the animals that scurry along the ground - so they will not harm you. + +so they will not harm you. + I will remove all weapons of war from the land, - all swords and bows, + +all swords and bows, so you can live unafraid - in peace and safety. + +in peace and safety. + 19. I will make you my wife forever, - showing you righteousness and justice, - unfailing love and compassion. + +showing you righteousness and justice, + +unfailing love and compassion. + 20. I will be faithful to you and make you mine, and you will finally know me as the LORD. 21. "In that day, I will answer," says the LORD. + "I will answer the sky as it pleads for clouds. - And the sky will answer the earth with rain. + +And the sky will answer the earth with rain. + 22. Then the earth will answer the thirsty cries - of the grain, the grapevines, and the olive trees. + +of the grain, the grapevines, and the olive trees. + And they in turn will answer, 'Jezreel'--'God plants!' 23. At that time I will plant a crop of Israelites - and raise them for myself. + +and raise them for myself. + I will show love to those I called 'Not loved.' And to those I called 'Not my people,' - I will say, 'Now you are my people.' + +I will say, 'Now you are my people.' And they will reply, 'You are our God!'" + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_03.md index 7f44b007..a7da6f0e 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_03.md @@ -10,3 +10,4 @@ Hosea's Wife Is Redeemed 5. But afterward the people will return and devote themselves to the LORD their God and to David's descendant, their king. In the last days, they will tremble in awe of the LORD and of his goodness. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_04.md index 818c1835..465eeb42 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_04.md @@ -4,92 +4,147 @@ The LORD's Case against Israel 1. Hear the word of the LORD, O people of Israel! The LORD has brought charges against you, saying: "There is no faithfulness, no kindness, - no knowledge of God in your land. + +no knowledge of God in your land. + 2. You make vows and break them; - you kill and steal and commit adultery. + +you kill and steal and commit adultery. + There is violence everywhere-- - one murder after another. + +one murder after another. + 3. That is why your land is in mourning, - and everyone is wasting away. + +and everyone is wasting away. + Even the wild animals, the birds of the sky, - and the fish of the sea are disappearing. + +and the fish of the sea are disappearing. + 4. "Don't point your finger at someone else - and try to pass the blame! + +and try to pass the blame! My complaint, you priests, is with you. 5. So you will stumble in broad daylight, - and your false prophets will fall with you in the night. - And I will destroy Israel, your mother. + +and your false prophets will fall with you in the night. + +And I will destroy Israel, your mother. + 6. My people are being destroyed - because they don't know me. + +because they don't know me. + Since you priests refuse to know me, - I refuse to recognize you as my priests. + +I refuse to recognize you as my priests. + Since you have forgotten the laws of your God, - I will forget to bless your children. + +I will forget to bless your children. + 7. The more priests there are, - the more they sin against me. + +the more they sin against me. + They have exchanged the glory of God for the shame of idols. 8. "When the people bring their sin offerings, the priests get fed. - So the priests are glad when the people sin! + +So the priests are glad when the people sin! + 9. 'And what the priests do, the people also do.' - So now I will punish both priests and people - for their wicked deeds. + +So now I will punish both priests and people + +for their wicked deeds. + 10. They will eat and still be hungry. - They will play the prostitute and gain nothing from it, + +They will play the prostitute and gain nothing from it, for they have deserted the LORD 11. to worship other gods. + "Wine has robbed my people - of their understanding. + +of their understanding. + 12. They ask a piece of wood for advice! - They think a stick can tell them the future! + +They think a stick can tell them the future! Longing after idols - has made them foolish. + +has made them foolish. + They have played the prostitute, - serving other gods and deserting their God. + +serving other gods and deserting their God. + 13. They offer sacrifices to idols on the mountaintops. - They go up into the hills to burn incense - in the pleasant shade of oaks, poplars, and terebinth trees. + +They go up into the hills to burn incense + +in the pleasant shade of oaks, poplars, and terebinth trees. + "That is why your daughters turn to prostitution, - and your daughters-in-law commit adultery. + +and your daughters-in-law commit adultery. + 14. But why should I punish them - for their prostitution and adultery? + +for their prostitution and adultery? For your men are doing the same thing, - sinning with whores and shrine prostitutes. + +sinning with whores and shrine prostitutes. + O foolish people! You refuse to understand, - so you will be destroyed. + +so you will be destroyed. + 15. "Though you, Israel, are a prostitute, - may Judah not be guilty of such things. + +may Judah not be guilty of such things. Do not join the false worship at Gilgal or Beth-aven, and do not take oaths there in the LORD's name. 16. Israel is stubborn, - like a stubborn heifer. + +like a stubborn heifer. So should the LORD feed her - like a lamb in a lush pasture? + +like a lamb in a lush pasture? + 17. Leave Israel alone, - because she is married to idolatry. + +because she is married to idolatry. + 18. When the rulers of Israel finish their drinking, - off they go to find some prostitutes. + +off they go to find some prostitutes. They love shame more than honor. 19. So a mighty wind will sweep them away. - Their sacrifices to idols will bring them shame. + +Their sacrifices to idols will bring them shame. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_05.md index 45831268..945d776a 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_05.md @@ -2,70 +2,111 @@ The Failure of Israel's Leaders # Chapter 5 1. "Hear this, you priests. - Pay attention, you leaders of Israel. + +Pay attention, you leaders of Israel. + Listen, you members of the royal family. - Judgment has been handed down against you. + +Judgment has been handed down against you. + For you have led the people into a snare - by worshiping the idols at Mizpah and Tabor. + +by worshiping the idols at Mizpah and Tabor. + 2. You have dug a deep pit to trap them at Acacia Grove. - But I will settle with you for what you have done. + +But I will settle with you for what you have done. + 3. I know what you are like, O Ephraim. - You cannot hide yourself from me, O Israel. + +You cannot hide yourself from me, O Israel. + You have left me as a prostitute leaves her husband; - you are utterly defiled. + +you are utterly defiled. + 4. Your deeds won't let you return to your God. - You are a prostitute through and through, + +You are a prostitute through and through, and you do not know the LORD. 5. "The arrogance of Israel testifies against her; - Israel and Ephraim will stumble under their load of guilt. - Judah, too, will fall with them. + +Israel and Ephraim will stumble under their load of guilt. + +Judah, too, will fall with them. + 6. When they come with their flocks and herds to offer sacrifices to the LORD, they will not find him, - because he has withdrawn from them. + +because he has withdrawn from them. + 7. They have betrayed the honor of the LORD, - bearing children that are not his. + +bearing children that are not his. + Now their false religion will devour them along with their wealth. 8. "Sound the alarm in Gibeah! - Blow the trumpet in Ramah! + +Blow the trumpet in Ramah! Raise the battle cry in Beth-aven! - Lead on into battle, O warriors of Benjamin! + +Lead on into battle, O warriors of Benjamin! + 9. One thing is certain, Israel: - On your day of punishment, - you will become a heap of rubble. + +On your day of punishment, + +you will become a heap of rubble. + 10. "The leaders of Judah have become like thieves. - So I will pour my anger on them like a waterfall. + +So I will pour my anger on them like a waterfall. + 11. The people of Israel will be crushed and broken by my judgment because they are determined to worship idols. 12. I will destroy Israel as a moth consumes wool. - I will make Judah as weak as rotten wood. + +I will make Judah as weak as rotten wood. + 13. "When Israel and Judah saw how sick they were, - Israel turned to Assyria-- + +Israel turned to Assyria-- to the great king there-- - but he could neither help nor cure them. + +but he could neither help nor cure them. + 14. I will be like a lion to Israel, - like a strong young lion to Judah. - I will tear them to pieces! + +like a strong young lion to Judah. + +I will tear them to pieces! I will carry them off, - and no one will be left to rescue them. + +and no one will be left to rescue them. + 15. Then I will return to my place - until they admit their guilt and turn to me. + +until they admit their guilt and turn to me. + For as soon as trouble comes, - they will earnestly search for me." + +they will earnestly search for me." + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_06.md index 50632d64..a04b04ee 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_06.md @@ -2,48 +2,80 @@ A Call to Repentance # Chapter 6 1. "Come, let us return to the LORD. + He has torn us to pieces; - now he will heal us. + +now he will heal us. + He has injured us; - now he will bandage our wounds. + +now he will bandage our wounds. + 2. In just a short time he will restore us, - so that we may live in his presence. + +so that we may live in his presence. + 3. Oh, that we might know the LORD! - Let us press on to know him. + +Let us press on to know him. + He will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn - or the coming of rains in early spring." + +or the coming of rains in early spring." + 4. "O Israel and Judah, what should I do with you?" asks the LORD. + "For your love vanishes like the morning mist - and disappears like dew in the sunlight. + +and disappears like dew in the sunlight. + 5. I sent my prophets to cut you to pieces-- - to slaughter you with my words, - with judgments as inescapable as light. + +to slaughter you with my words, + +with judgments as inescapable as light. + 6. I want you to show love, - not offer sacrifices. + +not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me - more than I want burnt offerings. + +more than I want burnt offerings. + 7. But like Adam, you broke my covenant - and betrayed my trust. + +and betrayed my trust. + 8. "Gilead is a city of sinners, - tracked with footprints of blood. + +tracked with footprints of blood. + 9. Priests form bands of robbers, - waiting in ambush for their victims. + +waiting in ambush for their victims. + They murder travelers along the road to Shechem - and practice every kind of sin. + +and practice every kind of sin. + 10. Yes, I have seen something horrible in Ephraim and Israel: - My people are defiled by prostituting themselves with other gods! + +My people are defiled by prostituting themselves with other gods! + 11. "O Judah, a harvest of punishment is also waiting for you, - though I wanted to restore the fortunes of my people. + +though I wanted to restore the fortunes of my people. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_07.md index fc984bad..9beb2fbe 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_07.md @@ -2,74 +2,123 @@ Israel's Love for Wickedness # Chapter 7 1. "I want to heal Israel, but its sins are too great. - Samaria is filled with liars. + +Samaria is filled with liars. + Thieves are on the inside - and bandits on the outside! + +and bandits on the outside! + 2. Its people don't realize - that I am watching them. + +that I am watching them. + Their sinful deeds are all around them, - and I see them all. + +and I see them all. + 3. "The people entertain the king with their wickedness, - and the princes laugh at their lies. + +and the princes laugh at their lies. + 4. They are all adulterers, - always aflame with lust. + +always aflame with lust. + They are like an oven that is kept hot - while the baker is kneading the dough. + +while the baker is kneading the dough. + 5. On royal holidays, the princes get drunk with wine, - carousing with those who mock them. + +carousing with those who mock them. + 6. Their hearts are like an oven - blazing with intrigue. + +blazing with intrigue. Their plot smolders through the night, - and in the morning it breaks out like a raging fire. + +and in the morning it breaks out like a raging fire. + 7. Burning like an oven, - they consume their leaders. + +they consume their leaders. + They kill their kings one after another, - and no one cries to me for help. + +and no one cries to me for help. + 8. "The people of Israel mingle with godless foreigners, - making themselves as worthless as a half-baked cake! + +making themselves as worthless as a half-baked cake! + 9. Worshiping foreign gods has sapped their strength, - but they don't even know it. + +but they don't even know it. + Their hair is gray, - but they don't realize they're old and weak. + +but they don't realize they're old and weak. + 10. Their arrogance testifies against them, yet they don't return to the LORD their God - or even try to find him. + +or even try to find him. + 11. "The people of Israel have become like silly, witless doves, - first calling to Egypt, then flying to Assyria for help. + +first calling to Egypt, then flying to Assyria for help. + 12. But as they fly about, - I will throw my net over them + +I will throw my net over them and bring them down like a bird from the sky. I will punish them for all the evil they do. 13. "What sorrow awaits those who have deserted me! - Let them die, for they have rebelled against me. + +Let them die, for they have rebelled against me. + I wanted to redeem them, - but they have told lies about me. + +but they have told lies about me. + 14. They do not cry out to me with sincere hearts. - Instead, they sit on their couches and wail. + +Instead, they sit on their couches and wail. They cut themselves, begging foreign gods for grain and new wine, - and they turn away from me. + +and they turn away from me. + 15. I trained them and made them strong, - yet now they plot evil against me. + +yet now they plot evil against me. + 16. They look everywhere except to the Most High. - They are as useless as a crooked bow. + +They are as useless as a crooked bow. + Their leaders will be killed by their enemies - because of their insolence toward me. + +because of their insolence toward me. + Then the people of Egypt - will laugh at them. + +will laugh at them. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_08.md index d9a6b6f4..0c4e0ae6 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_08.md @@ -4,66 +4,114 @@ Israel Harvests the Whirlwind 1. "Sound the alarm! The enemy descends like an eagle on the people of the LORD, for they have broken my covenant - and revolted against my law. + +and revolted against my law. + 2. Now Israel pleads with me, - 'Help us, for you are our God!' + +' +Help us, for you are our God!' + 3. But it is too late. + The people of Israel have rejected what is good, - and now their enemies will chase after them. + +and now their enemies will chase after them. + 4. The people have appointed kings without my consent, - and princes without my approval. + +and princes without my approval. + By making idols for themselves from their silver and gold, - they have brought about their own destruction. + +they have brought about their own destruction. + 5. "O Samaria, I reject this calf-- - this idol you have made. + +this idol you have made. + My fury burns against you. - How long will you be incapable of innocence? + +How long will you be incapable of innocence? + 6. This calf you worship, O Israel, - was crafted by your own hands! + +was crafted by your own hands! It is not God! - Therefore, it must be smashed to bits. + +Therefore, it must be smashed to bits. + 7. "They have planted the wind - and will harvest the whirlwind. + +and will harvest the whirlwind. + The stalks of grain wither - and produce nothing to eat. + +and produce nothing to eat. + And even if there is any grain, - foreigners will eat it. + +foreigners will eat it. + 8. The people of Israel have been swallowed up; - they lie among the nations like an old discarded pot. + +they lie among the nations like an old discarded pot. + 9. Like a wild donkey looking for a mate, - they have gone up to Assyria. + +they have gone up to Assyria. The people of Israel have sold themselves-- - sold themselves to many lovers. + +sold themselves to many lovers. + 10. But though they have sold themselves to many allies, - I will now gather them together for judgment. + +I will now gather them together for judgment. + Then they will writhe - under the burden of the great king. + +under the burden of the great king. + 11. "Israel has built many altars to take away sin, - but these very altars became places for sinning! + +but these very altars became places for sinning! + 12. Even though I gave them all my laws, - they act as if those laws don't apply to them. + +they act as if those laws don't apply to them. + 13. The people love to offer sacrifices to me, - feasting on the meat, - but I do not accept their sacrifices. + +feasting on the meat, + +but I do not accept their sacrifices. + I will hold my people accountable for their sins, - and I will punish them. - They will return to Egypt. + +and I will punish them. + +They will return to Egypt. + 14. Israel has forgotten its Maker and built great palaces, - and Judah has fortified its cities. + +and Judah has fortified its cities. + Therefore, I will send down fire on their cities - and will burn up their fortresses." + +and will burn up their fortresses." + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_09.md index d11c4200..8e376add 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_09.md @@ -2,23 +2,37 @@ Hosea Announces Israel's Punishment # Chapter 9 1. O people of Israel, - do not rejoice as other nations do. + +do not rejoice as other nations do. + For you have been unfaithful to your God, - hiring yourselves out like prostitutes, - worshiping other gods on every threshing floor. + +hiring yourselves out like prostitutes, + +worshiping other gods on every threshing floor. + 2. So now your harvests will be too small to feed you. - There will be no grapes for making new wine. + +There will be no grapes for making new wine. + 3. You may no longer stay here in the LORD's land. - Instead, you will return to Egypt, + +Instead, you will return to Egypt, and in Assyria you will eat food - that is ceremonially unclean. + +that is ceremonially unclean. + 4. There you will make no offerings of wine to the LORD. - None of your sacrifices there will please him. + +None of your sacrifices there will please him. + They will be unclean, like food touched by a person in mourning. - All who present such sacrifices will be defiled. + +All who present such sacrifices will be defiled. + They may eat this food themselves, but they may not offer it to the LORD. @@ -27,67 +41,118 @@ They may eat this food themselves, 6. Even if you escape destruction from Assyria, Egypt will conquer you, and Memphis will bury you. + Nettles will take over your treasures of silver; - thistles will invade your ruined homes. + +thistles will invade your ruined homes. + 7. The time of Israel's punishment has come; - the day of payment is here. - Soon Israel will know this all too well. + +the day of payment is here. + +Soon Israel will know this all too well. + Because of your great sin and hostility, - you say, "The prophets are crazy - and the inspired men are fools!" + +you say, "The prophets are crazy + +and the inspired men are fools!" + 8. The prophet is a watchman over Israel for my God, - yet traps are laid for him wherever he goes. - He faces hostility even in the house of God. + +yet traps are laid for him wherever he goes. + +He faces hostility even in the house of God. + 9. The things my people do are as depraved - as what they did in Gibeah long ago. + +as what they did in Gibeah long ago. + God will not forget. - He will surely punish them for their sins. + +He will surely punish them for their sins. + 10. The LORD says, "O Israel, when I first found you, - it was like finding fresh grapes in the desert. + +it was like finding fresh grapes in the desert. + When I saw your ancestors, - it was like seeing the first ripe figs of the season. + +it was like seeing the first ripe figs of the season. + But then they deserted me for Baal-peor, - giving themselves to that shameful idol. + +giving themselves to that shameful idol. + Soon they became vile, - as vile as the god they worshiped. + +as vile as the god they worshiped. + 11. The glory of Israel will fly away like a bird, - for your children will not be born + +for your children will not be born or grow in the womb - or even be conceived. + +or even be conceived. + 12. Even if you do have children who grow up, - I will take them from you. + +I will take them from you. + It will be a terrible day when I turn away - and leave you alone. + +and leave you alone. + 13. I have watched Israel become as beautiful as Tyre. - But now Israel will bring out her children for slaughter." + +But now Israel will bring out her children for slaughter." + 14. O LORD, what should I request for your people? - I will ask for wombs that don't give birth - and breasts that give no milk. + +I will ask for wombs that don't give birth + +and breasts that give no milk. + 15. The LORD says, "All their wickedness began at Gilgal; - there I began to hate them. + +there I began to hate them. + I will drive them from my land - because of their evil actions. + +because of their evil actions. + I will love them no more - because all their leaders are rebels. + +because all their leaders are rebels. + 16. The people of Israel are struck down. - Their roots are dried up, - and they will bear no more fruit. + +Their roots are dried up, + +and they will bear no more fruit. + And if they give birth, - I will slaughter their beloved children." + +I will slaughter their beloved children." + 17. My God will reject the people of Israel - because they will not listen or obey. + +because they will not listen or obey. + They will be wanderers, - homeless among the nations. + +homeless among the nations. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_10.md index 312cd16c..379c1158 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_10.md @@ -2,86 +2,143 @@ The LORD's Judgment against Israel # Chapter 10 1. How prosperous Israel is-- - a luxuriant vine loaded with fruit. + +a luxuriant vine loaded with fruit. + But the richer the people get, - the more pagan altars they build. + +the more pagan altars they build. + The more bountiful their harvests, - the more beautiful their sacred pillars. + +the more beautiful their sacred pillars. + 2. The hearts of the people are fickle; - they are guilty and must be punished. + +they are guilty and must be punished. The LORD will break down their altars - and smash their sacred pillars. + +and smash their sacred pillars. + 3. Then they will say, "We have no king because we didn't fear the LORD. + But even if we had a king, - what could he do for us anyway?" + +what could he do for us anyway?" + 4. They spout empty words - and make covenants they don't intend to keep. + +and make covenants they don't intend to keep. + So injustice springs up among them - like poisonous weeds in a farmer's field. + +like poisonous weeds in a farmer's field. + 5. The people of Samaria tremble in fear for their calf idol at Beth-aven, - and they mourn for it. + +and they mourn for it. + Though its priests rejoice over it, its glory will be stripped away. 6. This idol will be carted away to Assyria, - a gift to the great king there. + +a gift to the great king there. + Ephraim will be ridiculed and Israel will be shamed, - because its people have trusted in this idol. + +because its people have trusted in this idol. + 7. Samaria and its king will be cut off; - they will float away like driftwood on an ocean wave. + +they will float away like driftwood on an ocean wave. + 8. And the pagan shrines of Aven, the place of Israel's sin, will crumble. - Thorns and thistles will grow up around their altars. + +Thorns and thistles will grow up around their altars. + They will beg the mountains, "Bury us!" - and plead with the hills, "Fall on us!" + +and plead with the hills, "Fall on us!" + 9. The LORD says, "O Israel, ever since Gibeah, - there has been only sin and more sin! + +there has been only sin and more sin! You have made no progress whatsoever. - Was it not right that the wicked men of Gibeah were attacked? + +Was it not right that the wicked men of Gibeah were attacked? + 10. Now whenever it fits my plan, - I will attack you, too. + +I will attack you, too. + I will call out the armies of the nations - to punish you for your multiplied sins. + +to punish you for your multiplied sins. + 11. "Israel is like a trained heifer treading out the grain-- - an easy job she loves. - But I will put a heavy yoke on her tender neck. + +an easy job she loves. + +But I will put a heavy yoke on her tender neck. + I will force Judah to pull the plow and Israel to break up the hard ground. 12. I said, 'Plant the good seeds of righteousness, - and you will harvest a crop of love. + +and you will harvest a crop of love. + Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the LORD, that he may come - and shower righteousness upon you.' + +and shower righteousness upon you.' + 13. "But you have cultivated wickedness - and harvested a thriving crop of sins. + +and harvested a thriving crop of sins. + You have eaten the fruit of lies-- - trusting in your military might, + +trusting in your military might, believing that great armies - could make your nation safe. + +could make your nation safe. + 14. Now the terrors of war - will rise among your people. + +will rise among your people. + All your fortifications will fall, - just as when Shalman destroyed Beth-arbel. + +just as when Shalman destroyed Beth-arbel. + Even mothers and children - were dashed to death there. + +were dashed to death there. + 15. You will share that fate, Bethel, - because of your great wickedness. + +because of your great wickedness. + When the day of judgment dawns, - the king of Israel will be completely destroyed. + +the king of Israel will be completely destroyed. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_11.md index 9afe7e66..44222fbb 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_11.md @@ -2,61 +2,101 @@ The LORD's Love for Israel # Chapter 11 1. "When Israel was a child, I loved him, - and I called my son out of Egypt. + +and I called my son out of Egypt. + 2. But the more I called to him, the farther he moved from me, offering sacrifices to the images of Baal - and burning incense to idols. + +and burning incense to idols. + 3. I myself taught Israel how to walk, - leading him along by the hand. + +leading him along by the hand. + But he doesn't know or even care - that it was I who took care of him. + +that it was I who took care of him. + 4. I led Israel along - with my ropes of kindness and love. + +with my ropes of kindness and love. + I lifted the yoke from his neck, - and I myself stooped to feed him. + +and I myself stooped to feed him. + 5. "But since my people refuse to return to me, - they will return to Egypt - and will be forced to serve Assyria. + +they will return to Egypt + +and will be forced to serve Assyria. + 6. War will swirl through their cities; - their enemies will crash through their gates. + +their enemies will crash through their gates. + They will destroy them, - trapping them in their own evil plans. + +trapping them in their own evil plans. + 7. For my people are determined to desert me. + They call me the Most High, - but they don't truly honor me. + +but they don't truly honor me. + 8. "Oh, how can I give you up, Israel? - How can I let you go? + +How can I let you go? How can I destroy you like Admah - or demolish you like Zeboiim? + +or demolish you like Zeboiim? My heart is torn within me, - and my compassion overflows. + +and my compassion overflows. + 9. No, I will not unleash my fierce anger. - I will not completely destroy Israel, + +I will not completely destroy Israel, for I am God and not a mere mortal. - I am the Holy One living among you, - and I will not come to destroy. + +I am the Holy One living among you, + +and I will not come to destroy. + 10. For someday the people will follow me. I, the LORD, will roar like a lion. + And when I roar, - my people will return trembling from the west. + +my people will return trembling from the west. + 11. Like a flock of birds, they will come from Egypt. - Trembling like doves, they will return from Assyria. + +Trembling like doves, they will return from Assyria. + And I will bring them home again," - says the LORD.Charges against Israel and Judah + says the LORD. + +Charges against Israel and Judah + 12. Israel surrounds me with lies and deceit, - but Judah still obeys God + +but Judah still obeys God and is faithful to the Holy One. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_12.md index 4da83196..8d153780 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_12.md @@ -1,21 +1,33 @@ # Chapter 12 1. The people of Israel feed on the wind; - they chase after the east wind all day long. + +they chase after the east wind all day long. + They pile up lies and violence; - they are making an alliance with Assyria - while sending olive oil to buy support from Egypt. + +they are making an alliance with Assyria + +while sending olive oil to buy support from Egypt. + 2. Now the LORD is bringing charges against Judah. He is about to punish Jacob for all his deceitful ways, - and pay him back for all he has done. + +and pay him back for all he has done. + 3. Even in the womb, - Jacob struggled with his brother; + +Jacob struggled with his brother; when he became a man, - he even fought with God. + +he even fought with God. + 4. Yes, he wrestled with the angel and won. - He wept and pleaded for a blessing from him. + +He wept and pleaded for a blessing from him. + There at Bethel he met God face to face, and God spoke to him-- @@ -23,31 +35,49 @@ There at Bethel he met God face to face, the LORD is his name! 6. So now, come back to your God. - Act with love and justice, - and always depend on him. + +Act with love and justice, + +and always depend on him. + 7. But no, the people are like crafty merchants - selling from dishonest scales-- - they love to cheat. + +selling from dishonest scales-- + +they love to cheat. + 8. Israel boasts, "I am rich! - I've made a fortune all by myself! + +I've made a fortune all by myself! No one has caught me cheating! - My record is spotless!" + +My record is spotless!" + 9. "But I am the LORD your God, - who rescued you from slavery in Egypt. + +who rescued you from slavery in Egypt. + And I will make you live in tents again, as you do each year at the Festival of Shelters. 10. I sent my prophets to warn you - with many visions and parables." + +with many visions and parables." + 11. But the people of Gilead are worthless - because of their idol worship. + +because of their idol worship. + And in Gilgal, too, they sacrifice bulls; - their altars are lined up like the heaps of stone - along the edges of a plowed field. + +their altars are lined up like the heaps of stone + +along the edges of a plowed field. + 12. Jacob fled to the land of Aram, and there he earned a wife by tending sheep. @@ -55,11 +85,15 @@ And in Gilgal, too, they sacrifice bulls; 13. Then by a prophet the LORD brought Jacob's descendants out of Egypt; and by that prophet - they were protected. + +they were protected. + 14. But the people of Israel have bitterly provoked the LORD, so their Lord will now sentence them to death - in payment for their sins. + +in payment for their sins. + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_13.md index 3252e05b..0685e86c 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_13.md @@ -2,80 +2,135 @@ The LORD's Anger against Israel # Chapter 13 1. When the tribe of Ephraim spoke, - the people shook with fear, - for that tribe was important in Israel. + +the people shook with fear, + +for that tribe was important in Israel. + But the people of Ephraim sinned by worshiping Baal - and thus sealed their destruction. + +and thus sealed their destruction. + 2. Now they continue to sin by making silver idols, - images shaped skillfully with human hands. + +images shaped skillfully with human hands. + "Sacrifice to these," they cry, - "and kiss the calf idols!" + +"and kiss the calf idols!" + 3. Therefore, they will disappear like the morning mist, - like dew in the morning sun, + +like dew in the morning sun, like chaff blown by the wind, - like smoke from a chimney. + +like smoke from a chimney. + 4. "I have been the LORD your God - ever since I brought you out of Egypt. + +ever since I brought you out of Egypt. + You must acknowledge no God but me, - for there is no other savior. + +for there is no other savior. + 5. I took care of you in the wilderness, - in that dry and thirsty land. + +in that dry and thirsty land. + 6. But when you had eaten and were satisfied, - you became proud and forgot me. + +you became proud and forgot me. + 7. So now I will attack you like a lion, - like a leopard that lurks along the road. + +like a leopard that lurks along the road. + 8. Like a bear whose cubs have been taken away, - I will tear out your heart. + +I will tear out your heart. + I will devour you like a hungry lioness - and mangle you like a wild animal. + +and mangle you like a wild animal. + 9. "You are about to be destroyed, O Israel-- - yes, by me, your only helper. + +yes, by me, your only helper. + 10. Now where is your king? - Let him save you! + +Let him save you! Where are all the leaders of the land, - the king and the officials you demanded of me? + +the king and the officials you demanded of me? + 11. In my anger I gave you kings, - and in my fury I took them away. + +and in my fury I took them away. + 12. "Ephraim's guilt has been collected, - and his sin has been stored up for punishment. + +and his sin has been stored up for punishment. + 13. Pain has come to the people - like the pain of childbirth, + +like the pain of childbirth, but they are like a child - who resists being born. + +who resists being born. + The moment of birth has arrived, - but they stay in the womb! + +but they stay in the womb! + 14. "Should I ransom them from the grave? - Should I redeem them from death? + +Should I redeem them from death? O death, bring on your terrors! O grave, bring on your plagues! - For I will not take pity on them. + +For I will not take pity on them. + 15. Ephraim was the most fruitful of all his brothers, but the east wind--a blast from the LORD-- - will arise in the desert. + +will arise in the desert. + All their flowing springs will run dry, - and all their wells will disappear. + +and all their wells will disappear. + Every precious thing they own - will be plundered and carried away. + +will be plundered and carried away. + 16. The people of Samaria - must bear the consequences of their guilt - because they rebelled against their God. + +must bear the consequences of their guilt + +because they rebelled against their God. + They will be killed by an invading army, - their little ones dashed to death against the ground, - their pregnant women ripped open by swords." + +their little ones dashed to death against the ground, + +their pregnant women ripped open by swords." + diff --git a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_14.md index 22ad7ec2..871858c7 100644 --- a/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/28_Hosea/Chapter_14.md @@ -2,47 +2,76 @@ Healing for the Repentant # Chapter 14 1. Return, O Israel, to the LORD your God, - for your sins have brought you down. + +for your sins have brought you down. + 2. Bring your confessions, and return to the LORD. - Say to him, + +Say to him, "Forgive all our sins and graciously receive us, so that we may offer you our praises. 3. Assyria cannot save us, - nor can our warhorses. + +nor can our warhorses. + Never again will we say to the idols we have made, - 'You are our gods.' + +'You are our gods.' No, in you alone - do the orphans find mercy." + +do the orphans find mercy." + 4. The LORD says, "Then I will heal you of your faithlessness; - my love will know no bounds, - for my anger will be gone forever. + +my love will know no bounds, + +for my anger will be gone forever. + 5. I will be to Israel - like a refreshing dew from heaven. + +like a refreshing dew from heaven. + Israel will blossom like the lily; - it will send roots deep into the soil - like the cedars in Lebanon. + +it will send roots deep into the soil + +like the cedars in Lebanon. + 6. Its branches will spread out like beautiful olive trees, - as fragrant as the cedars of Lebanon. + +as fragrant as the cedars of Lebanon. + 7. My people will again live under my shade. - They will flourish like grain and blossom like grapevines. - They will be as fragrant as the wines of Lebanon. + +They will flourish like grain and blossom like grapevines. + +They will be as fragrant as the wines of Lebanon. + 8. "O Israel, stay away from idols! - I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you. + +I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you. + I am like a tree that is always green; - all your fruit comes from me." + +all your fruit comes from me." + 9. Let those who are wise understand these things. - Let those with discernment listen carefully. + +Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, - and righteous people live by walking in them. - But in those paths sinners stumble and fall. + +and righteous people live by walking in them. + +But in those paths sinners stumble and fall. + diff --git a/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_01.md index 6d740063..db452b7d 100644 --- a/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,97 +1,159 @@ # Chapter 1 -1. The LORD gave this message to Joel son of Pethuel.Mourning over the Locust Plague +1. The LORD gave this message to Joel son of Pethuel. + +Mourning over the Locust Plague + 2. Hear this, you leaders of the people. - Listen, all who live in the land. + +Listen, all who live in the land. + In all your history, - has anything like this happened before? + +has anything like this happened before? + 3. Tell your children about it in the years to come, - and let your children tell their children. - Pass the story down from generation to generation. + +and let your children tell their children. + +Pass the story down from generation to generation. + 4. After the cutting locusts finished eating the crops, - the swarming locusts took what was left! + +the swarming locusts took what was left! After them came the hopping locusts, and then the stripping locusts, too! 5. Wake up, you drunkards, and weep! - Wail, all you wine-drinkers! + +Wail, all you wine-drinkers! All the grapes are ruined, - and all your sweet wine is gone. + +and all your sweet wine is gone. + 6. A vast army of locusts has invaded my land, - a terrible army too numerous to count. + +a terrible army too numerous to count. + Its teeth are like lions' teeth, - its fangs like those of a lioness. + +its fangs like those of a lioness. + 7. It has destroyed my grapevines - and ruined my fig trees, + +and ruined my fig trees, stripping their bark and destroying it, - leaving the branches white and bare. + +leaving the branches white and bare. + 8. Weep like a bride dressed in black, - mourning the death of her husband. + +mourning the death of her husband. -9. For there is no grain or wine + +9. +For there is no grain or wine to offer at the Temple of the LORD. + So the priests are in mourning. The ministers of the LORD are weeping. 10. The fields are ruined, - the land is stripped bare. + +the land is stripped bare. + The grain is destroyed, - the grapes have shriveled, - and the olive oil is gone. + +the grapes have shriveled, + +and the olive oil is gone. + 11. Despair, all you farmers! - Wail, all you vine growers! + +Wail, all you vine growers! Weep, because the wheat and barley-- all the crops of the field--are ruined. 12. The grapevines have dried up, - and the fig trees have withered. + +and the fig trees have withered. + The pomegranate trees, palm trees, and apple trees-- all the fruit trees--have dried up. - And the people's joy has dried up with them. + +And the people's joy has dried up with them. + 13. Dress yourselves in burlap and weep, you priests! - Wail, you who serve before the altar! + +Wail, you who serve before the altar! Come, spend the night in burlap, - you ministers of my God. + +you ministers of my God. + For there is no grain or wine - to offer at the Temple of your God. + +to offer at the Temple of your God. + 14. Announce a time of fasting; - call the people together for a solemn meeting. + +call the people together for a solemn meeting. + Bring the leaders - and all the people of the land + +and all the people of the land into the Temple of the LORD your God, - and cry out to him there. + +and cry out to him there. + 15. The day of the LORD is near, - the day when destruction comes from the Almighty. - How terrible that day will be! + +the day when destruction comes from the Almighty. + +How terrible that day will be! + 16. Our food disappears before our very eyes. - No joyful celebrations are held in the house of our God. + +No joyful celebrations are held in the house of our God. + 17. The seeds die in the parched ground, - and the grain crops fail. + +and the grain crops fail. + The barns stand empty, - and granaries are abandoned. + +and granaries are abandoned. + 18. How the animals moan with hunger! - The herds of cattle wander about confused, + +The herds of cattle wander about confused, because they have no pasture. - The flocks of sheep and goats bleat in misery. + +The flocks of sheep and goats bleat in misery. + 19. LORD, help us! The fire has consumed the wilderness pastures, - and flames have burned up all the trees. + +and flames have burned up all the trees. + 20. Even the wild animals cry out to you - because the streams have dried up, - and fire has consumed the wilderness pastures. + +because the streams have dried up, + +and fire has consumed the wilderness pastures. + diff --git a/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_02.md index 4175222c..6118c1d2 100644 --- a/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_02.md @@ -2,23 +2,36 @@ Locusts Invade like an Army # Chapter 2 1. Sound the trumpet in Jerusalem! - Raise the alarm on my holy mountain! + +Raise the alarm on my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear because the day of the LORD is upon us. 2. It is a day of darkness and gloom, - a day of thick clouds and deep blackness. + +a day of thick clouds and deep blackness. + Suddenly, like dawn spreading across the mountains, - a great and mighty army appears. + +a great and mighty army appears. + Nothing like it has been seen before - or will ever be seen again. + +or will ever be seen again. + 3. Fire burns in front of them, - and flames follow after them. + +and flames follow after them. + Ahead of them the land lies - as beautiful as the Garden of Eden. + +as beautiful as the Garden of Eden. + Behind them is nothing but desolation; - not one thing escapes. + +not one thing escapes. + 4. They look like horses; they charge forward like warhorses. @@ -26,141 +39,224 @@ Behind them is nothing but desolation; 5. Look at them as they leap along the mountaintops. Listen to the noise they make--like the rumbling of chariots, like the roar of fire sweeping across a field of stubble, - or like a mighty army moving into battle. + +or like a mighty army moving into battle. + 6. Fear grips all the people; - every face grows pale with terror. + +every face grows pale with terror. + 7. The attackers march like warriors - and scale city walls like soldiers. + +and scale city walls like soldiers. + Straight forward they march, - never breaking rank. + +never breaking rank. + 8. They never jostle each other; - each moves in exactly the right position. + +each moves in exactly the right position. + They break through defenses - without missing a step. + +without missing a step. + 9. They swarm over the city - and run along its walls. + +and run along its walls. + They enter all the houses, - climbing like thieves through the windows. + +climbing like thieves through the windows. + 10. The earth quakes as they advance, - and the heavens tremble. + +and the heavens tremble. + The sun and moon grow dark, - and the stars no longer shine. + +and the stars no longer shine. + 11. The LORD is at the head of the column. - He leads them with a shout. + +He leads them with a shout. + This is his mighty army, - and they follow his orders. + +and they follow his orders. The day of the LORD is an awesome, terrible thing. - Who can possibly survive?A Call to Repentance + +Who can possibly survive? +A Call to Repentance + 12. That is why the LORD says, - "Turn to me now, while there is time. + +"Turn to me now, while there is time. + Give me your hearts. - Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. + +Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. + 13. Don't tear your clothing in your grief, - but tear your hearts instead." + +but tear your hearts instead." Return to the LORD your God, - for he is merciful and compassionate, + +for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. - He is eager to relent and not punish. + +He is eager to relent and not punish. + 14. Who knows? Perhaps he will give you a reprieve, - sending you a blessing instead of this curse. + +sending you a blessing instead of this curse. + Perhaps you will be able to offer grain and wine to the LORD your God as before. 15. Blow the ram's horn in Jerusalem! - Announce a time of fasting; + +Announce a time of fasting; call the people together - for a solemn meeting. + +for a solemn meeting. + 16. Gather all the people-- - the elders, the children, and even the babies. + +the elders, the children, and even the babies. + Call the bridegroom from his quarters - and the bride from her private room. + +and the bride from her private room. + 17. Let the priests, who minister in the LORD's presence, - stand and weep between the entry room to the Temple and the altar. + +stand and weep between the entry room to the Temple and the altar. Let them pray, "Spare your people, LORD! - Don't let your special possession become an object of mockery. + +Don't let your special possession become an object of mockery. + Don't let them become a joke for unbelieving foreigners who say, - 'Has the God of Israel left them?'"The LORD's Promise of Restoration + +'Has the God of Israel left them?'"The LORD's Promise of Restoration 18. Then the LORD will pity his people - and jealously guard the honor of his land. + +and jealously guard the honor of his land. + 19. The LORD will reply, "Look! I am sending you grain and new wine and olive oil, - enough to satisfy your needs. + +enough to satisfy your needs. + You will no longer be an object of mockery - among the surrounding nations. + +among the surrounding nations. + 20. I will drive away these armies from the north. - I will send them into the parched wastelands. + +I will send them into the parched wastelands. + Those in the front will be driven into the Dead Sea, and those at the rear into the Mediterranean. + The stench of their rotting bodies will rise over the land." Surely the LORD has done great things! 21. Don't be afraid, O land. + Be glad now and rejoice, for the LORD has done great things. 22. Don't be afraid, you animals of the field, - for the wilderness pastures will soon be green. + +for the wilderness pastures will soon be green. + The trees will again be filled with fruit; - fig trees and grapevines will be loaded down once more. + +fig trees and grapevines will be loaded down once more. + 23. Rejoice, you people of Jerusalem! Rejoice in the LORD your God! For the rain he sends demonstrates his faithfulness. - Once more the autumn rains will come, - as well as the rains of spring. + +Once more the autumn rains will come, + +as well as the rains of spring. + 24. The threshing floors will again be piled high with grain, - and the presses will overflow with new wine and olive oil. + +and the presses will overflow with new wine and olive oil. + 25. The LORD says, "I will give you back what you lost - to the swarming locusts, the hopping locusts, + +to the swarming locusts, the hopping locusts, the stripping locusts, and the cutting locusts. - It was I who sent this great destroying army against you. + +It was I who sent this great destroying army against you. + 26. Once again you will have all the food you want, and you will praise the LORD your God, who does these miracles for you. - Never again will my people be disgraced. + +Never again will my people be disgraced. + 27. Then you will know that I am among my people Israel, that I am the LORD your God, and there is no other. - Never again will my people be disgraced.The LORD's Promise of His Spirit + +Never again will my people be disgraced.The LORD's Promise of His Spirit 28. "Then, after doing all those things, - I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. + +I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. + Your sons and daughters will prophesy. - Your old men will dream dreams, - and your young men will see visions. + +Your old men will dream dreams, + +and your young men will see visions. + 29. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on servants--men and women alike. 30. And I will cause wonders in the heavens and on the earth-- - blood and fire and columns of smoke. + +blood and fire and columns of smoke. + 31. The sun will become dark, - and the moon will turn blood red + +and the moon will turn blood red before that great and terrible day of the LORD arrives. 32. But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD - will be saved, + +will be saved, for some on Mount Zion in Jerusalem will escape, just as the LORD has said. + These will be among the survivors whom the LORD has called. + diff --git a/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_03.md index 9d18dd38..e4634b39 100644 --- a/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/29_Joel/Chapter_03.md @@ -2,19 +2,29 @@ Judgment against Enemy Nations # Chapter 3 1. "At the time of those events," says the LORD, - "when I restore the prosperity of Judah and Jerusalem, + +"when I restore the prosperity of Judah and Jerusalem, + 2. I will gather the armies of the world into the valley of Jehoshaphat. + There I will judge them - for harming my people, my special possession, + +for harming my people, my special possession, for scattering my people among the nations, - and for dividing up my land. + +and for dividing up my land. + 3. They threw dice to decide which of my people - would be their slaves. + +would be their slaves. + They traded boys to obtain prostitutes - and sold girls for enough wine to get drunk. + +and sold girls for enough wine to get drunk. + 4. "What do you have against me, Tyre and Sidon and you cities of Philistia? Are you trying to take revenge on me? If you are, then watch out! I will strike swiftly and pay you back for everything you have done. 5. You have taken my silver and gold and all my precious treasures, and have carried them off to your pagan temples. @@ -24,64 +34,100 @@ They traded boys to obtain prostitutes 8. I will sell your sons and daughters to the people of Judah, and they will sell them to the people of Arabia, a nation far away. I, the LORD, have spoken!" 9. Say to the nations far and wide: - "Get ready for war! + +"Get ready for war! Call out your best warriors. - Let all your fighting men advance for the attack. + +Let all your fighting men advance for the attack. + 10. Hammer your plowshares into swords - and your pruning hooks into spears. - Train even your weaklings to be warriors. + +and your pruning hooks into spears. + +Train even your weaklings to be warriors. + 11. Come quickly, all you nations everywhere. - Gather together in the valley." + +Gather together in the valley." And now, O LORD, call out your warriors! 12. "Let the nations be called to arms. - Let them march to the valley of Jehoshaphat. + +Let them march to the valley of Jehoshaphat. There I, the LORD, will sit - to pronounce judgment on them all. + +to pronounce judgment on them all. + 13. Swing the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. + Come, tread the grapes, - for the winepress is full. + +for the winepress is full. + The storage vats are overflowing - with the wickedness of these people." + +with the wickedness of these people." + 14. Thousands upon thousands are waiting in the valley of decision. There the day of the LORD will soon arrive. 15. The sun and moon will grow dark, - and the stars will no longer shine. + +and the stars will no longer shine. + 16. The LORD's voice will roar from Zion - and thunder from Jerusalem, - and the heavens and the earth will shake. + +and thunder from Jerusalem, + +and the heavens and the earth will shake. But the LORD will be a refuge for his people, - a strong fortress for the people of Israel.Blessings for God's People + +a strong fortress for the people of Israel. + +Blessings for God's People + 17. "Then you will know that I, the LORD your God, - live in Zion, my holy mountain. + +live in Zion, my holy mountain. + Jerusalem will be holy forever, - and foreign armies will never conquer her again. + +and foreign armies will never conquer her again. + 18. In that day the mountains will drip with sweet wine, - and the hills will flow with milk. + +and the hills will flow with milk. + Water will fill the streambeds of Judah, and a fountain will burst forth from the LORD's Temple, watering the arid valley of acacias. 19. But Egypt will become a wasteland - and Edom will become a wilderness, + +and Edom will become a wilderness, because they attacked the people of Judah - and killed innocent people in their land. + +and killed innocent people in their land. + 20. "But Judah will be filled with people forever, - and Jerusalem will endure through all generations. + +and Jerusalem will endure through all generations. + 21. I will pardon my people's crimes, - which I have not yet pardoned; + +which I have not yet pardoned; and I, the LORD, will make my home in Jerusalem with my people." + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_01.md index 57e93d7e..1c0af916 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_01.md @@ -3,72 +3,112 @@ 2. This is what he saw and heard: "The LORD's voice will roar from Zion - and thunder from Jerusalem! + +and thunder from Jerusalem! The lush pastures of the shepherds will dry up; - the grass on Mount Carmel will wither and die."God's Judgment on Israel's Neighbors + +the grass on Mount Carmel will wither and die." +God's Judgment on Israel's Neighbors + 3. This is what the LORD says: "The people of Damascus have sinned again and again, - and I will not let them go unpunished! + +and I will not let them go unpunished! They beat down my people in Gilead - as grain is threshed with iron sledges. + +as grain is threshed with iron sledges. + 4. So I will send down fire on King Hazael's palace, - and the fortresses of King Ben-hadad will be destroyed. + +and the fortresses of King Ben-hadad will be destroyed. + 5. I will break down the gates of Damascus - and slaughter the people in the valley of Aven. + +and slaughter the people in the valley of Aven. + I will destroy the ruler in Beth-eden, - and the people of Aram will go as captives to Kir," + +and the people of Aram will go as captives to Kir," says the LORD. 6. This is what the LORD says: "The people of Gaza have sinned again and again, - and I will not let them go unpunished! + +and I will not let them go unpunished! They sent whole villages into exile, - selling them as slaves to Edom. + +selling them as slaves to Edom. + 7. So I will send down fire on the walls of Gaza, - and all its fortresses will be destroyed. + +and all its fortresses will be destroyed. + 8. I will slaughter the people of Ashdod - and destroy the king of Ashkelon. + +and destroy the king of Ashkelon. + Then I will turn to attack Ekron, - and the few Philistines still left will be killed," + +and the few Philistines still left will be killed," says the Sovereign LORD. 9. This is what the LORD says: "The people of Tyre have sinned again and again, - and I will not let them go unpunished! + +and I will not let them go unpunished! They broke their treaty of brotherhood with Israel, - selling whole villages as slaves to Edom. + +selling whole villages as slaves to Edom. + 10. So I will send down fire on the walls of Tyre, - and all its fortresses will be destroyed." + +and all its fortresses will be destroyed." + 11. This is what the LORD says: "The people of Edom have sinned again and again, - and I will not let them go unpunished! + +and I will not let them go unpunished! They chased down their relatives, the Israelites, with swords, - showing them no mercy. + +showing them no mercy. + In their rage, they slashed them continually - and were unrelenting in their anger. + +and were unrelenting in their anger. + 12. So I will send down fire on Teman, - and the fortresses of Bozrah will be destroyed." + +and the fortresses of Bozrah will be destroyed." + 13. This is what the LORD says: "The people of Ammon have sinned again and again, - and I will not let them go unpunished! + +and I will not let them go unpunished! When they attacked Gilead to extend their borders, - they ripped open pregnant women with their swords. + +they ripped open pregnant women with their swords. + 14. So I will send down fire on the walls of Rabbah, - and all its fortresses will be destroyed. + +and all its fortresses will be destroyed. + The battle will come upon them with shouts, - like a whirlwind in a mighty storm. + +like a whirlwind in a mighty storm. + 15. And their king and his princes will go into exile together," says the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_02.md index 804ef4b3..c71f42e2 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,78 +1,128 @@ # Chapter 2 1. This is what the LORD says: "The people of Moab have sinned again and again, - and I will not let them go unpunished! + +and I will not let them go unpunished! They desecrated the bones of Edom's king, - burning them to ashes. + +burning them to ashes. + 2. So I will send down fire on the land of Moab, - and all the fortresses in Kerioth will be destroyed. + +and all the fortresses in Kerioth will be destroyed. + The people will fall in the noise of battle, - as the warriors shout and the ram's horn sounds. + +as the warriors shout and the ram's horn sounds. + 3. And I will destroy their king - and slaughter all their princes," - says the LORD.God's Judgment on Judah and Israel + +and slaughter all their princes," + says the LORD. + +God's Judgment on Judah and Israel + 4. This is what the LORD says: "The people of Judah have sinned again and again, - and I will not let them go unpunished! + +and I will not let them go unpunished! They have rejected the instruction of the LORD, - refusing to obey his decrees. + +refusing to obey his decrees. + They have been led astray by the same lies - that deceived their ancestors. + +that deceived their ancestors. + 5. So I will send down fire on Judah, - and all the fortresses of Jerusalem will be destroyed." + +and all the fortresses of Jerusalem will be destroyed." + 6. This is what the LORD says: "The people of Israel have sinned again and again, - and I will not let them go unpunished! + +and I will not let them go unpunished! They sell honorable people for silver - and poor people for a pair of sandals. + +and poor people for a pair of sandals. + 7. They trample helpless people in the dust - and shove the oppressed out of the way. + +and shove the oppressed out of the way. + Both father and son sleep with the same woman, - corrupting my holy name. + +corrupting my holy name. + 8. At their religious festivals, - they lounge in clothing their debtors put up as security. + +they lounge in clothing their debtors put up as security. In the house of their gods, - they drink wine bought with unjust fines. + +they drink wine bought with unjust fines. + 9. "But as my people watched, - I destroyed the Amorites, + +I destroyed the Amorites, though they were as tall as cedars - and as strong as oaks. + +and as strong as oaks. + I destroyed the fruit on their branches - and dug out their roots. + +and dug out their roots. + 10. It was I who rescued you from Egypt - and led you through the desert for forty years, - so you could possess the land of the Amorites. + +and led you through the desert for forty years, + +so you could possess the land of the Amorites. + 11. I chose some of your sons to be prophets - and others to be Nazirites. + +and others to be Nazirites. + Can you deny this, my people of Israel?" asks the LORD. 12. "But you caused the Nazirites to sin by making them drink wine, - and you commanded the prophets, 'Shut up!' + +and you commanded the prophets, 'Shut up!' + 13. "So I will make you groan - like a wagon loaded down with sheaves of grain. + +like a wagon loaded down with sheaves of grain. + 14. Your fastest runners will not get away. - The strongest among you will become weak. + +The strongest among you will become weak. + Even mighty warriors will be unable to save themselves. + 15. The archers will not stand their ground. + The swiftest runners won't be fast enough to escape. - Even those riding horses won't be able to save themselves. + +Even those riding horses won't be able to save themselves. + 16. On that day the most courageous of your fighting men - will drop their weapons and run for their lives," + +will drop their weapons and run for their lives," says the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_03.md index 8d61f89a..1160fa82 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_03.md @@ -2,67 +2,104 @@ 1. Listen to this message that the LORD has spoken against you, O people of Israel--against the entire family I rescued from Egypt: 2. "From among all the families on the earth, - I have been intimate with you alone. + +I have been intimate with you alone. + That is why I must punish you - for all your sins."Witnesses against Guilty Israel + +for all your sins." +Witnesses against Guilty Israel + 3. Can two people walk together - without agreeing on the direction? + +without agreeing on the direction? + 4. Does a lion ever roar in a thicket - without first finding a victim? + +without first finding a victim? Does a young lion growl in its den - without first catching its prey? + +without first catching its prey? + 5. Does a bird ever get caught in a trap - that has no bait? + +that has no bait? Does a trap spring shut - when there's nothing to catch? + +when there's nothing to catch? + 6. When the ram's horn blows a warning, - shouldn't the people be alarmed? + +shouldn't the people be alarmed? Does disaster come to a city unless the LORD has planned it? 7. Indeed, the Sovereign LORD never does anything - until he reveals his plans to his servants the prophets. + +until he reveals his plans to his servants the prophets. + 8. The lion has roared-- - so who isn't frightened? + +so who isn't frightened? The Sovereign LORD has spoken-- - so who can refuse to proclaim his message? + +so who can refuse to proclaim his message? + 9. Announce this to the leaders of Philistia - and to the great ones of Egypt: + +and to the great ones of Egypt: "Take your seats now on the hills around Samaria, - and witness the chaos and oppression in Israel." + +and witness the chaos and oppression in Israel." + 10. "My people have forgotten how to do right," says the LORD. + "Their fortresses are filled with wealth - taken by theft and violence. + +taken by theft and violence. + 11. Therefore," says the Sovereign LORD, - "an enemy is coming! + +"an enemy is coming! He will surround them and shatter their defenses. - Then he will plunder all their fortresses." + +Then he will plunder all their fortresses." + 12. This is what the LORD says: "A shepherd who tries to rescue a sheep from a lion's mouth - will recover only two legs or a piece of an ear. + +will recover only two legs or a piece of an ear. + So it will be for the Israelites in Samaria lying on luxurious beds, and for the people of Damascus reclining on couches. -13. "Now listen to this, and announce it throughout all Israel," says the Lord, the LORD God of Heaven's Armies. +13. "Now listen to this, and announce it throughout all Israel," +says the Lord, the LORD God of Heaven's Armies. 14. "On the very day I punish Israel for its sins, - I will destroy the pagan altars at Bethel. + +I will destroy the pagan altars at Bethel. + The horns of the altar will be cut off - and fall to the ground. + +and fall to the ground. + 15. And I will destroy the beautiful homes of the wealthy-- - their winter mansions and their summer houses, too-- + +their winter mansions and their summer houses, too-- all their palaces filled with ivory," says the LORD. + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_04.md index e04557dd..aa0a07e9 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_04.md @@ -2,78 +2,117 @@ Israel's Failure to Learn # Chapter 4 1. Listen to me, you fat cows - living in Samaria, + +living in Samaria, you women who oppress the poor - and crush the needy, + +and crush the needy, and who are always calling to your husbands, - "Bring us another drink!" + +"Bring us another drink!" + 2. The Sovereign LORD has sworn this by his holiness: "The time will come when you will be led away - with hooks in your noses. + +with hooks in your noses. + Every last one of you will be dragged away - like a fish on a hook! + +like a fish on a hook! + 3. You will be led out through the ruins of the wall; you will be thrown from your fortresses," says the LORD. 4. "Go ahead and offer sacrifices to the idols at Bethel. - Keep on disobeying at Gilgal. + +Keep on disobeying at Gilgal. + Offer sacrifices each morning, - and bring your tithes every three days. + +and bring your tithes every three days. + 5. Present your bread made with yeast - as an offering of thanksgiving. + +as an offering of thanksgiving. + Then give your extra voluntary offerings - so you can brag about it everywhere! + +so you can brag about it everywhere! This is the kind of thing you Israelites love to do," says the Sovereign LORD. 6. "I brought hunger to every city - and famine to every town. + +and famine to every town. + But still you would not return to me," says the LORD. 7. "I kept the rain from falling - when your crops needed it the most. + +when your crops needed it the most. + I sent rain on one town - but withheld it from another. + +but withheld it from another. + Rain fell on one field, - while another field withered away. + +while another field withered away. + 8. People staggered from town to town looking for water, - but there was never enough. + +but there was never enough. + But still you would not return to me," says the LORD. 9. "I struck your farms and vineyards with blight and mildew. - Locusts devoured all your fig and olive trees. + +Locusts devoured all your fig and olive trees. + But still you would not return to me," says the LORD. 10. "I sent plagues on you - like the plagues I sent on Egypt long ago. + +like the plagues I sent on Egypt long ago. + I killed your young men in war and led all your horses away. - The stench of death filled the air! + +The stench of death filled the air! But still you would not return to me," says the LORD. 11. "I destroyed some of your cities, as I destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. + Those of you who survived - were like charred sticks pulled from a fire. + +were like charred sticks pulled from a fire. + But still you would not return to me," says the LORD. 12. "Therefore, I will bring upon you all the disasters I have announced. - Prepare to meet your God in judgment, you people of Israel!" + +Prepare to meet your God in judgment, you people of Israel!" + 13. For the LORD is the one who shaped the mountains, - stirs up the winds, and reveals his thoughts to mankind. + +stirs up the winds, and reveals his thoughts to mankind. + He turns the light of dawn into darkness - and treads on the heights of the earth. + +and treads on the heights of the earth. The LORD God of Heaven's Armies is his name! + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_05.md index 8c7fd81a..4a76805c 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_05.md @@ -4,109 +4,177 @@ A Call to Repentance 1. Listen, you people of Israel! Listen to this funeral song I am singing: 2. "The virgin Israel has fallen, - never to rise again! + +never to rise again! She lies abandoned on the ground, - with no one to help her up." + +with no one to help her up." + 3. The Sovereign LORD says: "When a city sends a thousand men to battle, - only a hundred will return. + +only a hundred will return. + When a town sends a hundred, - only ten will come back alive." + +only ten will come back alive." + 4. Now this is what the LORD says to the family of Israel: "Come back to me and live! + 5. Don't worship at the pagan altars at Bethel; - don't go to the shrines at Gilgal or Beersheba. + +don't go to the shrines at Gilgal or Beersheba. + For the people of Gilgal will be dragged off into exile, - and the people of Bethel will be reduced to nothing." + +and the people of Bethel will be reduced to nothing." + 6. Come back to the LORD and live! Otherwise, he will roar through Israel like a fire, - devouring you completely. + +devouring you completely. + Your gods in Bethel - won't be able to quench the flames. + +won't be able to quench the flames. + 7. You twist justice, making it a bitter pill for the oppressed. - You treat the righteous like dirt. + +You treat the righteous like dirt. + 8. It is the LORD who created the stars, - the Pleiades and Orion. + +the Pleiades and Orion. + He turns darkness into morning - and day into night. + +and day into night. + He draws up water from the oceans - and pours it down as rain on the land. + +and pours it down as rain on the land. The LORD is his name! 9. With blinding speed and power he destroys the strong, - crushing all their defenses. + +crushing all their defenses. + 10. How you hate honest judges! - How you despise people who tell the truth! + +How you despise people who tell the truth! + 11. You trample the poor, - stealing their grain through taxes and unfair rent. + +stealing their grain through taxes and unfair rent. + Therefore, though you build beautiful stone houses, - you will never live in them. + +you will never live in them. + Though you plant lush vineyards, - you will never drink wine from them. + +you will never drink wine from them. + 12. For I know the vast number of your sins - and the depth of your rebellions. + +and the depth of your rebellions. + You oppress good people by taking bribes - and deprive the poor of justice in the courts. + +and deprive the poor of justice in the courts. + 13. So those who are smart keep their mouths shut, - for it is an evil time. + +for it is an evil time. + 14. Do what is good and run from evil - so that you may live! + +so that you may live! Then the LORD God of Heaven's Armies will be your helper, - just as you have claimed. + +just as you have claimed. + 15. Hate evil and love what is good; - turn your courts into true halls of justice. + +turn your courts into true halls of justice. Perhaps even yet the LORD God of Heaven's Armies will have mercy on the remnant of his people. 16. Therefore, this is what the Lord, the LORD God of Heaven's Armies, says: "There will be crying in all the public squares - and mourning in every street. + +and mourning in every street. + Call for the farmers to weep with you, - and summon professional mourners to wail. + +and summon professional mourners to wail. + 17. There will be wailing in every vineyard, - for I will destroy them all," - says the LORD.Warning of Coming Judgment + +for I will destroy them all," + says the LORD. + +Warning of Coming Judgment + 18. What sorrow awaits you who say, "If only the day of the LORD were here!" You have no idea what you are wishing for. - That day will bring darkness, not light. + +That day will bring darkness, not light. + 19. In that day you will be like a man who runs from a lion-- - only to meet a bear. + +only to meet a bear. + Escaping from the bear, he leans his hand against a wall in his house-- - and he's bitten by a snake. + +and he's bitten by a snake. + 20. Yes, the day of the LORD will be dark and hopeless, - without a ray of joy or hope. + +without a ray of joy or hope. + 21. "I hate all your show and pretense-- - the hypocrisy of your religious festivals and solemn assemblies. + +the hypocrisy of your religious festivals and solemn assemblies. + 22. I will not accept your burnt offerings and grain offerings. - I won't even notice all your choice peace offerings. + +I won't even notice all your choice peace offerings. + 23. Away with your noisy hymns of praise! - I will not listen to the music of your harps. + +I will not listen to the music of your harps. + 24. Instead, I want to see a mighty flood of justice, - an endless river of righteous living. + +an endless river of righteous living. + 25. "Was it to me you were bringing sacrifices and offerings during the forty years in the wilderness, Israel? 26. No, you served your pagan gods--Sakkuth your king god and Kaiwan your star god--the images you made for yourselves. 27. So I will send you into exile, to a land east of Damascus," says the LORD, whose name is the God of Heaven's Armies. + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_06.md index f9aea968..dcb3f390 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_06.md @@ -1,58 +1,90 @@ # Chapter 6 1. What sorrow awaits you who lounge in luxury in Jerusalem, - and you who feel secure in Samaria! + +and you who feel secure in Samaria! You are famous and popular in Israel, - and people go to you for help. + +and people go to you for help. + 2. But go over to Calneh - and see what happened there. + +and see what happened there. + Then go to the great city of Hamath - and down to the Philistine city of Gath. + +and down to the Philistine city of Gath. + You are no better than they were, - and look at how they were destroyed. + +and look at how they were destroyed. + 3. You push away every thought of coming disaster, - but your actions only bring the day of judgment closer. + +but your actions only bring the day of judgment closer. + 4. How terrible for you who sprawl on ivory beds - and lounge on your couches, + +and lounge on your couches, eating the meat of tender lambs from the flock - and of choice calves fattened in the stall. + +and of choice calves fattened in the stall. + 5. You sing trivial songs to the sound of the harp - and fancy yourselves to be great musicians like David. + +and fancy yourselves to be great musicians like David. + 6. You drink wine by the bowlful - and perfume yourselves with fragrant lotions. + +and perfume yourselves with fragrant lotions. You care nothing about the ruin of your nation. 7. Therefore, you will be the first to be led away as captives. - Suddenly, all your parties will end. + +Suddenly, all your parties will end. + 8. The Sovereign LORD has sworn by his own name, and this is what he, the LORD God of Heaven's Armies, says: "I despise the arrogance of Israel, - and I hate their fortresses. + +and I hate their fortresses. + I will give this city - and everything in it to their enemies." + +and everything in it to their enemies." + 9. (If there are ten men left in one house, they will all die. 10. And when a relative who is responsible to dispose of the dead goes into the house to carry out the bodies, he will ask the last survivor, "Is anyone else with you?" When the person begins to swear, "No, by . . . ," he will interrupt and say, "Stop! Don't even mention the name of the LORD.") 11. When the LORD gives the command, - homes both great and small will be smashed to pieces. + +homes both great and small will be smashed to pieces. + 12. Can horses gallop over boulders? - Can oxen be used to plow them? + +Can oxen be used to plow them? But that's how foolish you are when you turn justice into poison - and the sweet fruit of righteousness into bitterness. + +and the sweet fruit of righteousness into bitterness. + 13. And you brag about your conquest of Lo-debar. You boast, "Didn't we take Karnaim by our own strength?" 14. "O people of Israel, I am about to bring an enemy nation against you," says the LORD God of Heaven's Armies. + "They will oppress you throughout your land-- - from Lebo-hamath in the north - to the Arabah Valley in the south." + +from Lebo-hamath in the north + +to the Arabah Valley in the south." + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_07.md index 88aa4c25..a2acd569 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_07.md @@ -4,18 +4,27 @@ A Vision of Locusts 1. The Sovereign LORD showed me a vision. I saw him preparing to send a vast swarm of locusts over the land. This was after the king's share had been harvested from the fields and as the main crop was coming up. 2. In my vision the locusts ate every green plant in sight. Then I said, "O Sovereign LORD, please forgive us or we will not survive, for Israel is so small." -3. So the LORD relented from this plan. "I will not do it," he said.A Vision of Fire +3. So the LORD relented from this plan. "I will not do it," he said. + +A Vision of Fire + 4. Then the Sovereign LORD showed me another vision. I saw him preparing to punish his people with a great fire. The fire had burned up the depths of the sea and was devouring the entire land. 5. Then I said, "O Sovereign LORD, please stop or we will not survive, for Israel is so small." -6. Then the LORD relented from this plan, too. "I will not do that either," said the Sovereign LORD.A Vision of a Plumb Line +6. Then the LORD relented from this plan, too. "I will not do that either," said the Sovereign LORD. + +A Vision of a Plumb Line + 7. Then he showed me another vision. I saw the Lord standing beside a wall that had been built using a plumb line. He was using a plumb line to see if it was still straight. 8. And the LORD said to me, "Amos, what do you see?" I answered, "A plumb line." And the Lord replied, "I will test my people with this plumb line. I will no longer ignore all their sins. -9. The pagan shrines of your ancestors will be ruined, and the temples of Israel will be destroyed; I will bring the dynasty of King Jeroboam to a sudden end."Amos and Amaziah + +9. The pagan shrines of your ancestors will be ruined, and the temples of Israel will be destroyed; I will bring the dynasty of King Jeroboam to a sudden end." +Amos and Amaziah + 10. Then Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, sent a message to Jeroboam, king of Israel: "Amos is hatching a plot against you right here on your very doorstep! What he is saying is intolerable. 11. He is saying, 'Jeroboam will soon be killed, and the people of Israel will be sent away into exile.'" @@ -32,10 +41,16 @@ And the Lord replied, "I will test my people with this plumb line. I will no lon 17. But this is what the LORD says: 'Your wife will become a prostitute in this city, - and your sons and daughters will be killed. + +and your sons and daughters will be killed. + Your land will be divided up, - and you yourself will die in a foreign land. + +and you yourself will die in a foreign land. + And the people of Israel will certainly become captives in exile, - far from their homeland.'" + +far from their homeland.'" + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_08.md index e7eaf23e..2b37b6e5 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_08.md @@ -3,63 +3,93 @@ A Vision of Ripe Fruit # Chapter 8 1. Then the Sovereign LORD showed me another vision. In it I saw a basket filled with ripe fruit. 2. "What do you see, Amos?" he asked. + I replied, "A basket full of ripe fruit." Then the LORD said, "Like this fruit, Israel is ripe for punishment! I will not delay their punishment again. 3. In that day the singing in the temple will turn to wailing. Dead bodies will be scattered everywhere. They will be carried out of the city in silence. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken!" 4. Listen to this, you who rob the poor - and trample down the needy! + +and trample down the needy! + 5. You can't wait for the Sabbath day to be over - and the religious festivals to end - so you can get back to cheating the helpless. + +and the religious festivals to end + +so you can get back to cheating the helpless. + You measure out grain with dishonest measures and cheat the buyer with dishonest scales. 6. And you mix the grain you sell - with chaff swept from the floor. + +with chaff swept from the floor. + Then you enslave poor people - for one piece of silver or a pair of sandals. + +for one piece of silver or a pair of sandals. + 7. Now the LORD has sworn this oath by his own name, the Pride of Israel: "I will never forget - the wicked things you have done! + +the wicked things you have done! + 8. The earth will tremble for your deeds, - and everyone will mourn. + +and everyone will mourn. + The ground will rise like the Nile River at floodtime; - it will heave up, then sink again. + +it will heave up, then sink again. + 9. "In that day," says the Sovereign LORD, "I will make the sun go down at noon - and darken the earth while it is still day. + +and darken the earth while it is still day. + 10. I will turn your celebrations into times of mourning - and your singing into weeping. + +and your singing into weeping. + You will wear funeral clothes - and shave your heads to show your sorrow-- + +and shave your heads to show your sorrow-- as if your only son had died. - How very bitter that day will be! + +How very bitter that day will be! + 11. "The time is surely coming," says the Sovereign LORD, - "when I will send a famine on the land-- + +"when I will send a famine on the land-- not a famine of bread or water but of hearing the words of the LORD. 12. People will stagger from sea to sea and wander from border to border searching for the word of the LORD, - but they will not find it. + +but they will not find it. + 13. Beautiful girls and strong young men - will grow faint in that day, + +will grow faint in that day, thirsting for the LORD's word. 14. And those who swear by the shameful idols of Samaria-- - who take oaths in the name of the god of Dan + +who take oaths in the name of the god of Dan and make vows in the name of the god of Beersheba-- they will all fall down, - never to rise again." + +never to rise again." + diff --git a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_09.md index 4b1e620c..88e5ca45 100644 --- a/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/30_Amos/Chapter_09.md @@ -3,87 +3,145 @@ A Vision of God at the Altar # Chapter 9 1. Then I saw a vision of the Lord standing beside the altar. He said, "Strike the tops of the Temple columns, - so that the foundation will shake. + +so that the foundation will shake. + Bring down the roof - on the heads of the people below. + +on the heads of the people below. + I will kill with the sword those who survive. - No one will escape! + +No one will escape! + 2. "Even if they dig down to the place of the dead, - I will reach down and pull them up. + +I will reach down and pull them up. + Even if they climb up into the heavens, - I will bring them down. + +I will bring them down. + 3. Even if they hide at the very top of Mount Carmel, - I will search them out and capture them. + +I will search them out and capture them. + Even if they hide at the bottom of the ocean, - I will send the sea serpent after them to bite them. + +I will send the sea serpent after them to bite them. + 4. Even if their enemies drive them into exile, - I will command the sword to kill them there. -I am determined to bring disaster upon them - and not to help them." + +I will command the sword to kill them there. + +I am determined to bring disaster upon them + +and not to help them." + + +5. +The Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, + +touches the land and it melts, + +and all its people mourn. -5. The Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, - touches the land and it melts, - and all its people mourn. The ground rises like the Nile River at floodtime, - and then it sinks again. + +and then it sinks again. + 6. The LORD's home reaches up to the heavens, - while its foundation is on the earth. + +while its foundation is on the earth. + He draws up water from the oceans - and pours it down as rain on the land. + +and pours it down as rain on the land. The LORD is his name! 7. "Are you Israelites more important to me than the Ethiopians?" asks the LORD. + "I brought Israel out of Egypt, but I also brought the Philistines from Crete - and led the Arameans out of Kir. + +and led the Arameans out of Kir. + 8. "I, the Sovereign LORD, - am watching this sinful nation of Israel. + +am watching this sinful nation of Israel. + I will destroy it - from the face of the earth. + +from the face of the earth. But I will never completely destroy the family of Israel," says the LORD. 9. "For I will give the command - and will shake Israel along with the other nations + +and will shake Israel along with the other nations as grain is shaken in a sieve, - yet not one true kernel will be lost. + +yet not one true kernel will be lost. + 10. But all the sinners will die by the sword-- - all those who say, 'Nothing bad will happen to us.'A Promise of Restoration + +all those who say, 'Nothing bad will happen to us.' +A Promise of Restoration + 11. "In that day I will restore the fallen house of David. - I will repair its damaged walls. + +I will repair its damaged walls. + From the ruins I will rebuild it - and restore its former glory. + +and restore its former glory. + 12. And Israel will possess what is left of Edom and all the nations I have called to be mine." The LORD has spoken, - and he will do these things. + +and he will do these things. + 13. "The time will come," says the LORD, "when the grain and grapes will grow faster - than they can be harvested. + +than they can be harvested. + Then the terraced vineyards on the hills of Israel - will drip with sweet wine! + +will drip with sweet wine! + 14. I will bring my exiled people of Israel - back from distant lands, + +back from distant lands, and they will rebuild their ruined cities - and live in them again. + +and live in them again. + They will plant vineyards and gardens; - they will eat their crops and drink their wine. + +they will eat their crops and drink their wine. + 15. I will firmly plant them there - in their own land. + +in their own land. + They will never again be uprooted - from the land I have given them," + +from the land I have given them," says the LORD your God. + diff --git a/NLT/31_Obadiah/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/31_Obadiah/Chapter_01.md index 740ac87e..808c9f9d 100644 --- a/NLT/31_Obadiah/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/31_Obadiah/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,124 +1,214 @@ -1. This is the vision that the Sovereign LORD revealed to Obadiah concerning the land of Edom.Edom's Judgment Announced +1. This is the vision that the Sovereign LORD revealed to Obadiah concerning the land of Edom. + +Edom's Judgment Announced We have heard a message from the LORD - that an ambassador was sent to the nations to say, + +that an ambassador was sent to the nations to say, "Get ready, everyone! - Let's assemble our armies and attack Edom!" + +Let's assemble our armies and attack Edom!" + 2. The LORD says to Edom, "I will cut you down to size among the nations; - you will be greatly despised. + +you will be greatly despised. + 3. You have been deceived by your own pride - because you live in a rock fortress - and make your home high in the mountains. + +because you live in a rock fortress + +and make your home high in the mountains. + 'Who can ever reach us way up here?' - you ask boastfully. + +you ask boastfully. + 4. But even if you soar as high as eagles - and build your nest among the stars, + +and build your nest among the stars, I will bring you crashing down," says the LORD. 5. "If thieves came at night and robbed you - (what a disaster awaits you!), - they would not take everything. + +(what a disaster awaits you!), + +they would not take everything. + Those who harvest grapes - always leave a few for the poor. - But your enemies will wipe you out completely! + +always leave a few for the poor. + +But your enemies will wipe you out completely! + 6. Every nook and cranny of Edom - will be searched and looted. - Every treasure will be found and taken. + +will be searched and looted. + +Every treasure will be found and taken. + 7. "All your allies will turn against you. - They will help to chase you from your land. + +They will help to chase you from your land. + They will promise you peace - while plotting to deceive and destroy you. + +while plotting to deceive and destroy you. + Your trusted friends will set traps for you, - and you won't even know about it. + +and you won't even know about it. + 8. At that time not a single wise person - will be left in the whole land of Edom," + +will be left in the whole land of Edom," says the LORD. + "For on the mountains of Edom - I will destroy everyone who has understanding. + +I will destroy everyone who has understanding. + 9. The mightiest warriors of Teman - will be terrified, + +will be terrified, and everyone on the mountains of Edom - will be cut down in the slaughter.Reasons for Edom's Punishment + +will be cut down in the slaughter. + +Reasons for Edom's Punishment + 10. "Because of the violence you did to your close relatives in Israel, you will be filled with shame - and destroyed forever. + +and destroyed forever. + 11. When they were invaded, - you stood aloof, refusing to help them. + +you stood aloof, refusing to help them. + Foreign invaders carried off their wealth - and cast lots to divide up Jerusalem, - but you acted like one of Israel's enemies. + +and cast lots to divide up Jerusalem, + +but you acted like one of Israel's enemies. + 12. "You should not have gloated - when they exiled your relatives to distant lands. + +when they exiled your relatives to distant lands. + You should not have rejoiced - when the people of Judah suffered such misfortune. + +when the people of Judah suffered such misfortune. + You should not have spoken arrogantly - in that terrible time of trouble. + +in that terrible time of trouble. + 13. You should not have plundered the land of Israel - when they were suffering such calamity. + +when they were suffering such calamity. + You should not have gloated over their destruction - when they were suffering such calamity. + +when they were suffering such calamity. + You should not have seized their wealth - when they were suffering such calamity. + +when they were suffering such calamity. + 14. You should not have stood at the crossroads, - killing those who tried to escape. + +killing those who tried to escape. + You should not have captured the survivors - and handed them over in their terrible time of trouble.Edom Destroyed, Israel Restored + +and handed them over in their terrible time of trouble. + +Edom Destroyed, Israel Restored + 15. "The day is near when I, the LORD, - will judge all godless nations! + +will judge all godless nations! As you have done to Israel, - so it will be done to you. + +so it will be done to you. + All your evil deeds - will fall back on your own heads. + +will fall back on your own heads. + 16. Just as you swallowed up my people - on my holy mountain, + +on my holy mountain, so you and the surrounding nations - will swallow the punishment I pour out on you. + +will swallow the punishment I pour out on you. + Yes, all you nations will drink and stagger - and disappear from history. + +and disappear from history. + 17. "But Jerusalem will become a refuge for those who escape; - it will be a holy place. + +it will be a holy place. And the people of Israel will come back - to reclaim their inheritance. + +to reclaim their inheritance. + 18. The people of Israel will be a raging fire, - and Edom a field of dry stubble. + +and Edom a field of dry stubble. + The descendants of Joseph will be a flame - roaring across the field, devouring everything. + +roaring across the field, devouring everything. + There will be no survivors in Edom. I, the LORD, have spoken! 19. "Then my people living in the Negev - will occupy the mountains of Edom. + +will occupy the mountains of Edom. Those living in the foothills of Judah - will possess the Philistine plains - and take over the fields of Ephraim and Samaria. + +will possess the Philistine plains + +and take over the fields of Ephraim and Samaria. + And the people of Benjamin - will occupy the land of Gilead. + +will occupy the land of Gilead. + 20. The exiles of Israel will return to their land - and occupy the Phoenician coast as far north as Zarephath. + +and occupy the Phoenician coast as far north as Zarephath. The captives from Jerusalem exiled in the north - will return home and resettle the towns of the Negev. + +will return home and resettle the towns of the Negev. + 21. Those who have been rescued will go up to Mount Zion in Jerusalem - to rule over the mountains of Edom. + +to rule over the mountains of Edom. And the LORD himself will be king!" + diff --git a/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_01.md index d0e52da3..04622fd2 100644 --- a/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_01.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ Jonah Runs from the LORD 4. But the LORD hurled a powerful wind over the sea, causing a violent storm that threatened to break the ship apart. 5. Fearing for their lives, the desperate sailors shouted to their gods for help and threw the cargo overboard to lighten the ship. + But all this time Jonah was sound asleep down in the hold. + 6. So the captain went down after him. "How can you sleep at a time like this?" he shouted. "Get up and pray to your god! Maybe he will pay attention to us and spare our lives." 7. Then the crew cast lots to see which of them had offended the gods and caused the terrible storm. When they did this, the lots identified Jonah as the culprit. @@ -30,3 +32,4 @@ But all this time Jonah was sound asleep down in the hold. 17. Now the LORD had arranged for a great fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was inside the fish for three days and three nights. + diff --git a/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_02.md index aaab182c..5a9be81d 100644 --- a/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_02.md @@ -4,40 +4,61 @@ Jonah's Prayer 1. Then Jonah prayed to the LORD his God from inside the fish. 2. He said, "I cried out to the LORD in my great trouble, - and he answered me. + +and he answered me. I called to you from the land of the dead, and LORD, you heard me! 3. You threw me into the ocean depths, - and I sank down to the heart of the sea. + +and I sank down to the heart of the sea. + The mighty waters engulfed me; - I was buried beneath your wild and stormy waves. + +I was buried beneath your wild and stormy waves. + 4. Then I said, 'O LORD, you have driven me from your presence. - Yet I will look once more toward your holy Temple.' + +Yet I will look once more toward your holy Temple.' + 5. "I sank beneath the waves, - and the waters closed over me. - Seaweed wrapped itself around my head. + +and the waters closed over me. + +Seaweed wrapped itself around my head. + 6. I sank down to the very roots of the mountains. - I was imprisoned in the earth, - whose gates lock shut forever. + +I was imprisoned in the earth, + +whose gates lock shut forever. But you, O LORD my God, - snatched me from the jaws of death! + +snatched me from the jaws of death! + 7. As my life was slipping away, I remembered the LORD. + And my earnest prayer went out to you - in your holy Temple. + +in your holy Temple. + 8. Those who worship false gods - turn their backs on all God's mercies. + +turn their backs on all God's mercies. + 9. But I will offer sacrifices to you with songs of praise, - and I will fulfill all my vows. + +and I will fulfill all my vows. For my salvation comes from the LORD alone." 10. Then the LORD ordered the fish to spit Jonah out onto the beach. + diff --git a/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_03.md index e65ad3be..6b9dbfca 100644 --- a/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_03.md @@ -11,9 +11,11 @@ Jonah Goes to Nineveh 6. When the king of Nineveh heard what Jonah was saying, he stepped down from his throne and took off his royal robes. He dressed himself in burlap and sat on a heap of ashes. 7. Then the king and his nobles sent this decree throughout the city: "No one, not even the animals from your herds and flocks, may eat or drink anything at all. + 8. People and animals alike must wear garments of mourning, and everyone must pray earnestly to God. They must turn from their evil ways and stop all their violence. 9. Who can tell? Perhaps even yet God will change his mind and hold back his fierce anger from destroying us." 10. When God saw what they had done and how they had put a stop to their evil ways, he changed his mind and did not carry out the destruction he had threatened. + diff --git a/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_04.md index f1d28d98..707a1aa6 100644 --- a/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/32_Jonah/Chapter_04.md @@ -16,7 +16,9 @@ Jonah's Anger at the LORD's Mercy 9. Then God said to Jonah, "Is it right for you to be angry because the plant died?" "Yes," Jonah retorted, "even angry enough to die!" + 10. Then the LORD said, "You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. 11. But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn't I feel sorry for such a great city?" + diff --git a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_01.md index 4f6ef081..13c97e65 100644 --- a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,88 +1,145 @@ # Chapter 1 -1. The LORD gave this message to Micah of Moresheth during the years when Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah. The visions he saw concerned both Samaria and Jerusalem.Grief over Samaria and Jerusalem +1. The LORD gave this message to Micah of Moresheth during the years when Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah. The visions he saw concerned both Samaria and Jerusalem. + +Grief over Samaria and Jerusalem + 2. Attention! Let all the people of the world listen! - Let the earth and everything in it hear. + +Let the earth and everything in it hear. The Sovereign LORD is making accusations against you; - the Lord speaks from his holy Temple. + +the Lord speaks from his holy Temple. + 3. Look! The LORD is coming! - He leaves his throne in heaven - and tramples the heights of the earth. + +He leaves his throne in heaven + +and tramples the heights of the earth. + 4. The mountains melt beneath his feet - and flow into the valleys + +and flow into the valleys like wax in a fire, - like water pouring down a hill. + +like water pouring down a hill. + 5. And why is this happening? Because of the rebellion of Israel-- - yes, the sins of the whole nation. + +yes, the sins of the whole nation. + Who is to blame for Israel's rebellion? - Samaria, its capital city! + +Samaria, its capital city! Where is the center of idolatry in Judah? - In Jerusalem, its capital! + +In Jerusalem, its capital! + 6. "So I, the LORD, will make the city of Samaria - a heap of ruins. + +a heap of ruins. + Her streets will be plowed up - for planting vineyards. + +for planting vineyards. + I will roll the stones of her walls into the valley below, - exposing her foundations. + +exposing her foundations. + 7. All her carved images will be smashed. - All her sacred treasures will be burned. + +All her sacred treasures will be burned. + These things were bought with the money - earned by her prostitution, + +earned by her prostitution, and they will now be carried away - to pay prostitutes elsewhere." + +to pay prostitutes elsewhere." + 8. Therefore, I will mourn and lament. - I will walk around barefoot and naked. + +I will walk around barefoot and naked. + I will howl like a jackal - and moan like an owl. + +and moan like an owl. + 9. For my people's wound - is too deep to heal. + +is too deep to heal. + It has reached into Judah, - even to the gates of Jerusalem. + +even to the gates of Jerusalem. + 10. Don't tell our enemies in Gath; - don't weep at all. + +don't weep at all. You people in Beth-leaphrah, - roll in the dust to show your despair. + +roll in the dust to show your despair. + 11. You people in Shaphir, go as captives into exile--naked and ashamed. The people of Zaanan - dare not come outside their walls. + +dare not come outside their walls. The people of Beth-ezel mourn, - for their house has no support. + +for their house has no support. + 12. The people of Maroth anxiously wait for relief, - but only bitterness awaits them + +but only bitterness awaits them as the LORD's judgment reaches - even to the gates of Jerusalem. + +even to the gates of Jerusalem. + 13. Harness your chariot horses and flee, you people of Lachish. + You were the first city in Judah - to follow Israel in her rebellion, + +to follow Israel in her rebellion, and you led Jerusalem into sin. 14. Send farewell gifts to Moresheth-gath; - there is no hope of saving it. + +there is no hope of saving it. The town of Aczib - has deceived the kings of Israel. + +has deceived the kings of Israel. + 15. O people of Mareshah, - I will bring a conqueror to capture your town. + +I will bring a conqueror to capture your town. And the leaders of Israel - will go to Adullam. + +will go to Adullam. + 16. Oh, people of Judah, shave your heads in sorrow, - for the children you love will be snatched away. + +for the children you love will be snatched away. + Make yourselves as bald as a vulture, - for your little ones will be exiled to distant lands. + +for your little ones will be exiled to distant lands. + diff --git a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_02.md index cd3cc801..3b5e10ef 100644 --- a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_02.md @@ -2,77 +2,128 @@ Judgment against Wealthy Oppressors # Chapter 2 1. What sorrow awaits you who lie awake at night, - thinking up evil plans. + +thinking up evil plans. + You rise at dawn and hurry to carry them out, - simply because you have the power to do so. + +simply because you have the power to do so. + 2. When you want a piece of land, - you find a way to seize it. + +you find a way to seize it. + When you want someone's house, - you take it by fraud and violence. + +you take it by fraud and violence. + You cheat a man of his property, - stealing his family's inheritance. + +stealing his family's inheritance. + 3. But this is what the LORD says: "I will reward your evil with evil; - you won't be able to pull your neck out of the noose. + +you won't be able to pull your neck out of the noose. + You will no longer walk around proudly, - for it will be a terrible time." + +for it will be a terrible time." + 4. In that day your enemies will make fun of you - by singing this song of despair about you: - "We are finished, - completely ruined! - God has confiscated our land, - taking it from us. - He has given our fields + +by singing this song of despair about you: + +"We are finished, + +completely ruined! + +God has confiscated our land, + +taking it from us. + +He has given our fields to those who betrayed us." 5. Others will set your boundaries then, and the LORD's people will have no say - in how the land is divided.True and False Prophets + +in how the land is divided. + +True and False Prophets + 6. "Don't say such things," the people respond. + "Don't prophesy like that. - Such disasters will never come our way!" + +Such disasters will never come our way!" + 7. Should you talk that way, O family of Israel? Will the LORD's Spirit have patience with such behavior? If you would do what is right, - you would find my words comforting. + +you would find my words comforting. + 8. Yet to this very hour - my people rise against me like an enemy! + +my people rise against me like an enemy! You steal the shirts right off the backs - of those who trusted you, + +of those who trusted you, making them as ragged as men - returning from battle. + +returning from battle. + 9. You have evicted women from their pleasant homes - and forever stripped their children of all that God would give them. + +and forever stripped their children of all that God would give them. + 10. Up! Begone! - This is no longer your land and home, + +This is no longer your land and home, for you have filled it with sin - and ruined it completely. + +and ruined it completely. + 11. Suppose a prophet full of lies would say to you, - "I'll preach to you the joys of wine and alcohol!" -That's just the kind of prophet you would like!Hope for Restoration + +"I'll preach to you the joys of wine and alcohol!" +That's just the kind of prophet you would like! +Hope for Restoration + 12. "Someday, O Israel, I will gather you; - I will gather the remnant who are left. + +I will gather the remnant who are left. + I will bring you together again like sheep in a pen, - like a flock in its pasture. + +like a flock in its pasture. + Yes, your land will again - be filled with noisy crowds! + +be filled with noisy crowds! + 13. Your leader will break out - and lead you out of exile, + +and lead you out of exile, out through the gates of the enemy cities, - back to your own land. + +back to your own land. + Your king will lead you; the LORD himself will guide you." + diff --git a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_03.md index 022fbef5..2cd8bd09 100644 --- a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_03.md @@ -2,62 +2,101 @@ Judgment against Israel's Leaders # Chapter 3 1. I said, "Listen, you leaders of Israel! - You are supposed to know right from wrong, + +You are supposed to know right from wrong, + 2. but you are the very ones - who hate good and love evil. + +who hate good and love evil. + You skin my people alive - and tear the flesh from their bones. + +and tear the flesh from their bones. + 3. Yes, you eat my people's flesh, - strip off their skin, - and break their bones. + +strip off their skin, + +and break their bones. + You chop them up - like meat for the cooking pot. + +like meat for the cooking pot. + 4. Then you beg the LORD for help in times of trouble! - Do you really expect him to answer? + +Do you really expect him to answer? After all the evil you have done, - he won't even look at you!" + +he won't even look at you!" + 5. This is what the LORD says: - "You false prophets are leading my people astray! + +"You false prophets are leading my people astray! You promise peace for those who give you food, - but you declare war on those who refuse to feed you. + +but you declare war on those who refuse to feed you. + 6. Now the night will close around you, - cutting off all your visions. + +cutting off all your visions. + Darkness will cover you, - putting an end to your predictions. + +putting an end to your predictions. + The sun will set for you prophets, - and your day will come to an end. + +and your day will come to an end. + 7. Then you seers will be put to shame, - and you fortune-tellers will be disgraced. + +and you fortune-tellers will be disgraced. + And you will cover your faces - because there is no answer from God." + +because there is no answer from God." + 8. But as for me, I am filled with power-- with the Spirit of the LORD. + I am filled with justice and strength - to boldly declare Israel's sin and rebellion. + +to boldly declare Israel's sin and rebellion. + 9. Listen to me, you leaders of Israel! - You hate justice and twist all that is right. + +You hate justice and twist all that is right. + 10. You are building Jerusalem - on a foundation of murder and corruption. + +on a foundation of murder and corruption. + 11. You rulers make decisions based on bribes; - you priests teach God's laws only for a price; + +you priests teach God's laws only for a price; you prophets won't prophesy unless you are paid. Yet all of you claim to depend on the LORD. + "No harm can come to us," you say, "for the LORD is here among us." 12. Because of you, Mount Zion will be plowed like an open field; - Jerusalem will be reduced to ruins! + +Jerusalem will be reduced to ruins! A thicket will grow on the heights - where the Temple now stands. + +where the Temple now stands. + diff --git a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_04.md index 31cbe9ff..c85b802c 100644 --- a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_04.md @@ -2,82 +2,133 @@ The LORD's Future Reign # Chapter 4 1. In the last days, the mountain of the LORD's house - will be the highest of all-- - the most important place on earth. + +will be the highest of all-- + +the most important place on earth. + It will be raised above the other hills, - and people from all over the world will stream there to worship. + +and people from all over the world will stream there to worship. + 2. People from many nations will come and say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, - to the house of Jacob's God. + +to the house of Jacob's God. + There he will teach us his ways, - and we will walk in his paths." + +and we will walk in his paths." For the LORD's teaching will go out from Zion; - his word will go out from Jerusalem. + +his word will go out from Jerusalem. + 3. The LORD will mediate between peoples - and will settle disputes between strong nations far away. + +and will settle disputes between strong nations far away. + They will hammer their swords into plowshares - and their spears into pruning hooks. + +and their spears into pruning hooks. + Nation will no longer fight against nation, - nor train for war anymore. + +nor train for war anymore. + 4. Everyone will live in peace and prosperity, - enjoying their own grapevines and fig trees, - for there will be nothing to fear. + +enjoying their own grapevines and fig trees, + +for there will be nothing to fear. The LORD of Heaven's Armies - has made this promise! + +has made this promise! + 5. Though the nations around us follow their idols, - we will follow the LORD our God forever and ever.Israel's Return from Exile + we will follow the LORD our God forever and ever. + +Israel's Return from Exile + 6. "In that coming day," says the LORD, "I will gather together those who are lame, - those who have been exiles, - and those whom I have filled with grief. + +those who have been exiles, + +and those whom I have filled with grief. + 7. Those who are weak will survive as a remnant; - those who were exiles will become a strong nation. + +those who were exiles will become a strong nation. Then I, the LORD, will rule from Jerusalem - as their king forever." + +as their king forever." + 8. As for you, Jerusalem, the citadel of God's people, your royal might and power - will come back to you again. + +will come back to you again. + The kingship will be restored - to my precious Jerusalem. + +to my precious Jerusalem. + 9. But why are you now screaming in terror? - Have you no king to lead you? + +Have you no king to lead you? Have your wise people all died? - Pain has gripped you like a woman in childbirth. + +Pain has gripped you like a woman in childbirth. + 10. Writhe and groan like a woman in labor, you people of Jerusalem, for now you must leave this city - to live in the open country. + +to live in the open country. + You will soon be sent in exile - to distant Babylon. + +to distant Babylon. But the LORD will rescue you there; - he will redeem you from the grip of your enemies. + +he will redeem you from the grip of your enemies. + 11. Now many nations have gathered against you. - "Let her be desecrated," they say. + +"Let her be desecrated," they say. "Let us see the destruction of Jerusalem." 12. But they do not know the LORD's thoughts - or understand his plan. + +or understand his plan. + These nations don't know - that he is gathering them together + +that he is gathering them together to be beaten and trampled - like sheaves of grain on a threshing floor. + +like sheaves of grain on a threshing floor. + 13. "Rise up and crush the nations, O Jerusalem!" says the LORD. + "For I will give you iron horns and bronze hooves, - so you can trample many nations to pieces. + +so you can trample many nations to pieces. You will present their stolen riches to the LORD, - their wealth to the Lord of all the earth." + +their wealth to the Lord of all the earth." + diff --git a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_05.md index 94957a71..6d97b6ce 100644 --- a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_05.md @@ -1,70 +1,121 @@ # Chapter 5 1. Mobilize! Marshal your troops! - The enemy is laying siege to Jerusalem. + +The enemy is laying siege to Jerusalem. + They will strike Israel's leader - in the face with a rod.A Ruler from Bethlehem + +in the face with a rod. + +A Ruler from Bethlehem + 2. But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, - are only a small village among all the people of Judah. + +are only a small village among all the people of Judah. + Yet a ruler of Israel, - whose origins are in the distant past, - will come from you on my behalf. + +whose origins are in the distant past, + +will come from you on my behalf. + 3. The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies - until the woman in labor gives birth. + +until the woman in labor gives birth. + Then at last his fellow countrymen - will return from exile to their own land. + +will return from exile to their own land. + 4. And he will stand to lead his flock with the LORD's strength, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. + Then his people will live there undisturbed, - for he will be highly honored around the world. + +for he will be highly honored around the world. + 5. And he will be the source of peace. + When the Assyrians invade our land - and break through our defenses, + +and break through our defenses, we will appoint seven rulers to watch over us, - eight princes to lead us. + +eight princes to lead us. + 6. They will rule Assyria with drawn swords - and enter the gates of the land of Nimrod. + +and enter the gates of the land of Nimrod. + He will rescue us from the Assyrians - when they pour over the borders to invade our land.The Remnant Purified + +when they pour over the borders to invade our land. + +The Remnant Purified + 7. Then the remnant left in Israel - will take their place among the nations. + +will take their place among the nations. They will be like dew sent by the LORD - or like rain falling on the grass, + +or like rain falling on the grass, which no one can hold back - and no one can restrain. + +and no one can restrain. + 8. The remnant left in Israel - will take their place among the nations. + +will take their place among the nations. + They will be like a lion among the animals of the forest, - like a strong young lion among flocks of sheep and goats, + +like a strong young lion among flocks of sheep and goats, pouncing and tearing as they go - with no rescuer in sight. + +with no rescuer in sight. + 9. The people of Israel will stand up to their foes, - and all their enemies will be wiped out. + +and all their enemies will be wiped out. + 10. "In that day," says the LORD, "I will slaughter your horses - and destroy your chariots. + +and destroy your chariots. + 11. I will tear down your walls - and demolish your defenses. + +and demolish your defenses. + 12. I will put an end to all witchcraft, - and there will be no more fortune-tellers. + +and there will be no more fortune-tellers. + 13. I will destroy all your idols and sacred pillars, - so you will never again worship the work of your own hands. + +so you will never again worship the work of your own hands. + 14. I will abolish your idol shrines with their Asherah poles - and destroy your pagan cities. + +and destroy your pagan cities. + 15. I will pour out my vengeance - on all the nations that refuse to obey me." + +on all the nations that refuse to obey me." + diff --git a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_06.md index 01a45c5a..ddc2a0a8 100644 --- a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_06.md @@ -3,83 +3,135 @@ The LORD's Case against Israel # Chapter 6 1. Listen to what the LORD is saying: "Stand up and state your case against me. - Let the mountains and hills be called to witness your complaints. + +Let the mountains and hills be called to witness your complaints. + 2. And now, O mountains, listen to the LORD's complaint! He has a case against his people. - He will bring charges against Israel. + +He will bring charges against Israel. + 3. "O my people, what have I done to you? - What have I done to make you tired of me? - Answer me! + +What have I done to make you tired of me? + +Answer me! + 4. For I brought you out of Egypt - and redeemed you from slavery. - I sent Moses, Aaron, and Miriam to help you. + +and redeemed you from slavery. + +I sent Moses, Aaron, and Miriam to help you. + 5. Don't you remember, my people, - how King Balak of Moab tried to have you cursed - and how Balaam son of Beor blessed you instead? + +how King Balak of Moab tried to have you cursed + +and how Balaam son of Beor blessed you instead? And remember your journey from Acacia Grove to Gilgal, when I, the LORD, did everything I could - to teach you about my faithfulness." + +to teach you about my faithfulness." + 6. What can we bring to the LORD? - Should we bring him burnt offerings? + +Should we bring him burnt offerings? Should we bow before God Most High - with offerings of yearling calves? + +with offerings of yearling calves? + 7. Should we offer him thousands of rams - and ten thousand rivers of olive oil? + +and ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Should we sacrifice our firstborn children - to pay for our sins? + +to pay for our sins? + 8. No, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, - and this is what he requires of you: + +and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, - and to walk humbly with your God.Israel's Guilt and Punishment + +and to walk humbly with your God. + +Israel's Guilt and Punishment + 9. Fear the LORD if you are wise! - His voice calls to everyone in Jerusalem: + +His voice calls to everyone in Jerusalem: "The armies of destruction are coming; the LORD is sending them. 10. What shall I say about the homes of the wicked - filled with treasures gained by cheating? + +filled with treasures gained by cheating? What about the disgusting practice of measuring out grain with dishonest measures? 11. How can I tolerate your merchants - who use dishonest scales and weights? + +who use dishonest scales and weights? + 12. The rich among you have become wealthy - through extortion and violence. + +through extortion and violence. + Your citizens are so used to lying - that their tongues can no longer tell the truth. + +that their tongues can no longer tell the truth. + 13. "Therefore, I will wound you! - I will bring you to ruin for all your sins. + +I will bring you to ruin for all your sins. + 14. You will eat but never have enough. - Your hunger pangs and emptiness will remain. + +Your hunger pangs and emptiness will remain. + And though you try to save your money, - it will come to nothing in the end. + +it will come to nothing in the end. + You will save a little, - but I will give it to those who conquer you. + +but I will give it to those who conquer you. + 15. You will plant crops - but not harvest them. + +but not harvest them. + You will press your olives - but not get enough oil to anoint yourselves. + +but not get enough oil to anoint yourselves. + You will trample the grapes - but get no juice to make your wine. + +but get no juice to make your wine. + 16. You keep only the laws of evil King Omri; - you follow only the example of wicked King Ahab! + +you follow only the example of wicked King Ahab! Therefore, I will make an example of you, - bringing you to complete ruin. + +bringing you to complete ruin. + You will be treated with contempt, - mocked by all who see you." + +mocked by all who see you." + diff --git a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_07.md index 6d70259a..b6fec502 100644 --- a/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/33_Micah/Chapter_07.md @@ -3,102 +3,168 @@ Misery Turned to Hope # Chapter 7 1. How miserable I am! I feel like the fruit picker after the harvest - who can find nothing to eat. + +who can find nothing to eat. + Not a cluster of grapes or a single early fig - can be found to satisfy my hunger. + +can be found to satisfy my hunger. + 2. The godly people have all disappeared; - not one honest person is left on the earth. + +not one honest person is left on the earth. + They are all murderers, - setting traps even for their own brothers. + +setting traps even for their own brothers. + 3. Both their hands are equally skilled at doing evil! - Officials and judges alike demand bribes. + +Officials and judges alike demand bribes. + The people with influence get what they want, - and together they scheme to twist justice. + +and together they scheme to twist justice. + 4. Even the best of them is like a brier; - the most honest is as dangerous as a hedge of thorns. + +the most honest is as dangerous as a hedge of thorns. + But your judgment day is coming swiftly now. - Your time of punishment is here, a time of confusion. + +Your time of punishment is here, a time of confusion. + 5. Don't trust anyone-- - not your best friend or even your wife! + +not your best friend or even your wife! + 6. For the son despises his father. - The daughter defies her mother. + +The daughter defies her mother. + The daughter-in-law defies her mother-in-law. - Your enemies are right in your own household! + +Your enemies are right in your own household! + 7. As for me, I look to the LORD for help. - I wait confidently for God to save me, - and my God will certainly hear me. + +I wait confidently for God to save me, + +and my God will certainly hear me. + 8. Do not gloat over me, my enemies! - For though I fall, I will rise again. + +For though I fall, I will rise again. + Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light. 9. I will be patient as the LORD punishes me, - for I have sinned against him. + +for I have sinned against him. + But after that, he will take up my case - and give me justice for all I have suffered from my enemies. + +and give me justice for all I have suffered from my enemies. The LORD will bring me into the light, - and I will see his righteousness. + +and I will see his righteousness. + 10. Then my enemies will see that the LORD is on my side. - They will be ashamed that they taunted me, saying, + +They will be ashamed that they taunted me, saying, "So where is the LORD-- - that God of yours?" + +that God of yours?" With my own eyes I will see their downfall; - they will be trampled like mud in the streets. + +they will be trampled like mud in the streets. + 11. In that day, Israel, your cities will be rebuilt, - and your borders will be extended. + +and your borders will be extended. + 12. People from many lands will come and honor you-- - from Assyria all the way to the towns of Egypt, + +from Assyria all the way to the towns of Egypt, from Egypt all the way to the Euphrates River, - and from distant seas and mountains. + +and from distant seas and mountains. + 13. But the land will become empty and desolate - because of the wickedness of those who live there.The LORD's Compassion on Israel + +because of the wickedness of those who live there.The LORD's Compassion on Israel 14. O LORD, protect your people with your shepherd's staff; - lead your flock, your special possession. + +lead your flock, your special possession. + Though they live alone in a thicket on the heights of Mount Carmel, let them graze in the fertile pastures of Bashan and Gilead - as they did long ago. + +as they did long ago. + 15. "Yes," says the LORD, - "I will do mighty miracles for you, + +"I will do mighty miracles for you, like those I did when I rescued you - from slavery in Egypt." + +from slavery in Egypt." + 16. All the nations of the world will stand amazed at what the LORD will do for you. + They will be embarrassed - at their feeble power. + +at their feeble power. + They will cover their mouths in silent awe, - deaf to everything around them. + +deaf to everything around them. + 17. Like snakes crawling from their holes, they will come out to meet the LORD our God. + They will fear him greatly, - trembling in terror at his presence. + +trembling in terror at his presence. + 18. Where is another God like you, - who pardons the guilt of the remnant, - overlooking the sins of his special people? + +who pardons the guilt of the remnant, + +overlooking the sins of his special people? You will not stay angry with your people forever, - because you delight in showing unfailing love. + +because you delight in showing unfailing love. + 19. Once again you will have compassion on us. - You will trample our sins under your feet - and throw them into the depths of the ocean! + +You will trample our sins under your feet + +and throw them into the depths of the ocean! + 20. You will show us your faithfulness and unfailing love - as you promised to our ancestors Abraham and Jacob long ago. + +as you promised to our ancestors Abraham and Jacob long ago. + diff --git a/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_01.md index 61e61190..4dcc60f2 100644 --- a/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_01.md @@ -2,70 +2,116 @@ 1. This message concerning Nineveh came as a vision to Nahum, who lived in Elkosh.The LORD's Anger against Nineveh 2. The LORD is a jealous God, - filled with vengeance and rage. + +filled with vengeance and rage. + He takes revenge on all who oppose him - and continues to rage against his enemies! + +and continues to rage against his enemies! + 3. The LORD is slow to get angry, but his power is great, - and he never lets the guilty go unpunished. + +and he never lets the guilty go unpunished. + He displays his power in the whirlwind and the storm. - The billowing clouds are the dust beneath his feet. + +The billowing clouds are the dust beneath his feet. + 4. At his command the oceans dry up, - and the rivers disappear. + +and the rivers disappear. + The lush pastures of Bashan and Carmel fade, - and the green forests of Lebanon wither. + +and the green forests of Lebanon wither. + 5. In his presence the mountains quake, - and the hills melt away; + +and the hills melt away; the earth trembles, - and its people are destroyed. + +and its people are destroyed. + 6. Who can stand before his fierce anger? - Who can survive his burning fury? + +Who can survive his burning fury? His rage blazes forth like fire, - and the mountains crumble to dust in his presence. + +and the mountains crumble to dust in his presence. + 7. The LORD is good, - a strong refuge when trouble comes. - He is close to those who trust in him. + +a strong refuge when trouble comes. + +He is close to those who trust in him. + 8. But he will sweep away his enemies - in an overwhelming flood. + +in an overwhelming flood. + He will pursue his foes - into the darkness of night. + +into the darkness of night. + 9. Why are you scheming against the LORD? - He will destroy you with one blow; - he won't need to strike twice! + +He will destroy you with one blow; + +he won't need to strike twice! + 10. His enemies, tangled like thornbushes - and staggering like drunks, - will be burned up like dry stubble in a field. + +and staggering like drunks, + +will be burned up like dry stubble in a field. + 11. Who is this wicked counselor of yours who plots evil against the LORD? 12. This is what the LORD says: "Though the Assyrians have many allies, - they will be destroyed and disappear. + +they will be destroyed and disappear. + O my people, I have punished you before, - but I will not punish you again. + +but I will not punish you again. + 13. Now I will break the yoke of bondage from your neck - and tear off the chains of Assyrian oppression." + +and tear off the chains of Assyrian oppression." + 14. And this is what the LORD says concerning the Assyrians in Nineveh: "You will have no more children to carry on your name. - I will destroy all the idols in the temples of your gods. + +I will destroy all the idols in the temples of your gods. + I am preparing a grave for you - because you are despicable!" + +because you are despicable!" + 15. Look! A messenger is coming over the mountains with good news! - He is bringing a message of peace. + +He is bringing a message of peace. + Celebrate your festivals, O people of Judah, - and fulfill all your vows, + +and fulfill all your vows, for your wicked enemies will never invade your land again. - They will be completely destroyed! + +They will be completely destroyed! + diff --git a/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_02.md index 90d2a3e4..fbb14ab4 100644 --- a/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_02.md @@ -2,66 +2,108 @@ The Fall of Nineveh # Chapter 2 1. Your enemy is coming to crush you, Nineveh. - Man the ramparts! Watch the roads! - Prepare your defenses! Call out your forces! + +Man the ramparts! Watch the roads! + +Prepare your defenses! Call out your forces! + 2. Even though the destroyer has destroyed Judah, the LORD will restore its honor. + Israel's vine has been stripped of branches, - but he will restore its splendor. + +but he will restore its splendor. + 3. Shields flash red in the sunlight! - See the scarlet uniforms of the valiant troops! + +See the scarlet uniforms of the valiant troops! Watch as their glittering chariots move into position, with a forest of spears waving above them. 4. The chariots race recklessly along the streets - and rush wildly through the squares. + +and rush wildly through the squares. + They flash like firelight - and move as swiftly as lightning. + +and move as swiftly as lightning. + 5. The king shouts to his officers; - they stumble in their haste, - rushing to the walls to set up their defenses. + +they stumble in their haste, + +rushing to the walls to set up their defenses. + 6. The river gates have been torn open! - The palace is about to collapse! + +The palace is about to collapse! + 7. Nineveh's exile has been decreed, - and all the servant girls mourn its capture. + +and all the servant girls mourn its capture. + They moan like doves - and beat their breasts in sorrow. + +and beat their breasts in sorrow. + 8. Nineveh is like a leaking water reservoir! - The people are slipping away. + +The people are slipping away. + "Stop, stop!" someone shouts, - but no one even looks back. + +but no one even looks back. + 9. Loot the silver! - Plunder the gold! + +Plunder the gold! There's no end to Nineveh's treasures-- - its vast, uncounted wealth. + +its vast, uncounted wealth. + 10. Soon the city is plundered, empty, and ruined. - Hearts melt and knees shake. + +Hearts melt and knees shake. + The people stand aghast, - their faces pale and trembling. + +their faces pale and trembling. + 11. Where now is that great Nineveh, - that den filled with young lions? + +that den filled with young lions? It was a place where people--like lions and their cubs-- - walked freely and without fear. + +walked freely and without fear. + 12. The lion tore up meat for his cubs - and strangled prey for his mate. + +and strangled prey for his mate. + He filled his den with prey, - his caverns with his plunder. + +his caverns with his plunder. + 13. "I am your enemy!" says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + "Your chariots will soon go up in smoke. Your young men will be killed in battle. + Never again will you plunder conquered nations. - The voices of your proud messengers will be heard no more." + +The voices of your proud messengers will be heard no more." + diff --git a/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_03.md index f88386ca..9364cf3d 100644 --- a/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/34_Nahum/Chapter_03.md @@ -2,106 +2,180 @@ The LORD's Judgment against Nineveh # Chapter 3 1. What sorrow awaits Nineveh, - the city of murder and lies! + +the city of murder and lies! She is crammed with wealth - and is never without victims. + +and is never without victims. + 2. Hear the crack of whips, - the rumble of wheels! + +the rumble of wheels! Horses' hooves pound, - and chariots clatter wildly. + +and chariots clatter wildly. + 3. See the flashing swords and glittering spears - as the charioteers charge past! + +as the charioteers charge past! There are countless casualties, - heaps of bodies-- + +heaps of bodies-- so many bodies that - people stumble over them. + +people stumble over them. + 4. All this because Nineveh, - the beautiful and faithless city, + +the beautiful and faithless city, mistress of deadly charms, - enticed the nations with her beauty. + +enticed the nations with her beauty. + She taught them all her magic, - enchanting people everywhere. + +enchanting people everywhere. + 5. "I am your enemy!" says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + "And now I will lift your skirts - and show all the earth your nakedness and shame. + +and show all the earth your nakedness and shame. + 6. I will cover you with filth - and show the world how vile you really are. + +and show the world how vile you really are. + 7. All who see you will shrink back and say, - 'Nineveh lies in ruins. + +'Nineveh lies in ruins. + Where are the mourners?' - Does anyone regret your destruction?" + +Does anyone regret your destruction?" + 8. Are you any better than the city of Thebes, - situated on the Nile River, surrounded by water? + +situated on the Nile River, surrounded by water? She was protected by the river on all sides, - walled in by water. + +walled in by water. + 9. Ethiopia and the land of Egypt - gave unlimited assistance. + +gave unlimited assistance. + The nations of Put and Libya - were among her allies. + +were among her allies. + 10. Yet Thebes fell, - and her people were led away as captives. + +and her people were led away as captives. + Her babies were dashed to death - against the stones of the streets. + +against the stones of the streets. Soldiers threw dice to get Egyptian officers as servants. - All their leaders were bound in chains. + +All their leaders were bound in chains. + 11. And you, Nineveh, will also stagger like a drunkard. - You will hide for fear of the attacking enemy. + +You will hide for fear of the attacking enemy. + 12. All your fortresses will fall. - They will be devoured like the ripe figs + +They will be devoured like the ripe figs that fall into the mouths - of those who shake the trees. + +of those who shake the trees. + 13. Your troops will be as weak - and helpless as women. + +and helpless as women. + The gates of your land will be opened wide to the enemy - and set on fire and burned. + +and set on fire and burned. + 14. Get ready for the siege! - Store up water! - Strengthen the defenses! + +Store up water! + +Strengthen the defenses! Go into the pits to trample clay, - and pack it into molds, - making bricks to repair the walls. + +and pack it into molds, + +making bricks to repair the walls. + 15. But the fire will devour you; - the sword will cut you down. + +the sword will cut you down. + The enemy will consume you like locusts, - devouring everything they see. + +devouring everything they see. + There will be no escape, - even if you multiply like swarming locusts. + +even if you multiply like swarming locusts. + 16. Your merchants have multiplied - until they outnumber the stars. + +until they outnumber the stars. + But like a swarm of locusts, - they strip the land and fly away. + +they strip the land and fly away. + 17. Your guards and officials are also like swarming locusts - that crowd together in the hedges on a cold day. + +that crowd together in the hedges on a cold day. + But like locusts that fly away when the sun comes up, - all of them will fly away and disappear. + +all of them will fly away and disappear. + 18. Your shepherds are asleep, O Assyrian king; - your princes lie dead in the dust. + +your princes lie dead in the dust. + Your people are scattered across the mountains - with no one to gather them together. + +with no one to gather them together. + 19. There is no healing for your wound; - your injury is fatal. + +your injury is fatal. + All who hear of your destruction - will clap their hands for joy. + +will clap their hands for joy. + Where can anyone be found - who has not suffered from your continual cruelty? + +who has not suffered from your continual cruelty? + diff --git a/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_01.md index 1ca5a470..c38e1dd8 100644 --- a/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,79 +1,134 @@ # Chapter 1 -1. This is the message that the prophet Habakkuk received in a vision.Habakkuk's Complaint +1. This is the message that the prophet Habakkuk received in a vision. + +Habakkuk's Complaint + 2. How long, O LORD, must I call for help? - But you do not listen! + +But you do not listen! "Violence is everywhere!" I cry, - but you do not come to save. + +but you do not come to save. + 3. Must I forever see these evil deeds? - Why must I watch all this misery? + +Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look, - I see destruction and violence. + +I see destruction and violence. + I am surrounded by people - who love to argue and fight. + +who love to argue and fight. + 4. The law has become paralyzed, - and there is no justice in the courts. + +and there is no justice in the courts. + The wicked far outnumber the righteous, - so that justice has become perverted.The LORD's Reply + +so that justice has become perverted.The LORD's Reply 5. The LORD replied, "Look around at the nations; look and be amazed! For I am doing something in your own day, - something you wouldn't believe - even if someone told you about it. + +something you wouldn't believe + +even if someone told you about it. + 6. I am raising up the Babylonians, - a cruel and violent people. + +a cruel and violent people. + They will march across the world - and conquer other lands. + +and conquer other lands. + 7. They are notorious for their cruelty - and do whatever they like. + +and do whatever they like. + 8. Their horses are swifter than cheetahs - and fiercer than wolves at dusk. + +and fiercer than wolves at dusk. + Their charioteers charge from far away. - Like eagles, they swoop down to devour their prey. + +Like eagles, they swoop down to devour their prey. + 9. "On they come, all bent on violence. - Their hordes advance like a desert wind, - sweeping captives ahead of them like sand. + +Their hordes advance like a desert wind, + +sweeping captives ahead of them like sand. + 10. They scoff at kings and princes - and scorn all their fortresses. + +and scorn all their fortresses. + They simply pile ramps of earth - against their walls and capture them! + +against their walls and capture them! + 11. They sweep past like the wind - and are gone. + +and are gone. + But they are deeply guilty, - for their own strength is their god."Habakkuk's Second Complaint + +for their own strength is their god." +Habakkuk's Second Complaint + 12. O LORD my God, my Holy One, you who are eternal-- - surely you do not plan to wipe us out? + +surely you do not plan to wipe us out? O LORD, our Rock, you have sent these Babylonians to correct us, - to punish us for our many sins. + +to punish us for our many sins. + 13. But you are pure and cannot stand the sight of evil. - Will you wink at their treachery? + +Will you wink at their treachery? Should you be silent while the wicked - swallow up people more righteous than they? + +swallow up people more righteous than they? + 14. Are we only fish to be caught and killed? - Are we only sea creatures that have no leader? + +Are we only sea creatures that have no leader? + 15. Must we be strung up on their hooks - and caught in their nets while they rejoice and celebrate? + +and caught in their nets while they rejoice and celebrate? + 16. Then they will worship their nets - and burn incense in front of them. + +and burn incense in front of them. + "These nets are the gods who have made us rich!" - they will claim. + +they will claim. + 17. Will you let them get away with this forever? - Will they succeed forever in their heartless conquests? + +Will they succeed forever in their heartless conquests? + diff --git a/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_02.md index 2c8101a2..f56a00a1 100644 --- a/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,99 +1,158 @@ # Chapter 2 1. I will climb up to my watchtower - and stand at my guardpost. + +and stand at my guardpost. There I will wait to see what the LORD says and how he will answer my complaint.The LORD's Second Reply 2. Then the LORD said to me, "Write my answer plainly on tablets, - so that a runner can carry the correct message to others. + +so that a runner can carry the correct message to others. + 3. This vision is for a future time. - It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. + +It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. + If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, - for it will surely take place. - It will not be delayed. + +for it will surely take place. + +It will not be delayed. + 4. "Look at the proud! - They trust in themselves, and their lives are crooked. + +They trust in themselves, and their lives are crooked. But the righteous will live by their faithfulness to God. 5. Wealth is treacherous, - and the arrogant are never at rest. + +and the arrogant are never at rest. They open their mouths as wide as the grave, - and like death, they are never satisfied. + +and like death, they are never satisfied. + In their greed they have gathered up many nations - and swallowed many peoples. + +and swallowed many peoples. + 6. "But soon their captives will taunt them. - They will mock them, saying, + +They will mock them, saying, 'What sorrow awaits you thieves! - Now you will get what you deserve! + +Now you will get what you deserve! You've become rich by extortion, - but how much longer can this go on?' + +but how much longer can this go on?' + 7. Suddenly, your debtors will take action. - They will turn on you and take all you have, - while you stand trembling and helpless. + +They will turn on you and take all you have, + +while you stand trembling and helpless. + 8. Because you have plundered many nations, - now all the survivors will plunder you. + +now all the survivors will plunder you. + You committed murder throughout the countryside - and filled the towns with violence. + +and filled the towns with violence. + 9. "What sorrow awaits you who build big houses - with money gained dishonestly! + +with money gained dishonestly! You believe your wealth will buy security, - putting your family's nest beyond the reach of danger. + +putting your family's nest beyond the reach of danger. + 10. But by the murders you committed, - you have shamed your name and forfeited your lives. + +you have shamed your name and forfeited your lives. + 11. The very stones in the walls cry out against you, - and the beams in the ceilings echo the complaint. + +and the beams in the ceilings echo the complaint. + 12. "What sorrow awaits you who build cities - with money gained through murder and corruption! + +with money gained through murder and corruption! + 13. Has not the LORD of Heaven's Armies promised - that the wealth of nations will turn to ashes? + +that the wealth of nations will turn to ashes? They work so hard, - but all in vain! + +but all in vain! + 14. For as the waters fill the sea, - the earth will be filled with an awareness + +the earth will be filled with an awareness of the glory of the LORD. 15. "What sorrow awaits you who make your neighbors drunk! - You force your cup on them - so you can gloat over their shameful nakedness. + +You force your cup on them + +so you can gloat over their shameful nakedness. + 16. But soon it will be your turn to be disgraced. Come, drink and be exposed! Drink from the cup of the LORD's judgment, - and all your glory will be turned to shame. + +and all your glory will be turned to shame. + 17. You cut down the forests of Lebanon. - Now you will be cut down. + +Now you will be cut down. + You destroyed the wild animals, - so now their terror will be yours. + +so now their terror will be yours. + You committed murder throughout the countryside - and filled the towns with violence. + +and filled the towns with violence. + 18. "What good is an idol carved by man, - or a cast image that deceives you? + +or a cast image that deceives you? How foolish to trust in your own creation-- - a god that can't even talk! + +a god that can't even talk! + 19. What sorrow awaits you who say to wooden idols, - 'Wake up and save us!' + +'Wake up and save us!' To speechless stone images you say, - 'Rise up and teach us!' - Can an idol tell you what to do? + +'Rise up and teach us!' + +Can an idol tell you what to do? They may be overlaid with gold and silver, - but they are lifeless inside. + +but they are lifeless inside. + 20. But the LORD is in his holy Temple. - Let all the earth be silent before him." + +Let all the earth be silent before him." + diff --git a/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_03.md index b458ff87..4c9d2ec0 100644 --- a/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/35_Habakkuk/Chapter_03.md @@ -4,87 +4,144 @@ Habakkuk's Prayer 1. This prayer was sung by the prophet Habakkuk: 2. I have heard all about you, LORD. - I am filled with awe by your amazing works. + +I am filled with awe by your amazing works. + In this time of our deep need, - help us again as you did in years gone by. + +help us again as you did in years gone by. + And in your anger, - remember your mercy. + +remember your mercy. + 3. I see God moving across the deserts from Edom, the Holy One coming from Mount Paran. + His brilliant splendor fills the heavens, - and the earth is filled with his praise. + +and the earth is filled with his praise. + 4. His coming is as brilliant as the sunrise. - Rays of light flash from his hands, - where his awesome power is hidden. + +Rays of light flash from his hands, + +where his awesome power is hidden. + 5. Pestilence marches before him; - plague follows close behind. + +plague follows close behind. + 6. When he stops, the earth shakes. - When he looks, the nations tremble. + +When he looks, the nations tremble. + He shatters the everlasting mountains - and levels the eternal hills. + +and levels the eternal hills. He is the Eternal One! 7. I see the people of Cushan in distress, - and the nation of Midian trembling in terror. + +and the nation of Midian trembling in terror. + 8. Was it in anger, LORD, that you struck the rivers - and parted the sea? + +and parted the sea? Were you displeased with them? - No, you were sending your chariots of salvation! + +No, you were sending your chariots of salvation! + 9. You brandished your bow - and your quiver of arrows. - You split open the earth with flowing rivers. + +and your quiver of arrows. + +You split open the earth with flowing rivers. + 10. The mountains watched and trembled. - Onward swept the raging waters. + +Onward swept the raging waters. + The mighty deep cried out, - lifting its hands in submission. + +lifting its hands in submission. + 11. The sun and moon stood still in the sky - as your brilliant arrows flew - and your glittering spear flashed. + +as your brilliant arrows flew + +and your glittering spear flashed. + 12. You marched across the land in anger - and trampled the nations in your fury. + +and trampled the nations in your fury. + 13. You went out to rescue your chosen people, - to save your anointed ones. + +to save your anointed ones. + You crushed the heads of the wicked - and stripped their bones from head to toe. + +and stripped their bones from head to toe. + 14. With his own weapons, - you destroyed the chief of those + +you destroyed the chief of those who rushed out like a whirlwind, - thinking Israel would be easy prey. + +thinking Israel would be easy prey. + 15. You trampled the sea with your horses, - and the mighty waters piled high. + +and the mighty waters piled high. + 16. I trembled inside when I heard this; - my lips quivered with fear. + +my lips quivered with fear. My legs gave way beneath me, - and I shook in terror. + +and I shook in terror. + I will wait quietly for the coming day - when disaster will strike the people who invade us. + +when disaster will strike the people who invade us. + 17. Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, - and there are no grapes on the vines; + +and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, - and the fields lie empty and barren; + +and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, - and the cattle barns are empty, + +and the cattle barns are empty, + 18. yet I will rejoice in the LORD! - I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! + +I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! + 19. The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, - able to tread upon the heights. + +able to tread upon the heights. + (For the choir director: This prayer is to be accompanied by stringed instruments.) + diff --git a/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_01.md index 2fc53861..07f0c68e 100644 --- a/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,28 +1,40 @@ # Chapter 1 -1. The LORD gave this message to Zephaniah when Josiah son of Amon was king of Judah. Zephaniah was the son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah.Coming Judgment against Judah +1. The LORD gave this message to Zephaniah when Josiah son of Amon was king of Judah. Zephaniah was the son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah. + +Coming Judgment against Judah + 2. "I will sweep away everything from the face of the earth," says the LORD. 3. "I will sweep away people and animals alike. - I will sweep away the birds of the sky and the fish in the sea. + +I will sweep away the birds of the sky and the fish in the sea. I will reduce the wicked to heaps of rubble, and I will wipe humanity from the face of the earth," says the LORD. 4. "I will crush Judah and Jerusalem with my fist - and destroy every last trace of their Baal worship. + +and destroy every last trace of their Baal worship. + I will put an end to all the idolatrous priests, - so that even the memory of them will disappear. + +so that even the memory of them will disappear. + 5. For they go up to their roofs - and bow down to the sun, moon, and stars. + +and bow down to the sun, moon, and stars. They claim to follow the LORD, but then they worship Molech, too. 6. And I will destroy those who used to worship me - but now no longer do. + +but now no longer do. They no longer ask for the LORD's guidance - or seek my blessings." + +or seek my blessings." + 7. Stand in silence in the presence of the Sovereign LORD, for the awesome day of the LORD's judgment is near. @@ -32,56 +44,91 @@ The LORD has prepared his people for a great slaughter 8. "On that day of judgment," says the LORD, "I will punish the leaders and princes of Judah - and all those following pagan customs. + +and all those following pagan customs. + 9. Yes, I will punish those who participate in pagan worship ceremonies, - and those who fill their masters' houses with violence and deceit. + +and those who fill their masters' houses with violence and deceit. + 10. "On that day," says the LORD, - "a cry of alarm will come from the Fish Gate + +"a cry of alarm will come from the Fish Gate and echo throughout the New Quarter of the city. - And a great crash will sound from the hills. + +And a great crash will sound from the hills. + 11. Wail in sorrow, all you who live in the market area, - for all the merchants and traders will be destroyed. + +for all the merchants and traders will be destroyed. + 12. "I will search with lanterns in Jerusalem's darkest corners - to punish those who sit complacent in their sins. + +to punish those who sit complacent in their sins. They think the LORD will do nothing to them, - either good or bad. + +either good or bad. + 13. So their property will be plundered, - their homes will be ransacked. + +their homes will be ransacked. + They will build new homes - but never live in them. + +but never live in them. + They will plant vineyards - but never drink wine from them. + +but never drink wine from them. + 14. "That terrible day of the LORD is near. - Swiftly it comes-- + +Swiftly it comes-- a day of bitter tears, - a day when even strong men will cry out. + +a day when even strong men will cry out. + 15. It will be a day when the LORD's anger is poured out-- - a day of terrible distress and anguish, + +a day of terrible distress and anguish, a day of ruin and desolation, - a day of darkness and gloom, + +a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness, + 16. a day of trumpet calls and battle cries. + Down go the walled cities - and the strongest battlements! + +and the strongest battlements! + 17. "Because you have sinned against the LORD, - I will make you grope around like the blind. + +I will make you grope around like the blind. + Your blood will be poured into the dust, - and your bodies will lie rotting on the ground." + +and your bodies will lie rotting on the ground." + 18. Your silver and gold will not save you on that day of the LORD's anger. + For the whole land will be devoured - by the fire of his jealousy. + +by the fire of his jealousy. + He will make a terrifying end of all the people on earth. + diff --git a/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_02.md index a4be49a1..6c964107 100644 --- a/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_02.md @@ -2,82 +2,137 @@ A Call to Repentance # Chapter 2 1. Gather together--yes, gather together, - you shameless nation. + +you shameless nation. + 2. Gather before judgment begins, - before your time to repent is blown away like chaff. + +before your time to repent is blown away like chaff. Act now, before the fierce fury of the LORD falls and the terrible day of the LORD's anger begins. 3. Seek the LORD, all who are humble, - and follow his commands. + +and follow his commands. + Seek to do what is right - and to live humbly. + +and to live humbly. Perhaps even yet the LORD will protect you-- - protect you from his anger on that day of destruction.Judgment against Philistia + +protect you from his anger on that day of destruction. + +Judgment against Philistia + 4. Gaza and Ashkelon will be abandoned, - Ashdod and Ekron torn down. + +Ashdod and Ekron torn down. + 5. And what sorrow awaits you Philistines - who live along the coast and in the land of Canaan, - for this judgment is against you, too! + +who live along the coast and in the land of Canaan, + +for this judgment is against you, too! The LORD will destroy you - until not one of you is left. + +until not one of you is left. + 6. The Philistine coast will become a wilderness pasture, - a place of shepherd camps - and enclosures for sheep and goats. + +a place of shepherd camps + +and enclosures for sheep and goats. + 7. The remnant of the tribe of Judah will pasture there. - They will rest at night in the abandoned houses in Ashkelon. + +They will rest at night in the abandoned houses in Ashkelon. For the LORD their God will visit his people in kindness - and restore their prosperity again.Judgment against Moab and Ammon + +and restore their prosperity again. + +Judgment against Moab and Ammon + 8. "I have heard the taunts of the Moabites - and the insults of the Ammonites, + +and the insults of the Ammonites, mocking my people - and invading their borders. + +and invading their borders. + 9. Now, as surely as I live," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, "Moab and Ammon will be destroyed-- - destroyed as completely as Sodom and Gomorrah. + +destroyed as completely as Sodom and Gomorrah. + Their land will become a place of stinging nettles, - salt pits, and eternal desolation. + +salt pits, and eternal desolation. + The remnant of my people will plunder them - and take their land." + +and take their land." + 10. They will receive the wages of their pride, for they have scoffed at the people of the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 11. The LORD will terrify them - as he destroys all the gods in the land. + +as he destroys all the gods in the land. Then nations around the world will worship the LORD, - each in their own land.Judgment against Ethiopia and Assyria + +each in their own land. + +Judgment against Ethiopia and Assyria + 12. "You Ethiopians will also be slaughtered by my sword," says the LORD. 13. And the LORD will strike the lands of the north with his fist, - destroying the land of Assyria. + +destroying the land of Assyria. + He will make its great capital, Nineveh, a desolate wasteland, - parched like a desert. + +parched like a desert. + 14. The proud city will become a pasture for flocks and herds, - and all sorts of wild animals will settle there. + +and all sorts of wild animals will settle there. + The desert owl and screech owl will roost on its ruined columns, - their calls echoing through the gaping windows. + +their calls echoing through the gaping windows. + Rubble will block all the doorways, - and the cedar paneling will be exposed to the weather. + +and the cedar paneling will be exposed to the weather. + 15. This is the boisterous city, - once so secure. + +once so secure. + "I am the greatest!" it boasted. - "No other city can compare with me!" + +"No other city can compare with me!" But now, look how it has become an utter ruin, - a haven for wild animals. + +a haven for wild animals. + Everyone passing by will laugh in derision - and shake a defiant fist. + +and shake a defiant fist. + diff --git a/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_03.md index 0ff00961..681c1296 100644 --- a/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/36_Zephaniah/Chapter_03.md @@ -2,103 +2,168 @@ Jerusalem's Rebellion and Redemption # Chapter 3 1. What sorrow awaits rebellious, polluted Jerusalem, - the city of violence and crime! + +the city of violence and crime! + 2. No one can tell it anything; - it refuses all correction. + +it refuses all correction. It does not trust in the LORD - or draw near to its God. + +or draw near to its God. + 3. Its leaders are like roaring lions - hunting for their victims. + +hunting for their victims. + Its judges are like ravenous wolves at evening time, - who by dawn have left no trace of their prey. + +who by dawn have left no trace of their prey. + 4. Its prophets are arrogant liars seeking their own gain. - Its priests defile the Temple by disobeying God's instructions. + +Its priests defile the Temple by disobeying God's instructions. + 5. But the LORD is still there in the city, - and he does no wrong. + +and he does no wrong. + Day by day he hands down justice, - and he does not fail. - But the wicked know no shame. + +and he does not fail. + +But the wicked know no shame. + 6. "I have wiped out many nations, - devastating their fortress walls and towers. + +devastating their fortress walls and towers. + Their streets are now deserted; - their cities lie in silent ruin. + +their cities lie in silent ruin. + There are no survivors-- - none at all. + +none at all. + 7. I thought, 'Surely they will have reverence for me now! - Surely they will listen to my warnings. + +Surely they will listen to my warnings. + Then I won't need to strike again, - destroying their homes.' + +destroying their homes.' But no, they get up early - to continue their evil deeds. + +to continue their evil deeds. + 8. Therefore, be patient," says the LORD. - "Soon I will stand and accuse these evil nations. + +"Soon I will stand and accuse these evil nations. + For I have decided to gather the kingdoms of the earth - and pour out my fiercest anger and fury on them. + +and pour out my fiercest anger and fury on them. + All the earth will be devoured - by the fire of my jealousy. + +by the fire of my jealousy. + 9. "Then I will purify the speech of all people, so that everyone can worship the LORD together. 10. My scattered people who live beyond the rivers of Ethiopia - will come to present their offerings. + +will come to present their offerings. + 11. On that day you will no longer need to be ashamed, - for you will no longer be rebels against me. + +for you will no longer be rebels against me. + I will remove all proud and arrogant people from among you. - There will be no more haughtiness on my holy mountain. + +There will be no more haughtiness on my holy mountain. + 12. Those who are left will be the lowly and humble, for it is they who trust in the name of the LORD. 13. The remnant of Israel will do no wrong; - they will never tell lies or deceive one another. + +they will never tell lies or deceive one another. + They will eat and sleep in safety, - and no one will make them afraid." + +and no one will make them afraid." + 14. Sing, O daughter of Zion; - shout aloud, O Israel! + +shout aloud, O Israel! Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, - O daughter of Jerusalem! + +O daughter of Jerusalem! + 15. For the LORD will remove his hand of judgment - and will disperse the armies of your enemy. + +and will disperse the armies of your enemy. And the LORD himself, the King of Israel, - will live among you! + +will live among you! At last your troubles will be over, - and you will never again fear disaster. + +and you will never again fear disaster. + 16. On that day the announcement to Jerusalem will be, - "Cheer up, Zion! Don't be afraid! + +"Cheer up, Zion! Don't be afraid! + 17. For the LORD your God is living among you. - He is a mighty savior. + +He is a mighty savior. + He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. - He will rejoice over you with joyful songs." + +He will rejoice over you with joyful songs." + 18. "I will gather you who mourn for the appointed festivals; you will be disgraced no more. 19. And I will deal severely with all who have oppressed you. - I will save the weak and helpless ones; + +I will save the weak and helpless ones; I will bring together - those who were chased away. + +those who were chased away. + I will give glory and fame to my former exiles, - wherever they have been mocked and shamed. + +wherever they have been mocked and shamed. + 20. On that day I will gather you together - and bring you home again. + +and bring you home again. + I will give you a good name, a name of distinction, - among all the nations of the earth, + +among all the nations of the earth, as I restore your fortunes before their very eyes. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/37_Haggai/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/37_Haggai/Chapter_01.md index d0c6520c..d06160c7 100644 --- a/NLT/37_Haggai/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/37_Haggai/Chapter_01.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ A Call to Rebuild the Temple 8. Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the LORD. 9. You hoped for rich harvests, but they were poor. And when you brought your harvest home, I blew it away. Why? Because my house lies in ruins, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, while all of you are busy building your own fine houses. 10. It's because of you that the heavens withhold the dew and the earth produces no crops. -11. I have called for a drought on your fields and hills--a drought to wither the grain and grapes and olive trees and all your other crops, a drought to starve you and your livestock and to ruin everything you have worked so hard to get."Obedience to God's Call +11. I have called for a drought on your fields and hills--a drought to wither the grain and grapes and olive trees and all your other crops, a drought to starve you and your livestock and to ruin everything you have worked so hard to get." +Obedience to God's Call + 12. Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the whole remnant of God's people began to obey the message from the LORD their God. When they heard the words of the prophet Haggai, whom the LORD their God had sent, the people feared the LORD. 13. Then Haggai, the LORD's messenger, gave the people this message from the LORD: "I am with you, says the LORD!" @@ -23,3 +25,4 @@ A Call to Rebuild the Temple 15. on September 21 of the second year of King Darius's reign. + diff --git a/NLT/37_Haggai/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/37_Haggai/Chapter_02.md index 2550001f..46305659 100644 --- a/NLT/37_Haggai/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/37_Haggai/Chapter_02.md @@ -10,23 +10,29 @@ The New Temple's Diminished Splendor 6. "For this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: In just a little while I will again shake the heavens and the earth, the oceans and the dry land. 7. I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will be brought to this Temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 8. The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. -9. The future glory of this Temple will be greater than its past glory, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. And in this place I will bring peace. I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken!"Blessings Promised for Obedience +9. The future glory of this Temple will be greater than its past glory, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. And in this place I will bring peace. I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken!" +Blessings Promised for Obedience + 10. On December 18 of the second year of King Darius's reign, the LORD sent this message to the prophet Haggai: 11. "This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says. Ask the priests this question about the law: 12. 'If one of you is carrying some meat from a holy sacrifice in his robes and his robe happens to brush against some bread or stew, wine or olive oil, or any other kind of food, will it also become holy?'" The priests replied, "No." + 13. Then Haggai asked, "If someone becomes ceremonially unclean by touching a dead person and then touches any of these foods, will the food be defiled?" And the priests answered, "Yes." + 14. Then Haggai responded, "That is how it is with this people and this nation, says the LORD. Everything they do and everything they offer is defiled by their sin. 15. Look at what was happening to you before you began to lay the foundation of the LORD's Temple. 16. When you hoped for a twenty-bushel crop, you harvested only ten. When you expected to draw fifty gallons from the winepress, you found only twenty. 17. I sent blight and mildew and hail to destroy everything you worked so hard to produce. Even so, you refused to return to me, says the LORD. 18. "Think about this eighteenth day of December, the day when the foundation of the LORD's Temple was laid. Think carefully. -19. I am giving you a promise now while the seed is still in the barn. You have not yet harvested your grain, and your grapevines, fig trees, pomegranates, and olive trees have not yet produced their crops. But from this day onward I will bless you."Promises for Zerubbabel +19. I am giving you a promise now while the seed is still in the barn. You have not yet harvested your grain, and your grapevines, fig trees, pomegranates, and olive trees have not yet produced their crops. But from this day onward I will bless you." +Promises for Zerubbabel + 20. On that same day, December 18, the LORD sent this second message to Haggai: 21. "Tell Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, that I am about to shake the heavens and the earth. @@ -35,3 +41,4 @@ And the priests answered, "Yes." 23. "But when this happens, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, I will honor you, Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, my servant. I will make you like a signet ring on my finger, says the LORD, for I have chosen you. I, the LORD of Heaven's Armies, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_01.md index 4d1f474f..e0446fa6 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_01.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ A Call to Return to the LORD 4. Don't be like your ancestors who would not listen or pay attention when the earlier prophets said to them, 'This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: Turn from your evil ways, and stop all your evil practices.' 5. "Where are your ancestors now? They and the prophets are long dead. -6. But everything I said through my servants the prophets happened to your ancestors, just as I said. As a result, they repented and said, 'We have received what we deserved from the LORD of Heaven's Armies. He has done what he said he would do.'"A Man among the Myrtle Trees +6. But everything I said through my servants the prophets happened to your ancestors, just as I said. As a result, they repented and said, 'We have received what we deserved from the LORD of Heaven's Armies. He has done what he said he would do.'" +A Man among the Myrtle Trees + 7. Three months later, on February 15, the LORD sent another message to the prophet Zechariah son of Berekiah and grandson of Iddo. @@ -16,6 +18,7 @@ A Call to Return to the LORD 9. I asked the angel who was talking with me, "My lord, what do these horses mean?" "I will show you," the angel replied. + 10. The rider standing among the myrtle trees then explained, "They are the ones the LORD has sent out to patrol the earth." 11. Then the other riders reported to the angel of the LORD, who was standing among the myrtle trees, "We have been patrolling the earth, and the whole earth is at peace." @@ -28,14 +31,19 @@ A Call to Return to the LORD 16. "'Therefore, this is what the LORD says: I have returned to show mercy to Jerusalem. My Temple will be rebuilt, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, and measurements will be taken for the reconstruction of Jerusalem.' -17. "Say this also: 'This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: The towns of Israel will again overflow with prosperity, and the LORD will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem as his own.'"Four Horns and Four Blacksmiths +17. "Say this also: 'This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: The towns of Israel will again overflow with prosperity, and the LORD will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem as his own.'" +Four Horns and Four Blacksmiths + 18. Then I looked up and saw four animal horns. 19. "What are these?" I asked the angel who was talking with me. + He replied, "These horns represent the nations that scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem." + 20. Then the LORD showed me four blacksmiths. 21. "What are these men coming to do?" I asked. The angel replied, "These four horns--these nations--scattered and humbled Judah. Now these blacksmiths have come to terrify those nations and throw them down and destroy them." + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_02.md index 24a272e3..36f3f2f2 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_02.md @@ -3,11 +3,15 @@ Future Prosperity of Jerusalem # Chapter 2 1. When I looked again, I saw a man with a measuring line in his hand. 2. "Where are you going?" I asked. + He replied, "I am going to measure Jerusalem, to see how wide and how long it is." + 3. Then the angel who was with me went to meet a second angel who was coming toward him. 4. The other angel said, "Hurry, and say to that young man, 'Jerusalem will someday be so full of people and livestock that there won't be room enough for everyone! Many will live outside the city walls. -5. Then I, myself, will be a protective wall of fire around Jerusalem, says the LORD. And I will be the glory inside the city!'"The Exiles Are Called Home +5. Then I, myself, will be a protective wall of fire around Jerusalem, says the LORD. And I will be the glory inside the city!'" +The Exiles Are Called Home + 6. The LORD says, "Come away! Flee from Babylon in the land of the north, for I have scattered you to the four winds. 7. Come away, people of Zion, you who are exiled in Babylon!" @@ -21,3 +25,4 @@ He replied, "I am going to measure Jerusalem, to see how wide and how long it is 13. Be silent before the LORD, all humanity, for he is springing into action from his holy dwelling." + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_03.md index 71ef5bd0..45a0731f 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_03.md @@ -18,3 +18,4 @@ Cleansing for the High Priest 10. "And on that day, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, each of you will invite your neighbor to sit with you peacefully under your own grapevine and fig tree." + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_04.md index 5b21a61a..5e0cacc6 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_04.md @@ -3,13 +3,17 @@ A Lampstand and Two Olive Trees # Chapter 4 1. Then the angel who had been talking with me returned and woke me, as though I had been asleep. 2. "What do you see now?" he asked. + I answered, "I see a solid gold lampstand with a bowl of oil on top of it. Around the bowl are seven lamps, each having seven spouts with wicks. + 3. And I see two olive trees, one on each side of the bowl." 4. Then I asked the angel, "What are these, my lord? What do they mean?" 5. "Don't you know?" the angel asked. + "No, my lord," I replied. + 6. Then he said to me, "This is what the LORD says to Zerubbabel: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 7. Nothing, not even a mighty mountain, will stand in Zerubbabel's way; it will become a level plain before him! And when Zerubbabel sets the final stone of the Temple in place, the people will shout: 'May God bless it! May God bless it!'" @@ -22,8 +26,11 @@ I answered, "I see a solid gold lampstand with a bowl of oil on top of it. Aroun 12. and what are the two olive branches that pour out golden oil through two gold tubes?" 13. "Don't you know?" he asked. + "No, my lord," I replied. + 14. Then he said to me, "They represent the two anointed ones who stand in the court of the Lord of all the earth." + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_05.md index acab8238..5fc3c93e 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_05.md @@ -7,7 +7,9 @@ A Flying Scroll "I see a flying scroll," I replied. "It appears to be about 30 feet long and 15 feet wide." 3. Then he said to me, "This scroll contains the curse that is going out over the entire land. One side of the scroll says that those who steal will be banished from the land; the other side says that those who swear falsely will be banished from the land. -4. And this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: I am sending this curse into the house of every thief and into the house of everyone who swears falsely using my name. And my curse will remain in that house and completely destroy it--even its timbers and stones."A Woman in a Basket +4. And this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: I am sending this curse into the house of every thief and into the house of everyone who swears falsely using my name. And my curse will remain in that house and completely destroy it--even its timbers and stones." +A Woman in a Basket + 5. Then the angel who was talking with me came forward and said, "Look up and see what's coming." @@ -24,3 +26,4 @@ He replied, "It is a basket for measuring grain, and it's filled with the sins o 11. He replied, "To the land of Babylonia, where they will build a temple for the basket. And when the temple is ready, they will set the basket there on its pedestal." + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_06.md index 5036b009..a564b804 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_06.md @@ -11,7 +11,9 @@ Four Chariots 7. The powerful horses were eager to set out to patrol the earth. And the LORD said, "Go and patrol the earth!" So they left at once on their patrol. -8. Then the LORD summoned me and said, "Look, those who went north have vented the anger of my Spirit there in the land of the north."The Crowning of Jeshua +8. Then the LORD summoned me and said, "Look, those who went north have vented the anger of my Spirit there in the land of the north." +The Crowning of Jeshua + 9. Then I received another message from the LORD: 10. "Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah will bring gifts of silver and gold from the Jews exiled in Babylon. As soon as they arrive, meet them at the home of Josiah son of Zephaniah. @@ -24,3 +26,4 @@ Four Chariots 15. People will come from distant lands to rebuild the Temple of the LORD. And when this happens, you will know that my messages have been from the LORD of Heaven's Armies. All this will happen if you carefully obey what the LORD your God says. + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_07.md index 450846cb..dc14e0c7 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_07.md @@ -21,3 +21,4 @@ A Call to Justice and Mercy 14. As with a whirlwind, I scattered them among the distant nations, where they lived as strangers. Their land became so desolate that no one even traveled through it. They turned their pleasant land into a desert." + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_08.md index 00d4ee43..197f0699 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_08.md @@ -36,3 +36,4 @@ Promised Blessings for Jerusalem 23. "This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: In those days ten men from different nations and languages of the world will clutch at the sleeve of one Jew. And they will say, 'Please let us walk with you, for we have heard that God is with you.'" + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_09.md index 6060f1f4..cdcdc1f3 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_09.md @@ -4,87 +4,144 @@ Judgment against Israel's Enemies 1. This is the message from the LORD against the land of Aram and the city of Damascus, for the eyes of humanity, including all the tribes of Israel, are on the LORD. 2. Doom is certain for Hamath, - near Damascus, + +near Damascus, and for the cities of Tyre and Sidon, - though they are so clever. + +though they are so clever. + 3. Tyre has built a strong fortress - and has made silver and gold - as plentiful as dust in the streets! + +and has made silver and gold + +as plentiful as dust in the streets! + 4. But now the Lord will strip away Tyre's possessions - and hurl its fortifications into the sea, - and it will be burned to the ground. + +and hurl its fortifications into the sea, + +and it will be burned to the ground. + 5. The city of Ashkelon will see Tyre fall - and will be filled with fear. + +and will be filled with fear. + Gaza will shake with terror, - as will Ekron, for their hopes will be dashed. + +as will Ekron, for their hopes will be dashed. + Gaza's king will be killed, - and Ashkelon will be deserted. + +and Ashkelon will be deserted. + 6. Foreigners will occupy the city of Ashdod. - I will destroy the pride of the Philistines. + +I will destroy the pride of the Philistines. + 7. I will grab the bloody meat from their mouths - and snatch the detestable sacrifices from their teeth. + +and snatch the detestable sacrifices from their teeth. + Then the surviving Philistines will worship our God and become like a clan in Judah. + The Philistines of Ekron will join my people, - as the ancient Jebusites once did. + +as the ancient Jebusites once did. + 8. I will guard my Temple - and protect it from invading armies. + +and protect it from invading armies. + I am watching closely to ensure - that no more foreign oppressors overrun my people's land.Zion's Coming King + +that no more foreign oppressors overrun my people's land. + +Zion's Coming King + 9. Rejoice, O people of Zion! - Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! + +Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey-- - riding on a donkey's colt. + +riding on a donkey's colt. + 10. I will remove the battle chariots from Israel - and the warhorses from Jerusalem. + +and the warhorses from Jerusalem. + I will destroy all the weapons used in battle, - and your king will bring peace to the nations. + +and your king will bring peace to the nations. + His realm will stretch from sea to sea and from the Euphrates River to the ends of the earth. 11. Because of the covenant I made with you, - sealed with blood, + +sealed with blood, I will free your prisoners - from death in a waterless dungeon. + +from death in a waterless dungeon. + 12. Come back to the place of safety, - all you prisoners who still have hope! + +all you prisoners who still have hope! I promise this very day - that I will repay two blessings for each of your troubles. + +that I will repay two blessings for each of your troubles. + 13. Judah is my bow, - and Israel is my arrow. + +and Israel is my arrow. Jerusalem is my sword, and like a warrior, I will brandish it against the Greeks. 14. The LORD will appear above his people; - his arrows will fly like lightning! + +his arrows will fly like lightning! The Sovereign LORD will sound the ram's horn - and attack like a whirlwind from the southern desert. + +and attack like a whirlwind from the southern desert. + 15. The LORD of Heaven's Armies will protect his people, - and they will defeat their enemies by hurling great stones. + +and they will defeat their enemies by hurling great stones. + They will shout in battle as though drunk with wine. - They will be filled with blood like a bowl, - drenched with blood like the corners of the altar. + +They will be filled with blood like a bowl, + +drenched with blood like the corners of the altar. + 16. On that day the LORD their God will rescue his people, - just as a shepherd rescues his sheep. + +just as a shepherd rescues his sheep. + They will sparkle in his land - like jewels in a crown. + +like jewels in a crown. + 17. How wonderful and beautiful they will be! - The young men will thrive on abundant grain, - and the young women will flourish on new wine. + +The young men will thrive on abundant grain, + +and the young women will flourish on new wine. + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_10.md index 3daeb66f..77642567 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_10.md @@ -2,67 +2,109 @@ The LORD Will Restore His People # Chapter 10 1. Ask the LORD for rain in the spring, - for he makes the storm clouds. + +for he makes the storm clouds. + And he will send showers of rain - so every field becomes a lush pasture. + +so every field becomes a lush pasture. + 2. Household gods give worthless advice, - fortune-tellers predict only lies, + +fortune-tellers predict only lies, and interpreters of dreams pronounce - falsehoods that give no comfort. + +falsehoods that give no comfort. + So my people are wandering like lost sheep; - they are attacked because they have no shepherd. + +they are attacked because they have no shepherd. + 3. "My anger burns against your shepherds, and I will punish these leaders. For the LORD of Heaven's Armies has arrived - to look after Judah, his flock. + +to look after Judah, his flock. + He will make them strong and glorious, - like a proud warhorse in battle. + +like a proud warhorse in battle. + 4. From Judah will come the cornerstone, - the tent peg, + +the tent peg, the bow for battle, - and all the rulers. + +and all the rulers. + 5. They will be like mighty warriors in battle, - trampling their enemies in the mud under their feet. + +trampling their enemies in the mud under their feet. Since the LORD is with them as they fight, - they will overthrow even the enemy's horsemen. + +they will overthrow even the enemy's horsemen. + 6. "I will strengthen Judah and save Israel; - I will restore them because of my compassion. + +I will restore them because of my compassion. + It will be as though I had never rejected them, for I am the LORD their God, who will hear their cries. 7. The people of Israel will become like mighty warriors, - and their hearts will be made happy as if by wine. + +and their hearts will be made happy as if by wine. + Their children, too, will see it and be glad; their hearts will rejoice in the LORD. 8. When I whistle to them, they will come running, - for I have redeemed them. + +for I have redeemed them. + From the few who are left, - they will grow as numerous as they were before. + +they will grow as numerous as they were before. + 9. Though I have scattered them like seeds among the nations, - they will still remember me in distant lands. + +they will still remember me in distant lands. + They and their children will survive - and return again to Israel. + +and return again to Israel. + 10. I will bring them back from Egypt - and gather them from Assyria. + +and gather them from Assyria. + I will resettle them in Gilead and Lebanon - until there is no more room for them all. + +until there is no more room for them all. + 11. They will pass safely through the sea of distress, - for the waves of the sea will be held back, - and the waters of the Nile will dry up. + +for the waves of the sea will be held back, + +and the waters of the Nile will dry up. + The pride of Assyria will be crushed, - and the rule of Egypt will end. + +and the rule of Egypt will end. + 12. By my power I will make my people strong, - and by my authority they will go wherever they wish. + +and by my authority they will go wherever they wish. I, the LORD, have spoken!" + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_11.md index 7a095cb5..6f5edc0f 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_11.md @@ -1,16 +1,28 @@ # Chapter 11 1. Open your doors, Lebanon, - so that fire may devour your cedar forests. + +so that fire may devour your cedar forests. + 2. Weep, you cypress trees, for all the ruined cedars; - the most majestic ones have fallen. + +the most majestic ones have fallen. + Weep, you oaks of Bashan, - for the thick forests have been cut down. + +for the thick forests have been cut down. + 3. Listen to the wailing of the shepherds, - for their rich pastures are destroyed. + +for their rich pastures are destroyed. + Hear the young lions roaring, - for their thickets in the Jordan Valley are ruined.The Good and Evil Shepherds + +for their thickets in the Jordan Valley are ruined. + +The Good and Evil Shepherds + 4. This is what the LORD my God says: "Go and care for the flock that is intended for slaughter. 5. The buyers slaughter their sheep without remorse. The sellers say, 'Praise the LORD! Now I'm rich!' Even the shepherds have no compassion for them. @@ -18,7 +30,9 @@ Hear the young lions roaring, 7. So I cared for the flock intended for slaughter--the flock that was oppressed. Then I took two shepherd's staffs and named one Favor and the other Union. 8. I got rid of their three evil shepherds in a single month. + But I became impatient with these sheep, and they hated me, too. + 9. So I told them, "I won't be your shepherd any longer. If you die, you die. If you are killed, you are killed. And let those who remain devour each other!" 10. Then I took my staff called Favor and cut it in two, showing that I had revoked the covenant I had made with all the nations. @@ -34,10 +48,15 @@ But I became impatient with these sheep, and they hated me, too. 16. This illustrates how I will give this nation a shepherd who will not care for those who are dying, nor look after the young, nor heal the injured, nor feed the healthy. Instead, this shepherd will eat the meat of the fattest sheep and tear off their hooves. 17. "What sorrow awaits this worthless shepherd - who abandons the flock! + +who abandons the flock! The sword will cut his arm - and pierce his right eye. + +and pierce his right eye. + His arm will become useless, - and his right eye completely blind." + +and his right eye completely blind." + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_12.md index 7293dd16..8bb0ed3d 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_12.md @@ -22,3 +22,4 @@ Future Deliverance for Jerusalem 14. Each of the surviving clans from Judah will mourn separately, and with the husbands separate from their wives. + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_13.md index 0e3b40c8..700c1355 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_13.md @@ -8,26 +8,42 @@ A Fountain of Cleansing 4. "On that day people will be ashamed to claim the prophetic gift. No one will pretend to be a prophet by wearing prophet's clothes. 5. He will say, 'I'm no prophet; I'm a farmer. I began working for a farmer as a boy.' -6. And if someone asks, 'Then what about those wounds on your chest?' he will say, 'I was wounded at my friends' house!'The Scattering of the Sheep +6. And if someone asks, 'Then what about those wounds on your chest?' he will say, 'I was wounded at my friends' house!' +The Scattering of the Sheep + 7. "Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, - the man who is my partner," + +the man who is my partner," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + "Strike down the shepherd, - and the sheep will be scattered, - and I will turn against the lambs. + +and the sheep will be scattered, + +and I will turn against the lambs. + 8. Two-thirds of the people in the land will be cut off and die," says the LORD. - "But one-third will be left in the land. + +"But one-third will be left in the land. + 9. I will bring that group through the fire - and make them pure. + +and make them pure. + I will refine them like silver - and purify them like gold. + +and purify them like gold. + They will call on my name, - and I will answer them. + +and I will answer them. + I will say, 'These are my people,' and they will say, 'The LORD is our God.'" + diff --git a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_14.md index c40f09c9..93008a09 100644 --- a/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/38_Zechariah/Chapter_14.md @@ -32,3 +32,4 @@ The LORD Will Rule the Earth 21. In fact, every cooking pot in Jerusalem and Judah will be holy to the LORD of Heaven's Armies. All who come to worship will be free to use any of these pots to boil their sacrifices. And on that day there will no longer be traders in the Temple of the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + diff --git a/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_01.md index a231c5b5..0ffdc898 100644 --- a/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_01.md @@ -2,17 +2,21 @@ 1. This is the message that the LORD gave to Israel through the prophet Malachi.The LORD's Love for Israel 2. "I have always loved you," says the LORD. + But you retort, "Really? How have you loved us?" And the LORD replies, "This is how I showed my love for you: I loved your ancestor Jacob, 3. but I rejected his brother, Esau, and devastated his hill country. I turned Esau's inheritance into a desert for jackals." 4. Esau's descendants in Edom may say, "We have been shattered, but we will rebuild the ruins." But the LORD of Heaven's Armies replies, "They may try to rebuild, but I will demolish them again. Their country will be known as 'The Land of Wickedness,' and their people will be called 'The People with Whom the LORD Is Forever Angry.' -5. When you see the destruction for yourselves, you will say, 'Truly, the LORD's greatness reaches far beyond Israel's borders!'"Unworthy Sacrifices +5. When you see the destruction for yourselves, you will say, 'Truly, the LORD's greatness reaches far beyond Israel's borders!'" +Unworthy Sacrifices + 6. The LORD of Heaven's Armies says to the priests: "A son honors his father, and a servant respects his master. If I am your father and master, where are the honor and respect I deserve? You have shown contempt for my name! "But you ask, 'How have we ever shown contempt for your name?' + 7. "You have shown contempt by offering defiled sacrifices on my altar. "Then you ask, 'How have we defiled the sacrifices?' "You defile them by saying the altar of the LORD deserves no respect. @@ -29,3 +33,4 @@ But the LORD of Heaven's Armies replies, "They may try to rebuild, but I will de 14. "Cursed is the cheat who promises to give a fine ram from his flock but then sacrifices a defective one to the Lord. For I am a great king," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, "and my name is feared among the nations! + diff --git a/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_02.md index 2d3174f5..16d5b1b7 100644 --- a/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_02.md @@ -11,7 +11,9 @@ A Warning to the Priests 7. "The words of a priest's lips should preserve knowledge of God, and people should go to him for instruction, for the priest is the messenger of the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 8. But you priests have left God's paths. Your instructions have caused many to stumble into sin. You have corrupted the covenant I made with the Levites," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. -9. "So I have made you despised and humiliated in the eyes of all the people. For you have not obeyed me but have shown favoritism in the way you carry out my instructions."A Call to Faithfulness +9. "So I have made you despised and humiliated in the eyes of all the people. For you have not obeyed me but have shown favoritism in the way you carry out my instructions." +A Call to Faithfulness + 10. Are we not all children of the same Father? Are we not all created by the same God? Then why do we betray each other, violating the covenant of our ancestors? @@ -25,7 +27,9 @@ A Warning to the Priests 16. "For I hate divorce!" says the LORD, the God of Israel. "To divorce your wife is to overwhelm her with cruelty," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. "So guard your heart; do not be unfaithful to your wife." 17. You have wearied the LORD with your words. + "How have we wearied him?" you ask. You have wearied him by saying that all who do evil are good in the LORD's sight, and he is pleased with them. You have wearied him by asking, "Where is the God of justice?" + diff --git a/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_03.md index 8c575b21..cd2c4cae 100644 --- a/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_03.md @@ -7,23 +7,31 @@ The Coming Day of Judgment 3. He will sit like a refiner of silver, burning away the dross. He will purify the Levites, refining them like gold and silver, so that they may once again offer acceptable sacrifices to the LORD. 4. Then once more the LORD will accept the offerings brought to him by the people of Judah and Jerusalem, as he did in the past. -5. "At that time I will put you on trial. I am eager to witness against all sorcerers and adulterers and liars. I will speak against those who cheat employees of their wages, who oppress widows and orphans, or who deprive the foreigners living among you of justice, for these people do not fear me," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.A Call to Repentance +5. "At that time I will put you on trial. I am eager to witness against all sorcerers and adulterers and liars. I will speak against those who cheat employees of their wages, who oppress widows and orphans, or who deprive the foreigners living among you of justice, for these people do not fear me," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + +A Call to Repentance + 6. "I am the LORD, and I do not change. That is why you descendants of Jacob are not already destroyed. 7. Ever since the days of your ancestors, you have scorned my decrees and failed to obey them. Now return to me, and I will return to you," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. + "But you ask, 'How can we return when we have never gone away?' + 8. "Should people cheat God? Yet you have cheated me! "But you ask, 'What do you mean? When did we ever cheat you?' "You have cheated me of the tithes and offerings due to me. + 9. You are under a curse, for your whole nation has been cheating me. 10. Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! 11. Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 12. "Then all nations will call you blessed, for your land will be such a delight," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 13. "You have said terrible things about me," says the LORD. + "But you say, 'What do you mean? What have we said against you?' + 14. "You have said, 'What's the use of serving God? What have we gained by obeying his commands or by trying to show the LORD of Heaven's Armies that we are sorry for our sins? 15. From now on we will call the arrogant blessed. For those who do evil get rich, and those who dare God to punish them suffer no harm.'"The LORD's Promise of Mercy @@ -33,3 +41,4 @@ The Coming Day of Judgment 18. Then you will again see the difference between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not." + diff --git a/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_04.md index fc9fc8a2..46d9a4cf 100644 --- a/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/39_Malachi/Chapter_04.md @@ -12,3 +12,4 @@ The Coming Day of Judgment 6. His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers. Otherwise I will come and strike the land with a curse." + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_01.md index 59502765..96ac5446 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,25 +4,38 @@ The Ancestors of Jesus the Messiah 1. This is a record of the ancestors of Jesus the Messiah, a descendant of David and of Abraham: 2. Abraham was the father of Isaac. + Isaac was the father of Jacob. + Jacob was the father of Judah and his brothers. + 3. Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah (whose mother was Tamar). + Perez was the father of Hezron. Hezron was the father of Ram. 4. Ram was the father of Amminadab. + Amminadab was the father of Nahshon. + Nahshon was the father of Salmon. + 5. Salmon was the father of Boaz (whose mother was Rahab). + Boaz was the father of Obed (whose mother was Ruth). + Obed was the father of Jesse. + 6. Jesse was the father of King David. + David was the father of Solomon (whose mother was Bathsheba, the widow of Uriah). + 7. Solomon was the father of Rehoboam. + Rehoboam was the father of Abijah. Abijah was the father of Asa. @@ -31,35 +44,56 @@ Jehoshaphat was the father of Jehoram. Jehoram was the father of Uzziah. 9. Uzziah was the father of Jotham. + Jotham was the father of Ahaz. + Ahaz was the father of Hezekiah. + 10. Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh. Manasseh was the father of Amon. + Amon was the father of Josiah. + 11. Josiah was the father of Jehoiachin and his brothers (born at the time of the exile to Babylon). 12. After the Babylonian exile: Jehoiachin was the father of Shealtiel. + Shealtiel was the father of Zerubbabel. + 13. Zerubbabel was the father of Abiud. + Abiud was the father of Eliakim. + Eliakim was the father of Azor. + 14. Azor was the father of Zadok. + Zadok was the father of Akim. + Akim was the father of Eliud. + 15. Eliud was the father of Eleazar. + Eleazar was the father of Matthan. + Matthan was the father of Jacob. + 16. Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. + Mary gave birth to Jesus, who is called the Messiah. -17. All those listed above include fourteen generations from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the Babylonian exile, and fourteen from the Babylonian exile to the Messiah.The Birth of Jesus the Messiah + +17. All those listed above include fourteen generations from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the Babylonian exile, and fourteen from the Babylonian exile to the Messiah. + +The Birth of Jesus the Messiah + 18. This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. 19. Joseph, to whom she was engaged, was a righteous man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. @@ -70,11 +104,15 @@ Mary gave birth to Jesus, who is called the Messiah. 22. All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord's message through his prophet: 23. "Look! The virgin will conceive a child! - She will give birth to a son, + +She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, - which means 'God is with us.'" + +which means 'God is with us.'" + 24. When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded and took Mary as his wife. 25. But he did not have sexual relations with her until her son was born. And Joseph named him Jesus. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_02.md index 11bdd88a..d68e11f6 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Visitors from the East # Chapter 2 -1. Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, +1. Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. +About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, 2. "Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him." 3. King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. @@ -21,7 +22,10 @@ for a ruler will come from you 10. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! 11. They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. -12. When it was time to leave, they returned to their own country by another route, for God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod.The Escape to Egypt +12. When it was time to leave, they returned to their own country by another route, for God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod. + +The Escape to Egypt + 13. After the wise men were gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up! Flee to Egypt with the child and his mother," the angel said. "Stay there until I tell you to return, because Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." @@ -32,10 +36,15 @@ for a ruler will come from you 17. Herod's brutal action fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet Jeremiah: 18. "A cry was heard in Ramah-- - weeping and great mourning. + +weeping and great mourning. + Rachel weeps for her children, - refusing to be comforted, - for they are dead."The Return to Nazareth + +refusing to be comforted, + for they are dead." +The Return to Nazareth + 19. When Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt. 20. "Get up!" the angel said. "Take the child and his mother back to the land of Israel, because those who were trying to kill the child are dead." @@ -45,3 +54,4 @@ Rachel weeps for her children, 23. So the family went and lived in a town called Nazareth. This fulfilled what the prophets had said: "He will be called a Nazarene." + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_03.md index 479955f9..74235f36 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_03.md @@ -18,7 +18,9 @@ John the Baptist Prepares the Way 10. Even now the ax of God's judgment is poised, ready to sever the roots of the trees. Yes, every tree that does not produce good fruit will be chopped down and thrown into the fire. 11. "I baptize with water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. But someone is coming soon who is greater than I am--so much greater that I'm not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. -12. He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire."The Baptism of Jesus +12. He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire." +The Baptism of Jesus + 13. Then Jesus went from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. 14. But John tried to talk him out of it. "I am the one who needs to be baptized by you," he said, "so why are you coming to me?" @@ -29,3 +31,4 @@ John the Baptist Prepares the Way 17. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy." + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_04.md index c5068f4e..1088ab0d 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_04.md @@ -7,12 +7,14 @@ The Temptation of Jesus 3. During that time the devil came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread." 4. But Jesus told him, *"No! The Scriptures say,* -*'People do not live by bread alone,* +* +'People do not live by bread alone,* *but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"* 5. Then the devil took him to the holy city, Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, 6. and said, "If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, 'He will order his angels to protect you. + And they will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone.'" @@ -25,32 +27,46 @@ And they will hold you up with their hands *'You must worship the LORD your God* *and serve only him.'"* -11. Then the devil went away, and angels came and took care of Jesus.The Ministry of Jesus Begins +11. Then the devil went away, and angels came and took care of Jesus. + +The Ministry of Jesus Begins + 12. When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he left Judea and returned to Galilee. 13. He went first to Nazareth, then left there and moved to Capernaum, beside the Sea of Galilee, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali. 14. This fulfilled what God said through the prophet Isaiah: 15. "In the land of Zebulun and of Naphtali, - beside the sea, beyond the Jordan River, - in Galilee where so many Gentiles live, + +beside the sea, beyond the Jordan River, + +in Galilee where so many Gentiles live, + 16. the people who sat in darkness - have seen a great light. + +have seen a great light. + And for those who lived in the land where death casts its shadow, a light has shined." -17. From then on Jesus began to preach, *"Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near."*The First Disciples +17. From then on Jesus began to preach, *"Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near."* +The First Disciples + 18. One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers--Simon, also called Peter, and Andrew--throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. 19. Jesus called out to them, *"Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!"* 20. And they left their nets at once and followed him. 21. A little farther up the shore he saw two other brothers, James and John, sitting in a boat with their father, Zebedee, repairing their nets. And he called them to come, too. -22. They immediately followed him, leaving the boat and their father behind.Crowds Follow Jesus +22. They immediately followed him, leaving the boat and their father behind. + +Crowds Follow Jesus + 23. Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. 24. News about him spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon possessed or epileptic or paralyzed--he healed them all. 25. Large crowds followed him wherever he went--people from Galilee, the Ten Towns, Jerusalem, from all over Judea, and from east of the Jordan River. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_05.md index 1802c0cd..7e59a1a4 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_05.md @@ -2,46 +2,63 @@ The Sermon on the Mount # Chapter 5 1. One day as he saw the crowds gathering, Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down. His disciples gathered around him, -2. and he began to teach them.The Beatitudes +2. and he began to teach them. + +The Beatitudes + 3. *"God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him,* - *for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.* + * +for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.* 4. *God blesses those who mourn,* - *for they will be comforted.* + * +for they will be comforted.* 5. *God blesses those who are humble,* - *for they will inherit the whole earth.* + * +for they will inherit the whole earth.* 6. *God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice,* - *for they will be satisfied.* + * +for they will be satisfied.* 7. *God blesses those who are merciful,* - *for they will be shown mercy.* + * +for they will be shown mercy.* 8. *God blesses those whose hearts are pure,* - *for they will see God.* + * +for they will see God.* 9. *God blesses those who work for peace,* - *for they will be called the children of God.* + * +for they will be called the children of God.* 10. *God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right,* - *for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.* + * +for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.* 11. *"God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers.* -12. *Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.*Teaching about Salt and Light +12. *Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.* +Teaching about Salt and Light + 13. *"You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.* 14. *"You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.* 15. *No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.* -16. *In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.*Teaching about the Law +16. *In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.* +Teaching about the Law + 17. *"Don't misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.* 18. *I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God's law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.* 19. *So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God's laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven.* -20. *"But I warn you--unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven!*Teaching about Anger +20. *"But I warn you--unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven!* +Teaching about Anger + 21. *"You have heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.'* 22. *But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.* @@ -50,27 +67,37 @@ The Sermon on the Mount 24. *leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.* 25. *"When you are on the way to court with your adversary, settle your differences quickly. Otherwise, your accuser may hand you over to the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, and you will be thrown into prison.* -26. *And if that happens, you surely won't be free again until you have paid the last penny.*Teaching about Adultery +26. *And if that happens, you surely won't be free again until you have paid the last penny.* +Teaching about Adultery + 27. *"You have heard the commandment that says, 'You must not commit adultery.'* 28. *But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.* 29. *So if your eye--even your good eye--causes you to lust, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.* -30. *And if your hand--even your stronger hand--causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.*Teaching about Divorce +30. *And if your hand--even your stronger hand--causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.* +Teaching about Divorce + 31. *"You have heard the law that says, 'A man can divorce his wife by merely giving her a written notice of divorce.'* -32. *But I say that a man who divorces his wife, unless she has been unfaithful, causes her to commit adultery. And anyone who marries a divorced woman also commits adultery.*Teaching about Vows +32. *But I say that a man who divorces his wife, unless she has been unfaithful, causes her to commit adultery. And anyone who marries a divorced woman also commits adultery.* +Teaching about Vows + 33. *"You have also heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the LORD.'* 34. *But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, 'By heaven!' because heaven is God's throne.* 35. *And do not say, 'By the earth!' because the earth is his footstool. And do not say, 'By Jerusalem!' for Jerusalem is the city of the great King.* 36. *Do not even say, 'By my head!' for you can't turn one hair white or black.* -37. *Just say a simple, 'Yes, I will,' or 'No, I won't.' Anything beyond this is from the evil one.*Teaching about Revenge +37. *Just say a simple, 'Yes, I will,' or 'No, I won't.' Anything beyond this is from the evil one.* +Teaching about Revenge + 38. *"You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.'* 39. *But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also.* 40. *If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too.* 41. *If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles.* -42. *Give to those who ask, and don't turn away from those who want to borrow.*Teaching about Love for Enemies +42. *Give to those who ask, and don't turn away from those who want to borrow.* +Teaching about Love for Enemies + 43. *"You have heard the law that says, 'Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy.* 44. *But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!* @@ -80,3 +107,4 @@ The Sermon on the Mount 48. *But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_06.md index de71f6ad..9a595c69 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_06.md @@ -4,7 +4,9 @@ Teaching about Giving to the Needy 1. *"Watch out! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven.* 2. *When you give to someone in need, don't do as the hypocrites do--blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get.* 3. *But when you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.* -4. *Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.*Teaching about Prayer and Fasting +4. *Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.* +Teaching about Prayer and Fasting + 5. *"When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get.* 6. *But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.* @@ -12,17 +14,22 @@ Teaching about Giving to the Needy 7. *"When you pray, don't babble on and on as the Gentiles do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again.* 8. *Don't be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!* 9. *Pray like this:* -*Our Father in heaven,* - *may your name be kept holy.* +* +Our Father in heaven,* + * +may your name be kept holy.* 10. *May your Kingdom come soon.* -*May your will be done on earth,* - *as it is in heaven.* +* +May your will be done on earth,* + * +as it is in heaven.* 11. *Give us today the food we need,* 12. *and forgive us our sins,* - *as we have forgiven those who sin against us.* + * +as we have forgiven those who sin against us.* 13. *And don't let us yield to temptation,* *but rescue us from the evil one.* @@ -32,10 +39,13 @@ Teaching about Giving to the Needy 16. *"And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get.* 17. *But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face.* -18. *Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.*Teaching about Money and Possessions +18. *Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.* +Teaching about Money and Possessions + 19. *"Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal.* -20. *Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.* +20. * +Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.* 21. *Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.* 22. *"Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light.* @@ -58,3 +68,4 @@ Teaching about Giving to the Needy 34. *"So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_07.md index 44b4a123..426b59ef 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_07.md @@ -8,30 +8,42 @@ Do Not Judge Others 4. *How can you think of saying to your friend, 'Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye?* 5. *Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye.* -6. *"Don't waste what is holy on people who are unholy. Don't throw your pearls to pigs! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you.*Effective Prayer +6. *"Don't waste what is holy on people who are unholy. Don't throw your pearls to pigs! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you.* +Effective Prayer + 7. *"Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.* 8. *For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.* 9. *"You parents--if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead?* 10. *Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not!* -11. *So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.*The Golden Rule +11. *So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.* +The Golden Rule + + +12. *"Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.* +The Narrow Gate -12. *"Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.*The Narrow Gate 13. *"You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way.* -14. *But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.*The Tree and Its Fruit +14. *But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.* +The Tree and Its Fruit + 15. *"Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.* 16. *You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?* 17. *A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit.* 18. *A good tree can't produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can't produce good fruit.* 19. *So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire.* -20. *Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.*True Disciples +20. *Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.* +True Disciples + 21. *"Not everyone who calls out to me, 'Lord! Lord!' will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter.* 22. *On judgment day many will say to me, 'Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.'* -23. *But I will reply, 'I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God's laws.'*Building on a Solid Foundation +23. *But I will reply, 'I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God's laws.'* +Building on a Solid Foundation + 24. *"Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.* 25. *Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock.* @@ -42,3 +54,4 @@ Do Not Judge Others 29. for he taught with real authority--quite unlike their teachers of religious law. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_08.md index 7f799a16..a01c6c1a 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_08.md @@ -5,7 +5,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy 2. Suddenly, a man with leprosy approached him and knelt before him. "Lord," the man said, "if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean." 3. Jesus reached out and touched him. *"I am willing," he said. "Be healed!"* And instantly the leprosy disappeared. -4. Then Jesus said to him, *"Don't tell anyone about this. Instead, go to the priest and let him examine you. Take along the offering required in the law of Moses for those who have been healed of leprosy. This will be a public testimony that you have been cleansed."*The Faith of a Roman Officer +4. Then Jesus said to him, *"Don't tell anyone about this. Instead, go to the priest and let him examine you. Take along the offering required in the law of Moses for those who have been healed of leprosy. This will be a public testimony that you have been cleansed."* +The Faith of a Roman Officer + 5. When Jesus returned to Capernaum, a Roman officer came and pleaded with him, 6. "Lord, my young servant lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain." @@ -19,7 +21,10 @@ Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy 11. *And I tell you this, that many Gentiles will come from all over the world--from east and west--and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven.* 12. *But many Israelites--those for whom the Kingdom was prepared--will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."* -13. Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, *"Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened."* And the young servant was healed that same hour.Jesus Heals Many People +13. Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, *"Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened."* And the young servant was healed that same hour. + +Jesus Heals Many People + 14. When Jesus arrived at Peter's house, Peter's mother-in-law was sick in bed with a high fever. 15. But when Jesus touched her hand, the fever left her. Then she got up and prepared a meal for him. @@ -27,7 +32,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy 16. That evening many demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. He cast out the evil spirits with a simple command, and he healed all the sick. 17. This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said, "He took our sicknesses - and removed our diseases."The Cost of Following Jesus + and removed our diseases." +The Cost of Following Jesus + 18. When Jesus saw the crowd around him, he instructed his disciples to cross to the other side of the lake. @@ -37,7 +44,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy 21. Another of his disciples said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." -22. But Jesus told him, *"Follow me now. Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead."*Jesus Calms the Storm +22. But Jesus told him, *"Follow me now. Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead."* +Jesus Calms the Storm + 23. Then Jesus got into the boat and started across the lake with his disciples. 24. Suddenly, a fierce storm struck the lake, with waves breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. @@ -45,7 +54,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy 26. Jesus responded, *"Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!"* Then he got up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly there was a great calm. -27. The disciples were amazed. "Who is this man?" they asked. "Even the winds and waves obey him!"Jesus Heals Two Demon-Possessed Men +27. The disciples were amazed. "Who is this man?" they asked. "Even the winds and waves obey him!" +Jesus Heals Two Demon-Possessed Men + 28. When Jesus arrived on the other side of the lake, in the region of the Gadarenes, two men who were possessed by demons met him. They came out of the tombs and were so violent that no one could go through that area. @@ -60,3 +71,4 @@ Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy 34. Then the entire town came out to meet Jesus, but they begged him to go away and leave them alone. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_09.md index 1556ae56..8b8f52d1 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_09.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 6. *So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins." Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, "Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!"* 7. And the man jumped up and went home! -8. Fear swept through the crowd as they saw this happen. And they praised God for giving humans such authority.Jesus Calls Matthew +8. Fear swept through the crowd as they saw this happen. And they praised God for giving humans such authority. + +Jesus Calls Matthew + 9. As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at his tax collector's booth. *"Follow me and be my disciple,"* Jesus said to him. So Matthew got up and followed him. @@ -19,7 +22,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 11. But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with such scum?" 12. When Jesus heard this, he said, *"Healthy people don't need a doctor--sick people do."* -13. Then he added, *"Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.' For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners."*A Discussion about Fasting +13. Then he added, *"Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.' For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners."* +A Discussion about Fasting + 14. One day the disciples of John the Baptist came to Jesus and asked him, "Why don't your disciples fast like we do and the Pharisees do?" @@ -27,7 +32,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 16. *"Besides, who would patch old clothing with new cloth? For the new patch would shrink and rip away from the old cloth, leaving an even bigger tear than before.* -17. *"And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the old skins would burst from the pressure, spilling the wine and ruining the skins. New wine is stored in new wineskins so that both are preserved."*Jesus Heals in Response to Faith +17. *"And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the old skins would burst from the pressure, spilling the wine and ruining the skins. New wine is stored in new wineskins so that both are preserved."* +Jesus Heals in Response to Faith + 18. As Jesus was saying this, the leader of a synagogue came and knelt before him. "My daughter has just died," he said, "but you can bring her back to life again if you just come and lay your hand on her." @@ -40,13 +47,17 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 23. When Jesus arrived at the official's home, he saw the noisy crowd and heard the funeral music. 24. *"Get out!" he told them. "The girl isn't dead; she's only asleep."* But the crowd laughed at him. 25. After the crowd was put outside, however, Jesus went in and took the girl by the hand, and she stood up! -26. The report of this miracle swept through the entire countryside.Jesus Heals the Blind +26. The report of this miracle swept through the entire countryside. + +Jesus Heals the Blind + 27. After Jesus left the girl's home, two blind men followed along behind him, shouting, "Son of David, have mercy on us!" 28. They went right into the house where he was staying, and Jesus asked them, *"Do you believe I can make you see?"* "Yes, Lord," they told him, "we do." + 29. Then he touched their eyes and said, *"Because of your faith, it will happen."* 30. Then their eyes were opened, and they could see! Jesus sternly warned them, *"Don't tell anyone about this."* 31. But instead, they went out and spread his fame all over the region. @@ -54,7 +65,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 32. When they left, a demon-possessed man who couldn't speak was brought to Jesus. 33. So Jesus cast out the demon, and then the man began to speak. The crowds were amazed. "Nothing like this has ever happened in Israel!" they exclaimed. -34. But the Pharisees said, "He can cast out demons because he is empowered by the prince of demons."The Need for Workers +34. But the Pharisees said, "He can cast out demons because he is empowered by the prince of demons." +The Need for Workers + 35. Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. 36. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. @@ -62,3 +75,4 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 38. *So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields."* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_10.md index 96fac4ed..c7917838 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_10.md @@ -8,6 +8,7 @@ then Andrew (Peter's brother), James (son of Zebedee), John (James's brother), + 3. Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, @@ -18,6 +19,7 @@ Thaddaeus, 4. Simon (the zealot), Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him). + 5. Jesus sent out the twelve apostles with these instructions: *"Don't go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans,* 6. *but only to the people of Israel--God's lost sheep.* 7. *Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near.* @@ -59,8 +61,10 @@ Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him). 34. *"Don't imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword.* 35. *'I have come to set a man against his father,* - *a daughter against her mother,* -*and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.* + * +a daughter against her mother,* +* +and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.* 36. *Your enemies will be right in your own household!'* @@ -73,3 +77,4 @@ Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him). 42. *And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded."* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_11.md index 4628c665..22d460b5 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_11.md @@ -14,7 +14,8 @@ Jesus and John the Baptist 8. *Or were you expecting to see a man dressed in expensive clothes? No, people with expensive clothes live in palaces.* 9. *Were you looking for a prophet? Yes, and he is more than a prophet.* 10. *John is the man to whom the Scriptures refer when they say,* -*'Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,* +* +'Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,* *and he will prepare your way before you.'* 11. *"I tell you the truth, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than he is!* @@ -26,19 +27,26 @@ Jesus and John the Baptist 16. *"To what can I compare this generation? It is like children playing a game in the public square. They complain to their friends,* 17. *'We played wedding songs,* - *and you didn't dance,* -*so we played funeral songs,* - *and you didn't mourn.'* + * +and you didn't dance,* +* +so we played funeral songs,* + * +and you didn't mourn.'* 18. *For John didn't spend his time eating and drinking, and you say, 'He's possessed by a demon.'* -19. *The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, 'He's a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!' But wisdom is shown to be right by its results."*Judgment for the Unbelievers +19. *The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, 'He's a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!' But wisdom is shown to be right by its results."* +Judgment for the Unbelievers + 20. Then Jesus began to denounce the towns where he had done so many of his miracles, because they hadn't repented of their sins and turned to God. 21. *"What sorrow awaits you, Korazin and Bethsaida! For if the miracles I did in you had been done in wicked Tyre and Sidon, their people would have repented of their sins long ago, clothing themselves in burlap and throwing ashes on their heads to show their remorse.* 22. *I tell you, Tyre and Sidon will be better off on judgment day than you.* 23. *"And you people of Capernaum, will you be honored in heaven? No, you will go down to the place of the dead. For if the miracles I did for you had been done in wicked Sodom, it would still be here today.* -24. *I tell you, even Sodom will be better off on judgment day than you."*Jesus' Prayer of Thanksgiving +24. *I tell you, even Sodom will be better off on judgment day than you."* +Jesus' Prayer of Thanksgiving + 25. At that time Jesus prayed this prayer: *"O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike.* 26. *Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way!* @@ -50,3 +58,4 @@ Jesus and John the Baptist 30. *For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light."* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_12.md index 19f64102..a60408d7 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_12.md @@ -9,7 +9,9 @@ A Discussion about the Sabbath 5. *And haven't you read in the law of Moses that the priests on duty in the Temple may work on the Sabbath?* 6. *I tell you, there is one here who is even greater than the Temple!* 7. *But you would not have condemned my innocent disciples if you knew the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.'* -8. *For the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!"*Jesus Heals on the Sabbath +8. *For the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!"* +Jesus Heals on the Sabbath + 9. Then Jesus went over to their synagogue, 10. where he noticed a man with a deformed hand. The Pharisees asked Jesus, "Does the law permit a person to work by healing on the Sabbath?" (They were hoping he would say yes, so they could bring charges against him.) @@ -18,26 +20,40 @@ A Discussion about the Sabbath 12. *And how much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Yes, the law permits a person to do good on the Sabbath."* 13. Then he said to the man, *"Hold out your hand."* So the man held out his hand, and it was restored, just like the other one! -14. Then the Pharisees called a meeting to plot how to kill Jesus.Jesus, God's Chosen Servant +14. Then the Pharisees called a meeting to plot how to kill Jesus. + +Jesus, God's Chosen Servant + 15. But Jesus knew what they were planning. So he left that area, and many people followed him. He healed all the sick among them, 16. but he warned them not to reveal who he was. 17. This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah concerning him: 18. "Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen. - He is my Beloved, who pleases me. + +He is my Beloved, who pleases me. + I will put my Spirit upon him, - and he will proclaim justice to the nations. + +and he will proclaim justice to the nations. + 19. He will not fight or shout - or raise his voice in public. + +or raise his voice in public. + 20. He will not crush the weakest reed - or put out a flickering candle. - Finally he will cause justice to be victorious. + +or put out a flickering candle. + +Finally he will cause justice to be victorious. + 21. And his name will be the hope - of all the world."Jesus and the Prince of Demons + of all the world." +Jesus and the Prince of Demons + 22. Then a demon-possessed man, who was blind and couldn't speak, was brought to Jesus. He healed the man so that he could both speak and see. 23. The crowd was amazed and asked, "Could it be that Jesus is the Son of David, the Messiah?" @@ -59,7 +75,9 @@ I will put my Spirit upon him, 34. *You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say.* 35. *A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart.* 36. *And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak.* -37. *The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you."*The Sign of Jonah +37. *The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you."* +The Sign of Jonah + 38. One day some teachers of religious law and Pharisees came to Jesus and said, "Teacher, we want you to show us a miraculous sign to prove your authority." @@ -71,7 +89,9 @@ I will put my Spirit upon him, 43. *"When an evil spirit leaves a person, it goes into the desert, seeking rest but finding none.* 44. *Then it says, 'I will return to the person I came from.' So it returns and finds its former home empty, swept, and in order.* -45. *Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before. That will be the experience of this evil generation."*The True Family of Jesus +45. *Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before. That will be the experience of this evil generation."* +The True Family of Jesus + 46. As Jesus was speaking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, asking to speak to him. 47. Someone told Jesus, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, and they want to speak to you." @@ -81,3 +101,4 @@ I will put my Spirit upon him, 50. *Anyone who does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother!"* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_13.md index d54ea736..317ebf00 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_13.md @@ -4,7 +4,8 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 1. Later that same day Jesus left the house and sat beside the lake. 2. A large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat there and taught as the people stood on the shore. 3. He told many stories in the form of parables, such as this one: -*"Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seeds.* +* +"Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seeds.* 4. *As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them.* 5. *Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow.* 6. *But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn't have deep roots, they died.* @@ -17,22 +18,34 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 11. He replied, *"You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others are not.* 12. *To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.* 13. *That is why I use these parables,* -*For they look, but they don't really see.* - *They hear, but they don't really listen or understand.* +* +For they look, but they don't really see.* + * +They hear, but they don't really listen or understand.* 14. *This fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah that says,* -*'When you hear what I say,* - *you will not understand.* -*When you see what I do,* - *you will not comprehend.* +* +'When you hear what I say,* + * +you will not understand.* +* +When you see what I do,* + * +you will not comprehend.* 15. *For the hearts of these people are hardened,* - *and their ears cannot hear,* -*and they have closed their eyes--* - *so their eyes cannot see,* -*and their ears cannot hear,* - *and their hearts cannot understand,* -*and they cannot turn to me* + * +and their ears cannot hear,* +* +and they have closed their eyes--* + * +so their eyes cannot see,* +* +and their ears cannot hear,* + * +and their hearts cannot understand,* +* +and they cannot turn to me* *and let me heal them.'* 16. *"But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear.* @@ -43,7 +56,9 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 20. *The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy.* 21. *But since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word.* 22. *The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced.* -23. *The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!"*Parable of the Wheat and Weeds +23. *The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!"* +Parable of the Wheat and Weeds + 24. Here is another story Jesus told: *"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a farmer who planted good seed in his field.* 25. *But that night as the workers slept, his enemy came and planted weeds among the wheat, then slipped away.* @@ -52,20 +67,27 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 27. *"The farmer's workers went to him and said, 'Sir, the field where you planted that good seed is full of weeds! Where did they come from?'* 28. *"'An enemy has done this!' the farmer exclaimed.* -*"'Should we pull out the weeds?' they asked.* +* +"'Should we pull out the weeds?' they asked.* 29. *"'No,' he replied, 'you'll uproot the wheat if you do.* -30. *Let both grow together until the harvest. Then I will tell the harvesters to sort out the weeds, tie them into bundles, and burn them, and to put the wheat in the barn.'"*Parable of the Mustard Seed +30. *Let both grow together until the harvest. Then I will tell the harvesters to sort out the weeds, tie them into bundles, and burn them, and to put the wheat in the barn.'"* +Parable of the Mustard Seed + 31. Here is another illustration Jesus used: *"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field.* -32. *It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches."*Parable of the Yeast +32. *It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches."* +Parable of the Yeast + 33. Jesus also used this illustration: *"The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough."* 34. Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables. 35. This fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet: "I will speak to you in parables. - I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world."Parable of the Wheat and Weeds Explained + I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world." +Parable of the Wheat and Weeds Explained + 36. Then, leaving the crowds outside, Jesus went into the house. His disciples said, "Please explain to us the story of the weeds in the field." @@ -76,12 +98,16 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 40. *"Just as the weeds are sorted out and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the world.* 41. *The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will remove from his Kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil.* 42. *And the angels will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.* -43. *Then the righteous will shine like the sun in their Father's Kingdom. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!*Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl +43. *Then the righteous will shine like the sun in their Father's Kingdom. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!* +Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl + 44. *"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field.* 45. *"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls.* -46. *When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!*Parable of the Fishing Net +46. *When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!* +Parable of the Fishing Net + 47. *"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind.* 48. *When the net was full, they dragged it up onto the shore, sat down, and sorted the good fish into crates, but threw the bad ones away.* @@ -90,7 +116,10 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 51. *Do you understand all these things?"* "Yes," they said, "we do." -52. Then he added, *"Every teacher of religious law who becomes a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a homeowner who brings from his storeroom new gems of truth as well as old."*Jesus Rejected at Nazareth + +52. Then he added, *"Every teacher of religious law who becomes a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a homeowner who brings from his storeroom new gems of truth as well as old."* +Jesus Rejected at Nazareth + 53. When Jesus had finished telling these stories and illustrations, he left that part of the country. 54. He returned to Nazareth, his hometown. When he taught there in the synagogue, everyone was amazed and said, "Where does he get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?" @@ -101,3 +130,4 @@ Then Jesus told them, *"A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometo 58. And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_14.md index 5036f63c..22a9964d 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_14.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ The Death of John the Baptist 9. Then the king regretted what he had said; but because of the vow he had made in front of his guests, he issued the necessary orders. 10. So John was beheaded in the prison, 11. and his head was brought on a tray and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. -12. Later, John's disciples came for his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus what had happened.Jesus Feeds Five Thousand +12. Later, John's disciples came for his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus what had happened. + +Jesus Feeds Five Thousand + 13. As soon as Jesus heard the news, he left in a boat to a remote area to be alone. But the crowds heard where he was headed and followed on foot from many towns. 14. Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. @@ -28,13 +31,17 @@ The Death of John the Baptist 18. *"Bring them here,"* he said. 19. Then he told the people to sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he gave the bread to the disciples, who distributed it to the people. 20. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftovers. -21. About 5,000 men were fed that day, in addition to all the women and children!Jesus Walks on Water +21. +About 5,000 men were fed that day, in addition to all the women and children! +Jesus Walks on Water + 22. Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. 23. After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. 24. Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. -25. About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. +25. +About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, "It's a ghost!" 27. But Jesus spoke to them at once. *"Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!"* @@ -42,7 +49,9 @@ The Death of John the Baptist 28. Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." 29. *"Yes, come,"* Jesus said. + So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. + 30. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. 31. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. *"You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?"* @@ -55,3 +64,4 @@ So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 36. They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_15.md index 5f107c4d..f370dc2c 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_15.md @@ -11,7 +11,8 @@ Jesus Teaches about Inner Purity 7. *You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you, for he wrote,* 8. *'These people honor me with their lips,* - *but their hearts are far from me.* + * +but their hearts are far from me.* 9. *Their worship is a farce,* *for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.'"* @@ -30,7 +31,9 @@ Jesus Teaches about Inner Purity 17. *"Anything you eat passes through the stomach and then goes into the sewer.* 18. *But the words you speak come from the heart--that's what defiles you.* 19. *For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander.* -20. *These are what defile you. Eating with unwashed hands will never defile you."*The Faith of a Gentile Woman +20. *These are what defile you. Eating with unwashed hands will never defile you."* +The Faith of a Gentile Woman + 21. Then Jesus left Galilee and went north to the region of Tyre and Sidon. 22. A Gentile woman who lived there came to him, pleading, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! For my daughter is possessed by a demon that torments her severely." @@ -45,11 +48,17 @@ Jesus Teaches about Inner Purity 27. She replied, "That's true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters' table." -28. *"Dear woman," Jesus said to her, "your faith is great. Your request is granted."* And her daughter was instantly healed.Jesus Heals Many People +28. *"Dear woman," Jesus said to her, "your faith is great. Your request is granted."* And her daughter was instantly healed. + +Jesus Heals Many People + 29. Jesus returned to the Sea of Galilee and climbed a hill and sat down. 30. A vast crowd brought to him people who were lame, blind, crippled, those who couldn't speak, and many others. They laid them before Jesus, and he healed them all. -31. The crowd was amazed! Those who hadn't been able to speak were talking, the crippled were made well, the lame were walking, and the blind could see again! And they praised the God of Israel.Jesus Feeds Four Thousand +31. The crowd was amazed! Those who hadn't been able to speak were talking, the crippled were made well, the lame were walking, and the blind could see again! And they praised the God of Israel. + +Jesus Feeds Four Thousand + 32. Then Jesus called his disciples and told them, *"I feel sorry for these people. They have been here with me for three days, and they have nothing left to eat. I don't want to send them away hungry, or they will faint along the way."* @@ -58,6 +67,7 @@ Jesus Teaches about Inner Purity 34. Jesus asked, *"How much bread do you have?"* They replied, "Seven loaves, and a few small fish." + 35. So Jesus told all the people to sit down on the ground. 36. Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, thanked God for them, and broke them into pieces. He gave them to the disciples, who distributed the food to the crowd. @@ -66,3 +76,4 @@ They replied, "Seven loaves, and a few small fish." 39. Then Jesus sent the people home, and he got into a boat and crossed over to the region of Magadan. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_16.md index 6eb37f78..0f169016 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_16.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ Leaders Demand a Miraculous Sign 2. He replied, *"You know the saying, 'Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow;* 3. *red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.' You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don't know how to interpret the signs of the times!* -4. *Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah."* Then Jesus left them and went away.Yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees +4. *Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah."* Then Jesus left them and went away. + +Yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees + 5. Later, after they crossed to the other side of the lake, the disciples discovered they had forgotten to bring any bread. 6. *"Watch out!" Jesus warned them. "Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."* @@ -16,7 +19,10 @@ Leaders Demand a Miraculous Sign 10. *Or the 4,000 I fed with seven loaves, and the large baskets of leftovers you picked up?* 11. *Why can't you understand that I'm not talking about bread? So again I say, 'Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.'"* -12. Then at last they understood that he wasn't speaking about the yeast in bread, but about the deceptive teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.Peter's Declaration about Jesus +12. Then at last they understood that he wasn't speaking about the yeast in bread, but about the deceptive teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. + +Peter's Declaration about Jesus + 13. When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, *"Who do people say that the Son of Man is?"* @@ -30,7 +36,10 @@ Leaders Demand a Miraculous Sign 18. *Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means 'rock'), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.* 19. *And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven."* -20. Then he sternly warned the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.Jesus Predicts His Death +20. Then he sternly warned the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah. + +Jesus Predicts His Death + 21. From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead. @@ -45,3 +54,4 @@ Leaders Demand a Miraculous Sign 28. *And I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Son of Man coming in his Kingdom."* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_17.md index 61ac4e11..3eef74d8 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_17.md @@ -19,7 +19,10 @@ The Transfiguration 11. Jesus replied, *"Elijah is indeed coming first to get everything ready.* 12. *But I tell you, Elijah has already come, but he wasn't recognized, and they chose to abuse him. And in the same way they will also make the Son of Man suffer."* -13. Then the disciples realized he was talking about John the Baptist.Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy +13. Then the disciples realized he was talking about John the Baptist. + +Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy + 14. At the foot of the mountain, a large crowd was waiting for them. A man came and knelt before Jesus and said, 15. "Lord, have mercy on my son. He has seizures and suffers terribly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. @@ -30,10 +33,15 @@ The Transfiguration 19. Afterward the disciples asked Jesus privately, "Why couldn't we cast out that demon?" -20. *"You don't have enough faith," Jesus told them. "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible."*Jesus Again Predicts His Death +20. *"You don't have enough faith," Jesus told them. "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible."* +Jesus Again Predicts His Death + 22. After they gathered again in Galilee, Jesus told them, *"The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies.* -23. *He will be killed, but on the third day he will be raised from the dead."* And the disciples were filled with grief.Payment of the Temple Tax +23. *He will be killed, but on the third day he will be raised from the dead."* And the disciples were filled with grief. + +Payment of the Temple Tax + 24. On their arrival in Capernaum, the collectors of the Temple tax came to Peter and asked him, "Doesn't your teacher pay the Temple tax?" @@ -41,7 +49,9 @@ The Transfiguration But before he had a chance to speak, Jesus asked him, *"What do you think, Peter? Do kings tax their own people or the people they have conquered?"* 26. "They tax the people they have conquered," Peter replied. -*"Well, then," Jesus said, "the citizens are free!* +* +"Well, then," Jesus said, "the citizens are free!* 27. *However, we don't want to offend them, so go down to the lake and throw in a line. Open the mouth of the first fish you catch, and you will find a large silver coin. Take it and pay the tax for both of us."* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_18.md index 39705171..40a4f9a7 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_18.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ The Greatest in the Kingdom # Chapter 18 -1. About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?" +1. +About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?" 2. Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them. 3. Then he said, *"I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.* @@ -14,11 +15,15 @@ The Greatest in the Kingdom 8. *So if your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It's better to enter eternal life with only one hand or one foot than to be thrown into eternal fire with both of your hands and feet.* 9. *And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It's better to enter eternal life with only one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.* -10. *"Beware that you don't look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father.*Parable of the Lost Sheep +10. *"Beware that you don't look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father.* +Parable of the Lost Sheep + 12. *"If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won't he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost?* 13. *And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he will rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that didn't wander away!* -14. *In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father's will that even one of these little ones should perish.*Correcting Another Believer +14. *In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father's will that even one of these little ones should perish.* +Correcting Another Believer + 15. *"If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back.* 16. *But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses.* @@ -27,7 +32,9 @@ The Greatest in the Kingdom 18. *"I tell you the truth, whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.* 19. *"I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you.* -20. *For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them."*Parable of the Unforgiving Debtor +20. *For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them."* +Parable of the Unforgiving Debtor + 21. Then Peter came to him and asked, "Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?" @@ -53,3 +60,4 @@ The Greatest in the Kingdom 35. *"That's what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart."* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_19.md index 96e251cd..9f3464ca 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_19.md @@ -18,12 +18,17 @@ Discussion about Divorce and Marriage 10. Jesus' disciples then said to him, "If this is the case, it is better not to marry!" 11. *"Not everyone can accept this statement," Jesus said. "Only those whom God helps.* -12. *Some are born as eunuchs, some have been made eunuchs by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone accept this who can."*Jesus Blesses the Children +12. *Some are born as eunuchs, some have been made eunuchs by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone accept this who can."* +Jesus Blesses the Children + 13. One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. 14. But Jesus said, *"Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children."* -15. And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left.The Rich Man +15. And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left. + +The Rich Man + 16. Someone came to Jesus with this question: "Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?" @@ -53,3 +58,4 @@ And Jesus replied: *"'You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You mus 30. *But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_20.md index 5813e021..29c54b7d 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_20.md @@ -11,7 +11,8 @@ Parable of the Vineyard Workers 6. *"At five o'clock that afternoon he was in town again and saw some more people standing around. He asked them, 'Why haven't you been working today?'* 7. *"They replied, 'Because no one hired us.'* -*"The landowner told them, 'Then go out and join the others in my vineyard.'* +* +"The landowner told them, 'Then go out and join the others in my vineyard.'* 8. *"That evening he told the foreman to call the workers in and pay them, beginning with the last workers first.* 9. *When those hired at five o'clock were paid, each received a full day's wage.* @@ -23,36 +24,48 @@ Parable of the Vineyard Workers 14. *Take your money and go. I wanted to pay this last worker the same as you.* 15. *Is it against the law for me to do what I want with my money? Should you be jealous because I am kind to others?'* -16. *"So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last."*Jesus Again Predicts His Death +16. *"So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last."* +Jesus Again Predicts His Death + 17. As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside privately and told them what was going to happen to him. 18. *"Listen," he said, "we're going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die.* -19. *Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead."*Jesus Teaches about Serving Others +19. *Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead."* +Jesus Teaches about Serving Others + 20. Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt respectfully to ask a favor. 21. *"What is your request?"* he asked. + She replied, "In your Kingdom, please let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left." + 22. But Jesus answered by saying to them, *"You don't know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink?"* "Oh yes," they replied, "we are able!" + 23. Jesus told them, *"You will indeed drink from my bitter cup. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. My Father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen."* 24. When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. 25. But Jesus called them together and said, *"You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.* 26. *But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant,* 27. *and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave.* -28. *For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."*Jesus Heals Two Blind Men +28. *For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."* +Jesus Heals Two Blind Men + 29. As Jesus and the disciples left the town of Jericho, a large crowd followed behind. 30. Two blind men were sitting beside the road. When they heard that Jesus was coming that way, they began shouting, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" 31. "Be quiet!" the crowd yelled at them. + But they only shouted louder, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" + 32. When Jesus heard them, he stopped and called, *"What do you want me to do for you?"* 33. "Lord," they said, "we want to see!" 34. Jesus felt sorry for them and touched their eyes. Instantly they could see! Then they followed him. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_21.md index ddd92f27..f0aaff4b 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_21.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ Jesus' Triumphant Entry 4. This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said, 5. "Tell the people of Jerusalem, - 'Look, your King is coming to you. + +'Look, your King is coming to you. + He is humble, riding on a donkey-- riding on a donkey's colt.'" @@ -23,7 +25,9 @@ He is humble, riding on a donkey-- 10. The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as he entered. "Who is this?" they asked. -11. And the crowds replied, "It's Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee."Jesus Clears the Temple +11. And the crowds replied, "It's Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee." +Jesus Clears the Temple + 12. Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out all the people buying and selling animals for sacrifice. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves. 13. He said to them, *"The Scriptures declare, 'My Temple will be called a house of prayer,' but you have turned it into a den of thieves!"* @@ -31,9 +35,14 @@ He is humble, riding on a donkey-- 14. The blind and the lame came to him in the Temple, and he healed them. 15. The leading priests and the teachers of religious law saw these wonderful miracles and heard even the children in the Temple shouting, "Praise God for the Son of David." But the leaders were indignant. + 16. They asked Jesus, "Do you hear what these children are saying?" -*"Yes," Jesus replied. "Haven't you ever read the Scriptures? For they say, 'You have taught children and infants to give you praise.'"* -17. Then he returned to Bethany, where he stayed overnight.Jesus Curses the Fig Tree +* +"Yes," Jesus replied. "Haven't you ever read the Scriptures? For they say, 'You have taught children and infants to give you praise.'"* +17. Then he returned to Bethany, where he stayed overnight. + +Jesus Curses the Fig Tree + 18. In the morning, as Jesus was returning to Jerusalem, he was hungry, 19. and he noticed a fig tree beside the road. He went over to see if there were any figs, but there were only leaves. Then he said to it, *"May you never bear fruit again!"* And immediately the fig tree withered up. @@ -41,16 +50,21 @@ But the leaders were indignant. 20. The disciples were amazed when they saw this and asked, "How did the fig tree wither so quickly?" 21. Then Jesus told them, *"I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don't doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, 'May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and it will happen.* -22. *You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it."*The Authority of Jesus Challenged +22. *You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it."* +The Authority of Jesus Challenged + 23. When Jesus returned to the Temple and began teaching, the leading priests and elders came up to him. They demanded, "By what authority are you doing all these things? Who gave you the right?" 24. *"I'll tell you by what authority I do these things if you answer one question,"* Jesus replied. 25. *"Did John's authority to baptize come from heaven, or was it merely human?"* They talked it over among themselves. "If we say it was from heaven, he will ask us why we didn't believe John. + 26. But if we say it was merely human, we'll be mobbed because the people believe John was a prophet." 27. So they finally replied, "We don't know." -And Jesus responded, *"Then I won't tell you by what authority I do these things.*Parable of the Two Sons +And Jesus responded, *"Then I won't tell you by what authority I do these things.* +Parable of the Two Sons + 28. *"But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, 'Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.'* 29. *The son answered, 'No, I won't go,' but later he changed his mind and went anyway.* @@ -59,7 +73,9 @@ And Jesus responded, *"Then I won't tell you by what authority I do these things 31. *"Which of the two obeyed his father?"* They replied, "The first." Then Jesus explained his meaning: *"I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do.* -32. *For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn't believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins.*Parable of the Evil Farmers +32. *For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn't believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins.* +Parable of the Evil Farmers + 33. *"Now listen to another story. A certain landowner planted a vineyard, built a wall around it, dug a pit for pressing out the grape juice, and built a lookout tower. Then he leased the vineyard to tenant farmers and moved to another country.* 34. *At the time of the grape harvest, he sent his servants to collect his share of the crop.* @@ -76,8 +92,10 @@ Then Jesus explained his meaning: *"I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors 41. The religious leaders replied, "He will put the wicked men to a horrible death and lease the vineyard to others who will give him his share of the crop after each harvest." 42. Then Jesus asked them, *"Didn't you ever read this in the Scriptures?* -*'The stone that the builders rejected* - *has now become the cornerstone.* +* +'The stone that the builders rejected* + * +has now become the cornerstone.* *This is the LORD's doing,* *and it is wonderful to see.'* @@ -88,3 +106,4 @@ Then Jesus explained his meaning: *"I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors 46. They wanted to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowds, who considered Jesus to be a prophet. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_22.md index f0be07ee..343d9d10 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_22.md @@ -18,7 +18,9 @@ Parable of the Great Feast 12. *'Friend,' he asked, 'how is it that you are here without wedding clothes?' But the man had no reply.* 13. *Then the king said to his aides, 'Bind his hands and feet and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'* -14. *"For many are called, but few are chosen."*Taxes for Caesar +14. *"For many are called, but few are chosen."* +Taxes for Caesar + 15. Then the Pharisees met together to plot how to trap Jesus into saying something for which he could be arrested. 16. They sent some of their disciples, along with the supporters of Herod, to meet with him. "Teacher," they said, "we know how honest you are. You teach the way of God truthfully. You are impartial and don't play favorites. @@ -29,9 +31,13 @@ Parable of the Great Feast 20. he asked, *"Whose picture and title are stamped on it?"* 21. "Caesar's," they replied. -*"Well, then," he said, "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God."* +* +"Well, then," he said, "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God."* + +22. His reply amazed them, and they went away. + +Discussion about Resurrection -22. His reply amazed them, and they went away.Discussion about Resurrection 23. That same day Jesus was approached by some Sadducees--religious leaders who say there is no resurrection from the dead. They posed this question: 24. "Teacher, Moses said, 'If a man dies without children, his brother should marry the widow and have a child who will carry on the brother's name.' @@ -46,7 +52,10 @@ Parable of the Great Feast 31. *"But now, as to whether there will be a resurrection of the dead--haven't you ever read about this in the Scriptures? Long after Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob had died, God said,* 32. *'I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.' So he is the God of the living, not the dead."* -33. When the crowds heard him, they were astounded at his teaching.The Most Important Commandment +33. When the crowds heard him, they were astounded at his teaching. + +The Most Important Commandment + 34. But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees with his reply, they met together to question him again. 35. One of them, an expert in religious law, tried to trap him with this question: @@ -55,16 +64,20 @@ Parable of the Great Feast 37. Jesus replied, *"'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.'* 38. *This is the first and greatest commandment.* 39. *A second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'* -40. *The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments."*Whose Son Is the Messiah? +40. *The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments."* +Whose Son Is the Messiah? + 41. Then, surrounded by the Pharisees, Jesus asked them a question: 42. *"What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?"* They replied, "He is the son of David." + 43. Jesus responded, *"Then why does David, speaking under the inspiration of the Spirit, call the Messiah 'my Lord'? For David said,* 44. *'The LORD said to my Lord,* -*Sit in the place of honor at my right hand* +* +Sit in the place of honor at my right hand* *until I humble your enemies beneath your feet.'* 45. *Since David called the Messiah 'my Lord,' how can the Messiah be his son?"* @@ -72,3 +85,4 @@ They replied, "He is the son of David." 46. No one could answer him. And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_23.md index 9424148d..019f3553 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_23.md @@ -46,10 +46,13 @@ Jesus Criticizes the Religious Leaders 34. *"Therefore, I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers of religious law. But you will kill some by crucifixion, and you will flog others with whips in your synagogues, chasing them from city to city.* 35. *As a result, you will be held responsible for the murder of all godly people of all time--from the murder of righteous Abel to the murder of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you killed in the Temple between the sanctuary and the altar.* -36. *I tell you the truth, this judgment will fall on this very generation.*Jesus Grieves over Jerusalem +36. *I tell you the truth, this judgment will fall on this very generation.* +Jesus Grieves over Jerusalem + 37. *"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God's messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn't let me.* 38. *And now, look, your house is abandoned and desolate.* 39. *For I tell you this, you will never see me again until you say, 'Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD!'"* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_24.md index b9ee64e5..4bb7d97b 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_24.md @@ -37,9 +37,12 @@ Jesus Speaks about the Future 28. *Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near.* 29. *"Immediately after the anguish of those days,* -*the sun will be darkened,* - *the moon will give no light,* -*the stars will fall from the sky,* +* +the sun will be darkened,* + * +the moon will give no light,* +* +the stars will fall from the sky,* *and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.* 30. *And then at last, the sign that the Son of Man is coming will appear in the heavens, and there will be deep mourning among all the peoples of the earth. And they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.* @@ -72,3 +75,4 @@ Jesus Speaks about the Future 51. *and he will cut the servant to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_25.md index d4e47c7b..93c433a6 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_25.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids 12. *"But he called back, 'Believe me, I don't know you!'* -13. *"So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.*Parable of the Three Servants +13. *"So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.* +Parable of the Three Servants + 14. *"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. He called together his servants and entrusted his money to them while he was gone.* 15. *He gave five bags of silver to one, two bags of silver to another, and one bag of silver to the last--dividing it in proportion to their abilities. He then left on his trip.* @@ -45,7 +47,9 @@ Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids 28. *"Then he ordered, 'Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one with the ten bags of silver.* 29. *To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.* -30. *Now throw this useless servant into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'*The Final Judgment +30. *Now throw this useless servant into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'* +The Final Judgment + 31. *"But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne.* 32. *All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.* @@ -72,3 +76,4 @@ Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids 46. *"And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life."* + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_26.md index 736d672e..2e59ca7a 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_26.md @@ -6,7 +6,9 @@ The Plot to Kill Jesus 3. At that same time the leading priests and elders were meeting at the residence of Caiaphas, the high priest, 4. plotting how to capture Jesus secretly and kill him. -5. "But not during the Passover celebration," they agreed, "or the people may riot."Jesus Anointed at Bethany +5. "But not during the Passover celebration," they agreed, "or the people may riot." +Jesus Anointed at Bethany + 6. Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy. 7. While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume and poured it over his head. @@ -17,11 +19,16 @@ The Plot to Kill Jesus 10. But Jesus, aware of this, replied, *"Why criticize this woman for doing such a good thing to me?* 11. *You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.* 12. *She has poured this perfume on me to prepare my body for burial.* -13. *I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman's deed will be remembered and discussed."*Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus +13. *I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman's deed will be remembered and discussed."* +Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus + 14. Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priests 15. and asked, "How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?" And they gave him thirty pieces of silver. -16. From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus.The Last Supper +16. From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus. + +The Last Supper + 17. On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Where do you want us to prepare the Passover meal for you?" @@ -45,11 +52,15 @@ And Jesus told him, *"You have said it."* 28. *for this is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice to forgive the sins of many.* 29. *Mark my words--I will not drink wine again until the day I drink it new with you in my Father's Kingdom."* -30. Then they sang a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives.Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial +30. Then they sang a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives. + +Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial + 31. On the way, Jesus told them, *"Tonight all of you will desert me. For the Scriptures say,* *'God will strike the Shepherd,* - *and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'* + * +and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'* 32. *But after I have been raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there."* @@ -57,7 +68,10 @@ And Jesus told him, *"You have said it."* 34. Jesus replied, *"I tell you the truth, Peter--this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me."* -35. "No!" Peter insisted. "Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!" And all the other disciples vowed the same.Jesus Prays in Gethsemane +35. "No!" Peter insisted. "Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!" And all the other disciples vowed the same. + +Jesus Prays in Gethsemane + 36. Then Jesus went with them to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, *"Sit here while I go over there to pray."* 37. He took Peter and Zebedee's two sons, James and John, and he became anguished and distressed. @@ -73,7 +87,9 @@ And Jesus told him, *"You have said it."* 44. So he went to pray a third time, saying the same things again. 45. Then he came to the disciples and said, *"Go ahead and sleep. Have your rest. But look--the time has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.* -46. *Up, let's be going. Look, my betrayer is here!"*Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested +46. *Up, let's be going. Look, my betrayer is here!"* +Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested + 47. And even as Jesus said this, Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived with a crowd of men armed with swords and clubs. They had been sent by the leading priests and elders of the people. 48. The traitor, Judas, had given them a prearranged signal: "You will know which one to arrest when I greet him with a kiss." @@ -81,6 +97,7 @@ And Jesus told him, *"You have said it."* 50. Jesus said, *"My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for."* Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. + 51. But one of the men with Jesus pulled out his sword and struck the high priest's slave, slashing off his ear. 52. *"Put away your sword," Jesus told him. "Those who use the sword will die by the sword.* @@ -88,7 +105,10 @@ Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. 54. *But if I did, how would the Scriptures be fulfilled that describe what must happen now?"* 55. Then Jesus said to the crowd, *"Am I some dangerous revolutionary, that you come with swords and clubs to arrest me? Why didn't you arrest me in the Temple? I was there teaching every day.* -56. *But this is all happening to fulfill the words of the prophets as recorded in the Scriptures."* At that point, all the disciples deserted him and fled.Jesus before the Council +56. *But this is all happening to fulfill the words of the prophets as recorded in the Scriptures."* At that point, all the disciples deserted him and fled. + +Jesus before the Council + 57. Then the people who had arrested Jesus led him to the home of Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of religious law and the elders had gathered. 58. Meanwhile, Peter followed him at a distance and came to the high priest's courtyard. He went in and sat with the guards and waited to see how it would all end. @@ -106,8 +126,11 @@ Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. 66. What is your verdict?" "Guilty!" they shouted. "He deserves to die!" + 67. Then they began to spit in Jesus' face and beat him with their fists. And some slapped him, -68. jeering, "Prophesy to us, you Messiah! Who hit you that time?"Peter Denies Jesus +68. jeering, "Prophesy to us, you Messiah! Who hit you that time?" +Peter Denies Jesus + 69. Meanwhile, Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. A servant girl came over and said to him, "You were one of those with Jesus the Galilean." @@ -124,3 +147,4 @@ Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. 75. Suddenly, Jesus' words flashed through Peter's mind: *"Before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me."* And he went away, weeping bitterly. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_27.md index a64ea207..07023554 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_27.md @@ -8,6 +8,7 @@ Judas Hangs Himself 4. "I have sinned," he declared, "for I have betrayed an innocent man." "What do we care?" they retorted. "That's your problem." + 5. Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself. 6. The leading priests picked up the coins. "It wouldn't be right to put this money in the Temple treasury," they said, "since it was payment for murder." @@ -15,10 +16,14 @@ Judas Hangs Himself 8. That is why the field is still called the Field of Blood. 9. This fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah that says, "They took the thirty pieces of silver-- - the price at which he was valued by the people of Israel, + +the price at which he was valued by the people of Israel, + 10. and purchased the potter's field, - as the LORD directed."Jesus' Trial before Pilate + as the LORD directed." +Jesus' Trial before Pilate + 11. Now Jesus was standing before Pilate, the Roman governor. "Are you the king of the Jews?" the governor asked him. Jesus replied, *"You have said it."* @@ -38,23 +43,32 @@ Jesus replied, *"You have said it."* 21. So the governor asked again, "Which of these two do you want me to release to you?" The crowd shouted back, "Barabbas!" + 22. Pilate responded, "Then what should I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?" They shouted back, "Crucify him!" + 23. "Why?" Pilate demanded. "What crime has he committed?" But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!" + 24. Pilate saw that he wasn't getting anywhere and that a riot was developing. So he sent for a bowl of water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood. The responsibility is yours!" 25. And all the people yelled back, "We will take responsibility for his death--we and our children!" -26. So Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified.The Soldiers Mock Jesus +26. So Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified. + +The Soldiers Mock Jesus + 27. Some of the governor's soldiers took Jesus into their headquarters and called out the entire regiment. 28. They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him. 29. They wove thorn branches into a crown and put it on his head, and they placed a reed stick in his right hand as a scepter. Then they knelt before him in mockery and taunted, "Hail! King of the Jews!" 30. And they spit on him and grabbed the stick and struck him on the head with it. -31. When they were finally tired of mocking him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him again. Then they led him away to be crucified.The Crucifixion +31. When they were finally tired of mocking him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him again. Then they led him away to be crucified. + +The Crucifixion + 32. Along the way, they came across a man named Simon, who was from Cyrene, and the soldiers forced him to carry Jesus' cross. 33. And they went out to a place called Golgotha (which means "Place of the Skull"). @@ -71,7 +85,10 @@ But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!" 41. The leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the elders also mocked Jesus. 42. "He saved others," they scoffed, "but he can't save himself! So he is the King of Israel, is he? Let him come down from the cross right now, and we will believe in him! 43. He trusted God, so let God rescue him now if he wants him! For he said, 'I am the Son of God.'" -44. Even the revolutionaries who were crucified with him ridiculed him in the same way.The Death of Jesus +44. Even the revolutionaries who were crucified with him ridiculed him in the same way. + +The Death of Jesus + 45. At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o'clock. 46. At about three o'clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice, *"Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" which means "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?"* @@ -88,13 +105,19 @@ But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!" 54. The Roman officer and the other soldiers at the crucifixion were terrified by the earthquake and all that had happened. They said, "This man truly was the Son of God!" 55. And many women who had come from Galilee with Jesus to care for him were watching from a distance. -56. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary (the mother of James and Joseph), and the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee.The Burial of Jesus +56. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary (the mother of James and Joseph), and the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee. + +The Burial of Jesus + 57. As evening approached, Joseph, a rich man from Arimathea who had become a follower of Jesus, 58. went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. And Pilate issued an order to release it to him. 59. Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a long sheet of clean linen cloth. 60. He placed it in his own new tomb, which had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance and left. -61. Both Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting across from the tomb and watching.The Guard at the Tomb +61. Both Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting across from the tomb and watching. + +The Guard at the Tomb + 62. The next day, on the Sabbath, the leading priests and Pharisees went to see Pilate. 63. They told him, "Sir, we remember what that deceiver once said while he was still alive: 'After three days I will rise from the dead.' @@ -104,3 +127,4 @@ But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!" 66. So they sealed the tomb and posted guards to protect it. + diff --git a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_28.md index 19a6bfef..a78cce55 100644 --- a/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/40_Matthew/Chapter_28.md @@ -13,13 +13,18 @@ The Resurrection 8. The women ran quickly from the tomb. They were very frightened but also filled with great joy, and they rushed to give the disciples the angel's message. 9. And as they went, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they ran to him, grasped his feet, and worshiped him. -10. Then Jesus said to them, *"Don't be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there."*The Report of the Guard +10. Then Jesus said to them, *"Don't be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there."* +The Report of the Guard + 11. As the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and told the leading priests what had happened. 12. A meeting with the elders was called, and they decided to give the soldiers a large bribe. 13. They told the soldiers, "You must say, 'Jesus' disciples came during the night while we were sleeping, and they stole his body.' 14. If the governor hears about it, we'll stand up for you so you won't get in trouble." -15. So the guards accepted the bribe and said what they were told to say. Their story spread widely among the Jews, and they still tell it today.The Great Commission +15. So the guards accepted the bribe and said what they were told to say. Their story spread widely among the Jews, and they still tell it today. + +The Great Commission + 16. Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17. When they saw him, they worshiped him--but some of them doubted! @@ -29,3 +34,4 @@ The Resurrection 20. *Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."* + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_01.md index adcc9fe7..c99d30db 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_01.md @@ -15,7 +15,9 @@ John the Baptist Prepares the Way 6. His clothes were woven from coarse camel hair, and he wore a leather belt around his waist. For food he ate locusts and wild honey. 7. John announced: "Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am--so much greater that I'm not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals. -8. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit!"The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus +8. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit!" +The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus + 9. One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and John baptized him in the Jordan River. 10. As Jesus came up out of the water, he saw the heavens splitting apart and the Holy Spirit descending on him like a dove. @@ -25,14 +27,19 @@ John the Baptist Prepares the Way 13. where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. He was out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him. 14. Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where he preached God's Good News. -15. *"The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!"*The First Disciples +15. *"The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!"* +The First Disciples + 16. One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. 17. Jesus called out to them, *"Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!"* 18. And they left their nets at once and followed him. 19. A little farther up the shore Jesus saw Zebedee's sons, James and John, in a boat repairing their nets. -20. He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men.Jesus Casts Out an Evil Spirit +20. He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men. + +Jesus Casts Out an Evil Spirit + 21. Jesus and his companions went to the town of Capernaum. When the Sabbath day came, he went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22. The people were amazed at his teaching, for he taught with real authority--quite unlike the teachers of religious law. @@ -44,7 +51,10 @@ John the Baptist Prepares the Way 26. At that, the evil spirit screamed, threw the man into a convulsion, and then came out of him. 27. Amazement gripped the audience, and they began to discuss what had happened. "What sort of new teaching is this?" they asked excitedly. "It has such authority! Even evil spirits obey his orders!" -28. The news about Jesus spread quickly throughout the entire region of Galilee.Jesus Heals Many People +28. The news about Jesus spread quickly throughout the entire region of Galilee. + +Jesus Heals Many People + 29. After Jesus left the synagogue with James and John, they went to Simon and Andrew's home. 30. Now Simon's mother-in-law was sick in bed with a high fever. They told Jesus about her right away. @@ -52,14 +62,20 @@ John the Baptist Prepares the Way 32. That evening after sunset, many sick and demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. 33. The whole town gathered at the door to watch. -34. So Jesus healed many people who were sick with various diseases, and he cast out many demons. But because the demons knew who he was, he did not allow them to speak.Jesus Preaches in Galilee +34. So Jesus healed many people who were sick with various diseases, and he cast out many demons. But because the demons knew who he was, he did not allow them to speak. + +Jesus Preaches in Galilee + 35. Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. 36. Later Simon and the others went out to find him. 37. When they found him, they said, "Everyone is looking for you." 38. But Jesus replied, *"We must go on to other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came."* -39. So he traveled throughout the region of Galilee, preaching in the synagogues and casting out demons.Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy +39. So he traveled throughout the region of Galilee, preaching in the synagogues and casting out demons. + +Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy + 40. A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. "If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean," he said. @@ -71,3 +87,4 @@ John the Baptist Prepares the Way 45. But the man went and spread the word, proclaiming to everyone what had happened. As a result, large crowds soon surrounded Jesus, and he couldn't publicly enter a town anywhere. He had to stay out in the secluded places, but people from everywhere kept coming to him. + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_02.md index add86be0..18e5305e 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_02.md @@ -15,7 +15,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 10. *So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins."* Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, 11. *"Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!"* -12. And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, "We've never seen anything like this before!"Jesus Calls Levi (Matthew) +12. And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, "We've never seen anything like this before!" +Jesus Calls Levi (Matthew) + 13. Then Jesus went out to the lakeshore again and taught the crowds that were coming to him. 14. As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at his tax collector's booth. *"Follow me and be my disciple,"* Jesus said to him. So Levi got up and followed him. @@ -23,7 +25,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 15. Later, Levi invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. (There were many people of this kind among Jesus' followers.) 16. But when the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with tax collectors and other sinners, they asked his disciples, "Why does he eat with such scum?" -17. When Jesus heard this, he told them, *"Healthy people don't need a doctor--sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners."*A Discussion about Fasting +17. When Jesus heard this, he told them, *"Healthy people don't need a doctor--sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners."* +A Discussion about Fasting + 18. Once when John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting, some people came to Jesus and asked, "Why don't your disciples fast like John's disciples and the Pharisees do?" @@ -32,7 +36,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 21. *"Besides, who would patch old clothing with new cloth? For the new patch would shrink and rip away from the old cloth, leaving an even bigger tear than before.* -22. *"And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the wine would burst the wineskins, and the wine and the skins would both be lost. New wine calls for new wineskins."*A Discussion about the Sabbath +22. *"And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the wine would burst the wineskins, and the wine and the skins would both be lost. New wine calls for new wineskins."* +A Discussion about the Sabbath + 23. One Sabbath day as Jesus was walking through some grainfields, his disciples began breaking off heads of grain to eat. 24. But the Pharisees said to Jesus, "Look, why are they breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath?" @@ -44,3 +50,4 @@ Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man 28. *So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!"* + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_03.md index 155e35c9..8b851f36 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_03.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ Jesus Heals on the Sabbath 4. Then he turned to his critics and asked, *"Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?"* But they wouldn't answer him. 5. He looked around at them angrily and was deeply saddened by their hard hearts. Then he said to the man, *"Hold out your hand."* So the man held out his hand, and it was restored! -6. At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus.Crowds Follow Jesus +6. At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus. + +Crowds Follow Jesus + 7. Jesus went out to the lake with his disciples, and a large crowd followed him. They came from all over Galilee, Judea, 8. Jerusalem, Idumea, from east of the Jordan River, and even from as far north as Tyre and Sidon. The news about his miracles had spread far and wide, and vast numbers of people came to see him. @@ -16,7 +19,10 @@ Jesus Heals on the Sabbath 9. Jesus instructed his disciples to have a boat ready so the crowd would not crush him. 10. He had healed many people that day, so all the sick people eagerly pushed forward to touch him. 11. And whenever those possessed by evil spirits caught sight of him, the spirits would throw them to the ground in front of him shrieking, "You are the Son of God!" -12. But Jesus sternly commanded the spirits not to reveal who he was.Jesus Chooses the Twelve Apostles +12. But Jesus sternly commanded the spirits not to reveal who he was. + +Jesus Chooses the Twelve Apostles + 13. Afterward Jesus went up on a mountain and called out the ones he wanted to go with him. And they came to him. 14. Then he appointed twelve of them and called them his apostles. They were to accompany him, and he would send them out to preach, @@ -24,6 +30,7 @@ Jesus Heals on the Sabbath 16. These are the twelve he chose: Simon (whom he named Peter), + 17. James and John (the sons of Zebedee, but Jesus nicknamed them "Sons of Thunder"), 18. Andrew, @@ -35,7 +42,10 @@ James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon (the zealot), -19. Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).Jesus and the Prince of Demons +19. Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him). + +Jesus and the Prince of Demons + 20. One time Jesus entered a house, and the crowds began to gather again. Soon he and his disciples couldn't even find time to eat. 21. When his family heard what was happening, they tried to take him away. "He's out of his mind," they said. @@ -50,7 +60,9 @@ Simon (the zealot), 28. *"I tell you the truth, all sin and blasphemy can be forgiven,* 29. *but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. This is a sin with eternal consequences."* -30. He told them this because they were saying, "He's possessed by an evil spirit."The True Family of Jesus +30. He told them this because they were saying, "He's possessed by an evil spirit." +The True Family of Jesus + 31. Then Jesus' mother and brothers came to see him. They stood outside and sent word for him to come out and talk with them. 32. There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and someone said, "Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you." @@ -60,3 +72,4 @@ Simon (the zealot), 35. *Anyone who does God's will is my brother and sister and mother."* + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_04.md index 39209122..4e4fb34d 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_04.md @@ -16,11 +16,16 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 11. He replied, *"You are permitted to understand the secret of the Kingdom of God. But I use parables for everything I say to outsiders,* 12. *so that the Scriptures might be fulfilled:* -*'When they see what I do,* - *they will learn nothing.* -*When they hear what I say,* - *they will not understand.* -*Otherwise, they will turn to me* +* +'When they see what I do,* + * +they will learn nothing.* +* +When they hear what I say,* + * +they will not understand.* +* +Otherwise, they will turn to me* *and be forgiven.'"* 13. Then Jesus said to them, *"If you can't understand the meaning of this parable, how will you understand all the other parables?* @@ -30,26 +35,35 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 17. *But since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word.* 18. *The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God's word,* 19. *but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced.* -20. *And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!"*Parable of the Lamp +20. *And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!"* +Parable of the Lamp + 21. Then Jesus asked them, *"Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine.* 22. *For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light.* 23. *Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand."* 24. Then he added, *"Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given--and you will receive even more.* -25. *To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them."*Parable of the Growing Seed +25. *To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them."* +Parable of the Growing Seed + 26. Jesus also said, *"The Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground.* 27. *Night and day, while he's asleep or awake, the seed sprouts and grows, but he does not understand how it happens.* 28. *The earth produces the crops on its own. First a leaf blade pushes through, then the heads of wheat are formed, and finally the grain ripens.* -29. *And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come."*Parable of the Mustard Seed +29. *And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come."* +Parable of the Mustard Seed + 30. Jesus said, *"How can I describe the Kingdom of God? What story should I use to illustrate it?* 31. *It is like a mustard seed planted in the ground. It is the smallest of all seeds,* 32. *but it becomes the largest of all garden plants; it grows long branches, and birds can make nests in its shade."* 33. Jesus used many similar stories and illustrations to teach the people as much as they could understand. -34. In fact, in his public ministry he never taught without using parables; but afterward, when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them.Jesus Calms the Storm +34. In fact, in his public ministry he never taught without using parables; but afterward, when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them. + +Jesus Calms the Storm + 35. As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, *"Let's cross to the other side of the lake."* 36. So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). @@ -63,3 +77,4 @@ Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed 41. The disciples were absolutely terrified. "Who is this man?" they asked each other. "Even the wind and waves obey him!" + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_05.md index f579d561..0cc0afc7 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_05.md @@ -13,6 +13,7 @@ Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Man 9. Then Jesus demanded, *"What is your name?"* And he replied, "My name is Legion, because there are many of us inside this man." + 10. Then the evil spirits begged him again and again not to send them to some distant place. 11. There happened to be a large herd of pigs feeding on the hillside nearby. @@ -27,7 +28,10 @@ And he replied, "My name is Legion, because there are many of us inside this man 18. As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon possessed begged to go with him. 19. But Jesus said, *"No, go home to your family, and tell them everything the Lord has done for you and how merciful he has been."* -20. So the man started off to visit the Ten Towns of that region and began to proclaim the great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed at what he told them.Jesus Heals in Response to Faith +20. So the man started off to visit the Ten Towns of that region and began to proclaim the great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed at what he told them. + +Jesus Heals in Response to Faith + 21. Jesus got into the boat again and went back to the other side of the lake, where a large crowd gathered around him on the shore. 22. Then a leader of the local synagogue, whose name was Jairus, arrived. When he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet, @@ -62,3 +66,4 @@ And he replied, "My name is Legion, because there are many of us inside this man 43. Jesus gave them strict orders not to tell anyone what had happened, and then he told them to give her something to eat. + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_06.md index e1b8b644..4e4ee92b 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_06.md @@ -7,8 +7,11 @@ Jesus Rejected at Nazareth 4. Then Jesus told them, *"A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his relatives and his own family."* 5. And because of their unbelief, he couldn't do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them. -6. And he was amazed at their unbelief.Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples +6. And he was amazed at their unbelief. + +Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people. + 7. And he called his twelve disciples together and began sending them out two by two, giving them authority to cast out evil spirits. 8. He told them to take nothing for their journey except a walking stick--no food, no traveler's bag, no money. 9. He allowed them to wear sandals but not to take a change of clothes. @@ -17,7 +20,10 @@ Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people. 11. *But if any place refuses to welcome you or listen to you, shake its dust from your feet as you leave to show that you have abandoned those people to their fate."* 12. So the disciples went out, telling everyone they met to repent of their sins and turn to God. -13. And they cast out many demons and healed many sick people, anointing them with olive oil.The Death of John the Baptist +13. And they cast out many demons and healed many sick people, anointing them with olive oil. + +The Death of John the Baptist + 14. Herod Antipas, the king, soon heard about Jesus, because everyone was talking about him. Some were saying, "This must be John the Baptist raised from the dead. That is why he can do such miracles." 15. Others said, "He's the prophet Elijah." Still others said, "He's a prophet like the other great prophets of the past." @@ -36,12 +42,16 @@ Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people. 24. She went out and asked her mother, "What should I ask for?" Her mother told her, "Ask for the head of John the Baptist!" + 25. So the girl hurried back to the king and told him, "I want the head of John the Baptist, right now, on a tray!" 26. Then the king deeply regretted what he had said; but because of the vows he had made in front of his guests, he couldn't refuse her. 27. So he immediately sent an executioner to the prison to cut off John's head and bring it to him. The soldier beheaded John in the prison, 28. brought his head on a tray, and gave it to the girl, who took it to her mother. -29. When John's disciples heard what had happened, they came to get his body and buried it in a tomb.Jesus Feeds Five Thousand +29. When John's disciples heard what had happened, they came to get his body and buried it in a tomb. + +Jesus Feeds Five Thousand + 30. The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. 31. Then Jesus said, *"Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile."* He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn't even have time to eat. @@ -59,19 +69,24 @@ Her mother told her, "Ask for the head of John the Baptist!" 38. *"How much bread do you have?" he asked. "Go and find out."* They came back and reported, "We have five loaves of bread and two fish." + 39. Then Jesus told the disciples to have the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40. So they sat down in groups of fifty or a hundred. 41. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. He also divided the fish for everyone to share. 42. They all ate as much as they wanted, 43. and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftover bread and fish. -44. A total of 5,000 men and their families were fed.Jesus Walks on Water +44. A total of 5,000 men and their families were fed. + +Jesus Walks on Water + 45. Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and head across the lake to Bethsaida, while he sent the people home. 46. After telling everyone good-bye, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. 47. Late that night, the disciples were in their boat in the middle of the lake, and Jesus was alone on land. -48. He saw that they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves. About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. He intended to go past them, +48. He saw that they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves. +About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. He intended to go past them, 49. but when they saw him walking on the water, they cried out in terror, thinking he was a ghost. 50. They were all terrified when they saw him. But Jesus spoke to them at once. *"Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage! I am here!"* @@ -84,3 +99,4 @@ But Jesus spoke to them at once. *"Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage! I a 56. Wherever he went--in villages, cities, or the countryside--they brought the sick out to the marketplaces. They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed. + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_07.md index 43799d4a..7bf6ba9e 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_07.md @@ -9,8 +9,10 @@ Jesus Teaches about Inner Purity 5. So the Pharisees and teachers of religious law asked him, "Why don't your disciples follow our age-old tradition? They eat without first performing the hand-washing ceremony." 6. Jesus replied, *"You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you, for he wrote,* -*'These people honor me with their lips,* - *but their hearts are far from me.* +* +'These people honor me with their lips,* + * +but their hearts are far from me.* 7. *Their worship is a farce,* *for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.'* @@ -33,18 +35,25 @@ Jesus Teaches about Inner Purity 20. And then he added, *"It is what comes from inside that defiles you.* 21. *For from within, out of a person's heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder,* 22. *adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness.* -23. *All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you."*The Faith of a Gentile Woman +23. *All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you."* +The Faith of a Gentile Woman + 24. Then Jesus left Galilee and went north to the region of Tyre. He didn't want anyone to know which house he was staying in, but he couldn't keep it a secret. 25. Right away a woman who had heard about him came and fell at his feet. Her little girl was possessed by an evil spirit, 26. and she begged him to cast out the demon from her daughter. + Since she was a Gentile, born in Syrian Phoenicia, + 27. Jesus told her, *"First I should feed the children--my own family, the Jews. It isn't right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs."* 28. She replied, "That's true, Lord, but even the dogs under the table are allowed to eat the scraps from the children's plates." 29. *"Good answer!" he said. "Now go home, for the demon has left your daughter."* -30. And when she arrived home, she found her little girl lying quietly in bed, and the demon was gone.Jesus Heals a Deaf Man +30. And when she arrived home, she found her little girl lying quietly in bed, and the demon was gone. + +Jesus Heals a Deaf Man + 31. Jesus left Tyre and went up to Sidon before going back to the Sea of Galilee and the region of the Ten Towns. 32. A deaf man with a speech impediment was brought to him, and the people begged Jesus to lay his hands on the man to heal him. @@ -57,3 +66,4 @@ Since she was a Gentile, born in Syrian Phoenicia, 37. They were completely amazed and said again and again, "Everything he does is wonderful. He even makes the deaf to hear and gives speech to those who cannot speak." + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_08.md index e5c68924..efd9acae 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_08.md @@ -1,7 +1,8 @@ Jesus Feeds Four Thousand # Chapter 8 -1. About this time another large crowd had gathered, and the people ran out of food again. Jesus called his disciples and told them, +1. +About this time another large crowd had gathered, and the people ran out of food again. Jesus called his disciples and told them, 2. *"I feel sorry for these people. They have been here with me for three days, and they have nothing left to eat.* 3. *If I send them home hungry, they will faint along the way. For some of them have come a long distance."* @@ -10,17 +11,24 @@ Jesus Feeds Four Thousand 5. Jesus asked, *"How much bread do you have?"* "Seven loaves," they replied. + 6. So Jesus told all the people to sit down on the ground. Then he took the seven loaves, thanked God for them, and broke them into pieces. He gave them to his disciples, who distributed the bread to the crowd. 7. A few small fish were found, too, so Jesus also blessed these and told the disciples to distribute them. 8. They ate as much as they wanted. Afterward, the disciples picked up seven large baskets of leftover food. 9. There were about 4,000 men in the crowd that day, and Jesus sent them home after they had eaten. -10. Immediately after this, he got into a boat with his disciples and crossed over to the region of Dalmanutha.Pharisees Demand a Miraculous Sign +10. Immediately after this, he got into a boat with his disciples and crossed over to the region of Dalmanutha. + +Pharisees Demand a Miraculous Sign + 11. When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had arrived, they came and started to argue with him. Testing him, they demanded that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority. 12. When he heard this, he sighed deeply in his spirit and said, *"Why do these people keep demanding a miraculous sign? I tell you the truth, I will not give this generation any such sign."* -13. So he got back into the boat and left them, and he crossed to the other side of the lake.Yeast of the Pharisees and Herod +13. So he got back into the boat and left them, and he crossed to the other side of the lake. + +Yeast of the Pharisees and Herod + 14. But the disciples had forgotten to bring any food. They had only one loaf of bread with them in the boat. 15. As they were crossing the lake, Jesus warned them, *"Watch out! Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and of Herod."* @@ -31,10 +39,15 @@ Jesus Feeds Four Thousand 19. *When I fed the 5,000 with five loaves of bread, how many baskets of leftovers did you pick up afterward?"* "Twelve," they said. + 20. *"And when I fed the 4,000 with seven loaves, how many large baskets of leftovers did you pick up?"* "Seven," they said. -21. *"Don't you understand yet?"* he asked them.Jesus Heals a Blind Man + +21. *"Don't you understand yet?"* he asked them. + +Jesus Heals a Blind Man + 22. When they arrived at Bethsaida, some people brought a blind man to Jesus, and they begged him to touch the man and heal him. 23. Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village. Then, spitting on the man's eyes, he laid his hands on him and asked, *"Can you see anything now?"* @@ -42,7 +55,9 @@ Jesus Feeds Four Thousand 24. The man looked around. "Yes," he said, "I see people, but I can't see them very clearly. They look like trees walking around." 25. Then Jesus placed his hands on the man's eyes again, and his eyes were opened. His sight was completely restored, and he could see everything clearly. -26. Jesus sent him away, saying, *"Don't go back into the village on your way home."*Peter's Declaration about Jesus +26. Jesus sent him away, saying, *"Don't go back into the village on your way home."* +Peter's Declaration about Jesus + 27. Jesus and his disciples left Galilee and went up to the villages near Caesarea Philippi. As they were walking along, he asked them, *"Who do people say I am?"* @@ -51,7 +66,10 @@ Jesus Feeds Four Thousand 29. Then he asked them, *"But who do you say I am?"* Peter replied, "You are the Messiah." -30. But Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.Jesus Predicts His Death +30. But Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him. + +Jesus Predicts His Death + 31. Then Jesus began to tell them that the Son of Man must suffer many terrible things and be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but three days later he would rise from the dead. 32. As he talked about this openly with his disciples, Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. @@ -65,3 +83,4 @@ Peter replied, "You are the Messiah." 38. *If anyone is ashamed of me and my message in these adulterous and sinful days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in the glory of his Father with the holy angels."* + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_09.md index 15bf2cae..dfe3b1e0 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_09.md @@ -1,5 +1,7 @@ # Chapter 9 -1. Jesus went on to say, *"I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Kingdom of God arrive in great power!"*The Transfiguration +1. Jesus went on to say, *"I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Kingdom of God arrive in great power!"* +The Transfiguration + 2. Six days later Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. As the men watched, Jesus' appearance was transformed, 3. and his clothes became dazzling white, far whiter than any earthly bleach could ever make them. @@ -17,7 +19,9 @@ 11. Then they asked him, "Why do the teachers of religious law insist that Elijah must return before the Messiah comes?" 12. Jesus responded, *"Elijah is indeed coming first to get everything ready. Yet why do the Scriptures say that the Son of Man must suffer greatly and be treated with utter contempt?* -13. *But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they chose to abuse him, just as the Scriptures predicted."*Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy +13. *But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they chose to abuse him, just as the Scriptures predicted."* +Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy + 14. When they returned to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd surrounding them, and some teachers of religious law were arguing with them. 15. When the crowd saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with awe, and they ran to greet him. @@ -32,7 +36,9 @@ 20. So they brought the boy. But when the evil spirit saw Jesus, it threw the child into a violent convulsion, and he fell to the ground, writhing and foaming at the mouth. 21. *"How long has this been happening?"* Jesus asked the boy's father. + He replied, "Since he was a little boy. + 22. The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, if you can." 23. *"What do you mean, 'If I can'?" Jesus asked. "Anything is possible if a person believes."* @@ -46,18 +52,25 @@ He replied, "Since he was a little boy. 28. Afterward, when Jesus was alone in the house with his disciples, they asked him, "Why couldn't we cast out that evil spirit?" -29. Jesus replied, *"This kind can be cast out only by prayer."*Jesus Again Predicts His Death +29. Jesus replied, *"This kind can be cast out only by prayer."* +Jesus Again Predicts His Death + 30. Leaving that region, they traveled through Galilee. Jesus didn't want anyone to know he was there, 31. for he wanted to spend more time with his disciples and teach them. He said to them, *"The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies. He will be killed, but three days later he will rise from the dead."* -32. They didn't understand what he was saying, however, and they were afraid to ask him what he meant.The Greatest in the Kingdom +32. They didn't understand what he was saying, however, and they were afraid to ask him what he meant. + +The Greatest in the Kingdom + 33. After they arrived at Capernaum and settled in a house, Jesus asked his disciples, *"What were you discussing out on the road?"* 34. But they didn't answer, because they had been arguing about which of them was the greatest. 35. He sat down, called the twelve disciples over to him, and said, *"Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else."* 36. Then he put a little child among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, -37. *"Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me."*Using the Name of Jesus +37. *"Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me."* +Using the Name of Jesus + 38. John said to Jesus, "Teacher, we saw someone using your name to cast out demons, but we told him to stop because he wasn't in our group." @@ -75,3 +88,4 @@ He replied, "Since he was a little boy. 50. *Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? You must have the qualities of salt among yourselves and live in peace with each other."* + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_10.md index 99b353d9..68a5399e 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_10.md @@ -17,13 +17,18 @@ Discussion about Divorce and Marriage 10. Later, when he was alone with his disciples in the house, they brought up the subject again. 11. He told them, *"Whoever divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery against her.* -12. *And if a woman divorces her husband and marries someone else, she commits adultery."*Jesus Blesses the Children +12. *And if a woman divorces her husband and marries someone else, she commits adultery."* +Jesus Blesses the Children + 13. One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. 14. When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, *"Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.* 15. *I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."* -16. Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.The Rich Man +16. Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them. + +The Rich Man + 17. As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" @@ -48,11 +53,15 @@ Discussion about Divorce and Marriage 29. *"Yes," Jesus replied, "and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News,* 30. *will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property--along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life.* -31. *But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then."*Jesus Again Predicts His Death +31. *But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then."* +Jesus Again Predicts His Death + 32. They were now on the way up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. The disciples were filled with awe, and the people following behind were overwhelmed with fear. Taking the twelve disciples aside, Jesus once more began to describe everything that was about to happen to him. 33. *"Listen," he said, "we're going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die and hand him over to the Romans.* -34. *They will mock him, spit on him, flog him with a whip, and kill him, but after three days he will rise again."*Jesus Teaches about Serving Others +34. *They will mock him, spit on him, flog him with a whip, and kill him, but after three days he will rise again."* +Jesus Teaches about Serving Others + 35. Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came over and spoke to him. "Teacher," they said, "we want you to do us a favor." @@ -70,16 +79,21 @@ Then Jesus told them, *"You will indeed drink from my bitter cup and be baptized 42. So Jesus called them together and said, *"You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.* 43. *But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant,* 44. *and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else.* -45. *For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."*Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus +45. *For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."* +Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus + 46. Then they reached Jericho, and as Jesus and his disciples left town, a large crowd followed him. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus (son of Timaeus) was sitting beside the road. 47. When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was nearby, he began to shout, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" 48. "Be quiet!" many of the people yelled at him. + But he only shouted louder, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" + 49. When Jesus heard him, he stopped and said, *"Tell him to come here."* So they called the blind man. "Cheer up," they said. "Come on, he's calling you!" + 50. Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus. 51. *"What do you want me to do for you?"* Jesus asked. @@ -88,3 +102,4 @@ So they called the blind man. "Cheer up," they said. "Come on, he's calling you! 52. And Jesus said to him, *"Go, for your faith has healed you."* Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road. + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_11.md index 625835f2..1604cb49 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_11.md @@ -18,11 +18,17 @@ Jesus' Triumphant Entry 10. Blessings on the coming Kingdom of our ancestor David! Praise God in highest heaven!" -11. So Jesus came to Jerusalem and went into the Temple. After looking around carefully at everything, he left because it was late in the afternoon. Then he returned to Bethany with the twelve disciples.Jesus Curses the Fig Tree +11. So Jesus came to Jerusalem and went into the Temple. After looking around carefully at everything, he left because it was late in the afternoon. Then he returned to Bethany with the twelve disciples. + +Jesus Curses the Fig Tree + 12. The next morning as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. 13. He noticed a fig tree in full leaf a little way off, so he went over to see if he could find any figs. But there were only leaves because it was too early in the season for fruit. -14. Then Jesus said to the tree, *"May no one ever eat your fruit again!"* And the disciples heard him say it.Jesus Clears the Temple +14. Then Jesus said to the tree, *"May no one ever eat your fruit again!"* And the disciples heard him say it. + +Jesus Clears the Temple + 15. When they arrived back in Jerusalem, Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people buying and selling animals for sacrifices. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves, 16. and he stopped everyone from using the Temple as a marketplace. @@ -38,7 +44,9 @@ Jesus' Triumphant Entry 22. Then Jesus said to the disciples, *"Have faith in God.* 23. *I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, 'May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart.* 24. *I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you've received it, it will be yours.* -25. *But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too."*The Authority of Jesus Challenged +25. *But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too."* +The Authority of Jesus Challenged + 27. Again they entered Jerusalem. As Jesus was walking through the Temple area, the leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the elders came up to him. 28. They demanded, "By what authority are you doing all these things? Who gave you the right to do them?" @@ -52,3 +60,4 @@ Jesus' Triumphant Entry And Jesus responded, *"Then I won't tell you by what authority I do these things."* + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_12.md index d8f714e3..7b0d3385 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_12.md @@ -13,13 +13,18 @@ Parable of the Evil Farmers 9. *"What do you suppose the owner of the vineyard will do?" Jesus asked. "I'll tell you--he will come and kill those farmers and lease the vineyard to others.* 10. *Didn't you ever read this in the Scriptures?* -*'The stone that the builders rejected* - *has now become the cornerstone.* +* +'The stone that the builders rejected* + * +has now become the cornerstone.* 11. *This is the LORD's doing,* *and it is wonderful to see.'"* -12. The religious leaders wanted to arrest Jesus because they realized he was telling the story against them--they were the wicked farmers. But they were afraid of the crowd, so they left him and went away.Taxes for Caesar +12. The religious leaders wanted to arrest Jesus because they realized he was telling the story against them--they were the wicked farmers. But they were afraid of the crowd, so they left him and went away. + +Taxes for Caesar + 13. Later the leaders sent some Pharisees and supporters of Herod to trap Jesus into saying something for which he could be arrested. 14. "Teacher," they said, "we know how honest you are. You are impartial and don't play favorites. You teach the way of God truthfully. Now tell us--is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not? @@ -28,8 +33,12 @@ Jesus saw through their hypocrisy and said, *"Why are you trying to trap me? Sho 16. When they handed it to him, he asked, *"Whose picture and title are stamped on it?"* "Caesar's," they replied. + 17. *"Well, then," Jesus said, "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God."* -His reply completely amazed them.Discussion about Resurrection +His reply completely amazed them. + +Discussion about Resurrection + 18. Then Jesus was approached by some Sadducees--religious leaders who say there is no resurrection from the dead. They posed this question: 19. "Teacher, Moses gave us a law that if a man dies, leaving a wife without children, his brother should marry the widow and have a child who will carry on the brother's name. @@ -42,7 +51,9 @@ His reply completely amazed them.Discussion about Resurrection 25. *For when the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage. In this respect they will be like the angels in heaven.* 26. *"But now, as to whether the dead will be raised--haven't you ever read about this in the writings of Moses, in the story of the burning bush? Long after Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob had died, God said to Moses, 'I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.'* -27. *So he is the God of the living, not the dead. You have made a serious error."*The Most Important Commandment +27. *So he is the God of the living, not the dead. You have made a serious error."* +The Most Important Commandment + 28. One of the teachers of religious law was standing there listening to the debate. He realized that Jesus had answered well, so he asked, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?" @@ -53,19 +64,25 @@ His reply completely amazed them.Discussion about Resurrection 32. The teacher of religious law replied, "Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth by saying that there is only one God and no other. 33. And I know it is important to love him with all my heart and all my understanding and all my strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. This is more important than to offer all of the burnt offerings and sacrifices required in the law." -34. Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him, *"You are not far from the Kingdom of God."* And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions.Whose Son Is the Messiah? +34. Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him, *"You are not far from the Kingdom of God."* And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions. + +Whose Son Is the Messiah? + 35. Later, as Jesus was teaching the people in the Temple, he asked, *"Why do the teachers of religious law claim that the Messiah is the son of David?* 36. *For David himself, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, said,* *'The LORD said to my Lord,* -*Sit in the place of honor at my right hand* +* +Sit in the place of honor at my right hand* *until I humble your enemies beneath your feet.'* 37. *Since David himself called the Messiah 'my Lord,' how can the Messiah be his son?"* The large crowd listened to him with great delight. 38. Jesus also taught: *"Beware of these teachers of religious law! For they like to parade around in flowing robes and receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces.* 39. *And how they love the seats of honor in the synagogues and the head table at banquets.* -40. *Yet they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property and then pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public. Because of this, they will be more severely punished."*The Widow's Offering +40. *Yet they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property and then pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public. Because of this, they will be more severely punished."* +The Widow's Offering + 41. Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. 42. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. @@ -74,3 +91,4 @@ His reply completely amazed them.Discussion about Resurrection 44. *For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on."* + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_13.md index de037070..bf7dcda4 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_13.md @@ -33,8 +33,10 @@ Jesus Speaks about the Future 23. *Watch out! I have warned you about this ahead of time!* 24. *"At that time, after the anguish of those days,* -*the sun will be darkened,* - *the moon will give no light,* +* +the sun will be darkened,* + * +the moon will give no light,* 25. *the stars will fall from the sky,* *and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.* @@ -56,3 +58,4 @@ Jesus Speaks about the Future 37. *I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him!"* + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_14.md index 32bdea60..330e2c14 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_14.md @@ -12,10 +12,15 @@ Jesus Anointed at Bethany 6. But Jesus replied, *"Leave her alone. Why criticize her for doing such a good thing to me?* 7. *You will always have the poor among you, and you can help them whenever you want to. But you will not always have me.* 8. *She has done what she could and has anointed my body for burial ahead of time.* -9. *I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman's deed will be remembered and discussed."*Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus +9. *I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman's deed will be remembered and discussed."* +Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus + 10. Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priests to arrange to betray Jesus to them. -11. They were delighted when they heard why he had come, and they promised to give him money. So he began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus.The Last Supper +11. They were delighted when they heard why he had come, and they promised to give him money. So he began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus. + +The Last Supper + 12. On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover lamb is sacrificed, Jesus' disciples asked him, "Where do you want us to go to prepare the Passover meal for you?" @@ -38,11 +43,15 @@ Jesus Anointed at Bethany 24. And he said to them, *"This is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice for many.* 25. *I tell you the truth, I will not drink wine again until the day I drink it new in the Kingdom of God."* -26. Then they sang a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives.Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial +26. Then they sang a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives. + +Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial + 27. On the way, Jesus told them, *"All of you will desert me. For the Scriptures say,* *'God will strike the Shepherd,* - *and the sheep will be scattered.'* + * +and the sheep will be scattered.'* 28. *But after I am raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there."* @@ -50,7 +59,10 @@ Jesus Anointed at Bethany 30. Jesus replied, *"I tell you the truth, Peter--this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times that you even know me."* -31. "No!" Peter declared emphatically. "Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!" And all the others vowed the same.Jesus Prays in Gethsemane +31. "No!" Peter declared emphatically. "Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!" And all the others vowed the same. + +Jesus Prays in Gethsemane + 32. They went to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and Jesus said, *"Sit here while I go and pray."* 33. He took Peter, James, and John with him, and he became deeply troubled and distressed. @@ -66,7 +78,9 @@ Jesus Anointed at Bethany 40. When he returned to them again, he found them sleeping, for they couldn't keep their eyes open. And they didn't know what to say. 41. When he returned to them the third time, he said, *"Go ahead and sleep. Have your rest. But no--the time has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.* -42. *Up, let's be going. Look, my betrayer is here!"*Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested +42. *Up, let's be going. Look, my betrayer is here!"* +Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested + 43. And immediately, even as Jesus said this, Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived with a crowd of men armed with swords and clubs. They had been sent by the leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the elders. 44. The traitor, Judas, had given them a prearranged signal: "You will know which one to arrest when I greet him with a kiss. Then you can take him away under guard." @@ -80,7 +94,10 @@ Jesus Anointed at Bethany 50. Then all his disciples deserted him and ran away. 51. One young man following behind was clothed only in a long linen shirt. When the mob tried to grab him, -52. he slipped out of his shirt and ran away naked.Jesus before the Council +52. he slipped out of his shirt and ran away naked. + +Jesus before the Council + 53. They took Jesus to the high priest's home where the leading priests, the elders, and the teachers of religious law had gathered. 54. Meanwhile, Peter followed him at a distance and went right into the high priest's courtyard. There he sat with the guards, warming himself by the fire. @@ -100,7 +117,11 @@ Jesus Anointed at Bethany 64. You have all heard his blasphemy. What is your verdict?" "Guilty!" they all cried. "He deserves to die!" -65. Then some of them began to spit at him, and they blindfolded him and beat him with their fists. "Prophesy to us," they jeered. And the guards slapped him as they took him away.Peter Denies Jesus + +65. Then some of them began to spit at him, and they blindfolded him and beat him with their fists. "Prophesy to us," they jeered. And the guards slapped him as they took him away. + +Peter Denies Jesus + 66. Meanwhile, Peter was in the courtyard below. One of the servant girls who worked for the high priest came by 67. and noticed Peter warming himself at the fire. She looked at him closely and said, "You were one of those with Jesus of Nazareth." @@ -109,10 +130,13 @@ Jesus Anointed at Bethany 69. When the servant girl saw him standing there, she began telling the others, "This man is definitely one of them!" 70. But Peter denied it again. + A little later some of the other bystanders confronted Peter and said, "You must be one of them, because you are a Galilean." + 71. Peter swore, "A curse on me if I'm lying--I don't know this man you're talking about!" 72. And immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Suddenly, Jesus' words flashed through Peter's mind: *"Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times that you even know me."* And he broke down and wept. + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_15.md index 8d7ae45e..28d4d03b 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_15.md @@ -24,13 +24,20 @@ Jesus replied, *"You have said it."* 14. "Why?" Pilate demanded. "What crime has he committed?" But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!" -15. So to pacify the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified.The Soldiers Mock Jesus + +15. So to pacify the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified. + +The Soldiers Mock Jesus + 16. The soldiers took Jesus into the courtyard of the governor's headquarters (called the Praetorium) and called out the entire regiment. 17. They dressed him in a purple robe, and they wove thorn branches into a crown and put it on his head. 18. Then they saluted him and taunted, "Hail! King of the Jews!" 19. And they struck him on the head with a reed stick, spit on him, and dropped to their knees in mock worship. -20. When they were finally tired of mocking him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him again. Then they led him away to be crucified.The Crucifixion +20. When they were finally tired of mocking him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him again. Then they led him away to be crucified. + +The Crucifixion + 21. A passerby named Simon, who was from Cyrene, was coming in from the countryside just then, and the soldiers forced him to carry Jesus' cross. (Simon was the father of Alexander and Rufus.) 22. And they brought Jesus to a place called Golgotha (which means "Place of the Skull"). @@ -45,7 +52,10 @@ But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!" 30. Well then, save yourself and come down from the cross!" 31. The leading priests and teachers of religious law also mocked Jesus. "He saved others," they scoffed, "but he can't save himself! -32. Let this Messiah, this King of Israel, come down from the cross so we can see it and believe him!" Even the men who were crucified with Jesus ridiculed him.The Death of Jesus +32. Let this Messiah, this King of Israel, come down from the cross so we can see it and believe him!" Even the men who were crucified with Jesus ridiculed him. + +The Death of Jesus + 33. At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o'clock. 34. Then at three o'clock Jesus called out with a loud voice, *"Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" which means "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?"* @@ -59,7 +69,10 @@ But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!" 39. When the Roman officer who stood facing him saw how he had died, he exclaimed, "This man truly was the Son of God!" 40. Some women were there, watching from a distance, including Mary Magdalene, Mary (the mother of James the younger and of Joseph), and Salome. -41. They had been followers of Jesus and had cared for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come with him to Jerusalem were also there.The Burial of Jesus +41. They had been followers of Jesus and had cared for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come with him to Jerusalem were also there. + +The Burial of Jesus + 42. This all happened on Friday, the day of preparation, the day before the Sabbath. As evening approached, 43. Joseph of Arimathea took a risk and went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. (Joseph was an honored member of the high council, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.) @@ -69,3 +82,4 @@ But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!" 47. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where Jesus' body was laid. + diff --git a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_16.md index 2f3411cd..3c5c0819 100644 --- a/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/41_Mark/Chapter_16.md @@ -11,8 +11,10 @@ The Resurrection 7. Now go and tell his disciples, including Peter, that Jesus is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there, just as he told you before he died." 8. The women fled from the tomb, trembling and bewildered, and they said nothing to anyone because they were too frightened. + Then they briefly reported all this to Peter and his companions. Afterward Jesus himself sent them out from east to west with the sacred and unfailing message of salvation that gives eternal life. Amen. + 9. After Jesus rose from the dead early on Sunday morning, the first person who saw him was Mary Magdalene, the woman from whom he had cast out seven demons. 10. She went to the disciples, who were grieving and weeping, and told them what had happened. 11. But when she told them that Jesus was alive and she had seen him, they didn't believe her. @@ -31,3 +33,4 @@ Then they briefly reported all this to Peter and his companions. Afterward Jesus 20. And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_01.md index f1533ab9..137f299f 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,11 @@ Introduction 1. Many people have set out to write accounts about the events that have been fulfilled among us. 2. They used the eyewitness reports circulating among us from the early disciples. 3. Having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I also have decided to write an accurate account for you, most honorable Theophilus, -4. so you can be certain of the truth of everything you were taught.The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold +4. so you can be certain of the truth of everything you were taught. + + +The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold + 5. When Herod was king of Judea, there was a Jewish priest named Zechariah. He was a member of the priestly order of Abijah, and his wife, Elizabeth, was also from the priestly line of Aaron. 6. Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in God's eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord's commandments and regulations. @@ -32,7 +36,9 @@ Introduction 23. When Zechariah's week of service in the Temple was over, he returned home. 24. Soon afterward his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and went into seclusion for five months. -25. "How kind the Lord is!" she exclaimed. "He has taken away my disgrace of having no children."The Birth of Jesus Foretold +25. "How kind the Lord is!" she exclaimed. "He has taken away my disgrace of having no children." +The Birth of Jesus Foretold + 26. In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 27. to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. @@ -50,7 +56,10 @@ Introduction 36. What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. 37. For the word of God will never fail." -38. Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her.Mary Visits Elizabeth +38. Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her. + +Mary Visits Elizabeth + 39. A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town 40. where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth. @@ -59,38 +68,60 @@ Introduction 42. Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, "God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed. 43. Why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should visit me? 44. When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. -45. You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said."The Magnificat: Mary's Song of Praise +45. You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said." +The Magnificat: Mary's Song of Praise + 46. Mary responded, "Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. + 47. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! 48. For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, - and from now on all generations will call me blessed. + +and from now on all generations will call me blessed. + 49. For the Mighty One is holy, - and he has done great things for me. + +and he has done great things for me. + 50. He shows mercy from generation to generation - to all who fear him. + +to all who fear him. + 51. His mighty arm has done tremendous things! - He has scattered the proud and haughty ones. + +He has scattered the proud and haughty ones. + 52. He has brought down princes from their thrones - and exalted the humble. + +and exalted the humble. + 53. He has filled the hungry with good things - and sent the rich away with empty hands. + +and sent the rich away with empty hands. + 54. He has helped his servant Israel - and remembered to be merciful. + +and remembered to be merciful. + 55. For he made this promise to our ancestors, - to Abraham and his children forever." + +to Abraham and his children forever." + + +56. Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home. + +The Birth of John the Baptist -56. Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home.The Birth of John the Baptist 57. When it was time for Elizabeth's baby to be born, she gave birth to a son. 58. And when her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very merciful to her, everyone rejoiced with her. @@ -104,47 +135,73 @@ Introduction 64. Instantly Zechariah could speak again, and he began praising God. 65. Awe fell upon the whole neighborhood, and the news of what had happened spread throughout the Judean hills. -66. Everyone who heard about it reflected on these events and asked, "What will this child turn out to be?" For the hand of the Lord was surely upon him in a special way.Zechariah's Prophecy +66. Everyone who heard about it reflected on these events and asked, "What will this child turn out to be?" For the hand of the Lord was surely upon him in a special way. + +Zechariah's Prophecy + 67. Then his father, Zechariah, was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave this prophecy: 68. "Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, - because he has visited and redeemed his people. + +because he has visited and redeemed his people. + 69. He has sent us a mighty Savior - from the royal line of his servant David, + +from the royal line of his servant David, + 70. just as he promised - through his holy prophets long ago. + +through his holy prophets long ago. + 71. Now we will be saved from our enemies - and from all who hate us. + +and from all who hate us. + 72. He has been merciful to our ancestors - by remembering his sacred covenant-- + +by remembering his sacred covenant-- 73. the covenant he swore with an oath - to our ancestor Abraham. + +to our ancestor Abraham. + 74. We have been rescued from our enemies - so we can serve God without fear, + +so we can serve God without fear, + 75. in holiness and righteousness - for as long as we live. + +for as long as we live. + 76. "And you, my little son, - will be called the prophet of the Most High, - because you will prepare the way for the Lord. + +will be called the prophet of the Most High, + +because you will prepare the way for the Lord. + 77. You will tell his people how to find salvation - through forgiveness of their sins. + +through forgiveness of their sins. + 78. Because of God's tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, 79. to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, - and to guide us to the path of peace." + +and to guide us to the path of peace." + 80. John grew up and became strong in spirit. And he lived in the wilderness until he began his public ministry to Israel. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_02.md index f1ab9338..c0c3e584 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_02.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ The Birth of Jesus 5. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child. 6. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. -7. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.The Shepherds and Angels +7. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. + +The Shepherds and Angels + 8. That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, @@ -19,7 +22,9 @@ The Birth of Jesus 13. Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others--the armies of heaven--praising God and saying, 14. "Glory to God in highest heaven, - and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased." + +and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased." + 15. When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, "Let's go to Bethlehem! Let's see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." @@ -27,13 +32,18 @@ The Birth of Jesus 17. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. 18. All who heard the shepherds' story were astonished, 19. but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. -20. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.Jesus Is Presented in the Temple +20. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them. + +Jesus Is Presented in the Temple + 21. Eight days later, when the baby was circumcised, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived. 22. Then it was time for their purification offering, as required by the law of Moses after the birth of a child; so his parents took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. 23. The law of the Lord says, "If a woman's first child is a boy, he must be dedicated to the LORD." -24. So they offered the sacrifice required in the law of the Lord--"either a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons."The Prophecy of Simeon +24. So they offered the sacrifice required in the law of the Lord--"either a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons." +The Prophecy of Simeon + 25. At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him 26. and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord's Messiah. @@ -41,25 +51,34 @@ The Birth of Jesus 28. Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, 29. "Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, - as you have promised. + +as you have promised. + 30. I have seen your salvation, 31. which you have prepared for all people. 32. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, - and he is the glory of your people Israel!" + +and he is the glory of your people Israel!" + 33. Jesus' parents were amazed at what was being said about him. 34. Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby's mother, "This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. -35. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul."The Prophecy of Anna +35. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul." +The Prophecy of Anna + 36. Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. 37. Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. 38. She came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God. She talked about the child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem. 39. When Jesus' parents had fulfilled all the requirements of the law of the Lord, they returned home to Nazareth in Galilee. -40. There the child grew up healthy and strong. He was filled with wisdom, and God's favor was on him.Jesus Speaks with the Teachers +40. There the child grew up healthy and strong. He was filled with wisdom, and God's favor was on him. + +Jesus Speaks with the Teachers + 41. Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. 42. When Jesus was twelve years old, they attended the festival as usual. @@ -80,3 +99,4 @@ The Birth of Jesus 52. Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_03.md index 59bcb934..933471c4 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_03.md @@ -7,12 +7,18 @@ John the Baptist Prepares the Way 4. Isaiah had spoken of John when he said, "He is a voice shouting in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the LORD's coming! - Clear the road for him! + +Clear the road for him! + 5. The valleys will be filled, - and the mountains and hills made level. + +and the mountains and hills made level. + The curves will be straightened, - and the rough places made smooth. + +and the rough places made smooth. + 6. And then all people will see the salvation sent from God.'" @@ -30,111 +36,194 @@ The curves will be straightened, 13. He replied, "Collect no more taxes than the government requires." 14. "What should we do?" asked some soldiers. + John replied, "Don't extort money or make false accusations. And be content with your pay." + 15. Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John might be the Messiah. 16. John answered their questions by saying, "I baptize you with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am--so much greater that I'm not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. 17. He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire." 18. John used many such warnings as he announced the Good News to the people. 19. John also publicly criticized Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee, for marrying Herodias, his brother's wife, and for many other wrongs he had done. -20. So Herod put John in prison, adding this sin to his many others.The Baptism of Jesus +20. So Herod put John in prison, adding this sin to his many others. + +The Baptism of Jesus + 21. One day when the crowds were being baptized, Jesus himself was baptized. As he was praying, the heavens opened, -22. and the Holy Spirit, in bodily form, descended on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, "You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy."The Ancestors of Jesus +22. and the Holy Spirit, in bodily form, descended on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, "You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy." +The Ancestors of Jesus + 23. Jesus was about thirty years old when he began his public ministry. + Jesus was known as the son of Joseph. + Joseph was the son of Heli. + 24. Heli was the son of Matthat. + Matthat was the son of Levi. + Levi was the son of Melki. + Melki was the son of Jannai. + Jannai was the son of Joseph. + 25. Joseph was the son of Mattathias. + Mattathias was the son of Amos. + Amos was the son of Nahum. + Nahum was the son of Esli. + Esli was the son of Naggai. + 26. Naggai was the son of Maath. + Maath was the son of Mattathias. + Mattathias was the son of Semein. + Semein was the son of Josech. + Josech was the son of Joda. + 27. Joda was the son of Joanan. + Joanan was the son of Rhesa. + Rhesa was the son of Zerubbabel. + Zerubbabel was the son of Shealtiel. + Shealtiel was the son of Neri. + 28. Neri was the son of Melki. + Melki was the son of Addi. + Addi was the son of Cosam. + Cosam was the son of Elmadam. + Elmadam was the son of Er. + 29. Er was the son of Joshua. + Joshua was the son of Eliezer. + Eliezer was the son of Jorim. + Jorim was the son of Matthat. + Matthat was the son of Levi. + 30. Levi was the son of Simeon. + Simeon was the son of Judah. + Judah was the son of Joseph. + Joseph was the son of Jonam. + Jonam was the son of Eliakim. + 31. Eliakim was the son of Melea. + Melea was the son of Menna. + Menna was the son of Mattatha. + Mattatha was the son of Nathan. + Nathan was the son of David. + 32. David was the son of Jesse. + Jesse was the son of Obed. + Obed was the son of Boaz. Boaz was the son of Salmon. + Salmon was the son of Nahshon. + 33. Nahshon was the son of Amminadab. + Amminadab was the son of Admin. Admin was the son of Arni. + Arni was the son of Hezron. + Hezron was the son of Perez. + Perez was the son of Judah. + 34. Judah was the son of Jacob. + Jacob was the son of Isaac. + Isaac was the son of Abraham. + Abraham was the son of Terah. + Terah was the son of Nahor. + 35. Nahor was the son of Serug. + Serug was the son of Reu. + Reu was the son of Peleg. + Peleg was the son of Eber. + Eber was the son of Shelah. + 36. Shelah was the son of Cainan. + Cainan was the son of Arphaxad. + Arphaxad was the son of Shem. + Shem was the son of Noah. + Noah was the son of Lamech. + 37. Lamech was the son of Methuselah. + Methuselah was the son of Enoch. + Enoch was the son of Jared. + Jared was the son of Mahalalel. + Mahalalel was the son of Kenan. + 38. Kenan was the son of Enosh. + Enosh was the son of Seth. + Seth was the son of Adam. + Adam was the son of God. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_04.md index 663b86ca..bf912be5 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_04.md @@ -20,12 +20,16 @@ The Temptation of Jesus 10. For the Scriptures say, 'He will order his angels to protect and guard you. + 11. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone.'" 12. Jesus responded, *"The Scriptures also say, 'You must not test the LORD your God.'"* -13. When the devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came.Jesus Rejected at Nazareth +13. When the devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came. + +Jesus Rejected at Nazareth + 14. Then Jesus returned to Galilee, filled with the Holy Spirit's power. Reports about him spread quickly through the whole region. 15. He taught regularly in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. @@ -34,10 +38,14 @@ The Temptation of Jesus 17. The scroll of Isaiah the prophet was handed to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where this was written: 18. *"The Spirit of the LORD is upon me,* - *for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor.* -*He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released,* - *that the blind will see,* -*that the oppressed will be set free,* + * +for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor.* +* +He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released,* + * +that the blind will see,* +* +that the oppressed will be set free,* 19. *and that the time of the LORD's favor has come."* @@ -55,7 +63,10 @@ The Temptation of Jesus 28. When they heard this, the people in the synagogue were furious. 29. Jumping up, they mobbed him and forced him to the edge of the hill on which the town was built. They intended to push him over the cliff, -30. but he passed right through the crowd and went on his way.Jesus Casts Out a Demon +30. but he passed right through the crowd and went on his way. + +Jesus Casts Out a Demon + 31. Then Jesus went to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, and taught there in the synagogue every Sabbath day. 32. There, too, the people were amazed at his teaching, for he spoke with authority. @@ -66,16 +77,23 @@ The Temptation of Jesus 35. But Jesus reprimanded him. *"Be quiet! Come out of the man,"* he ordered. At that, the demon threw the man to the floor as the crowd watched; then it came out of him without hurting him further. 36. Amazed, the people exclaimed, "What authority and power this man's words possess! Even evil spirits obey him, and they flee at his command!" -37. The news about Jesus spread through every village in the entire region.Jesus Heals Many People +37. The news about Jesus spread through every village in the entire region. + +Jesus Heals Many People + 38. After leaving the synagogue that day, Jesus went to Simon's home, where he found Simon's mother-in-law very sick with a high fever. "Please heal her," everyone begged. 39. Standing at her bedside, he rebuked the fever, and it left her. And she got up at once and prepared a meal for them. 40. As the sun went down that evening, people throughout the village brought sick family members to Jesus. No matter what their diseases were, the touch of his hand healed every one. -41. Many were possessed by demons; and the demons came out at his command, shouting, "You are the Son of God!" But because they knew he was the Messiah, he rebuked them and refused to let them speak.Jesus Continues to Preach +41. Many were possessed by demons; and the demons came out at his command, shouting, "You are the Son of God!" But because they knew he was the Messiah, he rebuked them and refused to let them speak. + +Jesus Continues to Preach + 42. Early the next morning Jesus went out to an isolated place. The crowds searched everywhere for him, and when they finally found him, they begged him not to leave them. 43. But he replied, *"I must preach the Good News of the Kingdom of God in other towns, too, because that is why I was sent."* 44. So he continued to travel around, preaching in synagogues throughout Judea. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_05.md index f88a778b..f063a627 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_05.md @@ -15,7 +15,10 @@ The First Disciples 9. For he was awestruck by the number of fish they had caught, as were the others with him. 10. His partners, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were also amazed. Jesus replied to Simon, *"Don't be afraid! From now on you'll be fishing for people!"* -11. And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus.Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy +11. And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus. + +Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy + 12. In one of the villages, Jesus met a man with an advanced case of leprosy. When the man saw Jesus, he bowed with his face to the ground, begging to be healed. "Lord," he said, "if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean." @@ -23,7 +26,10 @@ Jesus replied to Simon, *"Don't be afraid! From now on you'll be fishing for peo 14. Then Jesus instructed him not to tell anyone what had happened. He said, *"Go to the priest and let him examine you. Take along the offering required in the law of Moses for those who have been healed of leprosy. This will be a public testimony that you have been cleansed."* 15. But despite Jesus' instructions, the report of his power spread even faster, and vast crowds came to hear him preach and to be healed of their diseases. -16. But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man +16. But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer. + +Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man + 17. One day while Jesus was teaching, some Pharisees and teachers of religious law were sitting nearby. (It seemed that these men showed up from every village in all Galilee and Judea, as well as from Jerusalem.) And the Lord's healing power was strongly with Jesus. @@ -38,7 +44,9 @@ Jesus replied to Simon, *"Don't be afraid! From now on you'll be fishing for peo 24. *So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins." Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, "Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!"* 25. And immediately, as everyone watched, the man jumped up, picked up his mat, and went home praising God. -26. Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, "We have seen amazing things today!"Jesus Calls Levi (Matthew) +26. Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, "We have seen amazing things today!" +Jesus Calls Levi (Matthew) + 27. Later, as Jesus left the town, he saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at his tax collector's booth. *"Follow me and be my disciple,"* Jesus said to him. 28. So Levi got up, left everything, and followed him. @@ -47,7 +55,9 @@ Jesus replied to Simon, *"Don't be afraid! From now on you'll be fishing for peo 30. But the Pharisees and their teachers of religious law complained bitterly to Jesus' disciples, "Why do you eat and drink with such scum?" 31. Jesus answered them, *"Healthy people don't need a doctor--sick people do.* -32. *I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent."*A Discussion about Fasting +32. *I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent."* +A Discussion about Fasting + 33. One day some people said to Jesus, "John the Baptist's disciples fast and pray regularly, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees. Why are your disciples always eating and drinking?" @@ -61,3 +71,4 @@ Jesus replied to Simon, *"Don't be afraid! From now on you'll be fishing for peo 39. *But no one who drinks the old wine seems to want the new wine. 'The old is just fine,' they say."* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_06.md index 09f88f5d..29865d50 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_06.md @@ -6,7 +6,9 @@ A Discussion about the Sabbath 3. Jesus replied, *"Haven't you read in the Scriptures what David did when he and his companions were hungry?* 4. *He went into the house of God and broke the law by eating the sacred loaves of bread that only the priests can eat. He also gave some to his companions."* -5. And Jesus added, *"The Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath."*Jesus Heals on the Sabbath +5. And Jesus added, *"The Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath."* +Jesus Heals on the Sabbath + 6. On another Sabbath day, a man with a deformed right hand was in the synagogue while Jesus was teaching. 7. The teachers of religious law and the Pharisees watched Jesus closely. If he healed the man's hand, they planned to accuse him of working on the Sabbath. @@ -15,7 +17,10 @@ A Discussion about the Sabbath 9. Then Jesus said to his critics, *"I have a question for you. Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?"* 10. He looked around at them one by one and then said to the man, *"Hold out your hand."* So the man held out his hand, and it was restored! -11. At this, the enemies of Jesus were wild with rage and began to discuss what to do with him.Jesus Chooses the Twelve Apostles +11. At this, the enemies of Jesus were wild with rage and began to discuss what to do with him. + +Jesus Chooses the Twelve Apostles + 12. One day soon afterward Jesus went up on a mountain to pray, and he prayed to God all night. 13. At daybreak he called together all of his disciples and chose twelve of them to be apostles. Here are their names: @@ -27,40 +32,62 @@ John, Philip, Bartholomew, + 15. Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (who was called the zealot), + 16. Judas (son of James), -Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).Crowds Follow Jesus +Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him). + +Crowds Follow Jesus + 17. When they came down from the mountain, the disciples stood with Jesus on a large, level area, surrounded by many of his followers and by the crowds. There were people from all over Judea and from Jerusalem and from as far north as the seacoasts of Tyre and Sidon. 18. They had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those troubled by evil spirits were healed. -19. Everyone tried to touch him, because healing power went out from him, and he healed everyone.The Beatitudes +19. Everyone tried to touch him, because healing power went out from him, and he healed everyone. + +The Beatitudes + 20. Then Jesus turned to his disciples and said, -*"God blesses you who are poor,* - *for the Kingdom of God is yours.* +* +"God blesses you who are poor,* + * +for the Kingdom of God is yours.* 21. *God blesses you who are hungry now,* - *for you will be satisfied.* -*God blesses you who weep now,* - *for in due time you will laugh.* + * +for you will be satisfied.* +* +God blesses you who weep now,* + * +for in due time you will laugh.* 22. *What blessings await you when people hate you and exclude you and mock you and curse you as evil because you follow the Son of Man.* -23. *When that happens, be happy! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, their ancestors treated the ancient prophets that same way.*Sorrows Foretold +23. *When that happens, be happy! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, their ancestors treated the ancient prophets that same way.* +Sorrows Foretold + 24. *"What sorrow awaits you who are rich,* - *for you have your only happiness now.* + * +for you have your only happiness now.* 25. *What sorrow awaits you who are fat and prosperous now,* - *for a time of awful hunger awaits you.* -*What sorrow awaits you who laugh now,* - *for your laughing will turn to mourning and sorrow.* + * +for a time of awful hunger awaits you.* +* +What sorrow awaits you who laugh now,* + * +for your laughing will turn to mourning and sorrow.* 26. *What sorrow awaits you who are praised by the crowds,* - *for their ancestors also praised false prophets.*Love for Enemies + * +for their ancestors also praised false prophets.* +Love for Enemies + 27. *"But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you.* 28. *Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.* @@ -73,7 +100,9 @@ Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).Crowds Follow Jesus 34. *And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, why should you get credit? Even sinners will lend to other sinners for a full return.* 35. *"Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked.* -36. *You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.*Do Not Judge Others +36. *You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.* +Do Not Judge Others + 37. *"Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.* 38. *Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full--pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back."* @@ -82,11 +111,15 @@ Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).Crowds Follow Jesus 40. *Students are not greater than their teacher. But the student who is fully trained will become like the teacher.* 41. *"And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own?* -42. *How can you think of saying, 'Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye.*The Tree and Its Fruit +42. *How can you think of saying, 'Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye.* +The Tree and Its Fruit + 43. *"A good tree can't produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can't produce good fruit.* 44. *A tree is identified by its fruit. Figs are never gathered from thornbushes, and grapes are not picked from bramble bushes.* -45. *A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.*Building on a Solid Foundation +45. *A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.* +Building on a Solid Foundation + 46. *"So why do you keep calling me 'Lord, Lord!' when you don't do what I say?* 47. *I will show you what it's like when someone comes to me, listens to my teaching, and then follows it.* @@ -94,3 +127,4 @@ Judas Iscariot (who later betrayed him).Crowds Follow Jesus 49. *But anyone who hears and doesn't obey is like a person who builds a house right on the ground, without a foundation. When the floods sweep down against that house, it will collapse into a heap of ruins."* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_07.md index 24dec363..afbe0a32 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_07.md @@ -12,7 +12,10 @@ The Faith of a Roman Officer 8. I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, 'Go,' and they go, or 'Come,' and they come. And if I say to my slaves, 'Do this,' they do it." 9. When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to the crowd that was following him, he said, *"I tell you, I haven't seen faith like this in all Israel!"* -10. And when the officer's friends returned to his house, they found the slave completely healed.Jesus Raises a Widow's Son +10. And when the officer's friends returned to his house, they found the slave completely healed. + +Jesus Raises a Widow's Son + 11. Soon afterward Jesus went with his disciples to the village of Nain, and a large crowd followed him. 12. A funeral procession was coming out as he approached the village gate. The young man who had died was a widow's only son, and a large crowd from the village was with her. @@ -21,7 +24,10 @@ The Faith of a Roman Officer 15. Then the dead boy sat up and began to talk! And Jesus gave him back to his mother. 16. Great fear swept the crowd, and they praised God, saying, "A mighty prophet has risen among us," and "God has visited his people today." -17. And the news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding countryside.Jesus and John the Baptist +17. And the news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding countryside. + +Jesus and John the Baptist + 18. The disciples of John the Baptist told John about everything Jesus was doing. So John called for two of his disciples, 19. and he sent them to the Lord to ask him, "Are you the Messiah we've been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?" @@ -36,7 +42,8 @@ The Faith of a Roman Officer 25. *Or were you expecting to see a man dressed in expensive clothes? No, people who wear beautiful clothes and live in luxury are found in palaces.* 26. *Were you looking for a prophet? Yes, and he is more than a prophet.* 27. *John is the man to whom the Scriptures refer when they say,* -*'Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,* +* +'Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,* *and he will prepare your way before you.'* 28. *I tell you, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of God is greater than he is!"* @@ -46,14 +53,20 @@ The Faith of a Roman Officer 31. *"To what can I compare the people of this generation?" Jesus asked. "How can I describe them?* 32. *They are like children playing a game in the public square. They complain to their friends,* -*'We played wedding songs,* - *and you didn't dance,* -*so we played funeral songs,* - *and you didn't weep.'* +* +'We played wedding songs,* + * +and you didn't dance,* +* +so we played funeral songs,* + * +and you didn't weep.'* 33. *For John the Baptist didn't spend his time eating bread or drinking wine, and you say, 'He's possessed by a demon.'* 34. *The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, 'He's a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!'* -35. *But wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it."*Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman +35. *But wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it."* +Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman + 36. One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so Jesus went to his home and sat down to eat. 37. When a certain immoral woman from that city heard he was eating there, she brought a beautiful alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume. @@ -64,11 +77,13 @@ The Faith of a Roman Officer 40. Then Jesus answered his thoughts. *"Simon," he said to the Pharisee, "I have something to say to you."* "Go ahead, Teacher," Simon replied. + 41. Then Jesus told him this story: *"A man loaned money to two people--500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other.* 42. *But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you suppose loved him more after that?"* 43. Simon answered, "I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt." -*"That's right,"* Jesus said. +* +"That's right,"* Jesus said. 44. Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, *"Look at this woman kneeling here. When I entered your home, you didn't offer me water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair.* 45. *You didn't greet me with a kiss, but from the time I first came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet.* 46. *You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she has anointed my feet with rare perfume.* @@ -81,3 +96,4 @@ The Faith of a Roman Officer 50. And Jesus said to the woman, *"Your faith has saved you; go in peace."* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_08.md index b5038fc5..59a4874c 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_08.md @@ -3,7 +3,10 @@ Women Who Followed Jesus # Chapter 8 1. Soon afterward Jesus began a tour of the nearby towns and villages, preaching and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom of God. He took his twelve disciples with him, 2. along with some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. Among them were Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons; -3. Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing from their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples.Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed +3. Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing from their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples. + +Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seed + 4. One day Jesus told a story in the form of a parable to a large crowd that had gathered from many towns to hear him: 5. *"A farmer went out to plant his seed. As he scattered it across his field, some seed fell on a footpath, where it was stepped on, and the birds ate it.* @@ -13,32 +16,42 @@ Women Who Followed Jesus 9. His disciples asked him what this parable meant. 10. He replied, *"You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of God. But I use parables to teach the others so that the Scriptures might be fulfilled:* -*'When they look, they won't really see.* +* +'When they look, they won't really see.* *When they hear, they won't understand.'* 11. *"This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is God's word.* 12. *The seeds that fell on the footpath represent those who hear the message, only to have the devil come and take it away from their hearts and prevent them from believing and being saved.* 13. *The seeds on the rocky soil represent those who hear the message and receive it with joy. But since they don't have deep roots, they believe for a while, then they fall away when they face temptation.* 14. *The seeds that fell among the thorns represent those who hear the message, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares and riches and pleasures of this life. And so they never grow into maturity.* -15. *And the seeds that fell on the good soil represent honest, good-hearted people who hear God's word, cling to it, and patiently produce a huge harvest.*Parable of the Lamp +15. *And the seeds that fell on the good soil represent honest, good-hearted people who hear God's word, cling to it, and patiently produce a huge harvest.* +Parable of the Lamp + 16. *"No one lights a lamp and then covers it with a bowl or hides it under a bed. A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light can be seen by all who enter the house.* 17. *For all that is secret will eventually be brought into the open, and everything that is concealed will be brought to light and made known to all.* -18. *"So pay attention to how you hear. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what they think they understand will be taken away from them."*The True Family of Jesus +18. *"So pay attention to how you hear. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what they think they understand will be taken away from them."* +The True Family of Jesus + 19. Then Jesus' mother and brothers came to see him, but they couldn't get to him because of the crowd. 20. Someone told Jesus, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, and they want to see you." -21. Jesus replied, *"My mother and my brothers are all those who hear God's word and obey it."*Jesus Calms the Storm +21. Jesus replied, *"My mother and my brothers are all those who hear God's word and obey it."* +Jesus Calms the Storm + 22. One day Jesus said to his disciples, *"Let's cross to the other side of the lake."* So they got into a boat and started out. 23. As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger. 24. The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. + 25. Then he asked them, *"Where is your faith?"* -The disciples were terrified and amazed. "Who is this man?" they asked each other. "When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!"Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Man +The disciples were terrified and amazed. "Who is this man?" they asked each other. "When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!" +Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Man + 26. So they arrived in the region of the Gerasenes, across the lake from Galilee. 27. As Jesus was climbing out of the boat, a man who was possessed by demons came out to meet him. For a long time he had been homeless and naked, living in the tombs outside the town. @@ -48,30 +61,42 @@ The disciples were terrified and amazed. "Who is this man?" they asked each othe 30. Jesus demanded, *"What is your name?"* "Legion," he replied, for he was filled with many demons. + 31. The demons kept begging Jesus not to send them into the bottomless pit. 32. There happened to be a large herd of pigs feeding on the hillside nearby, and the demons begged him to let them enter into the pigs. + So Jesus gave them permission. + 33. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the pigs, and the entire herd plunged down the steep hillside into the lake and drowned. 34. When the herdsmen saw it, they fled to the nearby town and the surrounding countryside, spreading the news as they ran. 35. People rushed out to see what had happened. A crowd soon gathered around Jesus, and they saw the man who had been freed from the demons. He was sitting at Jesus' feet, fully clothed and perfectly sane, and they were all afraid. 36. Then those who had seen what happened told the others how the demon-possessed man had been healed. 37. And all the people in the region of the Gerasenes begged Jesus to go away and leave them alone, for a great wave of fear swept over them. + So Jesus returned to the boat and left, crossing back to the other side of the lake. + 38. The man who had been freed from the demons begged to go with him. But Jesus sent him home, saying, -39. *"No, go back to your family, and tell them everything God has done for you."* So he went all through the town proclaiming the great things Jesus had done for him.Jesus Heals in Response to Faith +39. *"No, go back to your family, and tell them everything God has done for you."* So he went all through the town proclaiming the great things Jesus had done for him. + +Jesus Heals in Response to Faith + 40. On the other side of the lake the crowds welcomed Jesus, because they had been waiting for him. 41. Then a man named Jairus, a leader of the local synagogue, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come home with him. 42. His only daughter, who was about twelve years old, was dying. + As Jesus went with him, he was surrounded by the crowds. + 43. A woman in the crowd had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding, and she could find no cure. 44. Coming up behind Jesus, she touched the fringe of his robe. Immediately, the bleeding stopped. 45. *"Who touched me?"* Jesus asked. + Everyone denied it, and Peter said, "Master, this whole crowd is pressing up against you." + 46. But Jesus said, *"Someone deliberately touched me, for I felt healing power go out from me."* 47. When the woman realized that she could not stay hidden, she began to tremble and fell to her knees in front of him. The whole crowd heard her explain why she had touched him and that she had been immediately healed. 48. *"Daughter," he said to her, "your faith has made you well. Go in peace."* @@ -89,3 +114,4 @@ Everyone denied it, and Peter said, "Master, this whole crowd is pressing up aga 56. Her parents were overwhelmed, but Jesus insisted that they not tell anyone what had happened. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_09.md index e73c98e0..ae5b2538 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_09.md @@ -7,12 +7,18 @@ Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples 4. *Wherever you go, stay in the same house until you leave town.* 5. *And if a town refuses to welcome you, shake its dust from your feet as you leave to show that you have abandoned those people to their fate."* -6. So they began their circuit of the villages, preaching the Good News and healing the sick.Herod's Confusion +6. So they began their circuit of the villages, preaching the Good News and healing the sick. + +Herod's Confusion + 7. When Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee, heard about everything Jesus was doing, he was puzzled. Some were saying that John the Baptist had been raised from the dead. 8. Others thought Jesus was Elijah or one of the other prophets risen from the dead. -9. "I beheaded John," Herod said, "so who is this man about whom I hear such stories?" And he kept trying to see him.Jesus Feeds Five Thousand +9. "I beheaded John," Herod said, "so who is this man about whom I hear such stories?" And he kept trying to see him. + +Jesus Feeds Five Thousand + 10. When the apostles returned, they told Jesus everything they had done. Then he slipped quietly away with them toward the town of Bethsaida. 11. But the crowds found out where he was going, and they followed him. He welcomed them and taught them about the Kingdom of God, and he healed those who were sick. @@ -21,18 +27,23 @@ Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples 13. But Jesus said, *"You feed them."* "But we have only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered. "Or are you expecting us to go and buy enough food for this whole crowd?" + 14. For there were about 5,000 men there. Jesus replied, *"Tell them to sit down in groups of about fifty each."* 15. So the people all sat down. 16. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread and fish to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. -17. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftovers!Peter's Declaration about Jesus +17. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftovers! +Peter's Declaration about Jesus + 18. One day Jesus left the crowds to pray alone. Only his disciples were with him, and he asked them, *"Who do people say I am?"* 19. "Well," they replied, "some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say you are one of the other ancient prophets risen from the dead." 20. Then he asked them, *"But who do you say I am?"* -Peter replied, "You are the Messiah sent from God!"Jesus Predicts His Death +Peter replied, "You are the Messiah sent from God!" +Jesus Predicts His Death + 21. Jesus warned his disciples not to tell anyone who he was. 22. *"The Son of Man must suffer many terrible things," he said. "He will be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He will be killed, but on the third day he will be raised from the dead."* @@ -41,9 +52,12 @@ Peter replied, "You are the Messiah sent from God!"Jesus Predicts His Death 24. *If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.* 25. *And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed?* 26. *If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the holy angels.* -27. *I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Kingdom of God."*The Transfiguration +27. *I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Kingdom of God."* +The Transfiguration -28. About eight days later Jesus took Peter, John, and James up on a mountain to pray. + +28. +About eight days later Jesus took Peter, John, and James up on a mountain to pray. 29. And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was transformed, and his clothes became dazzling white. 30. Suddenly, two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared and began talking with Jesus. 31. They were glorious to see. And they were speaking about his exodus from this world, which was about to be fulfilled in Jerusalem. @@ -53,7 +67,10 @@ Peter replied, "You are the Messiah sent from God!"Jesus Predicts His Death 34. But even as he was saying this, a cloud overshadowed them, and terror gripped them as the cloud covered them. 35. Then a voice from the cloud said, "This is my Son, my Chosen One. Listen to him." -36. When the voice finished, Jesus was there alone. They didn't tell anyone at that time what they had seen.Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy +36. When the voice finished, Jesus was there alone. They didn't tell anyone at that time what they had seen. + +Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy + 37. The next day, after they had come down the mountain, a large crowd met Jesus. 38. A man in the crowd called out to him, "Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, my only child. @@ -63,25 +80,38 @@ Peter replied, "You are the Messiah sent from God!"Jesus Predicts His Death 41. Jesus said, *"You faithless and corrupt people! How long must I be with you and put up with you?" Then he said to the man, "Bring your son here."* 42. As the boy came forward, the demon knocked him to the ground and threw him into a violent convulsion. But Jesus rebuked the evil spirit and healed the boy. Then he gave him back to his father. -43. Awe gripped the people as they saw this majestic display of God's power.Jesus Again Predicts His Death +43. Awe gripped the people as they saw this majestic display of God's power. + +Jesus Again Predicts His Death While everyone was marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus said to his disciples, + 44. *"Listen to me and remember what I say. The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies."* -45. But they didn't know what he meant. Its significance was hidden from them, so they couldn't understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about it.The Greatest in the Kingdom +45. But they didn't know what he meant. Its significance was hidden from them, so they couldn't understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about it. + +The Greatest in the Kingdom + 46. Then his disciples began arguing about which of them was the greatest. 47. But Jesus knew their thoughts, so he brought a little child to his side. -48. Then he said to them, *"Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me also welcomes my Father who sent me. Whoever is the least among you is the greatest."*Using the Name of Jesus +48. Then he said to them, *"Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me also welcomes my Father who sent me. Whoever is the least among you is the greatest."* +Using the Name of Jesus + 49. John said to Jesus, "Master, we saw someone using your name to cast out demons, but we told him to stop because he isn't in our group." -50. But Jesus said, *"Don't stop him! Anyone who is not against you is for you."*Opposition from Samaritans +50. But Jesus said, *"Don't stop him! Anyone who is not against you is for you."* +Opposition from Samaritans + 51. As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. 52. He sent messengers ahead to a Samaritan village to prepare for his arrival. 53. But the people of the village did not welcome Jesus because he was on his way to Jerusalem. 54. When James and John saw this, they said to Jesus, "Lord, should we call down fire from heaven to burn them up?" 55. But Jesus turned and rebuked them. -56. So they went on to another village.The Cost of Following Jesus +56. So they went on to another village. + +The Cost of Following Jesus + 57. As they were walking along, someone said to Jesus, "I will follow you wherever you go." @@ -90,6 +120,7 @@ While everyone was marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus said to his disci 59. He said to another person, *"Come, follow me."* The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." + 60. But Jesus told him, *"Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead! Your duty is to go and preach about the Kingdom of God."* 61. Another said, "Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say good-bye to my family." @@ -97,3 +128,4 @@ The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father. 62. But Jesus told him, *"Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God."* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_10.md index 7264666a..dd61bb6c 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_10.md @@ -26,14 +26,18 @@ Jesus Sends Out His Disciples 18. *"Yes," he told them, "I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning!* 19. *Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you.* -20. *But don't rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven."*Jesus' Prayer of Thanksgiving +20. *But don't rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven."* +Jesus' Prayer of Thanksgiving + 21. At that same time Jesus was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit, and he said, *"O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way.* 22. *"My Father has entrusted everything to me. No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."* 23. Then when they were alone, he turned to the disciples and said, *"Blessed are the eyes that see what you have seen.* -24. *I tell you, many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, but they didn't see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn't hear it."*The Most Important Commandment +24. *I tell you, many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, but they didn't see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn't hear it."* +The Most Important Commandment + 25. One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: "Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?" @@ -43,7 +47,9 @@ Jesus Sends Out His Disciples 28. *"Right!" Jesus told him. "Do this and you will live!"* -29. The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"Parable of the Good Samaritan +29. The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" +Parable of the Good Samaritan + 30. Jesus replied with a story: *"A Jewish man was traveling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.* @@ -57,7 +63,9 @@ Jesus Sends Out His Disciples 36. *"Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?"* Jesus asked. 37. The man replied, "The one who showed him mercy." -Then Jesus said, *"Yes, now go and do the same."*Jesus Visits Martha and Mary +Then Jesus said, *"Yes, now go and do the same."* +Jesus Visits Martha and Mary + 38. As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what he taught. @@ -67,3 +75,4 @@ Then Jesus said, *"Yes, now go and do the same."*Jesus Visits Martha and Mary 42. *There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her."* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_11.md index aae76dbd..4889a125 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_11.md @@ -4,13 +4,16 @@ Teaching about Prayer 1. Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples." 2. Jesus said, *"This is how you should pray:* -*"Father, may your name be kept holy.* - *May your Kingdom come soon.* +* +"Father, may your name be kept holy.* + * +May your Kingdom come soon.* 3. *Give us each day the food we need,* 4. *and forgive us our sins,* - *as we forgive those who sin against us.* + * +as we forgive those who sin against us.* *And don't let us yield to temptation."* 5. Then, teaching them more about prayer, he used this story: *"Suppose you went to a friend's house at midnight, wanting to borrow three loaves of bread. You say to him,* @@ -23,7 +26,9 @@ Teaching about Prayer 11. *"You fathers--if your children ask for a fish, do you give them a snake instead?* 12. *Or if they ask for an egg, do you give them a scorpion? Of course not!* -13. *So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him."*Jesus and the Prince of Demons +13. *So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him."* +Jesus and the Prince of Demons + 14. One day Jesus cast out a demon from a man who couldn't speak, and when the demon was gone, the man began to speak. The crowds were amazed, 15. but some of them said, "No wonder he can cast out demons. He gets his power from Satan, the prince of demons." @@ -44,19 +49,25 @@ Teaching about Prayer 27. As he was speaking, a woman in the crowd called out, "God bless your mother--the womb from which you came, and the breasts that nursed you!" -28. Jesus replied, *"But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice."*The Sign of Jonah +28. Jesus replied, *"But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice."* +The Sign of Jonah + 29. As the crowd pressed in on Jesus, he said, *"This evil generation keeps asking me to show them a miraculous sign. But the only sign I will give them is the sign of Jonah.* 30. *What happened to him was a sign to the people of Nineveh that God had sent him. What happens to the Son of Man will be a sign to these people that he was sent by God.* 31. *"The queen of Sheba will stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for she came from a distant land to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Now someone greater than Solomon is here--but you refuse to listen.* -32. *The people of Nineveh will also stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for they repented of their sins at the preaching of Jonah. Now someone greater than Jonah is here--but you refuse to repent.*Receiving the Light +32. *The people of Nineveh will also stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for they repented of their sins at the preaching of Jonah. Now someone greater than Jonah is here--but you refuse to repent.* +Receiving the Light + 33. *"No one lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where its light can be seen by all who enter the house.* 34. *"Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. But when it is unhealthy, your body is filled with darkness.* 35. *Make sure that the light you think you have is not actually darkness.* -36. *If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light."*Jesus Criticizes the Religious Leaders +36. *If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light."* +Jesus Criticizes the Religious Leaders + 37. As Jesus was speaking, one of the Pharisees invited him home for a meal. So he went in and took his place at the table. 38. His host was amazed to see that he sat down to eat without first performing the hand-washing ceremony required by Jewish custom. @@ -85,3 +96,4 @@ Teaching about Prayer 54. They wanted to trap him into saying something they could use against him. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_12.md index 145958a8..73d63154 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_12.md @@ -16,7 +16,9 @@ A Warning against Hypocrisy 10. *Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.* 11. *"And when you are brought to trial in the synagogues and before rulers and authorities, don't worry about how to defend yourself or what to say,* -12. *for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said."*Parable of the Rich Fool +12. *for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said."* +Parable of the Rich Fool + 13. Then someone called from the crowd, "Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father's estate with me." @@ -30,7 +32,9 @@ A Warning against Hypocrisy 20. *"But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?'* -21. *"Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God."*Teaching about Money and Possessions +21. *"Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God."* +Teaching about Money and Possessions + 22. Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, *"That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life--whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear.* 23. *For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing.* @@ -48,7 +52,9 @@ A Warning against Hypocrisy 32. *"So don't be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.* 33. *"Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it.* -34. *Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.*Be Ready for the Lord's Coming +34. *Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.* +Be Ready for the Lord's Coming + 35. *"Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning,* 36. *as though you were waiting for your master to return from the wedding feast. Then you will be ready to open the door and let him in the moment he arrives and knocks.* @@ -67,7 +73,9 @@ A Warning against Hypocrisy 46. *The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant in pieces and banish him with the unfaithful.* 47. *"And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished.* -48. *But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.*Jesus Causes Division +48. *But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.* +Jesus Causes Division + 49. *"I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning!* 50. *I have a terrible baptism of suffering ahead of me, and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished.* @@ -75,10 +83,14 @@ A Warning against Hypocrisy 52. *From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against--or two in favor and three against.* 53. *'Father will be divided against son* - *and son against father;* -*mother against daughter* - *and daughter against mother;* -*and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law* + * +and son against father;* +* +mother against daughter* + * +and daughter against mother;* +* +and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law* *and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.'"* 54. Then Jesus turned to the crowd and said, *"When you see clouds beginning to form in the west, you say, 'Here comes a shower.' And you are right.* @@ -90,3 +102,4 @@ A Warning against Hypocrisy 59. *And if that happens, you won't be free again until you have paid the very last penny."* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_13.md index c277ca2a..98a9515a 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_13.md @@ -1,17 +1,22 @@ A Call to Repentance # Chapter 13 -1. About this time Jesus was informed that Pilate had murdered some people from Galilee as they were offering sacrifices at the Temple. +1. +About this time Jesus was informed that Pilate had murdered some people from Galilee as they were offering sacrifices at the Temple. 2. *"Do you think those Galileans were worse sinners than all the other people from Galilee?" Jesus asked. "Is that why they suffered?* 3. *Not at all! And you will perish, too, unless you repent of your sins and turn to God.* 4. *And what about the eighteen people who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them? Were they the worst sinners in Jerusalem?* -5. *No, and I tell you again that unless you repent, you will perish, too."*Parable of the Barren Fig Tree +5. *No, and I tell you again that unless you repent, you will perish, too."* +Parable of the Barren Fig Tree + 6. Then Jesus told this story: *"A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed.* 7. *Finally, he said to his gardener, 'I've waited three years, and there hasn't been a single fig! Cut it down. It's just taking up space in the garden.'* 8. *"The gardener answered, 'Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I'll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer.* -9. *If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.'"*Jesus Heals on the Sabbath +9. *If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.'"* +Jesus Heals on the Sabbath + 10. One Sabbath day as Jesus was teaching in a synagogue, 11. he saw a woman who had been crippled by an evil spirit. She had been bent double for eighteen years and was unable to stand up straight. @@ -23,17 +28,25 @@ A Call to Repentance 15. But the Lord replied, *"You hypocrites! Each of you works on the Sabbath day! Don't you untie your ox or your donkey from its stall on the Sabbath and lead it out for water?* 16. *This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham, has been held in bondage by Satan for eighteen years. Isn't it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?"* -17. This shamed his enemies, but all the people rejoiced at the wonderful things he did.Parable of the Mustard Seed +17. This shamed his enemies, but all the people rejoiced at the wonderful things he did. + +Parable of the Mustard Seed + 18. Then Jesus said, *"What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it?* -19. *It is like a tiny mustard seed that a man planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds make nests in its branches."*Parable of the Yeast +19. *It is like a tiny mustard seed that a man planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds make nests in its branches."* +Parable of the Yeast + 20. He also asked, *"What else is the Kingdom of God like?* -21. *It is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough."*The Narrow Door +21. *It is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough."* +The Narrow Door + 22. Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he went, always pressing on toward Jerusalem. 23. Someone asked him, "Lord, will only a few be saved?" He replied, + 24. *"Work hard to enter the narrow door to God's Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail.* 25. *When the master of the house has locked the door, it will be too late. You will stand outside knocking and pleading, 'Lord, open the door for us!' But he will reply, 'I don't know you or where you come from.'* 26. *Then you will say, 'But we ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.'* @@ -41,7 +54,9 @@ He replied, 28. *"There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, for you will see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets in the Kingdom of God, but you will be thrown out.* 29. *And people will come from all over the world--from east and west, north and south--to take their places in the Kingdom of God.* -30. *And note this: Some who seem least important now will be the greatest then, and some who are the greatest now will be least important then."*Jesus Grieves over Jerusalem +30. *And note this: Some who seem least important now will be the greatest then, and some who are the greatest now will be least important then."* +Jesus Grieves over Jerusalem + 31. At that time some Pharisees said to him, "Get away from here if you want to live! Herod Antipas wants to kill you!" @@ -52,3 +67,4 @@ He replied, 35. *And now, look, your house is abandoned. And you will never see me again until you say, 'Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD!'"* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_14.md index aea52c53..db090fab 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_14.md @@ -6,7 +6,10 @@ Jesus Heals on the Sabbath 3. Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in religious law, *"Is it permitted in the law to heal people on the Sabbath day, or not?"* 4. When they refused to answer, Jesus touched the sick man and healed him and sent him away. 5. Then he turned to them and said, *"Which of you doesn't work on the Sabbath? If your son or your cow falls into a pit, don't you rush to get him out?"* -6. Again they could not answer.Jesus Teaches about Humility +6. Again they could not answer. + +Jesus Teaches about Humility + 7. When Jesus noticed that all who had come to the dinner were trying to sit in the seats of honor near the head of the table, he gave them this advice: 8. *"When you are invited to a wedding feast, don't sit in the seat of honor. What if someone who is more distinguished than you has also been invited?* @@ -17,7 +20,9 @@ Jesus Heals on the Sabbath 12. Then he turned to his host. *"When you put on a luncheon or a banquet," he said, "don't invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will invite you back, and that will be your only reward.* 13. *Instead, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind.* -14. *Then at the resurrection of the righteous, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you."*Parable of the Great Feast +14. *Then at the resurrection of the righteous, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you."* +Parable of the Great Feast + 15. Hearing this, a man sitting at the table with Jesus exclaimed, "What a blessing it will be to attend a banquet in the Kingdom of God!" @@ -30,7 +35,9 @@ Jesus Heals on the Sabbath 21. *"The servant returned and told his master what they had said. His master was furious and said, 'Go quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and invite the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.'* 22. *After the servant had done this, he reported, 'There is still room for more.'* 23. *So his master said, 'Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full.* -24. *For none of those I first invited will get even the smallest taste of my banquet.'"*The Cost of Being a Disciple +24. *For none of those I first invited will get even the smallest taste of my banquet.'"* +The Cost of Being a Disciple + 25. A large crowd was following Jesus. He turned around and said to them, 26. *"If you want to be my disciple, you must, by comparison, hate everyone else--your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters--yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple.* @@ -48,3 +55,4 @@ Jesus Heals on the Sabbath 35. *Flavorless salt is good neither for the soil nor for the manure pile. It is thrown away. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!"* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_15.md index 480bd3d3..1007a130 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_15.md @@ -8,17 +8,22 @@ Parable of the Lost Sheep 4. *"If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them gets lost, what will he do? Won't he leave the ninety-nine others in the wilderness and go to search for the one that is lost until he finds it?* 5. *And when he has found it, he will joyfully carry it home on his shoulders.* 6. *When he arrives, he will call together his friends and neighbors, saying, 'Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.'* -7. *In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven't strayed away!*Parable of the Lost Coin +7. *In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven't strayed away!* +Parable of the Lost Coin + 8. *"Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Won't she light a lamp and sweep the entire house and search carefully until she finds it?* 9. *And when she finds it, she will call in her friends and neighbors and say, 'Rejoice with me because I have found my lost coin.'* -10. *In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God's angels when even one sinner repents."*Parable of the Lost Son +10. *In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God's angels when even one sinner repents."* +Parable of the Lost Son + 11. To illustrate the point further, Jesus told them this story: *"A man had two sons.* 12. *The younger son told his father, 'I want my share of your estate now before you die.' So his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons.* 13. *"A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted all his money in wild living.* -14. *About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve.* +14. * +About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve.* 15. *He persuaded a local farmer to hire him, and the man sent him into his fields to feed the pigs.* 16. *The young man became so hungry that even the pods he was feeding the pigs looked good to him. But no one gave him anything.* @@ -45,3 +50,4 @@ Parable of the Lost Sheep 32. *We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!'"* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_16.md index f54fc403..f4bd38ef 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_16.md @@ -27,7 +27,9 @@ Parable of the Shrewd Manager 16. *"Until John the Baptist, the law of Moses and the messages of the prophets were your guides. But now the Good News of the Kingdom of God is preached, and everyone is eager to get in.* 17. *But that doesn't mean that the law has lost its force. It is easier for heaven and earth to disappear than for the smallest point of God's law to be overturned.* -18. *"For example, a man who divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery. And anyone who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery."*Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus +18. *"For example, a man who divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery. And anyone who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery."* +Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus + 19. Jesus said, *"There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury.* 20. *At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores.* @@ -51,3 +53,4 @@ Parable of the Shrewd Manager 31. *"But Abraham said, 'If they won't listen to Moses and the prophets, they won't be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.'"* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_17.md index 2c4a9d73..260bfc65 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_17.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ Teachings about Forgiveness and Faith 7. *"When a servant comes in from plowing or taking care of sheep, does his master say, 'Come in and eat with me'?* 8. *No, he says, 'Prepare my meal, put on your apron, and serve me while I eat. Then you can eat later.'* 9. *And does the master thank the servant for doing what he was told to do? Of course not.* -10. *In the same way, when you obey me you should say, 'We are unworthy servants who have simply done our duty.'"*Ten Healed of Leprosy +10. *In the same way, when you obey me you should say, 'We are unworthy servants who have simply done our duty.'"* +Ten Healed of Leprosy + 11. As Jesus continued on toward Jerusalem, he reached the border between Galilee and Samaria. 12. As he entered a village there, ten men with leprosy stood at a distance, @@ -27,7 +29,9 @@ Teachings about Forgiveness and Faith 17. Jesus asked, *"Didn't I heal ten men? Where are the other nine?* 18. *Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?"* -19. And Jesus said to the man, *"Stand up and go. Your faith has healed you."*The Coming of the Kingdom +19. And Jesus said to the man, *"Stand up and go. Your faith has healed you."* +The Coming of the Kingdom + 20. One day the Pharisees asked Jesus, "When will the Kingdom of God come?" Jesus replied, *"The Kingdom of God can't be detected by visible signs.* @@ -54,3 +58,4 @@ Jesus replied, *"The Kingdom of God can't be detected by visible signs.* Jesus replied, *"Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near."* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_18.md index 37fdbe80..8c99a6be 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_18.md @@ -9,7 +9,9 @@ Parable of the Persistent Widow 6. Then the Lord said, *"Learn a lesson from this unjust judge.* 7. *Even he rendered a just decision in the end. So don't you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?* -8. *I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?"*Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector +8. *I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?"* +Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector + 9. Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: 10. *"Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector.* @@ -17,12 +19,16 @@ Parable of the Persistent Widow 12. *I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.'* 13. *"But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, 'O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.'* -14. *I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."*Jesus Blesses the Children +14. *I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."* +Jesus Blesses the Children + 15. One day some parents brought their little children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But when the disciples saw this, they scolded the parents for bothering him. 16. Then Jesus called for the children and said to the disciples, *"Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.* -17. *I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."*The Rich Man +17. *I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."* +The Rich Man + 18. Once a religious leader asked Jesus this question: "Good Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?" @@ -45,13 +51,18 @@ Parable of the Persistent Widow 28. Peter said, "We've left our homes to follow you." 29. *"Yes," Jesus replied, "and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God,* -30. *will be repaid many times over in this life, and will have eternal life in the world to come."*Jesus Again Predicts His Death +30. *will be repaid many times over in this life, and will have eternal life in the world to come."* +Jesus Again Predicts His Death + 31. Taking the twelve disciples aside, Jesus said, *"Listen, we're going up to Jerusalem, where all the predictions of the prophets concerning the Son of Man will come true.* 32. *He will be handed over to the Romans, and he will be mocked, treated shamefully, and spit upon.* 33. *They will flog him with a whip and kill him, but on the third day he will rise again."* -34. But they didn't understand any of this. The significance of his words was hidden from them, and they failed to grasp what he was talking about.Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar +34. But they didn't understand any of this. The significance of his words was hidden from them, and they failed to grasp what he was talking about. + +Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar + 35. As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind beggar was sitting beside the road. 36. When he heard the noise of a crowd going past, he asked what was happening. @@ -59,13 +70,17 @@ Parable of the Persistent Widow 38. So he began shouting, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" 39. "Be quiet!" the people in front yelled at him. + But he only shouted louder, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" + 40. When Jesus heard him, he stopped and ordered that the man be brought to him. As the man came near, Jesus asked him, 41. *"What do you want me to do for you?"* "Lord," he said, "I want to see!" + 42. And Jesus said, *"All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you."* 43. Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_19.md index 77197da1..4afe4c9c 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_19.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ Jesus and Zacchaeus 8. Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, "I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!" 9. Jesus responded, *"Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham.* -10. *For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost."*Parable of the Ten Servants +10. *For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost."* +Parable of the Ten Servants + 11. The crowd was listening to everything Jesus said. And because he was nearing Jerusalem, he told them a story to correct the impression that the Kingdom of God would begin right away. 12. He said, *"A nobleman was called away to a distant empire to be crowned king and then return.* @@ -41,7 +43,9 @@ Jesus and Zacchaeus 25. *"'But, master,' they said, 'he already has ten pounds!'* 26. *"'Yes,' the king replied, 'and to those who use well what they are given, even more will be given. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.* -27. *And as for these enemies of mine who didn't want me to be their king--bring them in and execute them right here in front of me.'"*Jesus' Triumphant Entry +27. *And as for these enemies of mine who didn't want me to be their king--bring them in and execute them right here in front of me.'"* +Jesus' Triumphant Entry + 28. After telling this story, Jesus went on toward Jerusalem, walking ahead of his disciples. 29. As he came to the towns of Bethphage and Bethany on the Mount of Olives, he sent two disciples ahead. @@ -62,12 +66,16 @@ Jesus and Zacchaeus 39. But some of the Pharisees among the crowd said, "Teacher, rebuke your followers for saying things like that!" -40. He replied, *"If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!"*Jesus Weeps over Jerusalem +40. He replied, *"If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!"* +Jesus Weeps over Jerusalem + 41. But as he came closer to Jerusalem and saw the city ahead, he began to weep. 42. *"How I wish today that you of all people would understand the way to peace. But now it is too late, and peace is hidden from your eyes.* 43. *Before long your enemies will build ramparts against your walls and encircle you and close in on you from every side.* -44. *They will crush you into the ground, and your children with you. Your enemies will not leave a single stone in place, because you did not recognize it when God visited you."*Jesus Clears the Temple +44. *They will crush you into the ground, and your children with you. Your enemies will not leave a single stone in place, because you did not recognize it when God visited you."* +Jesus Clears the Temple + 45. Then Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people selling animals for sacrifices. 46. He said to them, *"The Scriptures declare, 'My Temple will be a house of prayer,' but you have turned it into a den of thieves."* @@ -76,3 +84,4 @@ Jesus and Zacchaeus 48. But they could think of nothing, because all the people hung on every word he said. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_20.md index 9ef39c7c..172808ed 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_20.md @@ -11,7 +11,9 @@ The Authority of Jesus Challenged 6. But if we say it was merely human, the people will stone us because they are convinced John was a prophet." 7. So they finally replied that they didn't know. -8. And Jesus responded, *"Then I won't tell you by what authority I do these things."*Parable of the Evil Farmers +8. And Jesus responded, *"Then I won't tell you by what authority I do these things."* +Parable of the Evil Farmers + 9. Now Jesus turned to the people again and told them this story: *"A man planted a vineyard, leased it to tenant farmers, and moved to another country to live for several years.* 10. *At the time of the grape harvest, he sent one of his servants to collect his share of the crop. But the farmers attacked the servant, beat him up, and sent him back empty-handed.* @@ -22,17 +24,23 @@ The Authority of Jesus Challenged 14. *"But when the tenant farmers saw his son, they said to each other, 'Here comes the heir to this estate. Let's kill him and get the estate for ourselves!'* 15. *So they dragged him out of the vineyard and murdered him.* -*"What do you suppose the owner of the vineyard will do to them?"* Jesus asked. +* +"What do you suppose the owner of the vineyard will do to them?"* Jesus asked. 16. *"I'll tell you--he will come and kill those farmers and lease the vineyard to others."* "How terrible that such a thing should ever happen," his listeners protested. + 17. Jesus looked at them and said, *"Then what does this Scripture mean?* -*'The stone that the builders rejected* +* +'The stone that the builders rejected* *has now become the cornerstone.'* 18. *Everyone who stumbles over that stone will be broken to pieces, and it will crush anyone it falls on."* -19. The teachers of religious law and the leading priests wanted to arrest Jesus immediately because they realized he was telling the story against them--they were the wicked farmers. But they were afraid of the people's reaction.Taxes for Caesar +19. The teachers of religious law and the leading priests wanted to arrest Jesus immediately because they realized he was telling the story against them--they were the wicked farmers. But they were afraid of the people's reaction. + +Taxes for Caesar + 20. Watching for their opportunity, the leaders sent spies pretending to be honest men. They tried to get Jesus to say something that could be reported to the Roman governor so he would arrest Jesus. 21. "Teacher," they said, "we know that you speak and teach what is right and are not influenced by what others think. You teach the way of God truthfully. @@ -42,9 +50,13 @@ The Authority of Jesus Challenged 24. *"Show me a Roman coin. Whose picture and title are stamped on it?"* "Caesar's," they replied. + 25. *"Well then," he said, "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God."* -26. So they failed to trap him by what he said in front of the people. Instead, they were amazed by his answer, and they became silent.Discussion about Resurrection +26. So they failed to trap him by what he said in front of the people. Instead, they were amazed by his answer, and they became silent. + +Discussion about Resurrection + 27. Then Jesus was approached by some Sadducees--religious leaders who say there is no resurrection from the dead. 28. They posed this question: "Teacher, Moses gave us a law that if a man dies, leaving a wife but no children, his brother should marry the widow and have a child who will carry on the brother's name. @@ -62,12 +74,16 @@ The Authority of Jesus Challenged 38. *So he is the God of the living, not the dead, for they are all alive to him."* 39. "Well said, Teacher!" remarked some of the teachers of religious law who were standing there. -40. And then no one dared to ask him any more questions.Whose Son Is the Messiah? +40. And then no one dared to ask him any more questions. + +Whose Son Is the Messiah? + 41. Then Jesus presented them with a question. *"Why is it," he asked, "that the Messiah is said to be the son of David?* 42. *For David himself wrote in the book of Psalms:* *'The LORD said to my Lord,* - *Sit in the place of honor at my right hand* + * +Sit in the place of honor at my right hand* 43. *until I humble your enemies,* *making them a footstool under your feet.'* @@ -79,3 +95,4 @@ The Authority of Jesus Challenged 47. *Yet they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property and then pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public. Because of this, they will be severely punished."* + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_21.md index 446eeec6..9882aa78 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_21.md @@ -5,7 +5,9 @@ The Widow's Offering 2. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. 3. *"I tell you the truth," Jesus said, "this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them.* -4. *For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has."*Jesus Speaks about the Future +4. *For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has."* +Jesus Speaks about the Future + 5. Some of his disciples began talking about the majestic stonework of the Temple and the memorial decorations on the walls. But Jesus said, 6. *"The time is coming when all these things will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!"* @@ -51,3 +53,4 @@ The Widow's Offering 38. The crowds gathered at the Temple early each morning to hear him. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_22.md index e385311a..8c157e68 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_22.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus 3. Then Satan entered into Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve disciples, 4. and he went to the leading priests and captains of the Temple guard to discuss the best way to betray Jesus to them. 5. They were delighted, and they promised to give him money. -6. So he agreed and began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus so they could arrest him when the crowds weren't around.The Last Supper +6. So he agreed and began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus so they could arrest him when the crowds weren't around. + +The Last Supper + 7. Now the Festival of Unleavened Bread arrived, when the Passover lamb is sacrificed. 8. Jesus sent Peter and John ahead and said, *"Go and prepare the Passover meal, so we can eat it together."* @@ -41,7 +44,9 @@ Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus 28. *"You have stayed with me in my time of trial.* 29. *And just as my Father has granted me a Kingdom, I now grant you the right* -30. *to eat and drink at my table in my Kingdom. And you will sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.*Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial +30. *to eat and drink at my table in my Kingdom. And you will sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.* +Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial + 31. *"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat.* 32. *But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers."* @@ -53,11 +58,16 @@ Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus 35. Then Jesus asked them, *"When I sent you out to preach the Good News and you did not have money, a traveler's bag, or an extra pair of sandals, did you need anything?"* "No," they replied. + 36. *"But now," he said, "take your money and a traveler's bag. And if you don't have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one!* 37. *For the time has come for this prophecy about me to be fulfilled: 'He was counted among the rebels.' Yes, everything written about me by the prophets will come true."* 38. "Look, Lord," they replied, "we have two swords among us." -*"That's enough,"* he said.Jesus Prays on the Mount of Olives +* +"That's enough,"* he said. + +Jesus Prays on the Mount of Olives + 39. Then, accompanied by the disciples, Jesus left the upstairs room and went as usual to the Mount of Olives. 40. There he told them, *"Pray that you will not give in to temptation."* @@ -68,7 +78,9 @@ Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus 44. He prayed more fervently, and he was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood. 45. At last he stood up again and returned to the disciples, only to find them asleep, exhausted from grief. -46. *"Why are you sleeping?" he asked them. "Get up and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation."*Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested +46. *"Why are you sleeping?" he asked them. "Get up and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation."* +Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested + 47. But even as Jesus said this, a crowd approached, led by Judas, one of the twelve disciples. Judas walked over to Jesus to greet him with a kiss. 48. But Jesus said, *"Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?"* @@ -79,7 +91,9 @@ Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus 51. But Jesus said, *"No more of this."* And he touched the man's ear and healed him. 52. Then Jesus spoke to the leading priests, the captains of the Temple guard, and the elders who had come for him. *"Am I some dangerous revolutionary," he asked, "that you come with swords and clubs to arrest me?* -53. *Why didn't you arrest me in the Temple? I was there every day. But this is your moment, the time when the power of darkness reigns."*Peter Denies Jesus +53. *Why didn't you arrest me in the Temple? I was there every day. But this is your moment, the time when the power of darkness reigns."* +Peter Denies Jesus + 54. So they arrested him and led him to the high priest's home. And Peter followed at a distance. 55. The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. @@ -90,7 +104,9 @@ Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus 58. After a while someone else looked at him and said, "You must be one of them!" "No, man, I'm not!" Peter retorted. -59. About an hour later someone else insisted, "This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too." + +59. +About an hour later someone else insisted, "This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too." 60. But Peter said, "Man, I don't know what you are talking about." And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. @@ -99,7 +115,10 @@ Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus 63. The guards in charge of Jesus began mocking and beating him. 64. They blindfolded him and said, "Prophesy to us! Who hit you that time?" -65. And they hurled all sorts of terrible insults at him.Jesus before the Council +65. And they hurled all sorts of terrible insults at him. + +Jesus before the Council + 66. At daybreak all the elders of the people assembled, including the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. Jesus was led before this high council, 67. and they said, "Tell us, are you the Messiah?" @@ -113,3 +132,4 @@ And he replied, *"You say that I am."* 71. "Why do we need other witnesses?" they said. "We ourselves heard him say it." + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_23.md index 5e1e0a89..d9e057a8 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_23.md @@ -34,7 +34,10 @@ Jesus replied, *"You have said it."* 23. But the mob shouted louder and louder, demanding that Jesus be crucified, and their voices prevailed. 24. So Pilate sentenced Jesus to die as they demanded. -25. As they had requested, he released Barabbas, the man in prison for insurrection and murder. But he turned Jesus over to them to do as they wished.The Crucifixion +25. As they had requested, he released Barabbas, the man in prison for insurrection and murder. But he turned Jesus over to them to do as they wished. + +The Crucifixion + 26. As they led Jesus away, a man named Simon, who was from Cyrene, happened to be coming in from the countryside. The soldiers seized him and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. 27. A large crowd trailed behind, including many grief-stricken women. @@ -59,7 +62,9 @@ Jesus replied, *"You have said it."* 41. We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn't done anything wrong." 42. Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom." -43. And Jesus replied, *"I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise."*The Death of Jesus +43. And Jesus replied, *"I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise."* +The Death of Jesus + 44. By this time it was about noon, and darkness fell across the whole land until three o'clock. 45. The light from the sun was gone. And suddenly, the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn down the middle. @@ -67,7 +72,10 @@ Jesus replied, *"You have said it."* 47. When the Roman officer overseeing the execution saw what had happened, he worshiped God and said, "Surely this man was innocent." 48. And when all the crowd that came to see the crucifixion saw what had happened, they went home in deep sorrow. -49. But Jesus' friends, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance watching.The Burial of Jesus +49. But Jesus' friends, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance watching. + +The Burial of Jesus + 50. Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph. He was a member of the Jewish high council, 51. but he had not agreed with the decision and actions of the other religious leaders. He was from the town of Arimathea in Judea, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come. @@ -79,3 +87,4 @@ Jesus replied, *"You have said it."* 56. Then they went home and prepared spices and ointments to anoint his body. But by the time they were finished the Sabbath had begun, so they rested as required by the law. + diff --git a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_24.md index cdf5193a..927dcb8d 100644 --- a/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/42_Luke/Chapter_24.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ The Resurrection 9. So they rushed back from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples--and everyone else--what had happened. 10. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and several other women who told the apostles what had happened. 11. But the story sounded like nonsense to the men, so they didn't believe it. -12. However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened.The Walk to Emmaus +12. However, Peter jumped up and ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened. + +The Walk to Emmaus + 13. That same day two of Jesus' followers were walking to the village of Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem. 14. As they walked along they were talking about everything that had happened. @@ -23,10 +26,13 @@ The Resurrection 17. He asked them, *"What are you discussing so intently as you walk along?"* They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. + 18. Then one of them, Cleopas, replied, "You must be the only person in Jerusalem who hasn't heard about all the things that have happened there the last few days." 19. *"What things?"* Jesus asked. + "The things that happened to Jesus, the man from Nazareth," they said. "He was a prophet who did powerful miracles, and he was a mighty teacher in the eyes of God and all the people. + 20. But our leading priests and other religious leaders handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him. 21. We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. This all happened three days ago. @@ -45,7 +51,9 @@ They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. 32. They said to each other, "Didn't our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?" 33. And within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem. There they found the eleven disciples and the others who had gathered with them, -34. who said, "The Lord has really risen! He appeared to Peter."Jesus Appears to the Disciples +34. who said, "The Lord has really risen! He appeared to Peter." +Jesus Appears to the Disciples + 35. Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as they were walking along the road, and how they had recognized him as he was breaking the bread. 36. And just as they were telling about it, Jesus himself was suddenly standing there among them. *"Peace be with you,"* he said. @@ -65,7 +73,9 @@ They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. 47. *It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: 'There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.'* 48. *You are witnesses of all these things.* -49. *"And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven."*The Ascension +49. *"And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven."* +The Ascension + 50. Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands to heaven, he blessed them. 51. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven. @@ -73,3 +83,4 @@ They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. 53. And they spent all of their time in the Temple, praising God. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_01.md index c20d0106..2deebd29 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_01.md @@ -2,16 +2,23 @@ Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word # Chapter 1 1. In the beginning the Word already existed. - The Word was with God, - and the Word was God. + +The Word was with God, + +and the Word was God. + 2. He existed in the beginning with God. 3. God created everything through him, - and nothing was created except through him. + +and nothing was created except through him. + 4. The Word gave life to everything that was created, - and his life brought light to everyone. + +and his life brought light to everyone. + 5. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. @@ -32,7 +39,10 @@ Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word 16. From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. 17. For the law was given through Moses, but God's unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. -18. No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father's heart. He has revealed God to us.The Testimony of John the Baptist +18. No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father's heart. He has revealed God to us. + +The Testimony of John the Baptist + 19. This was John's testimony when the Jewish leaders sent priests and Temple assistants from Jerusalem to ask John, "Who are you?" 20. He came right out and said, "I am not the Messiah." @@ -42,6 +52,7 @@ Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word "Are you the Prophet we are expecting?" "No." + 22. "Then who are you? We need an answer for those who sent us. What do you have to say about yourself?" 23. John replied in the words of the prophet Isaiah: @@ -54,7 +65,10 @@ Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word 26. John told them, "I baptize with water, but right here in the crowd is someone you do not recognize. 27. Though his ministry follows mine, I'm not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal." -28. This encounter took place in Bethany, an area east of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing.Jesus, the Lamb of God +28. This encounter took place in Bethany, an area east of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing. + +Jesus, the Lamb of God + 29. The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30. He is the one I was talking about when I said, 'A man is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.' @@ -62,15 +76,19 @@ Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word 32. Then John testified, "I saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove from heaven and resting upon him. 33. I didn't know he was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, 'The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.' -34. I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God."The First Disciples +34. I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God." +The First Disciples + 35. The following day John was again standing with two of his disciples. 36. As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, "Look! There is the Lamb of God!" 37. When John's two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus. 38. Jesus looked around and saw them following. *"What do you want?"* he asked them. + They replied, "Rabbi" (which means "Teacher"), "where are you staying?" + 39. *"Come and see,"* he said. It was about four o'clock in the afternoon when they went with him to the place where he was staying, and they remained with him the rest of the day. 40. Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of these men who heard what John said and then followed Jesus. @@ -86,6 +104,7 @@ They replied, "Rabbi" (which means "Teacher"), "where are you staying?" 46. "Nazareth!" exclaimed Nathanael. "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" "Come and see for yourself," Philip replied. + 47. As they approached, Jesus said, *"Now here is a genuine son of Israel--a man of complete integrity."* 48. "How do you know about me?" Nathanael asked. @@ -97,3 +116,4 @@ Jesus replied, *"I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you."* 51. Then he said, *"I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the one who is the stairway between heaven and earth."* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_02.md index 692d6edb..f41289af 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_02.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ The Wedding at Cana 11. This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him. -12. After the wedding he went to Capernaum for a few days with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples.Jesus Clears the Temple +12. After the wedding he went to Capernaum for a few days with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples. + +Jesus Clears the Temple + 13. It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration, so Jesus went to Jerusalem. 14. In the Temple area he saw merchants selling cattle, sheep, and doves for sacrifices; he also saw dealers at tables exchanging foreign money. @@ -33,10 +36,14 @@ The Wedding at Cana 20. "What!" they exclaimed. "It has taken forty-six years to build this Temple, and you can rebuild it in three days?" 21. But when Jesus said "this temple," he meant his own body. -22. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered he had said this, and they believed both the Scriptures and what Jesus had said.Jesus and Nicodemus +22. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered he had said this, and they believed both the Scriptures and what Jesus had said. + +Jesus and Nicodemus + 23. Because of the miraculous signs Jesus did in Jerusalem at the Passover celebration, many began to trust in him. 24. But Jesus didn't trust them, because he knew all about people. 25. No one needed to tell him about human nature, for he knew what was in each person's heart. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_03.md index 729c7465..145d90c9 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_03.md @@ -26,7 +26,9 @@ 18. *"There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son.* 19. *And the judgment is based on this fact: God's light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.* 20. *All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed.* -21. *But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants."*John the Baptist Exalts Jesus +21. *But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants."* +John the Baptist Exalts Jesus + 22. Then Jesus and his disciples left Jerusalem and went into the Judean countryside. Jesus spent some time with them there, baptizing people. @@ -48,3 +50,4 @@ 36. And anyone who believes in God's Son has eternal life. Anyone who doesn't obey the Son will never experience eternal life but remains under God's angry judgment." + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_04.md index 00112fb3..73bb8b3b 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_04.md @@ -56,12 +56,16 @@ Jesus said, *"You're right! You don't have a husband--* 35. *You know the saying, 'Four months between planting and harvest.' But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest.* 36. *The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life. What joy awaits both the planter and the harvester alike!* 37. *You know the saying, 'One plants and another harvests.' And it's true.* -38. *I sent you to harvest where you didn't plant; others had already done the work, and now you will get to gather the harvest."*Many Samaritans Believe +38. *I sent you to harvest where you didn't plant; others had already done the work, and now you will get to gather the harvest."* +Many Samaritans Believe + 39. Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, "He told me everything I ever did!" 40. When they came out to see him, they begged him to stay in their village. So he stayed for two days, 41. long enough for many more to hear his message and believe. -42. Then they said to the woman, "Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard him ourselves. Now we know that he is indeed the Savior of the world."Jesus Heals an Official's Son +42. Then they said to the woman, "Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard him ourselves. Now we know that he is indeed the Savior of the world." +Jesus Heals an Official's Son + 43. At the end of the two days, Jesus went on to Galilee. 44. He himself had said that a prophet is not honored in his own hometown. @@ -82,3 +86,4 @@ Jesus said, *"You're right! You don't have a husband--* 54. This was the second miraculous sign Jesus did in Galilee after coming from Judea. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_05.md index 9069a922..68cb3f78 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_05.md @@ -20,7 +20,10 @@ Jesus Heals a Lame Man 13. The man didn't know, for Jesus had disappeared into the crowd. 14. But afterward Jesus found him in the Temple and told him, *"Now you are well; so stop sinning, or something even worse may happen to you."* -15. Then the man went and told the Jewish leaders that it was Jesus who had healed him.Jesus Claims to Be the Son of God +15. Then the man went and told the Jewish leaders that it was Jesus who had healed him. + +Jesus Claims to Be the Son of God + 16. So the Jewish leaders began harassing Jesus for breaking the Sabbath rules. 17. But Jesus replied, *"My Father is always working, and so am I."* @@ -39,7 +42,9 @@ Jesus Heals a Lame Man 27. *And he has given him authority to judge everyone because he is the Son of Man.* 28. *Don't be so surprised! Indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God's Son,* 29. *and they will rise again. Those who have done good will rise to experience eternal life, and those who have continued in evil will rise to experience judgment.* -30. *I can do nothing on my own. I judge as God tells me. Therefore, my judgment is just, because I carry out the will of the one who sent me, not my own will.*Witnesses to Jesus +30. *I can do nothing on my own. I judge as God tells me. Therefore, my judgment is just, because I carry out the will of the one who sent me, not my own will.* +Witnesses to Jesus + 31. *"If I were to testify on my own behalf, my testimony would not be valid.* 32. *But someone else is also testifying about me, and I assure you that everything he says about me is true.* @@ -63,3 +68,4 @@ Jesus Heals a Lame Man 47. *But since you don't believe what he wrote, how will you believe what I say?"* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_06.md index ef6a3237..d72e94c1 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_06.md @@ -19,14 +19,19 @@ Jesus Feeds Five Thousand 13. So they picked up the pieces and filled twelve baskets with scraps left by the people who had eaten from the five barley loaves. 14. When the people saw him do this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, "Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!" -15. When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself.Jesus Walks on Water +15. When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself. + +Jesus Walks on Water + 16. That evening Jesus' disciples went down to the shore to wait for him. 17. But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn't come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum. 18. Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough. 19. They had rowed three or four miles when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified, 20. but he called out to them, *"Don't be afraid. I am here!"* -21. Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination!Jesus, the Bread of Life +21. Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination! +Jesus, the Bread of Life + 22. The next day the crowd that had stayed on the far shore saw that the disciples had taken the only boat, and they realized Jesus had not gone with them. 23. Several boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the Lord had blessed the bread and the people had eaten. @@ -78,7 +83,10 @@ Jesus Feeds Five Thousand 57. *I live because of the living Father who sent me; in the same way, anyone who feeds on me will live because of me.* 58. *I am the true bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will not die as your ancestors did (even though they ate the manna) but will live forever."* -59. He said these things while he was teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum.Many Disciples Desert Jesus +59. He said these things while he was teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum. + +Many Disciples Desert Jesus + 60. Many of his disciples said, "This is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it?" @@ -98,3 +106,4 @@ Jesus Feeds Five Thousand 71. He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_07.md index a0521c93..331667f7 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_07.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ Jesus and His Brothers 6. Jesus replied, *"Now is not the right time for me to go, but you can go anytime.* 7. *The world can't hate you, but it does hate me because I accuse it of doing evil.* 8. *You go on. I'm not going to this festival, because my time has not yet come."* -9. After saying these things, Jesus remained in Galilee.Jesus Teaches Openly at the Temple +9. After saying these things, Jesus remained in Galilee. + +Jesus Teaches Openly at the Temple + 10. But after his brothers left for the festival, Jesus also went, though secretly, staying out of public view. 11. The Jewish leaders tried to find him at the festival and kept asking if anyone had seen him. @@ -30,7 +33,9 @@ Jesus and His Brothers 21. Jesus replied, *"I did one miracle on the Sabbath, and you were amazed.* 22. *But you work on the Sabbath, too, when you obey Moses' law of circumcision. (Actually, this tradition of circumcision began with the patriarchs, long before the law of Moses.)* 23. *For if the correct time for circumcising your son falls on the Sabbath, you go ahead and do it so as not to break the law of Moses. So why should you be angry with me for healing a man on the Sabbath?* -24. *Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly."*Is Jesus the Messiah? +24. *Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly."* +Is Jesus the Messiah? + 25. Some of the people who lived in Jerusalem started to ask each other, "Isn't this the man they are trying to kill? 26. But here he is, speaking in public, and they say nothing to him. Could our leaders possibly believe that he is the Messiah? @@ -47,11 +52,15 @@ Jesus and His Brothers 34. *You will search for me but not find me. And you cannot go where I am going."* 35. The Jewish leaders were puzzled by this statement. "Where is he planning to go?" they asked. "Is he thinking of leaving the country and going to the Jews in other lands? Maybe he will even teach the Greeks! -36. What does he mean when he says, 'You will search for me but not find me,' and 'You cannot go where I am going'?"Jesus Promises Living Water +36. What does he mean when he says, 'You will search for me but not find me,' and 'You cannot go where I am going'?" +Jesus Promises Living Water + 37. On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, *"Anyone who is thirsty may come to me!* 38. *Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, 'Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.'"* -39. (When he said "living water," he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.)Division and Unbelief +39. (When he said "living water," he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.) +Division and Unbelief + 40. When the crowds heard him say this, some of them declared, "Surely this man is the Prophet we've been expecting." 41. Others said, "He is the Messiah." Still others said, "But he can't be! Will the Messiah come from Galilee? @@ -75,3 +84,4 @@ Jesus and His Brothers 53. Then the meeting broke up, and everybody went home. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_08.md index 601ef95f..5ba849da 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_08.md @@ -16,7 +16,9 @@ A Woman Caught in Adultery 10. Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, *"Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you?"* 11. "No, Lord," she said. -And Jesus said, *"Neither do I. Go and sin no more."*Jesus, the Light of the World +And Jesus said, *"Neither do I. Go and sin no more."* +Jesus, the Light of the World + 12. Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, *"I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life."* @@ -30,7 +32,10 @@ And Jesus said, *"Neither do I. Go and sin no more."*Jesus, the Light of the Wor 19. "Where is your father?" they asked. Jesus answered, *"Since you don't know who I am, you don't know who my Father is. If you knew me, you would also know my Father."* -20. Jesus made these statements while he was teaching in the section of the Temple known as the Treasury. But he was not arrested, because his time had not yet come.The Unbelieving People Warned +20. Jesus made these statements while he was teaching in the section of the Temple known as the Treasury. But he was not arrested, because his time had not yet come. + +The Unbelieving People Warned + 21. Later Jesus said to them again, *"I am going away. You will search for me but will die in your sin. You cannot come where I am going."* @@ -46,7 +51,10 @@ Jesus replied, *"The one I have always claimed to be.* 28. So Jesus said, *"When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand that I am* he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me. 29. *And the one who sent me is with me--he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him."* -30. Then many who heard him say these things believed in him.Jesus and Abraham +30. Then many who heard him say these things believed in him. + +Jesus and Abraham + 31. Jesus said to the people who believed in him, *"You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.* 32. *And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."* @@ -60,11 +68,13 @@ Jesus replied, *"The one I have always claimed to be.* 38. *I am telling you what I saw when I was with my Father. But you are following the advice of your father."* 39. "Our father is Abraham!" they declared. -*"No," Jesus replied, "for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example.* +* +"No," Jesus replied, "for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example.* 40. *Instead, you are trying to kill me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing.* 41. *No, you are imitating your real father."* They replied, "We aren't illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father." + 42. Jesus told them, *"If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me.* 43. *Why can't you understand what I am saying? It's because you can't even hear me!* 44. *For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.* @@ -74,7 +84,8 @@ They replied, "We aren't illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father." 48. The people retorted, "You Samaritan devil! Didn't we say all along that you were possessed by a demon?" -49. *"No," Jesus said, "I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father--and you dishonor me.* +49. * +"No," Jesus said, "I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father--and you dishonor me.* 50. *And though I have no wish to glorify myself, God is going to glorify me. He is the true judge.* 51. *I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!"* @@ -91,3 +102,4 @@ They replied, "We aren't illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father." 59. At that point they picked up stones to throw at him. But Jesus was hidden from them and left the Temple. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_09.md index 9ffe7d9e..2323f645 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_09.md @@ -15,13 +15,16 @@ Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind 9. Some said he was, and others said, "No, he just looks like him!" But the beggar kept saying, "Yes, I am the same one!" + 10. They asked, "Who healed you? What happened?" 11. He told them, "The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, 'Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.' So I went and washed, and now I can see!" 12. "Where is he now?" they asked. + "I don't know," he replied. + 13. Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14. because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15. The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, "He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!" @@ -31,6 +34,7 @@ But the beggar kept saying, "Yes, I am the same one!" 17. Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, "What's your opinion about this man who healed you?" The man replied, "I think he must be a prophet." + 18. The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19. They asked them, "Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?" @@ -55,7 +59,10 @@ The man replied, "I think he must be a prophet." 32. Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33. If this man were not from God, he couldn't have done it." -34. "You were born a total sinner!" they answered. "Are you trying to teach us?" And they threw him out of the synagogue.Spiritual Blindness +34. "You were born a total sinner!" they answered. "Are you trying to teach us?" And they threw him out of the synagogue. + +Spiritual Blindness + 35. When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, *"Do you believe in the Son of Man?"* @@ -72,3 +79,4 @@ The man replied, "I think he must be a prophet." 41. *"If you were blind, you wouldn't be guilty," Jesus replied. "But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_10.md index 573b6006..bf064c00 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_10.md @@ -26,7 +26,9 @@ The Good Shepherd and His Sheep 19. When he said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about him. 20. Some said, "He's demon possessed and out of his mind. Why listen to a man like that?" -21. Others said, "This doesn't sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?"Jesus Claims to Be the Son of God +21. Others said, "This doesn't sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?" +Jesus Claims to Be the Son of God + 22. It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. 23. He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon's Colonnade. @@ -56,3 +58,4 @@ The Good Shepherd and His Sheep 42. And many who were there believed in Jesus. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_11.md index caeb31e5..ee4c30a3 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_11.md @@ -48,20 +48,26 @@ The Raising of Lazarus 33. When Jesus saw her weeping and saw the other people wailing with her, a deep anger welled up within him, and he was deeply troubled. 34. *"Where have you put him?"* he asked them. + They told him, "Lord, come and see." + 35. Then Jesus wept. 36. The people who were standing nearby said, "See how much he loved him!" 37. But some said, "This man healed a blind man. Couldn't he have kept Lazarus from dying?" 38. Jesus was still angry as he arrived at the tomb, a cave with a stone rolled across its entrance. 39. *"Roll the stone aside,"* Jesus told them. + But Martha, the dead man's sister, protested, "Lord, he has been dead for four days. The smell will be terrible." + 40. Jesus responded, *"Didn't I tell you that you would see God's glory if you believe?"* 41. So they rolled the stone aside. Then Jesus looked up to heaven and said, *"Father, thank you for hearing me.* 42. *You always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe you sent me."* 43. Then Jesus shouted, *"Lazarus, come out!"* -44. And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in graveclothes, his face wrapped in a headcloth. Jesus told them, *"Unwrap him and let him go!"*The Plot to Kill Jesus +44. And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in graveclothes, his face wrapped in a headcloth. Jesus told them, *"Unwrap him and let him go!"* +The Plot to Kill Jesus + 45. Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen. 46. But some went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. @@ -82,3 +88,4 @@ But Martha, the dead man's sister, protested, "Lord, he has been dead for four d 57. Meanwhile, the leading priests and Pharisees had publicly ordered that anyone seeing Jesus must report it immediately so they could arrest him. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_12.md index 450a9499..52626b3f 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_12.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ Jesus Anointed at Bethany 9. When all the people heard of Jesus' arrival, they flocked to see him and also to see Lazarus, the man Jesus had raised from the dead. 10. Then the leading priests decided to kill Lazarus, too, -11. for it was because of him that many of the people had deserted them and believed in Jesus.Jesus' Triumphant Entry +11. for it was because of him that many of the people had deserted them and believed in Jesus. + +Jesus' Triumphant Entry + 12. The next day, the news that Jesus was on the way to Jerusalem swept through the city. A large crowd of Passover visitors 13. took palm branches and went down the road to meet him. They shouted, @@ -25,6 +28,7 @@ Hail to the King of Israel!" 14. Jesus found a young donkey and rode on it, fulfilling the prophecy that said: 15. "Don't be afraid, people of Jerusalem. + Look, your King is coming, riding on a donkey's colt." @@ -32,7 +36,9 @@ Look, your King is coming, 17. Many in the crowd had seen Jesus call Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, and they were telling others about it. 18. That was the reason so many went out to meet him--because they had heard about this miraculous sign. -19. Then the Pharisees said to each other, "There's nothing we can do. Look, everyone has gone after him!"Jesus Predicts His Death +19. Then the Pharisees said to each other, "There's nothing we can do. Look, everyone has gone after him!" +Jesus Predicts His Death + 20. Some Greeks who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover celebration 21. paid a visit to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee. They said, "Sir, we want to meet Jesus." @@ -46,6 +52,7 @@ Look, your King is coming, 27. *"Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, 'Father, save me from this hour'? But this is the very reason I came!* 28. *Father, bring glory to your name."* Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, "I have already brought glory to my name, and I will do so again." + 29. When the crowd heard the voice, some thought it was thunder, while others declared an angel had spoken to him. 30. Then Jesus told them, *"The voice was for your benefit, not mine.* @@ -57,7 +64,10 @@ Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, "I have already brought glory to my name 35. Jesus replied, *"My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going.* 36. *Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light."* -After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.The Unbelief of the People +After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them. + +The Unbelief of the People + 37. But despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in him. 38. This is exactly what Isaiah the prophet had predicted: @@ -67,9 +77,11 @@ After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.The Unbelief 39. But the people couldn't believe, for as Isaiah also said, 40. "The Lord has blinded their eyes - and hardened their hearts-- + +and hardened their hearts-- so that their eyes cannot see, - and their hearts cannot understand, + +and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and have me heal them." @@ -86,3 +98,4 @@ and they cannot turn to me 50. *And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say."* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_13.md index 219a8dd5..784a6db5 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_13.md @@ -24,7 +24,9 @@ Jesus replied, *"Unless I wash you, you won't belong to me."* 14. *And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other's feet.* 15. *I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.* 16. *I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message.* -17. *Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.*Jesus Predicts His Betrayal +17. *Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.* +Jesus Predicts His Betrayal + 18. *"I am not saying these things to all of you; I know the ones I have chosen. But this fulfills the Scripture that says, 'The one who eats my food has turned against me.'* 19. *I tell you this beforehand, so that when it happens you will believe that I am* the Messiah. @@ -41,7 +43,10 @@ Jesus replied, *"Unless I wash you, you won't belong to me."* 27. When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, *"Hurry and do what you're going to do."* 28. None of the others at the table knew what Jesus meant. 29. Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food or to give some money to the poor. -30. So Judas left at once, going out into the night.Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial +30. So Judas left at once, going out into the night. + +Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial + 31. As soon as Judas left the room, Jesus said, *"The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory, and God will be glorified because of him.* 32. *And since God receives glory because of the Son, he will give his own glory to the Son, and he will do so at once.* @@ -57,3 +62,4 @@ And Jesus replied, *"You can't go with me now, but you will follow me later."* 38. Jesus answered, *"Die for me? I tell you the truth, Peter--before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_14.md index 4792ddda..9ec50938 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_14.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ Jesus, the Way to the Father 12. *"I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.* 13. *You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.* -14. *Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!*Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit +14. *Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!* +Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit + 15. *"If you love me, obey my commandments.* 16. *And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.* @@ -44,3 +46,4 @@ Jesus, the Way to the Father 31. *but I will do what the Father requires of me, so that the world will know that I love the Father. Come, let's be going.* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_15.md index a0844b4c..8eca8d79 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_15.md @@ -19,7 +19,9 @@ Jesus, the True Vine 14. *You are my friends if you do what I command.* 15. *I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn't confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me.* 16. *You didn't choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.* -17. *This is my command: Love each other.*The World's Hatred +17. *This is my command: Love each other.* +The World's Hatred + 18. *"If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first.* 19. *The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.* @@ -34,3 +36,4 @@ Jesus, the True Vine 27. *And you must also testify about me because you have been with me from the beginning of my ministry.* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_16.md index 015c482a..32418e97 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_16.md @@ -2,7 +2,9 @@ 1. *"I have told you these things so that you won't abandon your faith.* 2. *For you will be expelled from the synagogues, and the time is coming when those who kill you will think they are doing a holy service for God.* 3. *This is because they have never known the Father or me.* -4. *Yes, I'm telling you these things now, so that when they happen, you will remember my warning. I didn't tell you earlier because I was going to be with you for a while longer.*The Work of the Holy Spirit +4. *Yes, I'm telling you these things now, so that when they happen, you will remember my warning. I didn't tell you earlier because I was going to be with you for a while longer.* +The Work of the Holy Spirit + 5. *"But now I am going away to the one who sent me, and not one of you is asking where I am going.* 6. *Instead, you grieve because of what I've told you.* @@ -15,7 +17,9 @@ 12. *"There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can't bear it now.* 13. *When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.* 14. *He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me.* -15. *All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, 'The Spirit will tell you whatever he receives from me.'*Sadness Will Be Turned to Joy +15. *All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, 'The Spirit will tell you whatever he receives from me.'* +Sadness Will Be Turned to Joy + 16. *"In a little while you won't see me anymore. But a little while after that, you will see me again."* @@ -42,3 +46,4 @@ 33. *I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_17.md index 1eaeed63..a13558a2 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_17.md @@ -35,3 +35,4 @@ The Prayer of Jesus 26. *I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them."* + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_18.md index e2e2a2c2..61762835 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_18.md @@ -8,27 +8,38 @@ Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested 4. Jesus fully realized all that was going to happen to him, so he stepped forward to meet them. *"Who are you looking for?"* he asked. 5. "Jesus the Nazarene," they replied. -*"I am* he," Jesus said. (Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them.) -6. As Jesus said *"I am* he," they all drew back and fell to the ground! +* +"I am* he," Jesus said. (Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them.) +6. As Jesus said * +"I am* he," they all drew back and fell to the ground! 7. Once more he asked them, *"Who are you looking for?"* And again they replied, "Jesus the Nazarene." + 8. *"I told you that I am he," Jesus said. "And since I am the one you want, let these others go."* 9. He did this to fulfill his own statement: *"I did not lose a single one of those you have given me."* 10. Then Simon Peter drew a sword and slashed off the right ear of Malchus, the high priest's slave. -11. But Jesus said to Peter, *"Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?"*Jesus at the High Priest's House +11. But Jesus said to Peter, *"Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?"* +Jesus at the High Priest's House + 12. So the soldiers, their commanding officer, and the Temple guards arrested Jesus and tied him up. 13. First they took him to Annas, since he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest at that time. -14. Caiaphas was the one who had told the other Jewish leaders, "It's better that one man should die for the people."Peter's First Denial +14. Caiaphas was the one who had told the other Jewish leaders, "It's better that one man should die for the people." +Peter's First Denial + 15. Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest's courtyard with Jesus. 16. Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in. 17. The woman asked Peter, "You're not one of that man's disciples, are you?" -"No," he said, "I am not." +"No," he said, +"I am not." + +18. Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself. + +The High Priest Questions Jesus -18. Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself.The High Priest Questions Jesus 19. Inside, the high priest began asking Jesus about his followers and what he had been teaching them. 20. Jesus replied, *"Everyone knows what I teach. I have preached regularly in the synagogues and the Temple, where the people gather. I have not spoken in secret.* @@ -38,13 +49,20 @@ And again they replied, "Jesus the Nazarene." 23. Jesus replied, *"If I said anything wrong, you must prove it. But if I'm speaking the truth, why are you beating me?"* -24. Then Annas bound Jesus and sent him to Caiaphas, the high priest.Peter's Second and Third Denials +24. Then Annas bound Jesus and sent him to Caiaphas, the high priest. + +Peter's Second and Third Denials + 25. Meanwhile, as Simon Peter was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, "You're not one of his disciples, are you?" He denied it, saying, "No, I am not." + 26. But one of the household slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, "Didn't I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?" -27. Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed.Jesus' Trial before Pilate +27. Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed. + +Jesus' Trial before Pilate + 28. Jesus' trial before Caiaphas ended in the early hours of the morning. Then he was taken to the headquarters of the Roman governor. His accusers didn't go inside because it would defile them, and they wouldn't be allowed to celebrate the Passover. 29. So Pilate, the governor, went out to them and asked, "What is your charge against this man?" @@ -52,7 +70,9 @@ He denied it, saying, "No, I am not." 30. "We wouldn't have handed him over to you if he weren't a criminal!" they retorted. 31. "Then take him away and judge him by your own law," Pilate told them. + "Only the Romans are permitted to execute someone," the Jewish leaders replied. + 32. (This fulfilled Jesus' prediction about the way he would die.) 33. Then Pilate went back into his headquarters and called for Jesus to be brought to him. "Are you the king of the Jews?" he asked him. @@ -72,3 +92,4 @@ Jesus responded, *"You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the w 40. But they shouted back, "No! Not this man. We want Barabbas!" (Barabbas was a revolutionary.) + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_19.md index 1a76c252..099f748f 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_19.md @@ -11,6 +11,7 @@ Jesus Sentenced to Death 6. When they saw him, the leading priests and Temple guards began shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!" "Take him yourselves and crucify him," Pilate said. "I find him not guilty." + 7. The Jewish leaders replied, "By our law he ought to die because he called himself the Son of God." 8. When Pilate heard this, he was more frightened than ever. @@ -26,10 +27,15 @@ Jesus Sentenced to Death 15. "Away with him," they yelled. "Away with him! Crucify him!" "What? Crucify your king?" Pilate asked. + "We have no king but Caesar," the leading priests shouted back. -16. Then Pilate turned Jesus over to them to be crucified.The Crucifixion + +16. Then Pilate turned Jesus over to them to be crucified. + +The Crucifixion So they took Jesus away. + 17. Carrying the cross by himself, he went to the place called Place of the Skull (in Hebrew, Golgotha). 18. There they nailed him to the cross. Two others were crucified with him, one on either side, with Jesus between them. 19. And Pilate posted a sign on the cross that read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." @@ -44,7 +50,10 @@ So they took Jesus away. 25. Standing near the cross were Jesus' mother, and his mother's sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene. 26. When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, *"Dear woman, here is your son."* -27. And he said to this disciple, *"Here is your mother."* And from then on this disciple took her into his home.The Death of Jesus +27. And he said to this disciple, *"Here is your mother."* And from then on this disciple took her into his home. + +The Death of Jesus + 28. Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, *"I am thirsty."* 29. A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. @@ -56,7 +65,9 @@ So they took Jesus away. 34. One of the soldiers, however, pierced his side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out. 35. (This report is from an eyewitness giving an accurate account. He speaks the truth so that you also may continue to believe.) 36. These things happened in fulfillment of the Scriptures that say, "Not one of his bones will be broken," -37. and "They will look on the one they pierced."The Burial of Jesus +37. and "They will look on the one they pierced." +The Burial of Jesus + 38. Afterward Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus (because he feared the Jewish leaders), asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus' body. When Pilate gave permission, Joseph came and took the body away. 39. With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night. He brought about seventy-five pounds of perfumed ointment made from myrrh and aloes. @@ -65,3 +76,4 @@ So they took Jesus away. 42. And so, because it was the day of preparation for the Jewish Passover and since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_20.md index e5a1c06d..7bd23708 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_20.md @@ -11,42 +11,59 @@ The Resurrection 7. while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying apart from the other wrappings. 8. Then the disciple who had reached the tomb first also went in, and he saw and believed-- 9. for until then they still hadn't understood the Scriptures that said Jesus must rise from the dead. -10. Then they went home.Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene +10. Then they went home. + +Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene + 11. Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. 12. She saw two white-robed angels, one sitting at the head and the other at the foot of the place where the body of Jesus had been lying. 13. "Dear woman, why are you crying?" the angels asked her. + "Because they have taken away my Lord," she replied, "and I don't know where they have put him." + 14. She turned to leave and saw someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she didn't recognize him. 15. *"Dear woman, why are you crying?" Jesus asked her. "Who are you looking for?"* She thought he was the gardener. "Sir," she said, "if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him." + 16. *"Mary!"* Jesus said. + She turned to him and cried out, "Rabboni!" (which is Hebrew for "Teacher"). + 17. *"Don't cling to me," Jesus said, "for I haven't yet ascended to the Father. But go find my brothers and tell them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'"* -18. Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, "I have seen the Lord!" Then she gave them his message.Jesus Appears to His Disciples +18. Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, "I have seen the Lord!" Then she gave them his message. + +Jesus Appears to His Disciples + 19. That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! *"Peace be with you,"* he said. 20. As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! 21. Again he said, *"Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you."* 22. Then he breathed on them and said, *"Receive the Holy Spirit.* -23. *If you forgive anyone's sins, they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven."*Jesus Appears to Thomas +23. *If you forgive anyone's sins, they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven."* +Jesus Appears to Thomas + 24. One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. 25. They told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But he replied, "I won't believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side." + 26. Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. *"Peace be with you,"* he said. 27. Then he said to Thomas, *"Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don't be faithless any longer. Believe!"* 28. "My Lord and my God!" Thomas exclaimed. -29. Then Jesus told him, *"You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me."*Purpose of the Book +29. Then Jesus told him, *"You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me."* +Purpose of the Book + 30. The disciples saw Jesus do many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in this book. 31. But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name. + diff --git a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_21.md index 4876c291..6e749d7d 100644 --- a/NLT/43_John/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/43_John/Chapter_21.md @@ -7,10 +7,12 @@ Epilogue: Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples 3. Simon Peter said, "I'm going fishing." "We'll come, too," they all said. So they went out in the boat, but they caught nothing all night. + 4. At dawn Jesus was standing on the beach, but the disciples couldn't see who he was. 5. He called out, *"Fellows, have you caught any fish?"* "No," they replied. + 6. Then he said, *"Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you'll get some!"* So they did, and they couldn't haul in the net because there were so many fish in it. 7. Then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, "It's the Lord!" When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his tunic (for he had stripped for work), jumped into the water, and headed to shore. @@ -26,11 +28,13 @@ Epilogue: Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples 15. After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, *"Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?"* "Yes, Lord," Peter replied, "you know I love you." -*"Then feed my lambs,"* Jesus told him. +* +"Then feed my lambs,"* Jesus told him. 16. Jesus repeated the question: *"Simon son of John, do you love me?"* "Yes, Lord," Peter said, "you know I love you." -*"Then take care of my sheep,"* Jesus said. +* +"Then take care of my sheep,"* Jesus said. 17. A third time he asked him, *"Simon son of John, do you love me?"* Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, "Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you." @@ -50,3 +54,4 @@ Jesus said, *"Then feed my sheep.* 25. Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_01.md index b94211d8..913344b4 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_01.md @@ -6,7 +6,9 @@ The Promise of the Holy Spirit 3. During the forty days after he suffered and died, he appeared to the apostles from time to time, and he proved to them in many ways that he was actually alive. And he talked to them about the Kingdom of God. 4. Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, *"Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before.* -5. *John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."*The Ascension of Jesus +5. *John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."* +The Ascension of Jesus + 6. So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, "Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?" @@ -15,11 +17,15 @@ The Promise of the Holy Spirit 9. After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. 10. As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. -11. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!"Matthias Replaces Judas +11. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!" +Matthias Replaces Judas + 12. Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile. 13. When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying. + Here are the names of those who were present: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the zealot), and Judas (son of James). + 14. They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus. 15. During this time, when about 120 believers were together in one place, Peter stood up and addressed them. @@ -40,3 +46,4 @@ Here are the names of those who were present: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip 26. Then they cast lots, and Matthias was selected to become an apostle with the other eleven. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_02.md index 10aad5f6..dbf0be15 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_02.md @@ -16,28 +16,41 @@ The Holy Spirit Comes 11. (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!" 12. They stood there amazed and perplexed. "What can this mean?" they asked each other. -13. But others in the crowd ridiculed them, saying, "They're just drunk, that's all!"Peter Preaches to the Crowd +13. But others in the crowd ridiculed them, saying, "They're just drunk, that's all!" +Peter Preaches to the Crowd + 14. Then Peter stepped forward with the eleven other apostles and shouted to the crowd, "Listen carefully, all of you, fellow Jews and residents of Jerusalem! Make no mistake about this. 15. These people are not drunk, as some of you are assuming. Nine o'clock in the morning is much too early for that. 16. No, what you see was predicted long ago by the prophet Joel: 17. 'In the last days,' God says, - 'I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. + +'I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. + Your sons and daughters will prophesy. - Your young men will see visions, - and your old men will dream dreams. + +Your young men will see visions, + +and your old men will dream dreams. + 18. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants--men and women alike-- - and they will prophesy. + +and they will prophesy. + 19. And I will cause wonders in the heavens above - and signs on the earth below-- - blood and fire and clouds of smoke. + +and signs on the earth below-- + +blood and fire and clouds of smoke. + 20. The sun will become dark, - and the moon will turn blood red + +and the moon will turn blood red before that great and glorious day of the LORD arrives. 21. But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD @@ -48,14 +61,21 @@ Your sons and daughters will prophesy. 24. But God released him from the horrors of death and raised him back to life, for death could not keep him in its grip. 25. King David said this about him: 'I see that the LORD is always with me. - I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. + +I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. + 26. No wonder my heart is glad, - and my tongue shouts his praises! - My body rests in hope. + +and my tongue shouts his praises! + +My body rests in hope. + 27. For you will not leave my soul among the dead - or allow your Holy One to rot in the grave. + +or allow your Holy One to rot in the grave. + 28. You have shown me the way of life, and you will fill me with the joy of your presence.' @@ -68,7 +88,9 @@ Your sons and daughters will prophesy. 33. Now he is exalted to the place of highest honor in heaven, at God's right hand. And the Father, as he had promised, gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us, just as you see and hear today. 34. For David himself never ascended into heaven, yet he said, 'The LORD said to my Lord, - "Sit in the place of honor at my right hand + +"Sit in the place of honor at my right hand + 35. until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet."' @@ -81,7 +103,10 @@ Your sons and daughters will prophesy. 39. This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away--all who have been called by the Lord our God." 40. Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, "Save yourselves from this crooked generation!" -41. Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day--about 3,000 in all.The Believers Form a Community +41. Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day--about 3,000 in all. + +The Believers Form a Community + 42. All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer. @@ -92,3 +117,4 @@ Your sons and daughters will prophesy. 47. all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_03.md index 87f38985..a61d3555 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_03.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ Peter Heals a Crippled Beggar 9. All the people saw him walking and heard him praising God. 10. When they realized he was the lame beggar they had seen so often at the Beautiful Gate, they were absolutely astounded! -11. They all rushed out in amazement to Solomon's Colonnade, where the man was holding tightly to Peter and John.Peter Preaches in the Temple +11. They all rushed out in amazement to Solomon's Colonnade, where the man was holding tightly to Peter and John. + +Peter Preaches in the Temple + 12. Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd. "People of Israel," he said, "what is so surprising about this? And why stare at us as though we had made this man walk by our own power or godliness? 13. For it is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob--the God of all our ancestors--who has brought glory to his servant Jesus by doing this. This is the same Jesus whom you handed over and rejected before Pilate, despite Pilate's decision to release him. @@ -36,3 +39,4 @@ Peter Heals a Crippled Beggar 26. When God raised up his servant, Jesus, he sent him first to you people of Israel, to bless you by turning each of you back from your sinful ways." + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_04.md index 2d3b9e24..ab6bd254 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_04.md @@ -31,16 +31,22 @@ Peter and John before the Council 20. We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard." 21. The council then threatened them further, but they finally let them go because they didn't know how to punish them without starting a riot. For everyone was praising God -22. for this miraculous sign--the healing of a man who had been lame for more than forty years.The Believers Pray for Courage +22. for this miraculous sign--the healing of a man who had been lame for more than forty years. + +The Believers Pray for Courage + 23. As soon as they were freed, Peter and John returned to the other believers and told them what the leading priests and elders had said. 24. When they heard the report, all the believers lifted their voices together in prayer to God: "O Sovereign Lord, Creator of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them-- 25. you spoke long ago by the Holy Spirit through our ancestor David, your servant, saying, 'Why were the nations so angry? - Why did they waste their time with futile plans? + +Why did they waste their time with futile plans? + 26. The kings of the earth prepared for battle; - the rulers gathered together + +the rulers gathered together against the LORD and against his Messiah.' @@ -49,7 +55,10 @@ against the LORD 29. And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. 30. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus." -31. After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness.The Believers Share Their Possessions +31. After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness. + +The Believers Share Their Possessions + 32. All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. 33. The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's great blessing was upon them all. @@ -60,3 +69,4 @@ against the LORD 37. He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_05.md index b2162540..4c7cc098 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_05.md @@ -10,20 +10,28 @@ Ananias and Sapphira 5. As soon as Ananias heard these words, he fell to the floor and died. Everyone who heard about it was terrified. 6. Then some young men got up, wrapped him in a sheet, and took him out and buried him. -7. About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. +7. +About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8. Peter asked her, "Was this the price you and your husband received for your land?" "Yes," she replied, "that was the price." + 9. And Peter said, "How could the two of you even think of conspiring to test the Spirit of the Lord like this? The young men who buried your husband are just outside the door, and they will carry you out, too." 10. Instantly, she fell to the floor and died. When the young men came in and saw that she was dead, they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. -11. Great fear gripped the entire church and everyone else who heard what had happened.The Apostles Heal Many +11. Great fear gripped the entire church and everyone else who heard what had happened. + +The Apostles Heal Many + 12. The apostles were performing many miraculous signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers were meeting regularly at the Temple in the area known as Solomon's Colonnade. 13. But no one else dared to join them, even though all the people had high regard for them. 14. Yet more and more people believed and were brought to the Lord--crowds of both men and women. 15. As a result of the apostles' work, sick people were brought out into the streets on beds and mats so that Peter's shadow might fall across some of them as he went by. -16. Crowds came from the villages around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those possessed by evil spirits, and they were all healed.The Apostles Meet Opposition +16. Crowds came from the villages around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those possessed by evil spirits, and they were all healed. + +The Apostles Meet Opposition + 17. The high priest and his officials, who were Sadducees, were filled with jealousy. 18. They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. @@ -50,7 +58,8 @@ When the high priest and his officials arrived, they convened the high council-- 33. When they heard this, the high council was furious and decided to kill them. 34. But one member, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, who was an expert in religious law and respected by all the people, stood up and ordered that the men be sent outside the council chamber for a while. 35. Then he said to his colleagues, "Men of Israel, take care what you are planning to do to these men! -36. Some time ago there was that fellow Theudas, who pretended to be someone great. About 400 others joined him, but he was killed, and all his followers went their various ways. The whole movement came to nothing. +36. Some time ago there was that fellow Theudas, who pretended to be someone great. +About 400 others joined him, but he was killed, and all his followers went their various ways. The whole movement came to nothing. 37. After him, at the time of the census, there was Judas of Galilee. He got people to follow him, but he was killed, too, and all his followers were scattered. 38. "So my advice is, leave these men alone. Let them go. If they are planning and doing these things merely on their own, it will soon be overthrown. @@ -62,3 +71,4 @@ When the high priest and his officials arrived, they convened the high council-- 42. And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: "Jesus is the Messiah." + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_06.md index b8315c5a..962ecb78 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_06.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ Seven Men Chosen to Serve 5. Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). 6. These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them. -7. So God's message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.Stephen Is Arrested +7. So God's message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too. + +Stephen Is Arrested + 8. Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people. 9. But one day some men from the Synagogue of Freed Slaves, as it was called, started to debate with him. They were Jews from Cyrene, Alexandria, Cilicia, and the province of Asia. @@ -25,3 +28,4 @@ Seven Men Chosen to Serve 15. At this point everyone in the high council stared at Stephen, because his face became as bright as an angel's. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_07.md index b3974201..84326bed 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_07.md @@ -59,12 +59,18 @@ Stephen Addresses the Council 41. So they made an idol shaped like a calf, and they sacrificed to it and celebrated over this thing they had made. 42. Then God turned away from them and abandoned them to serve the stars of heaven as their gods! In the book of the prophets it is written, 'Was it to me you were bringing sacrifices and offerings - during those forty years in the wilderness, Israel? + +during those forty years in the wilderness, Israel? + 43. No, you carried your pagan gods-- - the shrine of Molech, - the star of your god Rephan, - and the images you made to worship them. + +the shrine of Molech, + +the star of your god Rephan, + +and the images you made to worship them. + So I will send you into exile as far away as Babylon.' @@ -76,11 +82,15 @@ So I will send you into exile 48. However, the Most High doesn't live in temples made by human hands. As the prophet says, 49. 'Heaven is my throne, - and the earth is my footstool. + +and the earth is my footstool. + Could you build me a temple as good as that?' asks the LORD. + 'Could you build me such a resting place? + 50. Didn't my hands make both heaven and earth?' 51. "You stubborn people! You are heathen at heart and deaf to the truth. Must you forever resist the Holy Spirit? That's what your ancestors did, and so do you! @@ -98,3 +108,4 @@ Could you build me a temple as good as that?' 60. He fell to his knees, shouting, "Lord, don't charge them with this sin!" And with that, he died. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_08.md index 1eb69243..96c11e06 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_08.md @@ -1,8 +1,14 @@ # Chapter 8 -1. Saul was one of the witnesses, and he agreed completely with the killing of Stephen.Persecution Scatters the Believers +1. Saul was one of the witnesses, and he agreed completely with the killing of Stephen. + +Persecution Scatters the Believers A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria. + 2. (Some devout men came and buried Stephen with great mourning.) -3. But Saul was going everywhere to destroy the church. He went from house to house, dragging out both men and women to throw them into prison.Philip Preaches in Samaria +3. But Saul was going everywhere to destroy the church. He went from house to house, dragging out both men and women to throw them into prison. + +Philip Preaches in Samaria + 4. But the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went. 5. Philip, for example, went to the city of Samaria and told the people there about the Messiah. @@ -32,7 +38,10 @@ A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusale 24. "Pray to the Lord for me," Simon exclaimed, "that these terrible things you've said won't happen to me!" -25. After testifying and preaching the word of the Lord in Samaria, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem. And they stopped in many Samaritan villages along the way to preach the Good News.Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch +25. After testifying and preaching the word of the Lord in Samaria, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem. And they stopped in many Samaritan villages along the way to preach the Good News. + +Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch + 26. As for Philip, an angel of the Lord said to him, "Go south down the desert road that runs from Jerusalem to Gaza." 27. So he started out, and he met the treasurer of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under the Kandake, the queen of Ethiopia. The eunuch had gone to Jerusalem to worship, @@ -46,11 +55,15 @@ A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusale 32. The passage of Scripture he had been reading was this: "He was led like a sheep to the slaughter. - And as a lamb is silent before the shearers, - he did not open his mouth. + +And as a lamb is silent before the shearers, + +he did not open his mouth. + 33. He was humiliated and received no justice. - Who can speak of his descendants? + +Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth." 34. The eunuch asked Philip, "Tell me, was the prophet talking about himself or someone else?" @@ -63,3 +76,4 @@ A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusale 40. Meanwhile, Philip found himself farther north at the town of Azotus. He preached the Good News there and in every town along the way until he came to Caesarea. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_09.md index a379941f..60cca74f 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_09.md @@ -18,6 +18,7 @@ And the voice replied, *"I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting!* 10. Now there was a believer in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, *"Ananias!"* "Yes, Lord!" he replied. + 11. The Lord said, *"Go over to Straight Street, to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to me right now.* 12. *I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again."* @@ -29,7 +30,9 @@ And the voice replied, *"I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting!* 17. So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18. Instantly something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. -19. Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength.Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem +19. Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength. + +Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. 20. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is indeed the Son of God!" @@ -47,7 +50,10 @@ Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. 29. He debated with some Greek-speaking Jews, but they tried to murder him. 30. When the believers heard about this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus, his hometown. -31. The church then had peace throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, and it became stronger as the believers lived in the fear of the Lord. And with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it also grew in numbers.Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Dorcas +31. The church then had peace throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, and it became stronger as the believers lived in the fear of the Lord. And with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it also grew in numbers. + +Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Dorcas + 32. Meanwhile, Peter traveled from place to place, and he came down to visit the believers in the town of Lydda. 33. There he met a man named Aeneas, who had been paralyzed and bedridden for eight years. @@ -55,7 +61,8 @@ Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. 35. Then the whole population of Lydda and Sharon saw Aeneas walking around, and they turned to the Lord. 36. There was a believer in Joppa named Tabitha (which in Greek is Dorcas). She was always doing kind things for others and helping the poor. -37. About this time she became ill and died. Her body was washed for burial and laid in an upstairs room. +37. +About this time she became ill and died. Her body was washed for burial and laid in an upstairs room. 38. But the believers had heard that Peter was nearby at Lydda, so they sent two men to beg him, "Please come as soon as possible!" 39. So Peter returned with them; and as soon as he arrived, they took him to the upstairs room. The room was filled with widows who were weeping and showing him the coats and other clothes Dorcas had made for them. @@ -66,3 +73,4 @@ Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. 43. And Peter stayed a long time in Joppa, living with Simon, a tanner of hides. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_10.md index fb7cdcdf..0f8bbd64 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_10.md @@ -6,12 +6,17 @@ Cornelius Calls for Peter 3. One afternoon about three o'clock, he had a vision in which he saw an angel of God coming toward him. "Cornelius!" the angel said. 4. Cornelius stared at him in terror. "What is it, sir?" he asked the angel. + And the angel replied, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God as an offering! + 5. Now send some men to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. 6. He is staying with Simon, a tanner who lives near the seashore." 7. As soon as the angel was gone, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier, one of his personal attendants. -8. He told them what had happened and sent them off to Joppa.Peter Visits Cornelius +8. He told them what had happened and sent them off to Joppa. + +Peter Visits Cornelius + 9. The next day as Cornelius's messengers were nearing the town, Peter went up on the flat roof to pray. It was about noon, 10. and he was hungry. But while a meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. @@ -46,7 +51,9 @@ And the angel replied, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by 30. Cornelius replied, "Four days ago I was praying in my house about this same time, three o'clock in the afternoon. Suddenly, a man in dazzling clothes was standing in front of me. 31. He told me, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your gifts to the poor have been noticed by God! 32. Now send messengers to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. He is staying in the home of Simon, a tanner who lives near the seashore.' -33. So I sent for you at once, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here, waiting before God to hear the message the Lord has given you."The Gentiles Hear the Good News +33. So I sent for you at once, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here, waiting before God to hear the message the Lord has given you." +The Gentiles Hear the Good News + 34. Then Peter replied, "I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. 35. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. @@ -58,13 +65,18 @@ And the angel replied, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by 40. but God raised him to life on the third day. Then God allowed him to appear, 41. not to the general public, but to us whom God had chosen in advance to be his witnesses. We were those who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42. And he ordered us to preach everywhere and to testify that Jesus is the one appointed by God to be the judge of all--the living and the dead. -43. He is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in him will have their sins forgiven through his name."The Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit +43. He is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in him will have their sins forgiven through his name." +The Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit + 44. Even as Peter was saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who were listening to the message. 45. The Jewish believers who came with Peter were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles, too. 46. For they heard them speaking in other tongues and praising God. + Then Peter asked, + 47. "Can anyone object to their being baptized, now that they have received the Holy Spirit just as we did?" 48. So he gave orders for them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Afterward Cornelius asked him to stay with them for several days. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_11.md index 30d0c1eb..2fbb7979 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_11.md @@ -24,7 +24,9 @@ Peter Explains His Actions 16. Then I thought of the Lord's words when he said, *'John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.'* 17. And since God gave these Gentiles the same gift he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to stand in God's way?" -18. When the others heard this, they stopped objecting and began praising God. They said, "We can see that God has also given the Gentiles the privilege of repenting of their sins and receiving eternal life."The Church in Antioch of Syria +18. When the others heard this, they stopped objecting and began praising God. They said, "We can see that God has also given the Gentiles the privilege of repenting of their sins and receiving eternal life." +The Church in Antioch of Syria + 19. Meanwhile, the believers who had been scattered during the persecution after Stephen's death traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch of Syria. They preached the word of God, but only to Jews. 20. However, some of the believers who went to Antioch from Cyprus and Cyrene began preaching to the Gentiles about the Lord Jesus. @@ -43,3 +45,4 @@ Peter Explains His Actions 30. This they did, entrusting their gifts to Barnabas and Saul to take to the elders of the church in Jerusalem. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_12.md index 5a329e68..79c54c57 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_12.md @@ -1,11 +1,15 @@ James Is Killed and Peter Is Imprisoned # Chapter 12 -1. About that time King Herod Agrippa began to persecute some believers in the church. +1. +About that time King Herod Agrippa began to persecute some believers in the church. 2. He had the apostle James (John's brother) killed with a sword. 3. When Herod saw how much this pleased the Jewish people, he also arrested Peter. (This took place during the Passover celebration.) 4. Then he imprisoned him, placing him under the guard of four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring Peter out for public trial after the Passover. -5. But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him.Peter's Miraculous Escape from Prison +5. But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him. + +Peter's Miraculous Escape from Prison + 6. The night before Peter was to be placed on trial, he was asleep, fastened with two chains between two soldiers. Others stood guard at the prison gate. 7. Suddenly, there was a bright light in the cell, and an angel of the Lord stood before Peter. The angel struck him on the side to awaken him and said, "Quick! Get up!" And the chains fell off his wrists. @@ -26,7 +30,10 @@ James Is Killed and Peter Is Imprisoned 17. He motioned for them to quiet down and told them how the Lord had led him out of prison. "Tell James and the other brothers what happened," he said. And then he went to another place. 18. At dawn there was a great commotion among the soldiers about what had happened to Peter. -19. Herod Agrippa ordered a thorough search for him. When he couldn't be found, Herod interrogated the guards and sentenced them to death. Afterward Herod left Judea to stay in Caesarea for a while.The Death of Herod Agrippa +19. Herod Agrippa ordered a thorough search for him. When he couldn't be found, Herod interrogated the guards and sentenced them to death. Afterward Herod left Judea to stay in Caesarea for a while. + +The Death of Herod Agrippa + 20. Now Herod was very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. So they sent a delegation to make peace with him because their cities were dependent upon Herod's country for food. The delegates won the support of Blastus, Herod's personal assistant, 21. and an appointment with Herod was granted. When the day arrived, Herod put on his royal robes, sat on his throne, and made a speech to them. @@ -39,3 +46,4 @@ James Is Killed and Peter Is Imprisoned 25. When Barnabas and Saul had finished their mission to Jerusalem, they returned, taking John Mark with them. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_13.md index 06212368..f1c91a62 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_13.md @@ -3,7 +3,10 @@ Barnabas and Saul Are Commissioned # Chapter 13 1. Among the prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch of Syria were Barnabas, Simeon (called "the black man"), Lucius (from Cyrene), Manaen (the childhood companion of King Herod Antipas), and Saul. 2. One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them." -3. So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.Paul's First Missionary Journey +3. So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. + +Paul's First Missionary Journey + 4. So Barnabas and Saul were sent out by the Holy Spirit. They went down to the seaport of Seleucia and then sailed for the island of Cyprus. 5. There, in the town of Salamis, they went to the Jewish synagogues and preached the word of God. John Mark went with them as their assistant. @@ -16,11 +19,16 @@ Barnabas and Saul Are Commissioned 10. Then he said, "You son of the devil, full of every sort of deceit and fraud, and enemy of all that is good! Will you never stop perverting the true ways of the Lord? 11. Watch now, for the Lord has laid his hand of punishment upon you, and you will be struck blind. You will not see the sunlight for some time." Instantly mist and darkness came over the man's eyes, and he began groping around begging for someone to take his hand and lead him. -12. When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord.Paul Preaches in Antioch of Pisidia +12. When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord. + +Paul Preaches in Antioch of Pisidia + 13. Paul and his companions then left Paphos by ship for Pamphylia, landing at the port town of Perga. There John Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem. 14. But Paul and Barnabas traveled inland to Antioch of Pisidia. + On the Sabbath they went to the synagogue for the services. + 15. After the usual readings from the books of Moses and the prophets, those in charge of the service sent them this message: "Brothers, if you have any word of encouragement for the people, come and give it." 16. So Paul stood, lifted his hand to quiet them, and started speaking. "Men of Israel," he said, "and you God-fearing Gentiles, listen to me. @@ -29,7 +37,9 @@ On the Sabbath they went to the synagogue for the services. 18. He put up with them through forty years of wandering in the wilderness. 19. Then he destroyed seven nations in Canaan and gave their land to Israel as an inheritance. 20. All this took about 450 years. + "After that, God gave them judges to rule until the time of Samuel the prophet. + 21. Then the people begged for a king, and God gave them Saul son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, who reigned for forty years. 22. But God removed Saul and replaced him with David, a man about whom God said, 'I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart. He will do everything I want him to do.' @@ -60,13 +70,18 @@ On the Sabbath they went to the synagogue for the services. 40. Be careful! Don't let the prophets' words apply to you. For they said, 41. 'Look, you mockers, - be amazed and die! + +be amazed and die! For I am doing something in your own day, - something you wouldn't believe + +something you wouldn't believe even if someone told you about it.'" 42. As Paul and Barnabas left the synagogue that day, the people begged them to speak about these things again the next week. -43. Many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, and the two men urged them to continue to rely on the grace of God.Paul Turns to the Gentiles +43. Many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, and the two men urged them to continue to rely on the grace of God. + +Paul Turns to the Gentiles + 44. The following week almost the entire city turned out to hear them preach the word of the Lord. 45. But when some of the Jews saw the crowds, they were jealous; so they slandered Paul and argued against whatever he said. @@ -84,3 +99,4 @@ For I am doing something in your own day, 52. And the believers were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_14.md index bc88c826..95825c89 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_14.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ Paul and Barnabas in Iconium 5. Then a mob of Gentiles and Jews, along with their leaders, decided to attack and stone them. 6. When the apostles learned of it, they fled to the region of Lycaonia--to the towns of Lystra and Derbe and the surrounding area. -7. And there they preached the Good News.Paul and Barnabas in Lystra and Derbe +7. And there they preached the Good News. + +Paul and Barnabas in Lystra and Derbe + 8. While they were at Lystra, Paul and Barnabas came upon a man with crippled feet. He had been that way from birth, so he had never walked. He was sitting 9. and listening as Paul preached. Looking straight at him, Paul realized he had faith to be healed. @@ -25,7 +28,10 @@ Paul and Barnabas in Iconium 18. But even with these words, Paul and Barnabas could scarcely restrain the people from sacrificing to them. 19. Then some Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowds to their side. They stoned Paul and dragged him out of town, thinking he was dead. -20. But as the believers gathered around him, he got up and went back into the town. The next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe.Paul and Barnabas Return to Antioch of Syria +20. But as the believers gathered around him, he got up and went back into the town. The next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe. + +Paul and Barnabas Return to Antioch of Syria + 21. After preaching the Good News in Derbe and making many disciples, Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch of Pisidia, 22. where they strengthened the believers. They encouraged them to continue in the faith, reminding them that we must suffer many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God. @@ -38,3 +44,4 @@ Paul and Barnabas in Iconium 28. And they stayed there with the believers for a long time. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_15.md index 5f316656..81ad3730 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_15.md @@ -23,24 +23,32 @@ The Council at Jerusalem 16. 'Afterward I will return and restore the fallen house of David. + I will rebuild its ruins - and restore it, + +and restore it, + 17. so that the rest of humanity might seek the LORD, - including the Gentiles-- - all those I have called to be mine. + +including the Gentiles-- + +all those I have called to be mine. The LORD has spoken-- 18. he who made these things known so long ago.' 19. "And so my judgment is that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God. 20. Instead, we should write and tell them to abstain from eating food offered to idols, from sexual immorality, from eating the meat of strangled animals, and from consuming blood. -21. For these laws of Moses have been preached in Jewish synagogues in every city on every Sabbath for many generations."The Letter for Gentile Believers +21. For these laws of Moses have been preached in Jewish synagogues in every city on every Sabbath for many generations." +The Letter for Gentile Believers + 22. Then the apostles and elders together with the whole church in Jerusalem chose delegates, and they sent them to Antioch of Syria with Paul and Barnabas to report on this decision. The men chosen were two of the church leaders--Judas (also called Barsabbas) and Silas. 23. This is the letter they took with them: "This letter is from the apostles and elders, your brothers in Jerusalem. It is written to the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. Greetings! + 24. "We understand that some men from here have troubled you and upset you with their teaching, but we did not send them! 25. So we decided, having come to complete agreement, to send you official representatives, along with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26. who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. @@ -54,7 +62,10 @@ The LORD has spoken-- 32. Then Judas and Silas, both being prophets, spoke at length to the believers, encouraging and strengthening their faith. 33. They stayed for a while, and then the believers sent them back to the church in Jerusalem with a blessing of peace. -35. Paul and Barnabas stayed in Antioch. They and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord there.Paul and Barnabas Separate +35. Paul and Barnabas stayed in Antioch. They and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord there. + +Paul and Barnabas Separate + 36. After some time Paul said to Barnabas, "Let's go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing." 37. Barnabas agreed and wanted to take along John Mark. @@ -64,3 +75,4 @@ The LORD has spoken-- 41. Then he traveled throughout Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches there. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_16.md index 057946b2..c201b745 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_16.md @@ -5,21 +5,30 @@ Paul's Second Missionary Journey 2. Timothy was well thought of by the believers in Lystra and Iconium, 3. so Paul wanted him to join them on their journey. In deference to the Jews of the area, he arranged for Timothy to be circumcised before they left, for everyone knew that his father was a Greek. 4. Then they went from town to town, instructing the believers to follow the decisions made by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem. -5. So the churches were strengthened in their faith and grew larger every day.A Call from Macedonia +5. So the churches were strengthened in their faith and grew larger every day. + +A Call from Macedonia + 6. Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time. 7. Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. 8. So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas. 9. That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us!" -10. So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there.Lydia of Philippi Believes in Jesus +10. So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there. + +Lydia of Philippi Believes in Jesus + 11. We boarded a boat at Troas and sailed straight across to the island of Samothrace, and the next day we landed at Neapolis. 12. From there we reached Philippi, a major city of that district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. And we stayed there several days. 13. On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. 14. One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. -15. She and her household were baptized, and she asked us to be her guests. "If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord," she said, "come and stay at my home." And she urged us until we agreed.Paul and Silas in Prison +15. She and her household were baptized, and she asked us to be her guests. "If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord," she said, "come and stay at my home." And she urged us until we agreed. + +Paul and Silas in Prison + 16. One day as we were going down to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit that enabled her to tell the future. She earned a lot of money for her masters by telling fortunes. 17. She followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God, and they have come to tell you how to be saved." @@ -57,3 +66,4 @@ Paul's Second Missionary Journey 40. When Paul and Silas left the prison, they returned to the home of Lydia. There they met with the believers and encouraged them once more. Then they left town. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_17.md index 7004b7d5..4e060646 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_17.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ Paul Preaches in Thessalonica 7. And Jason has welcomed them into his home. They are all guilty of treason against Caesar, for they profess allegiance to another king, named Jesus." 8. The people of the city, as well as the city council, were thrown into turmoil by these reports. -9. So the officials forced Jason and the other believers to post bond, and then they released them.Paul and Silas in Berea +9. So the officials forced Jason and the other believers to post bond, and then they released them. + +Paul and Silas in Berea + 10. That very night the believers sent Paul and Silas to Berea. When they arrived there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. 11. And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul's message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. @@ -19,7 +22,10 @@ Paul Preaches in Thessalonica 13. But when some Jews in Thessalonica learned that Paul was preaching the word of God in Berea, they went there and stirred up trouble. 14. The believers acted at once, sending Paul on to the coast, while Silas and Timothy remained behind. -15. Those escorting Paul went with him all the way to Athens; then they returned to Berea with instructions for Silas and Timothy to hurry and join him.Paul Preaches in Athens +15. Those escorting Paul went with him all the way to Athens; then they returned to Berea with instructions for Silas and Timothy to hurry and join him. + +Paul Preaches in Athens + 16. While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw everywhere in the city. 17. He went to the synagogue to reason with the Jews and the God-fearing Gentiles, and he spoke daily in the public square to all who happened to be there. @@ -49,3 +55,4 @@ Paul Preaches in Thessalonica 34. but some joined him and became believers. Among them were Dionysius, a member of the council, a woman named Damaris, and others with them. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_18.md index ac374ea9..ff75e20d 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_18.md @@ -23,7 +23,10 @@ Paul Meets Priscilla and Aquila in Corinth 15. But since it is merely a question of words and names and your Jewish law, take care of it yourselves. I refuse to judge such matters." 16. And he threw them out of the courtroom. -17. The crowd then grabbed Sosthenes, the leader of the synagogue, and beat him right there in the courtroom. But Gallio paid no attention.Paul Returns to Antioch of Syria +17. The crowd then grabbed Sosthenes, the leader of the synagogue, and beat him right there in the courtroom. But Gallio paid no attention. + +Paul Returns to Antioch of Syria + 18. Paul stayed in Corinth for some time after that, then said good-bye to the brothers and sisters and went to nearby Cenchrea. There he shaved his head according to Jewish custom, marking the end of a vow. Then he set sail for Syria, taking Priscilla and Aquila with him. @@ -32,7 +35,10 @@ Paul Meets Priscilla and Aquila in Corinth 21. As he left, however, he said, "I will come back later, God willing." Then he set sail from Ephesus. 22. The next stop was at the port of Caesarea. From there he went up and visited the church at Jerusalem and then went back to Antioch. -23. After spending some time in Antioch, Paul went back through Galatia and Phrygia, visiting and strengthening all the believers.Apollos Instructed at Ephesus +23. After spending some time in Antioch, Paul went back through Galatia and Phrygia, visiting and strengthening all the believers. + +Apollos Instructed at Ephesus + 24. Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well, had arrived in Ephesus from Alexandria in Egypt. 25. He had been taught the way of the Lord, and he taught others about Jesus with an enthusiastic spirit and with accuracy. However, he knew only about John's baptism. @@ -42,3 +48,4 @@ Paul Meets Priscilla and Aquila in Corinth 28. He refuted the Jews with powerful arguments in public debate. Using the Scriptures, he explained to them that Jesus was the Messiah. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_19.md index f8e735ca..41bbb589 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_19.md @@ -3,16 +3,23 @@ Paul's Third Missionary Journey # Chapter 19 1. While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul traveled through the interior regions until he reached Ephesus, on the coast, where he found several believers. 2. "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" he asked them. + "No," they replied, "we haven't even heard that there is a Holy Spirit." + 3. "Then what baptism did you experience?" he asked. + And they replied, "The baptism of John." + 4. Paul said, "John's baptism called for repentance from sin. But John himself told the people to believe in the one who would come later, meaning Jesus." 5. As soon as they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6. Then when Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in other tongues and prophesied. -7. There were about twelve men in all.Paul Ministers in Ephesus +7. There were about twelve men in all. + +Paul Ministers in Ephesus + 8. Then Paul went to the synagogue and preached boldly for the next three months, arguing persuasively about the Kingdom of God. 9. But some became stubborn, rejecting his message and publicly speaking against the Way. So Paul left the synagogue and took the believers with him. Then he held daily discussions at the lecture hall of Tyrannus. @@ -32,12 +39,17 @@ And they replied, "The baptism of John." 20. So the message about the Lord spread widely and had a powerful effect. 21. Afterward Paul felt compelled by the Spirit to go over to Macedonia and Achaia before going to Jerusalem. "And after that," he said, "I must go on to Rome!" -22. He sent his two assistants, Timothy and Erastus, ahead to Macedonia while he stayed awhile longer in the province of Asia.The Riot in Ephesus +22. He sent his two assistants, Timothy and Erastus, ahead to Macedonia while he stayed awhile longer in the province of Asia. -23. About that time, serious trouble developed in Ephesus concerning the Way. +The Riot in Ephesus + + +23. +About that time, serious trouble developed in Ephesus concerning the Way. 24. It began with Demetrius, a silversmith who had a large business manufacturing silver shrines of the Greek goddess Artemis. He kept many craftsmen busy. 25. He called them together, along with others employed in similar trades, and addressed them as follows: "Gentlemen, you know that our wealth comes from this business. + 26. But as you have seen and heard, this man Paul has persuaded many people that handmade gods aren't really gods at all. And he's done this not only here in Ephesus but throughout the entire province! 27. Of course, I'm not just talking about the loss of public respect for our business. I'm also concerned that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will lose its influence and that Artemis--this magnificent goddess worshiped throughout the province of Asia and all around the world--will be robbed of her great prestige!" @@ -60,3 +72,4 @@ And they replied, "The baptism of John." 41. Then he dismissed them, and they dispersed. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_20.md index a951908a..7b4dd1b8 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_20.md @@ -7,14 +7,20 @@ Paul Goes to Macedonia and Greece 4. Several men were traveling with him. They were Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea; Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica; Gaius from Derbe; Timothy; and Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia. 5. They went on ahead and waited for us at Troas. -6. After the Passover ended, we boarded a ship at Philippi in Macedonia and five days later joined them in Troas, where we stayed a week.Paul's Final Visit to Troas +6. After the Passover ended, we boarded a ship at Philippi in Macedonia and five days later joined them in Troas, where we stayed a week. + +Paul's Final Visit to Troas + 7. On the first day of the week, we gathered with the local believers to share in the Lord's Supper. Paul was preaching to them, and since he was leaving the next day, he kept talking until midnight. 8. The upstairs room where we met was lighted with many flickering lamps. 9. As Paul spoke on and on, a young man named Eutychus, sitting on the windowsill, became very drowsy. Finally, he fell sound asleep and dropped three stories to his death below. 10. Paul went down, bent over him, and took him into his arms. "Don't worry," he said, "he's alive!" 11. Then they all went back upstairs, shared in the Lord's Supper, and ate together. Paul continued talking to them until dawn, and then he left. -12. Meanwhile, the young man was taken home alive and well, and everyone was greatly relieved.Paul Meets the Ephesian Elders +12. Meanwhile, the young man was taken home alive and well, and everyone was greatly relieved. + +Paul Meets the Ephesian Elders + 13. Paul went by land to Assos, where he had arranged for us to join him, while we traveled by ship. 14. He joined us there, and we sailed together to Mitylene. @@ -52,3 +58,4 @@ Paul Goes to Macedonia and Greece 38. They were sad most of all because he had said that they would never see him again. Then they escorted him down to the ship. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_21.md index 6e2fdf04..84476a89 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_21.md @@ -18,7 +18,9 @@ Paul's Journey to Jerusalem 12. When we heard this, we and the local believers all begged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem. 13. But he said, "Why all this weeping? You are breaking my heart! I am ready not only to be jailed at Jerusalem but even to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus." -14. When it was clear that we couldn't persuade him, we gave up and said, "The Lord's will be done."Paul Arrives at Jerusalem +14. When it was clear that we couldn't persuade him, we gave up and said, "The Lord's will be done." +Paul Arrives at Jerusalem + 15. After this we packed our things and left for Jerusalem. 16. Some believers from Caesarea accompanied us, and they took us to the home of Mnason, a man originally from Cyprus and one of the early believers. @@ -34,7 +36,9 @@ Paul's Journey to Jerusalem 23. "Here's what we want you to do. We have four men here who have completed their vow. 24. Go with them to the Temple and join them in the purification ceremony, paying for them to have their heads ritually shaved. Then everyone will know that the rumors are all false and that you yourself observe the Jewish laws. -25. "As for the Gentile believers, they should do what we already told them in a letter: They should abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality."Paul Is Arrested +25. "As for the Gentile believers, they should do what we already told them in a letter: They should abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality." +Paul Is Arrested + 26. So Paul went to the Temple the next day with the other men. They had already started the purification ritual, so he publicly announced the date when their vows would end and sacrifices would be offered for each of them. @@ -49,13 +53,17 @@ Paul's Journey to Jerusalem 33. Then the commander arrested him and ordered him bound with two chains. He asked the crowd who he was and what he had done. 34. Some shouted one thing and some another. Since he couldn't find out the truth in all the uproar and confusion, he ordered that Paul be taken to the fortress. 35. As Paul reached the stairs, the mob grew so violent the soldiers had to lift him to their shoulders to protect him. -36. And the crowd followed behind, shouting, "Kill him, kill him!"Paul Speaks to the Crowd +36. And the crowd followed behind, shouting, "Kill him, kill him!" +Paul Speaks to the Crowd + 37. As Paul was about to be taken inside, he said to the commander, "May I have a word with you?" "Do you know Greek?" the commander asked, surprised. + 38. "Aren't you the Egyptian who led a rebellion some time ago and took 4,000 members of the Assassins out into the desert?" 39. "No," Paul replied, "I am a Jew and a citizen of Tarsus in Cilicia, which is an important city. Please, let me talk to these people." 40. The commander agreed, so Paul stood on the stairs and motioned to the people to be quiet. Soon a deep silence enveloped the crowd, and he addressed them in their own language, Aramaic. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_22.md index 7769b8eb..f0a1a10b 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_22.md @@ -33,7 +33,10 @@ 21. "But the Lord said to me, *'Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles!'*" 22. The crowd listened until Paul said that word. Then they all began to shout, "Away with such a fellow! He isn't fit to live!" -23. They yelled, threw off their coats, and tossed handfuls of dust into the air.Paul Reveals His Roman Citizenship +23. They yelled, threw off their coats, and tossed handfuls of dust into the air. + +Paul Reveals His Roman Citizenship + 24. The commander brought Paul inside and ordered him lashed with whips to make him confess his crime. He wanted to find out why the crowd had become so furious. 25. When they tied Paul down to lash him, Paul said to the officer standing there, "Is it legal for you to whip a Roman citizen who hasn't even been tried?" @@ -43,11 +46,17 @@ 27. So the commander went over and asked Paul, "Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?" "Yes, I certainly am," Paul replied. + 28. "I am, too," the commander muttered, "and it cost me plenty!" Paul answered, "But I am a citizen by birth!" -29. The soldiers who were about to interrogate Paul quickly withdrew when they heard he was a Roman citizen, and the commander was frightened because he had ordered him bound and whipped.Paul before the High Council + +29. The soldiers who were about to interrogate Paul quickly withdrew when they heard he was a Roman citizen, and the commander was frightened because he had ordered him bound and whipped. + +Paul before the High Council + 30. The next day the commander ordered the leading priests into session with the Jewish high council. He wanted to find out what the trouble was all about, so he released Paul to have him stand before them. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_23.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_23.md index 6bbd70e1..795227ef 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_23.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_23.md @@ -15,7 +15,9 @@ 9. So there was a great uproar. Some of the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees jumped up and began to argue forcefully. "We see nothing wrong with him," they shouted. "Perhaps a spirit or an angel spoke to him." 10. As the conflict grew more violent, the commander was afraid they would tear Paul apart. So he ordered his soldiers to go and rescue him by force and take him back to the fortress. -11. That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, *"Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well."*The Plan to Kill Paul +11. That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, *"Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well."* +The Plan to Kill Paul + 12. The next morning a group of Jews got together and bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul. 13. There were more than forty of them in the conspiracy. @@ -32,7 +34,10 @@ 20. Paul's nephew told him, "Some Jews are going to ask you to bring Paul before the high council tomorrow, pretending they want to get some more information. 21. But don't do it! There are more than forty men hiding along the way ready to ambush him. They have vowed not to eat or drink anything until they have killed him. They are ready now, just waiting for your consent." -22. "Don't let anyone know you told me this," the commander warned the young man.Paul Is Sent to Caesarea +22. "Don't let anyone know you told me this," the commander warned the young man. + +Paul Is Sent to Caesarea + 23. Then the commander called two of his officers and ordered, "Get 200 soldiers ready to leave for Caesarea at nine o'clock tonight. Also take 200 spearmen and 70 mounted troops. 24. Provide horses for Paul to ride, and get him safely to Governor Felix." @@ -53,3 +58,4 @@ 35. "I will hear your case myself when your accusers arrive," the governor told him. Then the governor ordered him kept in the prison at Herod's headquarters. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_24.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_24.md index 5e612c0e..462af9d6 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_24.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_24.md @@ -4,6 +4,7 @@ Paul Appears before Felix 1. Five days later Ananias, the high priest, arrived with some of the Jewish elders and the lawyer Tertullus, to present their case against Paul to the governor. 2. When Paul was called in, Tertullus presented the charges against Paul in the following address to the governor: "You have provided a long period of peace for us Jews and with foresight have enacted reforms for us. + 3. For all of this, Your Excellency, we are very grateful to you. 4. But I don't want to bore you, so please give me your attention for only a moment. 5. We have found this man to be a troublemaker who is constantly stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the cult known as the Nazarenes. @@ -36,3 +37,4 @@ Paul Appears before Felix 27. After two years went by in this way, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And because Felix wanted to gain favor with the Jewish people, he left Paul in prison. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_25.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_25.md index 32c18004..de9a7870 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_25.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_25.md @@ -7,7 +7,8 @@ Paul Appears before Festus 4. But Festus replied that Paul was at Caesarea and he himself would be returning there soon. 5. So he said, "Those of you in authority can return with me. If Paul has done anything wrong, you can make your accusations." -6. About eight or ten days later Festus returned to Caesarea, and on the following day he took his seat in court and ordered that Paul be brought in. +6. +About eight or ten days later Festus returned to Caesarea, and on the following day he took his seat in court and ordered that Paul be brought in. 7. When Paul arrived, the Jewish leaders from Jerusalem gathered around and made many serious accusations they couldn't prove. 8. Paul denied the charges. "I am not guilty of any crime against the Jewish laws or the Temple or the Roman government," he said. @@ -31,7 +32,9 @@ Paul Appears before Festus 21. But Paul appealed to have his case decided by the emperor. So I ordered that he be held in custody until I could arrange to send him to Caesar." 22. "I'd like to hear the man myself," Agrippa said. -And Festus replied, "You will--tomorrow!"Paul Speaks to Agrippa +And Festus replied, "You will--tomorrow!" +Paul Speaks to Agrippa + 23. So the next day Agrippa and Bernice arrived at the auditorium with great pomp, accompanied by military officers and prominent men of the city. Festus ordered that Paul be brought in. 24. Then Festus said, "King Agrippa and all who are here, this is the man whose death is demanded by all the Jews, both here and in Jerusalem. @@ -41,3 +44,4 @@ And Festus replied, "You will--tomorrow!"Paul Speaks to Agrippa 27. For it makes no sense to send a prisoner to the emperor without specifying the charges against him!" + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_26.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_26.md index 2be0a79c..56f5d7c7 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_26.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_26.md @@ -1,6 +1,7 @@ # Chapter 26 1. Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You may speak in your defense." So Paul, gesturing with his hand, started his defense: + 2. "I am fortunate, King Agrippa, that you are the one hearing my defense today against all these accusations made by the Jewish leaders, 3. for I know you are an expert on all Jewish customs and controversies. Now please listen to me patiently! @@ -15,7 +16,8 @@ So Paul, gesturing with his hand, started his defense: 11. Many times I had them punished in the synagogues to get them to curse Jesus. I was so violently opposed to them that I even chased them down in foreign cities. 12. "One day I was on such a mission to Damascus, armed with the authority and commission of the leading priests. -13. About noon, Your Majesty, as I was on the road, a light from heaven brighter than the sun shone down on me and my companions. +13. +About noon, Your Majesty, as I was on the road, a light from heaven brighter than the sun shone down on me and my companions. 14. We all fell down, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, *'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is useless for you to fight against my will.'* 15. "'Who are you, lord?' I asked. @@ -46,3 +48,4 @@ So Paul, gesturing with his hand, started his defense: 32. And Agrippa said to Festus, "He could have been set free if he hadn't appealed to Caesar." + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_27.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_27.md index 57b4fae7..eae74e9c 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_27.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_27.md @@ -15,7 +15,10 @@ Paul Sails for Rome 10. "Men," he said, "I believe there is trouble ahead if we go on--shipwreck, loss of cargo, and danger to our lives as well." 11. But the officer in charge of the prisoners listened more to the ship's captain and the owner than to Paul. -12. And since Fair Havens was an exposed harbor--a poor place to spend the winter--most of the crew wanted to go on to Phoenix, farther up the coast of Crete, and spend the winter there. Phoenix was a good harbor with only a southwest and northwest exposure.The Storm at Sea +12. And since Fair Havens was an exposed harbor--a poor place to spend the winter--most of the crew wanted to go on to Phoenix, farther up the coast of Crete, and spend the winter there. Phoenix was a good harbor with only a southwest and northwest exposure. + +The Storm at Sea + 13. When a light wind began blowing from the south, the sailors thought they could make it. So they pulled up anchor and sailed close to the shore of Crete. 14. But the weather changed abruptly, and a wind of typhoon strength (called a "northeaster") burst across the island and blew us out to sea. @@ -33,9 +36,12 @@ Paul Sails for Rome 23. For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me, 24. and he said, 'Don't be afraid, Paul, for you will surely stand trial before Caesar! What's more, God in his goodness has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.' 25. So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said. -26. But we will be shipwrecked on an island."The Shipwreck +26. But we will be shipwrecked on an island." +The Shipwreck -27. About midnight on the fourteenth night of the storm, as we were being driven across the Sea of Adria, the sailors sensed land was near. + +27. +About midnight on the fourteenth night of the storm, as we were being driven across the Sea of Adria, the sailors sensed land was near. 28. They dropped a weighted line and found that the water was 120 feet deep. But a little later they measured again and found it was only 90 feet deep. 29. At this rate they were afraid we would soon be driven against the rocks along the shore, so they threw out four anchors from the back of the ship and prayed for daylight. @@ -59,3 +65,4 @@ Paul Sails for Rome 44. The others held on to planks or debris from the broken ship. So everyone escaped safely to shore. + diff --git a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_28.md b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_28.md index 9ee9a9b0..151d765a 100644 --- a/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_28.md +++ b/NLT/44_Acts/Chapter_28.md @@ -12,7 +12,10 @@ Paul on the Island of Malta 7. Near the shore where we landed was an estate belonging to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us and treated us kindly for three days. 8. As it happened, Publius's father was ill with fever and dysentery. Paul went in and prayed for him, and laying his hands on him, he healed him. 9. Then all the other sick people on the island came and were healed. -10. As a result we were showered with honors, and when the time came to sail, people supplied us with everything we would need for the trip.Paul Arrives at Rome +10. As a result we were showered with honors, and when the time came to sail, people supplied us with everything we would need for the trip. + +Paul Arrives at Rome + 11. It was three months after the shipwreck that we set sail on another ship that had wintered at the island--an Alexandrian ship with the twin gods as its figurehead. 12. Our first stop was Syracuse, where we stayed three days. @@ -21,7 +24,10 @@ Paul on the Island of Malta 15. The brothers and sisters in Rome had heard we were coming, and they came to meet us at the Forum on the Appian Way. Others joined us at The Three Taverns. When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and thanked God. -16. When we arrived in Rome, Paul was permitted to have his own private lodging, though he was guarded by a soldier.Paul Preaches at Rome under Guard +16. When we arrived in Rome, Paul was permitted to have his own private lodging, though he was guarded by a soldier. + +Paul Preaches at Rome under Guard + 17. Three days after Paul's arrival, he called together the local Jewish leaders. He said to them, "Brothers, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Roman government, even though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our ancestors. 18. The Romans tried me and wanted to release me, because they found no cause for the death sentence. @@ -37,16 +43,24 @@ Paul on the Island of Malta 26. 'Go and say to this people: When you hear what I say, - you will not understand. + +you will not understand. + When you see what I do, - you will not comprehend. + +you will not comprehend. + 27. For the hearts of these people are hardened, - and their ears cannot hear, - and they have closed their eyes-- + +and their ears cannot hear, + +and they have closed their eyes-- so their eyes cannot see, - and their ears cannot hear, - and their hearts cannot understand, + +and their ears cannot hear, + +and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.' @@ -56,3 +70,4 @@ and they cannot turn to me 31. boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_01.md index dd67b4be..092e348f 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_01.md @@ -9,7 +9,11 @@ Greetings from Paul 6. And you are included among those Gentiles who have been called to belong to Jesus Christ. 7. I am writing to all of you in Rome who are loved by God and are called to be his own holy people. -May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.God's Good News + +May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. + +God's Good News + 8. Let me say first that I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith in him is being talked about all over the world. 9. God knows how often I pray for you. Day and night I bring you and your needs in prayer to God, whom I serve with all my heart by spreading the Good News about his Son. @@ -23,7 +27,9 @@ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.God's Good 15. So I am eager to come to you in Rome, too, to preach the Good News. 16. For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes--the Jew first and also the Gentile. -17. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a righteous person has life."God's Anger at Sin +17. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a righteous person has life." +God's Anger at Sin + 18. But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. @@ -45,3 +51,4 @@ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.God's Good 32. They know God's justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_02.md index 0cd2a360..6e851603 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_02.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ God's Judgment of Sin 13. For merely listening to the law doesn't make us right with God. It is obeying the law that makes us right in his sight. 14. Even Gentiles, who do not have God's written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. 15. They demonstrate that God's law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. -16. And this is the message I proclaim--that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone's secret life.The Jews and the Law +16. And this is the message I proclaim--that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone's secret life. + +The Jews and the Law + 17. You who call yourselves Jews are relying on God's law, and you boast about your special relationship with him. 18. You know what he wants; you know what is right because you have been taught his law. @@ -38,3 +41,4 @@ God's Judgment of Sin 29. No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by the Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_03.md index b2d6fb47..b371ee40 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_03.md @@ -12,23 +12,33 @@ God Remains Faithful 5. "But," some might say, "our sinfulness serves a good purpose, for it helps people see how righteous God is. Isn't it unfair, then, for him to punish us?" (This is merely a human point of view.) 6. Of course not! If God were not entirely fair, how would he be qualified to judge the world? 7. "But," someone might still argue, "how can God condemn me as a sinner if my dishonesty highlights his truthfulness and brings him more glory?" -8. And some people even slander us by claiming that we say, "The more we sin, the better it is!" Those who say such things deserve to be condemned.All People Are Sinners +8. And some people even slander us by claiming that we say, "The more we sin, the better it is!" Those who say such things deserve to be condemned. + +All People Are Sinners + 9. Well then, should we conclude that we Jews are better than others? No, not at all, for we have already shown that all people, whether Jews or Gentiles, are under the power of sin. 10. As the Scriptures say, "No one is righteous-- - not even one. + +not even one. + 11. No one is truly wise; - no one is seeking God. + +no one is seeking God. + 12. All have turned away; - all have become useless. + +all have become useless. + No one does good, not a single one." 13. "Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. - Their tongues are filled with lies." + +Their tongues are filled with lies." "Snake venom drips from their lips." 14. "Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness." @@ -42,7 +52,10 @@ No one does good, 18. "They have no fear of God at all." 19. Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses, and to show that the entire world is guilty before God. -20. For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are.Christ Took Our Punishment +20. For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. + +Christ Took Our Punishment + 21. But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. 22. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. @@ -60,3 +73,4 @@ No one does good, 31. Well then, if we emphasize faith, does this mean that we can forget about the law? Of course not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_04.md index 7b215267..314e920c 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_04.md @@ -10,8 +10,11 @@ The Faith of Abraham 6. David also spoke of this when he described the happiness of those who are declared righteous without working for it: 7. "Oh, what joy for those - whose disobedience is forgiven, - whose sins are put out of sight. + +whose disobedience is forgiven, + +whose sins are put out of sight. + 8. Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of sin." @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ The Faith of Abraham 25. He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_05.md index ee088d28..c6746133 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_05.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ Faith Brings Joy 8. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. 9. And since we have been made right in God's sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God's condemnation. 10. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. -11. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.Adam and Christ Contrasted +11. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God. + +Adam and Christ Contrasted + 12. When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. 13. Yes, people sinned even before the law was given. But it was not counted as sin because there was not yet any law to break. @@ -29,3 +32,4 @@ Faith Brings Joy 21. So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God's wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_06.md index c45aa094..2058f15d 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_06.md @@ -31,3 +31,4 @@ Sin's Power Is Broken 23. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_07.md index 4323b70b..c0d60dfe 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_07.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ No Longer Bound to the Law 4. So, my dear brothers and sisters, this is the point: You died to the power of the law when you died with Christ. And now you are united with the one who was raised from the dead. As a result, we can produce a harvest of good deeds for God. 5. When we were controlled by our old nature, sinful desires were at work within us, and the law aroused these evil desires that produced a harvest of sinful deeds, resulting in death. -6. But now we have been released from the law, for we died to it and are no longer captive to its power. Now we can serve God, not in the old way of obeying the letter of the law, but in the new way of living in the Spirit.God's Law Reveals Our Sin +6. But now we have been released from the law, for we died to it and are no longer captive to its power. Now we can serve God, not in the old way of obeying the letter of the law, but in the new way of living in the Spirit. + +God's Law Reveals Our Sin + 7. Well then, am I suggesting that the law of God is sinful? Of course not! In fact, it was the law that showed me my sin. I would never have known that coveting is wrong if the law had not said, "You must not covet." 8. But sin used this command to arouse all kinds of covetous desires within me! If there were no law, sin would not have that power. @@ -16,7 +19,10 @@ No Longer Bound to the Law 11. Sin took advantage of those commands and deceived me; it used the commands to kill me. 12. But still, the law itself is holy, and its commands are holy and right and good. -13. But how can that be? Did the law, which is good, cause my death? Of course not! Sin used what was good to bring about my condemnation to death. So we can see how terrible sin really is. It uses God's good commands for its own evil purposes.Struggling with Sin +13. But how can that be? Did the law, which is good, cause my death? Of course not! Sin used what was good to bring about my condemnation to death. So we can see how terrible sin really is. It uses God's good commands for its own evil purposes. + +Struggling with Sin + 14. So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. 15. I don't really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate. @@ -34,3 +40,4 @@ No Longer Bound to the Law 25. Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God's law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_08.md index cda59e17..52940ee5 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_08.md @@ -21,7 +21,10 @@ Life in the Spirit 15. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, "Abba, Father." 16. For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. -17. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.The Future Glory +17. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. + +The Future Glory + 18. Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. 19. For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. @@ -36,7 +39,10 @@ Life in the Spirit 27. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. 28. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. 29. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. -30. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.Nothing Can Separate Us from God's Love +30. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory. + +Nothing Can Separate Us from God's Love + 31. What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? 32. Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won't he also give us everything else? @@ -51,3 +57,4 @@ Life in the Spirit 39. No power in the sky above or in the earth below--indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_09.md index c4715e3e..48c43e3d 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_09.md @@ -37,36 +37,47 @@ God's Selection of Israel 25. Concerning the Gentiles, God says in the prophecy of Hosea, "Those who were not my people, - I will now call my people. + +I will now call my people. + And I will love those whom I did not love before." 26. And, "Then, at the place where they were told, - 'You are not my people,' + +'You are not my people,' there they will be called 'children of the living God.'" 27. And concerning Israel, Isaiah the prophet cried out, "Though the people of Israel are as numerous as the sand of the seashore, - only a remnant will be saved. + +only a remnant will be saved. + 28. For the LORD will carry out his sentence upon the earth quickly and with finality." 29. And Isaiah said the same thing in another place: "If the LORD of Heaven's Armies - had not spared a few of our children, + +had not spared a few of our children, we would have been wiped out like Sodom, - destroyed like Gomorrah."Israel's Unbelief + destroyed like Gomorrah." +Israel's Unbelief + 30. What does all this mean? Even though the Gentiles were not trying to follow God's standards, they were made right with God. And it was by faith that this took place. 31. But the people of Israel, who tried so hard to get right with God by keeping the law, never succeeded. 32. Why not? Because they were trying to get right with God by keeping the law instead of by trusting in him. They stumbled over the great rock in their path. 33. God warned them of this in the Scriptures when he said, "I am placing a stone in Jerusalem that makes people stumble, - a rock that makes them fall. + +a rock that makes them fall. + But anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_10.md index 311561ce..46dedec5 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_10.md @@ -2,7 +2,10 @@ 1. Dear brothers and sisters, the longing of my heart and my prayer to God is for the people of Israel to be saved. 2. I know what enthusiasm they have for God, but it is misdirected zeal. 3. For they don't understand God's way of making people right with himself. Refusing to accept God's way, they cling to their own way of getting right with God by trying to keep the law. -4. For Christ has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. As a result, all who believe in him are made right with God.Salvation Is for Everyone +4. For Christ has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. As a result, all who believe in him are made right with God. + +Salvation Is for Everyone + 5. For Moses writes that the law's way of making a person right with God requires obedience to all of its commands. 6. But faith's way of getting right with God says, "Don't say in your heart, 'Who will go up to heaven?' (to bring Christ down to earth). @@ -11,6 +14,7 @@ "The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart." And that message is the very message about faith that we preach: + 9. If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved. 11. As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." @@ -39,3 +43,4 @@ And that message is the very message about faith that we preach: but they were disobedient and rebellious." + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_11.md index 56905e7b..b5fe5294 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_11.md @@ -14,14 +14,19 @@ God's Mercy on Israel 7. So this is the situation: Most of the people of Israel have not found the favor of God they are looking for so earnestly. A few have--the ones God has chosen--but the hearts of the rest were hardened. 8. As the Scriptures say, "God has put them into a deep sleep. + To this day he has shut their eyes so they do not see, and closed their ears so they do not hear." 9. Likewise, David said, "Let their bountiful table become a snare, - a trap that makes them think all is well. + +a trap that makes them think all is well. + Let their blessings cause them to stumble, - and let them get what they deserve. + +and let them get what they deserve. + 10. Let their eyes go blind so they cannot see, and let their backs be bent forever." @@ -43,7 +48,10 @@ Let their blessings cause them to stumble, 22. Notice how God is both kind and severe. He is severe toward those who disobeyed, but kind to you if you continue to trust in his kindness. But if you stop trusting, you also will be cut off. 23. And if the people of Israel turn from their unbelief, they will be grafted in again, for God has the power to graft them back into the tree. -24. You, by nature, were a branch cut from a wild olive tree. So if God was willing to do something contrary to nature by grafting you into his cultivated tree, he will be far more eager to graft the original branches back into the tree where they belong.God's Mercy Is for Everyone +24. You, by nature, were a branch cut from a wild olive tree. So if God was willing to do something contrary to nature by grafting you into his cultivated tree, he will be far more eager to graft the original branches back into the tree where they belong. + +God's Mercy Is for Everyone + 25. I want you to understand this mystery, dear brothers and sisters, so that you will not feel proud about yourselves. Some of the people of Israel have hard hearts, but this will last only until the full number of Gentiles comes to Christ. 26. And so all Israel will be saved. As the Scriptures say, @@ -70,3 +78,4 @@ Let their blessings cause them to stumble, 36. For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_12.md index b3b219e5..8926f8b4 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_12.md @@ -32,10 +32,13 @@ A Living Sacrifice to God 20. Instead, "If your enemies are hungry, feed them. - If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. + +If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. + In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads." 21. Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_13.md index e7193fff..e9033f64 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_13.md @@ -8,7 +8,10 @@ Respect for Authority 5. So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. 6. Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. -7. Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.Love Fulfills God's Requirements +7. Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority. + +Love Fulfills God's Requirements + 8. Owe nothing to anyone--except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill the requirements of God's law. 9. For the commandments say, "You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet." These--and other such commandments--are summed up in this one commandment: "Love your neighbor as yourself." @@ -20,3 +23,4 @@ Respect for Authority 14. Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don't let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_14.md index 81dd3a77..adee1eb8 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_14.md @@ -34,3 +34,4 @@ The Danger of Criticism 23. But if you have doubts about whether or not you should eat something, you are sinning if you go ahead and do it. For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_15.md index 1afed3c6..17981db7 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_15.md @@ -25,10 +25,14 @@ Living to Please Others 12. And in another place Isaiah said, "The heir to David's throne will come, - and he will rule over the Gentiles. + +and he will rule over the Gentiles. They will place their hope on him." -13. I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.Paul's Reason for Writing +13. I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. + +Paul's Reason for Writing + 14. I am fully convinced, my dear brothers and sisters, that you are full of goodness. You know these things so well you can teach each other all about them. 15. Even so, I have been bold enough to write about some of these points, knowing that all you need is this reminder. For by God's grace, @@ -42,7 +46,10 @@ They will place their hope on him." "Those who have never been told about him will see, and those who have never heard of him will understand." -22. In fact, my visit to you has been delayed so long because I have been preaching in these places.Paul's Travel Plans +22. In fact, my visit to you has been delayed so long because I have been preaching in these places. + +Paul's Travel Plans + 23. But now I have finished my work in these regions, and after all these long years of waiting, I am eager to visit you. 24. I am planning to go to Spain, and when I do, I will stop off in Rome. And after I have enjoyed your fellowship for a little while, you can provide for my journey. @@ -60,3 +67,4 @@ They will place their hope on him." 33. And now may God, who gives us his peace, be with you all. Amen. + diff --git a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_16.md index 6065f878..2571618b 100644 --- a/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/45_Romans/Chapter_16.md @@ -2,12 +2,15 @@ Paul Greets His Friends # Chapter 16 1. I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. -2. Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God's people. Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me. +2. Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God's people. +Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me. 3. Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. 4. In fact, they once risked their lives for me. I am thankful to them, and so are all the Gentile churches. 5. Also give my greetings to the church that meets in their home. + Greet my dear friend Epenetus. He was the first person from the province of Asia to become a follower of Christ. + 6. Give my greetings to Mary, who has worked so hard for your benefit. 7. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews, who were in prison with me. They are highly respected among the apostles and became followers of Christ before I did. 8. Greet Ampliatus, my dear friend in the Lord. @@ -20,7 +23,10 @@ Greet my dear friend Epenetus. He was the first person from the province of Asia 14. Give my greetings to Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers and sisters who meet with them. 15. Give my greetings to Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and to Olympas and all the believers who meet with them. -16. Greet each other with a sacred kiss. All the churches of Christ send you their greetings.Paul's Final Instructions +16. Greet each other with a sacred kiss. All the churches of Christ send you their greetings. + +Paul's Final Instructions + 17. And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people's faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. 18. Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. @@ -38,3 +44,4 @@ Greet my dear friend Epenetus. He was the first person from the province of Asia 27. All glory to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, forever. Amen. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md index ea5e769f..790959b0 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md @@ -5,14 +5,20 @@ Greetings from Paul 2. I am writing to God's church in Corinth, to you who have been called by God to be his own holy people. He made you holy by means of Christ Jesus, just as he did for all people everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours. -3. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.Paul Gives Thanks to God +3. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. + +Paul Gives Thanks to God + 4. I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts he has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. 5. Through him, God has enriched your church in every way--with all of your eloquent words and all of your knowledge. 6. This confirms that what I told you about Christ is true. 7. Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. 8. He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. -9. God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.Divisions in the Church +9. God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. + +Divisions in the Church + 10. I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. 11. For some members of Chloe's household have told me about your quarrels, my dear brothers and sisters. @@ -22,7 +28,10 @@ Greetings from Paul 14. I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15. for now no one can say they were baptized in my name. 16. (Oh yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas, but I don't remember baptizing anyone else.) -17. For Christ didn't send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News--and not with clever speech, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power.The Wisdom of God +17. For Christ didn't send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News--and not with clever speech, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power. + +The Wisdom of God + 18. The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God. 19. As the Scriptures say, @@ -46,3 +55,4 @@ Greetings from Paul 31. Therefore, as the Scriptures say, "If you want to boast, boast only about the LORD." + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md index 96e63f41..baf9924f 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md @@ -12,7 +12,8 @@ Paul's Message of Wisdom 8. But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. 9. That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, - and no mind has imagined + +and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." @@ -29,3 +30,4 @@ what God has prepared But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md index f63b08f4..e4685c91 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md @@ -37,3 +37,4 @@ Paul and Apollos, Servants of Christ 23. and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md index 598b68a1..9aae6872 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md @@ -31,3 +31,4 @@ Paul's Relationship with the Corinthians 21. Which do you choose? Should I come with a rod to punish you, or should I come with love and a gentle spirit? + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md index a33ac289..5d16dc70 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md @@ -20,3 +20,4 @@ Paul Condemns Spiritual Pride 13. God will judge those on the outside; but as the Scriptures say, "You must remove the evil person from among you." + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md index fe1421d1..39edae3d 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ Avoiding Lawsuits with Christians 9. Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, 10. or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people--none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. -11. Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.Avoiding Sexual Sin +11. Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. + +Avoiding Sexual Sin + 12. You say, "I am allowed to do anything"--but not everything is good for you. And even though "I am allowed to do anything," I must not become a slave to anything. 13. You say, "Food was made for the stomach, and the stomach for food." (This is true, though someday God will do away with both of them.) But you can't say that our bodies were made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies. @@ -28,3 +31,4 @@ Avoiding Lawsuits with Christians 20. for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md index 25e86449..66bf081b 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md @@ -47,11 +47,12 @@ Instruction on Marriage 34. His interests are divided. In the same way, a woman who is no longer married or has never been married can be devoted to the Lord and holy in body and in spirit. But a married woman has to think about her earthly responsibilities and how to please her husband. 35. I am saying this for your benefit, not to place restrictions on you. I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible. -36. But if a man thinks that he's treating his fiancée improperly and will inevitably give in to his passion, let him marry her as he wishes. It is not a sin. +36. But if a man thinks that he's treating his fianc�e improperly and will inevitably give in to his passion, let him marry her as he wishes. It is not a sin. 37. But if he has decided firmly not to marry and there is no urgency and he can control his passion, he does well not to marry. -38. So the person who marries his fiancée does well, and the person who doesn't marry does even better. +38. So the person who marries his fianc�e does well, and the person who doesn't marry does even better. 39. A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. If her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes, but only if he loves the Lord. 40. But in my opinion it would be better for her to stay single, and I think I am giving you counsel from God's Spirit when I say this. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md index 301cffa7..2e2ca8ee 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md @@ -9,11 +9,17 @@ Food Sacrificed to Idols 5. There may be so-called gods both in heaven and on earth, and some people actually worship many gods and many lords. 6. But for us, There is one God, the Father, - by whom all things were created, - and for whom we live. + +by whom all things were created, + +and for whom we live. + And there is one Lord, Jesus Christ, - through whom all things were created, - and through whom we live. + +through whom all things were created, + +and through whom we live. + 7. However, not all believers know this. Some are accustomed to thinking of idols as being real, so when they eat food that has been offered to idols, they think of it as the worship of real gods, and their weak consciences are violated. 8. It's true that we can't win God's approval by what we eat. We don't lose anything if we don't eat it, and we don't gain anything if we do. @@ -25,3 +31,4 @@ And there is one Lord, Jesus Christ, 13. So if what I eat causes another believer to sin, I will never eat meat again as long as I live--for I don't want to cause another believer to stumble. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md index 6ea5a1d9..7546d1c6 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md @@ -38,3 +38,4 @@ Paul Gives Up His Rights 27. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md index 83508efa..00956993 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md @@ -45,3 +45,4 @@ Lessons from Israel's Idolatry 33. I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don't just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md index de1ead9d..88cd30d6 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md @@ -1,6 +1,9 @@ # Chapter 11 1. -1. And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.Instructions for Public Worship +1. And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. + +Instructions for Public Worship + 2. I am so glad that you always keep me in your thoughts, and that you are following the teachings I passed on to you. 3. But there is one thing I want you to know: The head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. @@ -19,7 +22,10 @@ 13. Judge for yourselves. Is it right for a woman to pray to God in public without covering her head? 14. Isn't it obvious that it's disgraceful for a man to have long hair? 15. And isn't long hair a woman's pride and joy? For it has been given to her as a covering. -16. But if anyone wants to argue about this, I simply say that we have no other custom than this, and neither do God's other churches.Order at the Lord's Supper +16. But if anyone wants to argue about this, I simply say that we have no other custom than this, and neither do God's other churches. + +Order at the Lord's Supper + 17. But in the following instructions, I cannot praise you. For it sounds as if more harm than good is done when you meet together. 18. First, I hear that there are divisions among you when you meet as a church, and to some extent I believe it. @@ -46,3 +52,4 @@ 34. If you are really hungry, eat at home so you won't bring judgment upon yourselves when you meet together. I'll give you instructions about the other matters after I arrive. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md index 98597991..158b94c4 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ Spiritual Gifts 8. To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; to another the same Spirit gives a message of special knowledge. 9. The same Spirit gives great faith to another, and to someone else the one Spirit gives the gift of healing. 10. He gives one person the power to perform miracles, and another the ability to prophesy. He gives someone else the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or from another spirit. Still another person is given the ability to speak in unknown languages, while another is given the ability to interpret what is being said. -11. It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.One Body with Many Parts +11. It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have. + +One Body with Many Parts + 12. The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ. 13. Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit. @@ -45,9 +48,12 @@ those who can help others, those who have the gift of leadership, those who speak in unknown languages. + 29. Are we all apostles? Are we all prophets? Are we all teachers? Do we all have the power to do miracles? 30. Do we all have the gift of healing? Do we all have the ability to speak in unknown languages? Do we all have the ability to interpret unknown languages? Of course not! 31. So you should earnestly desire the most helpful gifts. + But now let me show you a way of life that is best of all. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md index 2418a41e..ef6496c3 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md @@ -20,3 +20,4 @@ Love Is the Greatest 13. Three things will last forever--faith, hope, and love--and the greatest of these is love. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_14.md index d8abef96..697004c6 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_14.md @@ -31,15 +31,19 @@ Tongues and Prophecy 20. Dear brothers and sisters, don't be childish in your understanding of these things. Be innocent as babies when it comes to evil, but be mature in understanding matters of this kind. 21. It is written in the Scriptures: "I will speak to my own people - through strange languages - and through the lips of foreigners. + +through strange languages + +and through the lips of foreigners. But even then, they will not listen to me," says the LORD. 22. So you see that speaking in tongues is a sign, not for believers, but for unbelievers. Prophecy, however, is for the benefit of believers, not unbelievers. 23. Even so, if unbelievers or people who don't understand these things come into your church meeting and hear everyone speaking in an unknown language, they will think you are crazy. 24. But if all of you are prophesying, and unbelievers or people who don't understand these things come into your meeting, they will be convicted of sin and judged by what you say. -25. As they listen, their secret thoughts will be exposed, and they will fall to their knees and worship God, declaring, "God is truly here among you."A Call to Orderly Worship +25. As they listen, their secret thoughts will be exposed, and they will fall to their knees and worship God, declaring, "God is truly here among you." +A Call to Orderly Worship + 26. Well, my brothers and sisters, let's summarize. When you meet together, one will sing, another will teach, another will tell some special revelation God has given, one will speak in tongues, and another will interpret what is said. But everything that is done must strengthen all of you. @@ -63,3 +67,4 @@ But even then, they will not listen to me," 40. But be sure that everything is done properly and in order. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_15.md index 49c21360..66a2d06c 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_15.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ The Resurrection of Christ 9. For I am the least of all the apostles. In fact, I'm not even worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted God's church. 10. But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me--and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace. -11. So it makes no difference whether I preach or they preach, for we all preach the same message you have already believed.The Resurrection of the Dead +11. So it makes no difference whether I preach or they preach, for we all preach the same message you have already believed. + +The Resurrection of the Dead + 12. But tell me this--since we preach that Christ rose from the dead, why are some of you saying there will be no resurrection of the dead? 13. For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either. @@ -42,7 +45,10 @@ The Resurrection of Christ 31. For I swear, dear brothers and sisters, that I face death daily. This is as certain as my pride in what Christ Jesus our Lord has done in you. 32. And what value was there in fighting wild beasts--those people of Ephesus--if there will be no resurrection from the dead? And if there is no resurrection, "Let's feast and drink, for tomorrow we die!" 33. Don't be fooled by those who say such things, for "bad company corrupts good character." -34. Think carefully about what is right, and stop sinning. For to your shame I say that some of you don't know God at all.The Resurrection Body +34. Think carefully about what is right, and stop sinning. For to your shame I say that some of you don't know God at all. + +The Resurrection Body + 35. But someone may ask, "How will the dead be raised? What kind of bodies will they have?" 36. What a foolish question! When you put a seed into the ground, it doesn't grow into a plant unless it dies first. @@ -81,3 +87,4 @@ The Resurrection of Christ 58. So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. + diff --git a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_16.md index f0fdec56..6b638641 100644 --- a/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/46_1 Corinthians/Chapter_16.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ The Collection for Jerusalem 1. Now regarding your question about the money being collected for God's people in Jerusalem. You should follow the same procedure I gave to the churches in Galatia. 2. On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned. Don't wait until I get there and then try to collect it all at once. 3. When I come, I will write letters of recommendation for the messengers you choose to deliver your gift to Jerusalem. -4. And if it seems appropriate for me to go along, they can travel with me.Paul's Final Instructions +4. And if it seems appropriate for me to go along, they can travel with me. + +Paul's Final Instructions + 5. I am coming to visit you after I have been to Macedonia, for I am planning to travel through Macedonia. 6. Perhaps I will stay awhile with you, possibly all winter, and then you can send me on my way to my next destination. @@ -23,7 +26,10 @@ The Collection for Jerusalem 15. You know that Stephanas and his household were the first of the harvest of believers in Greece, and they are spending their lives in service to God's people. I urge you, dear brothers and sisters, 16. to submit to them and others like them who serve with such devotion. 17. I am very glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus have come here. They have been providing the help you weren't here to give me. -18. They have been a wonderful encouragement to me, as they have been to you. You must show your appreciation to all who serve so well.Paul's Final Greetings +18. They have been a wonderful encouragement to me, as they have been to you. You must show your appreciation to all who serve so well. + +Paul's Final Greetings + 19. The churches here in the province of Asia send greetings in the Lord, as do Aquila and Priscilla and all the others who gather in their home for church meetings. 20. All the brothers and sisters here send greetings to you. Greet each other with a sacred kiss. @@ -37,3 +43,4 @@ The Collection for Jerusalem 24. My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md index 4c7b6ec6..088b6d48 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ Greetings from Paul 1. This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Timothy. I am writing to God's church in Corinth and to all of his holy people throughout Greece. -2. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.God Offers Comfort to All +2. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. + +God Offers Comfort to All + 3. All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. 4. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. @@ -15,7 +18,10 @@ I am writing to God's church in Corinth and to all of his holy people throughout 8. We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. 9. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. 10. And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us. -11. And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety.Paul's Change of Plans +11. And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety. + +Paul's Change of Plans + 12. We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you. 13. Our letters have been straightforward, and there is nothing written between the lines and nothing you can't understand. I hope someday you will fully understand us, @@ -36,3 +42,4 @@ I am writing to God's church in Corinth and to all of his holy people throughout 24. But that does not mean we want to dominate you by telling you how to put your faith into practice. We want to work together with you so you will be full of joy, for it is by your own faith that you stand firm. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md index 4c02003c..ec7e2101 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_02.md @@ -2,7 +2,10 @@ 1. So I decided that I would not bring you grief with another painful visit. 2. For if I cause you grief, who will make me glad? Certainly not someone I have grieved. 3. That is why I wrote to you as I did, so that when I do come, I won't be grieved by the very ones who ought to give me the greatest joy. Surely you all know that my joy comes from your being joyful. -4. I wrote that letter in great anguish, with a troubled heart and many tears. I didn't want to grieve you, but I wanted to let you know how much love I have for you.Forgiveness for the Sinner +4. I wrote that letter in great anguish, with a troubled heart and many tears. I didn't want to grieve you, but I wanted to let you know how much love I have for you. + +Forgiveness for the Sinner + 5. I am not overstating it when I say that the man who caused all the trouble hurt all of you more than he hurt me. 6. Most of you opposed him, and that was punishment enough. @@ -14,7 +17,10 @@ 11. so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes. 12. When I came to the city of Troas to preach the Good News of Christ, the Lord opened a door of opportunity for me. -13. But I had no peace of mind because my dear brother Titus hadn't yet arrived with a report from you. So I said good-bye and went on to Macedonia to find him.Ministers of the New Covenant +13. But I had no peace of mind because my dear brother Titus hadn't yet arrived with a report from you. So I said good-bye and went on to Macedonia to find him. + +Ministers of the New Covenant + 14. But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ's triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. 15. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. @@ -23,3 +29,4 @@ 17. You see, we are not like the many hucksters who preach for personal profit. We preach the word of God with sincerity and with Christ's authority, knowing that God is watching us. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md index ea4fbf91..0be334be 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_03.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ 4. We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. 5. It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God. -6. He has enabled us to be ministers of his new covenant. This is a covenant not of written laws, but of the Spirit. The old written covenant ends in death; but under the new covenant, the Spirit gives life.The Glory of the New Covenant +6. He has enabled us to be ministers of his new covenant. This is a covenant not of written laws, but of the Spirit. The old written covenant ends in death; but under the new covenant, the Spirit gives life. + +The Glory of the New Covenant + 7. The old way, with laws etched in stone, led to death, though it began with such glory that the people of Israel could not bear to look at Moses' face. For his face shone with the glory of God, even though the brightness was already fading away. 8. Shouldn't we expect far greater glory under the new way, now that the Holy Spirit is giving life? @@ -23,3 +26,4 @@ 18. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord--who is the Spirit--makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md index 505d2b3f..025bb92e 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_04.md @@ -28,3 +28,4 @@ Treasure in Fragile Clay Jars 18. So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md index 208a81e5..fb414742 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_05.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ New Bodies 7. For we live by believing and not by seeing. 8. Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. 9. So whether we are here in this body or away from this body, our goal is to please him. -10. For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.We Are God's Ambassadors +10. For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body. + +We Are God's Ambassadors + 11. Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too. 12. Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us, so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart. @@ -28,3 +31,4 @@ New Bodies 21. For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md index 7a0a628f..2c20918d 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_06.md @@ -3,7 +3,10 @@ 2. For God says, "At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you." -Indeed, the "right time" is now. Today is the day of salvation.Paul's Hardships +Indeed, the "right time" is now. Today is the day of salvation. + +Paul's Hardships + 3. We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. 4. In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. @@ -16,23 +19,30 @@ Indeed, the "right time" is now. Today is the day of salvation.Paul's Hardships 11. Oh, dear Corinthian friends! We have spoken honestly with you, and our hearts are open to you. 12. There is no lack of love on our part, but you have withheld your love from us. -13. I am asking you to respond as if you were my own children. Open your hearts to us!The Temple of the Living God +13. I am asking you to respond as if you were my own children. Open your hearts to us! +The Temple of the Living God + 14. Don't team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? 15. What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever? 16. And what union can there be between God's temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said: "I will live in them - and walk among them. + +and walk among them. + I will be their God, and they will be my people. 17. Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. + Don't touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you. 18. And I will be your Father, - and you will be my sons and daughters, + +and you will be my sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty." + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md index 06814b17..07f91f21 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_07.md @@ -3,7 +3,10 @@ 2. Please open your hearts to us. We have not done wrong to anyone, nor led anyone astray, nor taken advantage of anyone. 3. I'm not saying this to condemn you. I said before that you are in our hearts, and we live or die together with you. -4. I have the highest confidence in you, and I take great pride in you. You have greatly encouraged me and made me happy despite all our troubles.Paul's Joy at the Church's Repentance +4. I have the highest confidence in you, and I take great pride in you. You have greatly encouraged me and made me happy despite all our troubles. + +Paul's Joy at the Church's Repentance + 5. When we arrived in Macedonia, there was no rest for us. We faced conflict from every direction, with battles on the outside and fear on the inside. 6. But God, who encourages those who are discouraged, encouraged us by the arrival of Titus. @@ -22,3 +25,4 @@ In addition to our own encouragement, we were especially delighted to see how ha 16. I am very happy now because I have complete confidence in you. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md index 0fe303a9..732bf998 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_08.md @@ -22,7 +22,9 @@ A Call to Generous Giving 14. Right now you have plenty and can help those who are in need. Later, they will have plenty and can share with you when you need it. In this way, things will be equal. 15. As the Scriptures say, "Those who gathered a lot had nothing left over, - and those who gathered only a little had enough."Titus and His Companions + and those who gathered only a little had enough." +Titus and His Companions + 16. But thank God! He has given Titus the same enthusiasm for you that I have. 17. Titus welcomed our request that he visit you again. In fact, he himself was very eager to go and see you. @@ -37,3 +39,4 @@ A Call to Generous Giving 24. So show them your love, and prove to all the churches that our boasting about you is justified. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md index 0eb3cb0f..5df677b7 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_09.md @@ -25,3 +25,4 @@ The Collection for Christians in Jerusalem 15. Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words! + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md index c93189f2..872c1b6c 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_10.md @@ -28,3 +28,4 @@ Paul Defends His Authority 18. When people commend themselves, it doesn't count for much. The important thing is for the Lord to commend them. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md index bc4c6067..7b21cceb 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_11.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ Paul and the False Apostles 12. But I will continue doing what I have always done. This will undercut those who are looking for an opportunity to boast that their work is just like ours. 13. These people are false apostles. They are deceitful workers who disguise themselves as apostles of Christ. 14. But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. -15. So it is no wonder that his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. In the end they will get the punishment their wicked deeds deserve.Paul's Many Trials +15. So it is no wonder that his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. In the end they will get the punishment their wicked deeds deserve. + +Paul's Many Trials + 16. Again I say, don't think that I am a fool to talk like this. But even if you do, listen to me, as you would to a foolish person, while I also boast a little. 17. Such boasting is not from the Lord, but I am acting like a fool. @@ -43,3 +46,4 @@ But whatever they dare to boast about--I'm talking like a fool again--I dare to 33. I had to be lowered in a basket through a window in the city wall to escape from him. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md index 8a672573..6ec7f576 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_12.md @@ -12,7 +12,10 @@ Paul's Vision and His Thorn in the Flesh 8. Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. 9. Each time he said, *"My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness."* So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. -10. That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.Paul's Concern for the Corinthians +10. That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. + +Paul's Concern for the Corinthians + 11. You have made me act like a fool. You ought to be writing commendations for me, for I am not at all inferior to these "super apostles," even though I am nothing at all. 12. When I was with you, I certainly gave you proof that I am an apostle. For I patiently did many signs and wonders and miracles among you. @@ -30,3 +33,4 @@ Paul's Vision and His Thorn in the Flesh 21. Yes, I am afraid that when I come again, God will humble me in your presence. And I will be grieved because many of you have not given up your old sins. You have not repented of your impurity, sexual immorality, and eagerness for lustful pleasure. + diff --git a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md index aee8d7ca..8fe051d8 100644 --- a/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/47_2 Corinthians/Chapter_13.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ Paul's Final Advice 8. For we cannot oppose the truth, but must always stand for the truth. 9. We are glad to seem weak if it helps show that you are actually strong. We pray that you will become mature. -10. I am writing this to you before I come, hoping that I won't need to deal severely with you when I do come. For I want to use the authority the Lord has given me to strengthen you, not to tear you down.Paul's Final Greetings +10. I am writing this to you before I come, hoping that I won't need to deal severely with you when I do come. For I want to use the authority the Lord has given me to strengthen you, not to tear you down. + +Paul's Final Greetings + 11. Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you. @@ -24,3 +27,4 @@ Paul's Final Advice 14. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. + diff --git a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_01.md index 31687604..262e2043 100644 --- a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_01.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ Greetings from Paul 3. May God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. 4. Jesus gave his life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live. -5. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.There Is Only One Good News +5. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen. + +There Is Only One Good News + 6. I am shocked that you are turning away so soon from God, who called you to himself through the loving mercy of Christ. You are following a different way that pretends to be the Good News 7. but is not the Good News at all. You are being fooled by those who deliberately twist the truth concerning Christ. @@ -15,7 +18,10 @@ Greetings from Paul 8. Let God's curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you. 9. I say again what we have said before: If anyone preaches any other Good News than the one you welcomed, let that person be cursed. -10. Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant.Paul's Message Comes from Christ +10. Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant. + +Paul's Message Comes from Christ + 11. Dear brothers and sisters, I want you to understand that the gospel message I preach is not based on mere human reasoning. 12. I received my message from no human source, and no one taught me. Instead, I received it by direct revelation from Jesus Christ. @@ -38,3 +44,4 @@ When this happened, I did not rush out to consult with any human being. 24. And they praised God because of me. + diff --git a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_02.md index 3f6ff4a9..b1d20a41 100644 --- a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_02.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ The Apostles Accept Paul 8. For the same God who worked through Peter as the apostle to the Jews also worked through me as the apostle to the Gentiles. 9. In fact, James, Peter, and John, who were known as pillars of the church, recognized the gift God had given me, and they accepted Barnabas and me as their co-workers. They encouraged us to keep preaching to the Gentiles, while they continued their work with the Jews. -10. Their only suggestion was that we keep on helping the poor, which I have always been eager to do.Paul Confronts Peter +10. Their only suggestion was that we keep on helping the poor, which I have always been eager to do. + +Paul Confronts Peter + 11. But when Peter came to Antioch, I had to oppose him to his face, for what he did was very wrong. 12. When he first arrived, he ate with the Gentile believers, who were not circumcised. But afterward, when some friends of James came, Peter wouldn't eat with the Gentiles anymore. He was afraid of criticism from these people who insisted on the necessity of circumcision. @@ -31,3 +34,4 @@ The Apostles Accept Paul 21. I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die. + diff --git a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_03.md index b6feff31..1bb1216a 100644 --- a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_03.md @@ -19,7 +19,10 @@ The Law and Faith in Christ 12. This way of faith is very different from the way of law, which says, "It is through obeying the law that a person has life." 13. But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." -14. Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.The Law and God's Promise +14. Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith. + +The Law and God's Promise + 15. Dear brothers and sisters, here's an example from everyday life. Just as no one can set aside or amend an irrevocable agreement, so it is in this case. 16. God gave the promises to Abraham and his child. And notice that the Scripture doesn't say "to his children," as if it meant many descendants. Rather, it says "to his child"--and that, of course, means Christ. @@ -30,7 +33,10 @@ The Law and Faith in Christ 20. Now a mediator is helpful if more than one party must reach an agreement. But God, who is one, did not use a mediator when he gave his promise to Abraham. 21. Is there a conflict, then, between God's law and God's promises? Absolutely not! If the law could give us new life, we could be made right with God by obeying it. -22. But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God's promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ.God's Children through Faith +22. But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God's promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ. + +God's Children through Faith + 23. Before the way of faith in Christ was available to us, we were placed under guard by the law. We were kept in protective custody, so to speak, until the way of faith was revealed. @@ -43,3 +49,4 @@ The Law and Faith in Christ 29. And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God's promise to Abraham belongs to you. + diff --git a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_04.md index ea34325a..0d6e55a9 100644 --- a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_04.md @@ -6,14 +6,19 @@ 4. But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. 5. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. 6. And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, "Abba, Father." -7. Now you are no longer a slave but God's own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.Paul's Concern for the Galatians +7. Now you are no longer a slave but God's own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir. + +Paul's Concern for the Galatians + 8. Before you Gentiles knew God, you were slaves to so-called gods that do not even exist. 9. So now that you know God (or should I say, now that God knows you), why do you want to go back again and become slaves once more to the weak and useless spiritual principles of this world? 10. You are trying to earn favor with God by observing certain days or months or seasons or years. 11. I fear for you. Perhaps all my hard work with you was for nothing. 12. Dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to live as I do in freedom from these things, for I have become like you Gentiles--free from those laws. + You did not mistreat me when I first preached to you. + 13. Surely you remember that I was sick when I first brought you the Good News. 14. But even though my condition tempted you to reject me, you did not despise me or turn me away. No, you took me in and cared for me as though I were an angel from God or even Christ Jesus himself. 15. Where is that joyful and grateful spirit you felt then? I am sure you would have taken out your own eyes and given them to me if it had been possible. @@ -23,7 +28,10 @@ You did not mistreat me when I first preached to you. 18. If someone is eager to do good things for you, that's all right; but let them do it all the time, not just when I'm with you. 19. Oh, my dear children! I feel as if I'm going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives. -20. I wish I were with you right now so I could change my tone. But at this distance I don't know how else to help you.Abraham's Two Children +20. I wish I were with you right now so I could change my tone. But at this distance I don't know how else to help you. + +Abraham's Two Children + 21. Tell me, you who want to live under the law, do you know what the law actually says? 22. The Scriptures say that Abraham had two sons, one from his slave wife and one from his freeborn wife. @@ -34,9 +42,11 @@ You did not mistreat me when I first preached to you. 26. But the other woman, Sarah, represents the heavenly Jerusalem. She is the free woman, and she is our mother. 27. As Isaiah said, "Rejoice, O childless woman, - you who have never given birth! + +you who have never given birth! Break into a joyful shout, - you who have never been in labor! + +you who have never been in labor! For the desolate woman now has more children than the woman who lives with her husband!" @@ -47,3 +57,4 @@ For the desolate woman now has more children 31. So, dear brothers and sisters, we are not children of the slave woman; we are children of the free woman. + diff --git a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_05.md index d2df5729..25277e8d 100644 --- a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_05.md @@ -20,7 +20,10 @@ Freedom in Christ 13. For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. 14. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." -15. But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.Living by the Spirit's Power +15. But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another. + +Living by the Spirit's Power + 16. So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. @@ -38,3 +41,4 @@ Freedom in Christ 26. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. + diff --git a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_06.md index 2ed3fbd8..c685ba1f 100644 --- a/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/48_Galatians/Chapter_06.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ We Harvest What We Plant 7. Don't be misled--you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. 8. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. 9. So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. -10. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith.Paul's Final Advice +10. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith. + +Paul's Final Advice + 11. Notice what large letters i use as i write these closing words in my own handwriting. @@ -29,3 +32,4 @@ We Harvest What We Plant 18. Dear brothers and sisters, may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. + diff --git a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_01.md index 22ec3cac..d34ddcef 100644 --- a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ Greetings from Paul 1. This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus. I am writing to God's holy people in Ephesus, who are faithful followers of Christ Jesus. -2. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.Spiritual Blessings +2. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. + +Spiritual Blessings + 3. All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. 4. Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. @@ -19,7 +22,10 @@ I am writing to God's holy people in Ephesus, who are faithful followers of Chri 12. God's purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God. 13. And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. -14. The Spirit is God's guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him.Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom +14. The Spirit is God's guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him. + +Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom + 15. Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God's people everywhere, 16. I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, @@ -33,3 +39,4 @@ I am writing to God's holy people in Ephesus, who are faithful followers of Chri 23. And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself. + diff --git a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_02.md index a25f3f7a..0b458e49 100644 --- a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_02.md @@ -12,7 +12,10 @@ Made Alive with Christ 8. God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. -10. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.Oneness and Peace in Christ +10. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. + +Oneness and Peace in Christ + 11. Don't forget that you Gentiles used to be outsiders. You were called "uncircumcised heathens" by the Jews, who were proud of their circumcision, even though it affected only their bodies and not their hearts. 12. In those days you were living apart from Christ. You were excluded from citizenship among the people of Israel, and you did not know the covenant promises God had made to them. You lived in this world without God and without hope. @@ -23,7 +26,10 @@ Made Alive with Christ 16. Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put to death. 17. He brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and peace to the Jews who were near. -18. Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us.A Temple for the Lord +18. Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us. + +A Temple for the Lord + 19. So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God's holy people. You are members of God's family. 20. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. @@ -31,3 +37,4 @@ Made Alive with Christ 22. Through him you Gentiles are also being made part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit. + diff --git a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_03.md index a320d21b..5fc0d161 100644 --- a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_03.md @@ -17,7 +17,10 @@ God's Mysterious Plan Revealed 11. This was his eternal plan, which he carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord. 12. Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God's presence. -13. So please don't lose heart because of my trials here. I am suffering for you, so you should feel honored.Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Growth +13. So please don't lose heart because of my trials here. I am suffering for you, so you should feel honored. + +Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Growth + 14. When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, 15. the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. @@ -30,3 +33,4 @@ God's Mysterious Plan Revealed 21. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen. + diff --git a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_04.md index 4ce45644..fb04f17b 100644 --- a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_04.md @@ -11,10 +11,12 @@ Unity in the Body 6. one God and Father of all, who is over all, in all, and living through all. + 7. However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ. 8. That is why the Scriptures say, "When he ascended to the heights, - he led a crowd of captives + +he led a crowd of captives and gave gifts to his people." 9. Notice that it says "he ascended." This clearly means that Christ also descended to our lowly world. @@ -26,7 +28,10 @@ who is over all, in all, and living through all. 14. Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15. Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. -16. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.Living as Children of Light +16. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. + +Living as Children of Light + 17. With the Lord's authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused. 18. Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him. @@ -51,3 +56,4 @@ who is over all, in all, and living through all. 32. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. + diff --git a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_05.md index 4d19a4f0..9c241de1 100644 --- a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_05.md @@ -19,15 +19,22 @@ Living in the Light 13. But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them, 14. for the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, "Awake, O sleeper, - rise up from the dead, - and Christ will give you light."Living by the Spirit's Power + +rise up from the dead, + +and Christ will give you light." +Living by the Spirit's Power + 15. So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17. Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. 18. Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, 19. singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. -20. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.Spirit-Guided Relationships: Wives and Husbands +20. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. + +Spirit-Guided Relationships: Wives and Husbands + 21. And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. @@ -47,3 +54,4 @@ Living in the Light 33. So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. + diff --git a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_06.md index 8d0bba62..cc908af6 100644 --- a/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/49_Ephesians/Chapter_06.md @@ -5,14 +5,20 @@ Children and Parents 2. "Honor your father and mother." This is the first commandment with a promise: 3. If you honor your father and mother, "things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth." -4. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.Slaves and Masters +4. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. + +Slaves and Masters + 5. Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ. 6. Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. 7. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. 8. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. -9. Masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Don't threaten them; remember, you both have the same Master in heaven, and he has no favorites.The Whole Armor of God +9. Masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Don't threaten them; remember, you both have the same Master in heaven, and he has no favorites. + +The Whole Armor of God + 10. A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. @@ -27,7 +33,10 @@ Children and Parents 18. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. 19. And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God's mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. -20. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God's ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.Final Greetings +20. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God's ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should. + +Final Greetings + 21. To bring you up to date, Tychicus will give you a full report about what I am doing and how I am getting along. He is a beloved brother and faithful helper in the Lord's work. 22. I have sent him to you for this very purpose--to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you. @@ -36,3 +45,4 @@ Children and Parents 24. May God's grace be eternally upon all who love our Lord Jesus Christ. + diff --git a/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_01.md index d95d9cbb..41a5303e 100644 --- a/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ Greetings from Paul 1. This letter is from Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus. I am writing to all of God's holy people in Philippi who belong to Christ Jesus, including the church leaders and deacons. -2. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer +2. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. + +Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer + 3. Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. 4. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, @@ -16,7 +19,10 @@ I am writing to all of God's holy people in Philippi who belong to Christ Jesus, 9. I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. 10. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return. -11. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation--the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God.Paul's Joy That Christ Is Preached +11. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation--the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God. + +Paul's Joy That Christ Is Preached + 12. And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. 13. For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. @@ -26,7 +32,10 @@ I am writing to all of God's holy people in Philippi who belong to Christ Jesus, 16. They preach because they love me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the Good News. 17. Those others do not have pure motives as they preach about Christ. They preach with selfish ambition, not sincerely, intending to make my chains more painful to me. 18. But that doesn't matter. Whether their motives are false or genuine, the message about Christ is being preached either way, so I rejoice. And I will continue to rejoice. -19. For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance.Paul's Life for Christ +19. For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance. + +Paul's Life for Christ + 20. For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. 21. For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. @@ -35,7 +44,10 @@ I am writing to all of God's holy people in Philippi who belong to Christ Jesus, 24. But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live. 25. Knowing this, I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith. -26. And when I come to you again, you will have even more reason to take pride in Christ Jesus because of what he is doing through me.Live as Citizens of Heaven +26. And when I come to you again, you will have even more reason to take pride in Christ Jesus because of what he is doing through me. + +Live as Citizens of Heaven + 27. Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News. 28. Don't be intimidated in any way by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved, even by God himself. @@ -43,3 +55,4 @@ I am writing to all of God's holy people in Philippi who belong to Christ Jesus, 30. We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of it. + diff --git a/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_02.md index 90f4a24b..9c15b287 100644 --- a/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_02.md @@ -10,25 +10,39 @@ Have the Attitude of Christ 5. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 6. Though he was God, - he did not think of equality with God - as something to cling to. + +he did not think of equality with God + +as something to cling to. + 7. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave - and was born as a human being. + +and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, 8. he humbled himself in obedience to God - and died a criminal's death on a cross. + +and died a criminal's death on a cross. + 9. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor - and gave him the name above all other names, + +and gave him the name above all other names, + 10. that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, - in heaven and on earth and under the earth, + +in heaven and on earth and under the earth, + 11. and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, - to the glory of God the Father.Shine Brightly for Christ + +to the glory of God the Father. + +Shine Brightly for Christ + 12. Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. 13. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. @@ -37,14 +51,20 @@ When he appeared in human form, 15. so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. 16. Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ's return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. 17. But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. -18. Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.Paul Commends Timothy +18. Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy. + +Paul Commends Timothy + 19. If the Lord Jesus is willing, I hope to send Timothy to you soon for a visit. Then he can cheer me up by telling me how you are getting along. 20. I have no one else like Timothy, who genuinely cares about your welfare. 21. All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ. 22. But you know how Timothy has proved himself. Like a son with his father, he has served with me in preaching the Good News. 23. I hope to send him to you just as soon as I find out what is going to happen to me here. -24. And I have confidence from the Lord that I myself will come to see you soon.Paul Commends Epaphroditus +24. And I have confidence from the Lord that I myself will come to see you soon. + +Paul Commends Epaphroditus + 25. Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need. 26. I am sending him because he has been longing to see you, and he was very distressed that you heard he was ill. @@ -55,3 +75,4 @@ When he appeared in human form, 30. For he risked his life for the work of Christ, and he was at the point of death while doing for me what you couldn't do from far away. + diff --git a/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_03.md index 1662fb74..db70ff66 100644 --- a/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_03.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ The Priceless Value of Knowing Christ 8. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ 9. and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on faith. 10. I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, -11. so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!Pressing toward the Goal +11. so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead! +Pressing toward the Goal + 12. I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. 13. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, @@ -30,3 +32,4 @@ The Priceless Value of Knowing Christ 21. He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control. + diff --git a/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_04.md index 093c9f8a..499bb32d 100644 --- a/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/50_Philippians/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,5 +1,8 @@ # Chapter 4 -1. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work.Words of Encouragement +1. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work. + +Words of Encouragement + 2. Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. 3. And I ask you, my true partner, to help these two women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. They worked along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are written in the Book of Life. @@ -11,7 +14,10 @@ 7. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. 8. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. -9. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me--everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.Paul's Thanks for Their Gifts +9. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me--everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. + +Paul's Thanks for Their Gifts + 10. How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn't have the chance to help me. 11. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. @@ -26,7 +32,10 @@ 18. At the moment I have all I need--and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. 19. And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. -20. Now all glory to God our Father forever and ever! Amen.Paul's Final Greetings +20. Now all glory to God our Father forever and ever! Amen. + +Paul's Final Greetings + 21. Give my greetings to each of God's holy people--all who belong to Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you their greetings. 22. And all the rest of God's people send you greetings, too, especially those in Caesar's household. @@ -34,3 +43,4 @@ 23. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. + diff --git a/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_01.md index 57ff3aec..da18f1fb 100644 --- a/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,11 @@ Greetings from Paul 1. This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Timothy. 2. We are writing to God's holy people in the city of Colosse, who are faithful brothers and sisters in Christ. -May God our Father give you grace and peace.Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer + +May God our Father give you grace and peace. + +Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer + 3. We always pray for you, and we give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 4. For we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all of God's people, @@ -21,39 +25,62 @@ May God our Father give you grace and peace.Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer 11. We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, 12. always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. 13. For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, -14. who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.Christ Is Supreme +14. who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. + +Christ Is Supreme + 15. Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, 16. for through him God created everything - in the heavenly realms and on earth. + +in the heavenly realms and on earth. + He made the things we can see - and the things we can't see-- + +and the things we can't see-- such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. - Everything was created through him and for him. + +Everything was created through him and for him. + 17. He existed before anything else, - and he holds all creation together. + +and he holds all creation together. + 18. Christ is also the head of the church, - which is his body. + +which is his body. + He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. - So he is first in everything. + +So he is first in everything. + 19. For God in all his fullness - was pleased to live in Christ, + +was pleased to live in Christ, + 20. and through him God reconciled - everything to himself. + +everything to himself. + He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth - by means of Christ's blood on the cross. + +by means of Christ's blood on the cross. + 21. This includes you who were once far away from God. You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. 22. Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. -23. But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don't drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed as God's servant to proclaim it.Paul's Work for the Church +23. But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don't drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed as God's servant to proclaim it. + +Paul's Work for the Church + 24. I am glad when I suffer for you in my body, for I am participating in the sufferings of Christ that continue for his body, the church. 25. God has given me the responsibility of serving his church by proclaiming his entire message to you. @@ -64,3 +91,4 @@ He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth 29. That's why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ's mighty power that works within me. + diff --git a/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_02.md index a050d6fd..0c48202f 100644 --- a/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_02.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ 3. In him lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4. I am telling you this so no one will deceive you with well-crafted arguments. -5. For though I am far away from you, my heart is with you. And I rejoice that you are living as you should and that your faith in Christ is strong.Freedom from Rules and New Life in Christ +5. For though I am far away from you, my heart is with you. And I rejoice that you are living as you should and that your faith in Christ is strong. + +Freedom from Rules and New Life in Christ + 6. And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. @@ -31,3 +34,4 @@ 23. These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person's evil desires. + diff --git a/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_03.md index e40d55f3..849bf60a 100644 --- a/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_03.md @@ -20,7 +20,10 @@ Living the New Life 15. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. 16. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. -17. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.Instructions for Christian Households +17. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. + +Instructions for Christian Households + 18. Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting for those who belong to the Lord. @@ -35,3 +38,4 @@ Living the New Life 25. But if you do what is wrong, you will be paid back for the wrong you have done. For God has no favorites. + diff --git a/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_04.md index 1dfecbc9..53140094 100644 --- a/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/51_Colossians/Chapter_04.md @@ -1,12 +1,18 @@ # Chapter 4 -1. Masters, be just and fair to your slaves. Remember that you also have a Master--in heaven.An Encouragement for Prayer +1. Masters, be just and fair to your slaves. Remember that you also have a Master--in heaven. + +An Encouragement for Prayer + 2. Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. 3. Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about his mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains. 4. Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should. 5. Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. -6. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.Paul's Final Instructions and Greetings +6. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. + +Paul's Final Instructions and Greetings + 7. Tychicus will give you a full report about how I am getting along. He is a beloved brother and faithful helper who serves with me in the Lord's work. 8. I have sent him to you for this very purpose--to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you. @@ -26,7 +32,10 @@ 17. And say to Archippus, "Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you." 18. HERE IS MY GREETING IN MY OWN HANDWRITING--PAUL. + Remember my chains. + May God's grace be with you. + diff --git a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md index a3d3def6..cc80263a 100644 --- a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md @@ -2,8 +2,13 @@ Greetings from Paul # Chapter 1 1. This letter is from Paul, Silas, and Timothy. + We are writing to the church in Thessalonica, to you who belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. -May God give you grace and peace.The Faith of the Thessalonian Believers + +May God give you grace and peace. + +The Faith of the Thessalonian Believers + 2. We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. 3. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ. @@ -18,3 +23,4 @@ May God give you grace and peace.The Faith of the Thessalonian Believers 10. And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God's Son from heaven--Jesus, whom God raised from the dead. He is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment. + diff --git a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md index adcacafd..596dde5b 100644 --- a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md @@ -21,7 +21,10 @@ Paul Remembers His Visit 14. And then, dear brothers and sisters, you suffered persecution from your own countrymen. In this way, you imitated the believers in God's churches in Judea who, because of their belief in Christ Jesus, suffered from their own people, the Jews. 15. For some of the Jews killed the prophets, and some even killed the Lord Jesus. Now they have persecuted us, too. They fail to please God and work against all humanity -16. as they try to keep us from preaching the Good News of salvation to the Gentiles. By doing this, they continue to pile up their sins. But the anger of God has caught up with them at last.Timothy's Good Report about the Church +16. as they try to keep us from preaching the Good News of salvation to the Gentiles. By doing this, they continue to pile up their sins. But the anger of God has caught up with them at last. + +Timothy's Good Report about the Church + 17. Dear brothers and sisters, after we were separated from you for a little while (though our hearts never left you), we tried very hard to come back because of our intense longing to see you again. 18. We wanted very much to come to you, and I, Paul, tried again and again, but Satan prevented us. @@ -29,3 +32,4 @@ Paul Remembers His Visit 20. Yes, you are our pride and joy. + diff --git a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md index 73dc18fa..4d2d7791 100644 --- a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md @@ -17,3 +17,4 @@ 13. May he, as a result, make your hearts strong, blameless, and holy as you stand before God our Father when our Lord Jesus comes again with all his holy people. Amen. + diff --git a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_04.md index 7a481dcf..1e37a084 100644 --- a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_04.md @@ -15,7 +15,10 @@ Live to Please God 10. Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more. 11. Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before. -12. Then people who are not believers will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others.The Hope of the Resurrection +12. Then people who are not believers will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others. + +The Hope of the Resurrection + 13. And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. 14. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died. @@ -26,3 +29,4 @@ Live to Please God 18. So encourage each other with these words. + diff --git a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_05.md index 05e51bda..508b00d5 100644 --- a/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/52_1 Thessalonians/Chapter_05.md @@ -11,7 +11,10 @@ 9. For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. 10. Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. -11. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.Paul's Final Advice +11. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. + +Paul's Final Advice + 12. Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord's work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. 13. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other. @@ -27,7 +30,10 @@ 19. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. 20. Do not scoff at prophecies, 21. but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. -22. Stay away from every kind of evil.Paul's Final Greetings +22. Stay away from every kind of evil. + +Paul's Final Greetings + 23. Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. 24. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful. @@ -41,3 +47,4 @@ 28. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. + diff --git a/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md index 62be96d2..9b0c4842 100644 --- a/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_01.md @@ -2,9 +2,14 @@ Greetings from Paul # Chapter 1 1. This letter is from Paul, Silas, and Timothy. + We are writing to the church in Thessalonica, to you who belong to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. -2. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.Encouragement during Persecution + +2. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. + +Encouragement during Persecution + 3. Dear brothers and sisters, we can't help but thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing. 4. We proudly tell God's other churches about your endurance and faithfulness in all the persecutions and hardships you are suffering. @@ -20,3 +25,4 @@ We are writing to the church in Thessalonica, to you who belong to God our Fathe 12. Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ. + diff --git a/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md index 79d9184c..2f23d761 100644 --- a/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_02.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ Events prior to the Lord's Second Coming 9. This man will come to do the work of Satan with counterfeit power and signs and miracles. 10. He will use every kind of evil deception to fool those on their way to destruction, because they refuse to love and accept the truth that would save them. 11. So God will cause them to be greatly deceived, and they will believe these lies. -12. Then they will be condemned for enjoying evil rather than believing the truth.Believers Should Stand Firm +12. Then they will be condemned for enjoying evil rather than believing the truth. + +Believers Should Stand Firm + 13. As for us, we can't help but thank God for you, dear brothers and sisters loved by the Lord. We are always thankful that God chose you to be among the first to experience salvation--a salvation that came through the Spirit who makes you holy and through your belief in the truth. 14. He called you to salvation when we told you the Good News; now you can share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. @@ -25,3 +28,4 @@ Events prior to the Lord's Second Coming 17. comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say. + diff --git a/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md index d2aea695..fc3196c9 100644 --- a/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/53_2 Thessalonians/Chapter_03.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ Paul's Request for Prayer 2. Pray, too, that we will be rescued from wicked and evil people, for not everyone is a believer. 3. But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. 4. And we are confident in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we commanded you. -5. May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ.An Exhortation to Proper Living +5. May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ. + +An Exhortation to Proper Living + 6. And now, dear brothers and sisters, we give you this command in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ: Stay away from all believers who live idle lives and don't follow the tradition they received from us. 7. For you know that you ought to imitate us. We were not idle when we were with you. @@ -18,7 +21,10 @@ Paul's Request for Prayer 13. As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good. 14. Take note of those who refuse to obey what we say in this letter. Stay away from them so they will be ashamed. -15. Don't think of them as enemies, but warn them as you would a brother or sister.Paul's Final Greetings +15. Don't think of them as enemies, but warn them as you would a brother or sister. + +Paul's Final Greetings + 16. Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all. @@ -27,3 +33,4 @@ Paul's Request for Prayer 18. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. + diff --git a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_01.md index 4e5c8233..dbdbce02 100644 --- a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,11 @@ Greetings from Paul 1. This letter is from Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, appointed by the command of God our Savior and Christ Jesus, who gives us hope. 2. I am writing to Timothy, my true son in the faith. -May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace.Warnings against False Teachings + +May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace. + +Warnings against False Teachings + 3. When I left for Macedonia, I urged you to stay there in Ephesus and stop those whose teaching is contrary to the truth. 4. Don't let them waste their time in endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees. These things only lead to meaningless speculations, which don't help people live a life of faith in God. @@ -16,7 +20,10 @@ May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace.Wa 8. We know that the law is good when used correctly. 9. For the law was not intended for people who do what is right. It is for people who are lawless and rebellious, who are ungodly and sinful, who consider nothing sacred and defile what is holy, who kill their father or mother or commit other murders. 10. The law is for people who are sexually immoral, or who practice homosexuality, or are slave traders, liars, promise breakers, or who do anything else that contradicts the wholesome teaching -11. that comes from the glorious Good News entrusted to me by our blessed God.Paul's Gratitude for God's Mercy +11. that comes from the glorious Good News entrusted to me by our blessed God. + +Paul's Gratitude for God's Mercy + 12. I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, 13. even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. @@ -24,10 +31,14 @@ May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace.Wa 15. This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners"--and I am the worst of them all. 16. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. -17. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.Timothy's Responsibility +17. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen. + +Timothy's Responsibility + 18. Timothy, my son, here are my instructions for you, based on the prophetic words spoken about you earlier. May they help you fight well in the Lord's battles. 19. Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. 20. Hymenaeus and Alexander are two examples. I threw them out and handed them over to Satan so they might learn not to blaspheme God. + diff --git a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_02.md index 2072bd2d..7c5e0ec6 100644 --- a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_02.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ Instructions about Worship 5. For, There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity--the man Christ Jesus. 6. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. + This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. + 7. And I have been chosen as a preacher and apostle to teach the Gentiles this message about faith and truth. I'm not exaggerating--just telling the truth. 8. In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy. @@ -23,3 +25,4 @@ This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. 15. But women will be saved through childbearing, assuming they continue to live in faith, love, holiness, and modesty. + diff --git a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_03.md index fbb992d0..46ec349a 100644 --- a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_03.md @@ -17,7 +17,10 @@ Leaders in the Church 11. In the same way, their wives must be respected and must not slander others. They must exercise self-control and be faithful in everything they do. 12. A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well. -13. Those who do well as deacons will be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.The Truths of Our Faith +13. Those who do well as deacons will be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus. + +The Truths of Our Faith + 14. I am writing these things to you now, even though I hope to be with you soon, 15. so that if I am delayed, you will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth. @@ -25,9 +28,14 @@ Leaders in the Church 16. Without question, this is the great mystery of our faith: Christ was revealed in a human body and vindicated by the Spirit. + He was seen by angels - and announced to the nations. + +and announced to the nations. + He was believed in throughout the world - and taken to heaven in glory. + +and taken to heaven in glory. + diff --git a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_04.md index c1597e82..b2b4a92d 100644 --- a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_04.md @@ -6,7 +6,10 @@ Warnings against False Teachers 3. They will say it is wrong to be married and wrong to eat certain foods. But God created those foods to be eaten with thanks by faithful people who know the truth. 4. Since everything God created is good, we should not reject any of it but receive it with thanks. -5. For we know it is made acceptable by the word of God and prayer.A Good Servant of Christ Jesus +5. For we know it is made acceptable by the word of God and prayer. + +A Good Servant of Christ Jesus + 6. If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed. 7. Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. @@ -23,3 +26,4 @@ Warnings against False Teachers 16. Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you. + diff --git a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_05.md index e3e86741..108d8f2e 100644 --- a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_05.md @@ -40,3 +40,4 @@ Advice about Widows, Elders, and Slaves 25. In the same way, the good deeds of some people are obvious. And the good deeds done in secret will someday come to light. + diff --git a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_06.md index 01ea6641..b4fb9db1 100644 --- a/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/54_1 Timothy/Chapter_06.md @@ -1,7 +1,10 @@ # Chapter 6 1. All slaves should show full respect for their masters so they will not bring shame on the name of God and his teaching. -2. If the masters are believers, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. Those slaves should work all the harder because their efforts are helping other believers who are well loved.False Teaching and True Riches +2. If the masters are believers, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. Those slaves should work all the harder because their efforts are helping other believers who are well loved. + +False Teaching and True Riches Teach these things, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them. + 3. Some people may contradict our teaching, but these are the wholesome teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. These teachings promote a godly life. 4. Anyone who teaches something different is arrogant and lacks understanding. Such a person has an unhealthy desire to quibble over the meaning of words. This stirs up arguments ending in jealousy, division, slander, and evil suspicions. 5. These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they have turned their backs on the truth. To them, a show of godliness is just a way to become wealthy. @@ -11,7 +14,10 @@ Teach these things, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them. 8. So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content. 9. But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. -10. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.Paul's Final Instructions +10. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. + +Paul's Final Instructions + 11. But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. 12. Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses. @@ -19,6 +25,7 @@ Teach these things, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them. 14. that you obey this command without wavering. Then no one can find fault with you from now until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. 15. For, At just the right time Christ will be revealed from heaven by the blessed and only almighty God, the King of all kings and Lord of all lords. + 16. He alone can never die, and he lives in light so brilliant that no human can approach him. No human eye has ever seen him, nor ever will. All honor and power to him forever! Amen. 17. Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. @@ -27,6 +34,8 @@ At just the right time Christ will be revealed from heaven by the blessed and on 20. Timothy, guard what God has entrusted to you. Avoid godless, foolish discussions with those who oppose you with their so-called knowledge. 21. Some people have wandered from the faith by following such foolishness. + May God's grace be with you all. + diff --git a/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_01.md index 0b0a726c..66b0cb98 100644 --- a/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,11 @@ Greetings from Paul 1. This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus. I have been sent out to tell others about the life he has promised through faith in Christ Jesus. 2. I am writing to Timothy, my dear son. -May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace.Encouragement to Be Faithful + +May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace. + +Encouragement to Be Faithful + 3. Timothy, I thank God for you--the God I serve with a clear conscience, just as my ancestors did. Night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4. I long to see you again, for I remember your tears as we parted. And I will be filled with joy when we are together again. @@ -30,3 +34,4 @@ May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace.En 18. May the Lord show him special kindness on the day of Christ's return. And you know very well how helpful he was in Ephesus. + diff --git a/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_02.md index f8b6b1a7..2609a352 100644 --- a/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_02.md @@ -16,18 +16,30 @@ A Good Soldier of Christ Jesus 11. This is a trustworthy saying: If we die with him, - we will also live with him. + +we will also live with him. + 12. If we endure hardship, - we will reign with him. + +we will reign with him. + If we deny him, - he will deny us. + +he will deny us. + 13. If we are unfaithful, - he remains faithful, - for he cannot deny who he is. + +he remains faithful, + +for he cannot deny who he is. + + +14. Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God's presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them. + +An Approved Worker -14. Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God's presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them.An Approved Worker 15. Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. 16. Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior. @@ -47,3 +59,4 @@ If we deny him, 26. Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil's trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. + diff --git a/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_03.md index 98a22bf3..c9c13092 100644 --- a/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_03.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ The Dangers of the Last Days 6. They are the kind who work their way into people's homes and win the confidence of vulnerable women who are burdened with the guilt of sin and controlled by various desires. 7. (Such women are forever following new teachings, but they are never able to understand the truth.) 8. These teachers oppose the truth just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses. They have depraved minds and a counterfeit faith. -9. But they won't get away with this for long. Someday everyone will recognize what fools they are, just as with Jannes and Jambres.Paul's Charge to Timothy +9. But they won't get away with this for long. Someday everyone will recognize what fools they are, just as with Jannes and Jambres. + +Paul's Charge to Timothy + 10. But you, Timothy, certainly know what I teach, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance. 11. You know how much persecution and suffering I have endured. You know all about how I was persecuted in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra--but the Lord rescued me from all of it. @@ -23,3 +26,4 @@ The Dangers of the Last Days 17. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. + diff --git a/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_04.md index 7b5cfda9..9e0d05f2 100644 --- a/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/55_2 Timothy/Chapter_04.md @@ -9,7 +9,10 @@ 6. As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. -8. And now the prize awaits me--the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.Paul's Final Words +8. And now the prize awaits me--the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. + +Paul's Final Words + 9. Timothy, please come as soon as you can. 10. Demas has deserted me because he loves the things of this life and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus has gone to Dalmatia. @@ -22,7 +25,10 @@ 16. The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. Everyone abandoned me. May it not be counted against them. 17. But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death. -18. Yes, and the Lord will deliver me from every evil attack and will bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.Paul's Final Greetings +18. Yes, and the Lord will deliver me from every evil attack and will bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen. + +Paul's Final Greetings + 19. Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila and those living in the household of Onesiphorus. 20. Erastus stayed at Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick at Miletus. @@ -32,3 +38,4 @@ 22. May the Lord be with your spirit. And may his grace be with all of you. + diff --git a/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_01.md index 0914b1ea..97c5734b 100644 --- a/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_01.md @@ -6,7 +6,11 @@ Greetings from Paul 3. And now at just the right time he has revealed this message, which we announce to everyone. It is by the command of God our Savior that I have been entrusted with this work for him. 4. I am writing to Titus, my true son in the faith that we share. -May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior give you grace and peace.Titus's Work in Crete + +May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior give you grace and peace. + +Titus's Work in Crete + 5. I left you on the island of Crete so you could complete our work there and appoint elders in each town as I instructed you. 6. An elder must live a blameless life. He must be faithful to his wife, and his children must be believers who don't have a reputation for being wild or rebellious. @@ -25,3 +29,4 @@ May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior give you grace and peace.Titus's 16. Such people claim they know God, but they deny him by the way they live. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good. + diff --git a/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_02.md index 2dc73b72..caaa8634 100644 --- a/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_02.md @@ -23,3 +23,4 @@ Promote Right Teaching 15. You must teach these things and encourage the believers to do them. You have the authority to correct them when necessary, so don't let anyone disregard what you say. + diff --git a/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_03.md index ac3bb1c6..2880974b 100644 --- a/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/56_Titus/Chapter_03.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ Do What Is Good 3. Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy, and we hated each other. 4. But-- When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, + 5. he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. 6. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7. Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life. @@ -15,13 +16,18 @@ When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 9. Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time. 10. If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them. -11. For people like that have turned away from the truth, and their own sins condemn them.Paul's Final Remarks and Greetings +11. For people like that have turned away from the truth, and their own sins condemn them. + +Paul's Final Remarks and Greetings + 12. I am planning to send either Artemas or Tychicus to you. As soon as one of them arrives, do your best to meet me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to stay there for the winter. 13. Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need. 14. Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive. 15. Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to the believers--all who love us. + May God's grace be with you all. + diff --git a/NLT/57_Philemon/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/57_Philemon/Chapter_01.md index 18528f5a..7508cad3 100644 --- a/NLT/57_Philemon/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/57_Philemon/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,15 +1,24 @@ Greetings from Paul + 1. This letter is from Paul, a prisoner for preaching the Good News about Christ Jesus, and from our brother Timothy. + I am writing to Philemon, our beloved co-worker, + 2. and to our sister Apphia, and to our fellow soldier Archippus, and to the church that meets in your house. -3. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer +3. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. + +Paul's Thanksgiving and Prayer + 4. I always thank my God when I pray for you, Philemon, 5. because I keep hearing about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of God's people. 6. And I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith as you understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ. -7. Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God's people.Paul's Appeal for Onesimus +7. Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God's people. + +Paul's Appeal for Onesimus + 8. That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do. 9. But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you. Consider this as a request from me--Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus. @@ -30,7 +39,10 @@ I am writing to Philemon, our beloved co-worker, 20. Yes, my brother, please do me this favor for the Lord's sake. Give me this encouragement in Christ. 21. I am confident as I write this letter that you will do what I ask and even more! -22. One more thing--please prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping that God will answer your prayers and let me return to you soon.Paul's Final Greetings +22. One more thing--please prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping that God will answer your prayers and let me return to you soon. + +Paul's Final Greetings + 23. Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings. 24. So do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my co-workers. @@ -38,3 +50,4 @@ I am writing to Philemon, our beloved co-worker, 25. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_01.md index 6f2327f2..0c84a942 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ Jesus Christ Is God's Son 1. Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. 2. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe. 3. The Son radiates God's own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven. -4. This shows that the Son is far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave him is greater than their names.The Son Is Greater Than the Angels +4. This shows that the Son is far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave him is greater than their names. + +The Son Is Greater Than the Angels + 5. For God never said to any angel what he said to Jesus: "You are my Son. @@ -22,29 +25,40 @@ God also said, 8. But to the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever. - You rule with a scepter of justice. + +You rule with a scepter of justice. + 9. You love justice and hate evil. - Therefore, O God, your God has anointed you, + +Therefore, O God, your God has anointed you, pouring out the oil of joy on you more than on anyone else." 10. He also says to the Son, "In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundation of the earth - and made the heavens with your hands. + +and made the heavens with your hands. + 11. They will perish, but you remain forever. - They will wear out like old clothing. + +They will wear out like old clothing. + 12. You will fold them up like a cloak - and discard them like old clothing. + +and discard them like old clothing. + But you are always the same; you will live forever." 13. And God never said to any of the angels, "Sit in the place of honor at my right hand - until I humble your enemies, + +until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet." 14. Therefore, angels are only servants--spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_02.md index 398f0887..4a46eb5e 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_02.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ A Warning against Drifting Away 1. So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. 2. For the message God delivered through angels has always stood firm, and every violation of the law and every act of disobedience was punished. 3. So what makes us think we can escape if we ignore this great salvation that was first announced by the Lord Jesus himself and then delivered to us by those who heard him speak? -4. And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose.Jesus, the Man +4. And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose. + +Jesus, the Man + 5. And furthermore, it is not angels who will control the future world we are talking about. 6. For in one place the Scriptures say, @@ -16,6 +19,7 @@ A Warning against Drifting Away 8. You gave them authority over all things." Now when it says "all things," it means nothing is left out. But we have not yet seen all things put under their authority. + 9. What we do see is Jesus, who for a little while was given a position "a little lower than the angels"; and because he suffered death for us, he is now "crowned with glory and honor." Yes, by God's grace, Jesus tasted death for everyone. 10. God, for whom and through whom everything was made, chose to bring many children into glory. And it was only right that he should make Jesus, through his suffering, a perfect leader, fit to bring them into their salvation. @@ -36,3 +40,4 @@ Now when it says "all things," it means nothing is left out. But we have not yet 18. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_03.md index 5e45ed56..296543b3 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_03.md @@ -13,16 +13,24 @@ Jesus Is Greater Than Moses 7. That is why the Holy Spirit says, "Today when you hear his voice, -8. don't harden your hearts + +8. +don't harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled, - when they tested me in the wilderness. + +when they tested me in the wilderness. + 9. There your ancestors tested and tried my patience, - even though they saw my miracles for forty years. + +even though they saw my miracles for forty years. + 10. So I was angry with them, and I said, 'Their hearts always turn away from me. - They refuse to do what I tell them.' + +They refuse to do what I tell them.' + 11. So in my anger I took an oath: 'They will never enter my place of rest.'" @@ -32,7 +40,8 @@ as Israel did when they rebelled, 14. For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. 15. Remember what it says: "Today when you hear his voice, - don't harden your hearts + +don't harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled." 16. And who was it who rebelled against God, even though they heard his voice? Wasn't it the people Moses led out of Egypt? @@ -41,3 +50,4 @@ as Israel did when they rebelled, 19. So we see that because of their unbelief they were not able to enter his rest. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_04.md index 3710c846..24b1c1ae 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_04.md @@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ Promised Rest for God's People "In my anger I took an oath: 'They will never enter my place of rest,'" even though this rest has been ready since he made the world. + 4. We know it is ready because of the place in the Scriptures where it mentions the seventh day: "On the seventh day God rested from all his work." 5. But in the other passage God said, "They will never enter my place of rest." @@ -21,10 +22,14 @@ even though this rest has been ready since he made the world. 11. So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall. 12. For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. -13. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.Christ Is Our High Priest +13. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable. + +Christ Is Our High Priest + 14. So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. 15. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_05.md index fc4f7150..0b1b2913 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_05.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ 7. While Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death. And God heard his prayers because of his deep reverence for God. 8. Even though Jesus was God's Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered. 9. In this way, God qualified him as a perfect High Priest, and he became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey him. -10. And God designated him to be a High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.A Call to Spiritual Growth +10. And God designated him to be a High Priest in the order of Melchizedek. + +A Call to Spiritual Growth + 11. There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don't seem to listen. 12. You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. @@ -22,3 +25,4 @@ 14. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_06.md index 28a8623c..958c0758 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_06.md @@ -13,7 +13,10 @@ 9. Dear friends, even though we are talking this way, we really don't believe it applies to you. We are confident that you are meant for better things, things that come with salvation. 10. For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do. 11. Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. -12. Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God's promises because of their faith and endurance.God's Promises Bring Hope +12. Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God's promises because of their faith and endurance. + +God's Promises Bring Hope + 13. For example, there was God's promise to Abraham. Since there was no one greater to swear by, God took an oath in his own name, saying: @@ -29,3 +32,4 @@ 20. Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_07.md index 7b7d1d94..baccc462 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_07.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ Melchizedek Is Greater Than Abraham 12. And if the priesthood is changed, the law must also be changed to permit it. 13. For the priest we are talking about belongs to a different tribe, whose members have never served at the altar as priests. -14. What I mean is, our Lord came from the tribe of Judah, and Moses never mentioned priests coming from that tribe.Jesus Is like Melchizedek +14. What I mean is, our Lord came from the tribe of Judah, and Moses never mentioned priests coming from that tribe. + +Jesus Is like Melchizedek + 15. This change has been made very clear since a different priest, who is like Melchizedek, has appeared. 16. Jesus became a priest, not by meeting the physical requirement of belonging to the tribe of Levi, but by the power of a life that cannot be destroyed. @@ -44,3 +47,4 @@ Melchizedek Is Greater Than Abraham 28. The law appointed high priests who were limited by human weakness. But after the law was given, God appointed his Son with an oath, and his Son has been made the perfect High Priest forever. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_08.md index c209d246..426b41ae 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_08.md @@ -13,28 +13,40 @@ Christ Is Our High Priest 7. If the first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no need for a second covenant to replace it. 8. But when God found fault with the people, he said: "The day is coming, says the LORD, - when I will make a new covenant - with the people of Israel and Judah. + +when I will make a new covenant + +with the people of Israel and Judah. + 9. This covenant will not be like the one - I made with their ancestors + +I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand - and led them out of the land of Egypt. + +and led them out of the land of Egypt. + They did not remain faithful to my covenant, so I turned my back on them, says the LORD. 10. But this is the new covenant I will make with the people of Israel on that day, says the LORD: I will put my laws in their minds, - and I will write them on their hearts. + +and I will write them on their hearts. + I will be their God, - and they will be my people. + +and they will be my people. + 11. And they will not need to teach their neighbors, nor will they need to teach their relatives, saying, 'You should know the LORD.' For everyone, from the least to the greatest, - will know me already. + +will know me already. + 12. And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins." @@ -42,3 +54,4 @@ For everyone, from the least to the greatest, 13. When God speaks of a "new" covenant, it means he has made the first one obsolete. It is now out of date and will soon disappear. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_09.md index 96081130..c82ecd99 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_09.md @@ -12,7 +12,10 @@ Old Rules about Worship 8. By these regulations the Holy Spirit revealed that the entrance to the Most Holy Place was not freely open as long as the Tabernacle and the system it represented were still in use. 9. This is an illustration pointing to the present time. For the gifts and sacrifices that the priests offer are not able to cleanse the consciences of the people who bring them. -10. For that old system deals only with food and drink and various cleansing ceremonies--physical regulations that were in effect only until a better system could be established.Christ Is the Perfect Sacrifice +10. For that old system deals only with food and drink and various cleansing ceremonies--physical regulations that were in effect only until a better system could be established. + +Christ Is the Perfect Sacrifice + 11. So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. 12. With his own blood--not the blood of goats and calves--he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever. @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ Old Rules about Worship 28. so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_10.md index 85461a48..6066f3ab 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_10.md @@ -8,10 +8,14 @@ Christ's Sacrifice Once for All 4. For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. 5. That is why, when Christ came into the world, he said to God, "You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings. - But you have given me a body to offer. + +But you have given me a body to offer. + 6. You were not pleased with burnt offerings - or other offerings for sin. + +or other offerings for sin. + 7. Then I said, 'Look, I have come to do your will, O God-- as is written about me in the Scriptures.'" @@ -36,7 +40,10 @@ I will put my laws in their hearts, "I will never again remember their sins and lawless deeds." -18. And when sins have been forgiven, there is no need to offer any more sacrifices.A Call to Persevere +18. And when sins have been forgiven, there is no need to offer any more sacrifices. + +A Call to Persevere + 19. And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. 20. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. @@ -67,7 +74,9 @@ He also said, 36. Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. 37. "For in just a little while, - the Coming One will come and not delay. + +the Coming One will come and not delay. + 38. And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away." @@ -75,3 +84,4 @@ He also said, 39. But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_11.md index 6878b0cc..3a96a415 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_11.md @@ -53,7 +53,9 @@ Great Examples of Faith 33. By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, 34. quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight. 35. Women received their loved ones back again from death. + But others were tortured, refusing to turn from God in order to be set free. They placed their hope in a better life after the resurrection. + 36. Some were jeered at, and their backs were cut open with whips. Others were chained in prisons. 37. Some died by stoning, some were sawed in half, and others were killed with the sword. Some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats, destitute and oppressed and mistreated. 38. They were too good for this world, wandering over deserts and mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground. @@ -62,3 +64,4 @@ But others were tortured, refusing to turn from God in order to be set free. The 40. For God had something better in mind for us, so that they would not reach perfection without us. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_12.md index f6b3a60f..3ea6f3b9 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_12.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ God's Discipline Proves His Love 5. And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, "My child, don't make light of the LORD's discipline, - and don't give up when he corrects you. + +and don't give up when he corrects you. + 6. For the LORD disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child." @@ -21,7 +23,10 @@ God's Discipline Proves His Love 11. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening--it's painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. 12. So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. -13. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.A Call to Listen to God +13. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong. + +A Call to Listen to God + 14. Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. 15. Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. @@ -45,3 +50,4 @@ God's Discipline Proves His Love 29. For our God is a devouring fire. + diff --git a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_13.md index 2f100bec..bccb1bec 100644 --- a/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/58_Hebrews/Chapter_13.md @@ -13,7 +13,8 @@ Concluding Words 6. So we can say with confidence, "The LORD is my helper, - so I will have no fear. + +so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?" 7. Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith. @@ -36,16 +37,22 @@ Concluding Words 19. And especially pray that I will be able to come back to you soon. 20. Now may the God of peace-- - who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, + +who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, - and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood-- + +and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood-- 21. may he equip you with all you need - for doing his will. + +for doing his will. May he produce in you, - through the power of Jesus Christ, + +through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. - All glory to him forever and ever! Amen. + +All glory to him forever and ever! Amen. + 22. I urge you, dear brothers and sisters, to pay attention to what I have written in this brief exhortation. @@ -56,3 +63,4 @@ every good thing that is pleasing to him. 25. May God's grace be with you all. + diff --git a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_01.md index 6faf6978..632bbfe6 100644 --- a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_01.md @@ -3,7 +3,10 @@ Greetings from James # Chapter 1 1. This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the "twelve tribes"--Jewish believers scattered abroad. -Greetings!Faith and Endurance + +Greetings! +Faith and Endurance + 2. Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. @@ -25,7 +28,10 @@ Greetings!Faith and Endurance 16. So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. 17. Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. -18. He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession.Listening and Doing +18. He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession. + +Listening and Doing + 19. Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. @@ -40,3 +46,4 @@ Greetings!Faith and Endurance 27. Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. + diff --git a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_02.md index 732ae852..c42fc6f2 100644 --- a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_02.md @@ -18,7 +18,10 @@ A Warning against Prejudice 11. For the same God who said, "You must not commit adultery," also said, "You must not murder." So if you murder someone but do not commit adultery, you have still broken the law. 12. So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free. -13. There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.Faith without Good Deeds Is Dead +13. There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you. + +Faith without Good Deeds Is Dead + 14. What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don't show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15. Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, @@ -40,3 +43,4 @@ A Warning against Prejudice 26. Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works. + diff --git a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_03.md index be431095..5c5c4ec6 100644 --- a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_03.md @@ -7,7 +7,9 @@ Controlling the Tongue 3. We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. 4. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. 5. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. + But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. + 6. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. 7. People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, @@ -15,7 +17,10 @@ But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. 9. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. 10. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! 11. Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? -12. Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can't draw fresh water from a salty spring.True Wisdom Comes from God +12. Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can't draw fresh water from a salty spring. + +True Wisdom Comes from God + 13. If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. 14. But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don't cover up the truth with boasting and lying. @@ -26,3 +31,4 @@ But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. 18. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. + diff --git a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_04.md index 3bbe3cc3..a67e4dce 100644 --- a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_04.md @@ -14,10 +14,15 @@ Drawing Close to God 7. So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. 9. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. -10. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.Warning against Judging Others +10. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. + +Warning against Judging Others + 11. Don't speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters. If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God's law. But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you. -12. God alone, who gave the law, is the Judge. He alone has the power to save or to destroy. So what right do you have to judge your neighbor?Warning about Self-Confidence +12. God alone, who gave the law, is the Judge. He alone has the power to save or to destroy. So what right do you have to judge your neighbor? +Warning about Self-Confidence + 13. Look here, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit." 14. How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog--it's here a little while, then it's gone. @@ -27,3 +32,4 @@ Drawing Close to God 17. Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. + diff --git a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_05.md index a1136401..06964a45 100644 --- a/NLT/59_James/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/59_James/Chapter_05.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ Warning to the Rich 4. For listen! Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the LORD of Heaven's Armies. 5. You have spent your years on earth in luxury, satisfying your every desire. You have fattened yourselves for the day of slaughter. -6. You have condemned and killed innocent people, who do not resist you.Patience and Endurance +6. You have condemned and killed innocent people, who do not resist you. + +Patience and Endurance + 7. Dear brothers and sisters, be patient as you wait for the Lord's return. Consider the farmers who patiently wait for the rains in the fall and in the spring. They eagerly look for the valuable harvest to ripen. 8. You, too, must be patient. Take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near. @@ -17,7 +20,10 @@ Warning to the Rich 10. For examples of patience in suffering, dear brothers and sisters, look at the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11. We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. For instance, you know about Job, a man of great endurance. You can see how the Lord was kind to him at the end, for the Lord is full of tenderness and mercy. -12. But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.The Power of Prayer +12. But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned. + +The Power of Prayer + 13. Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. 14. Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. @@ -25,9 +31,13 @@ Warning to the Rich 16. Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. 17. Elijah was as human as we are, and yet when he prayed earnestly that no rain would fall, none fell for three and a half years! -18. Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops.Restore Wandering Believers +18. Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops. + +Restore Wandering Believers + 19. My dear brothers and sisters, if someone among you wanders away from the truth and is brought back, 20. you can be sure that whoever brings the sinner back from wandering will save that person from death and bring about the forgiveness of many sins. + diff --git a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_01.md index 909e6e65..f3aeaf76 100644 --- a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,11 @@ Greetings from Peter 1. This letter is from Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ. I am writing to God's chosen people who are living as foreigners in the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. 2. God the Father knew you and chose you long ago, and his Spirit has made you holy. As a result, you have obeyed him and have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. -May God give you more and more grace and peace.The Hope of Eternal Life + +May God give you more and more grace and peace. + +The Hope of Eternal Life + 3. All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, 4. and we have a priceless inheritance--an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. @@ -19,7 +23,10 @@ May God give you more and more grace and peace.The Hope of Eternal Life 10. This salvation was something even the prophets wanted to know more about when they prophesied about this gracious salvation prepared for you. 11. They wondered what time or situation the Spirit of Christ within them was talking about when he told them in advance about Christ's suffering and his great glory afterward. -12. They were told that their messages were not for themselves, but for you. And now this Good News has been announced to you by those who preached in the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. It is all so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching these things happen.A Call to Holy Living +12. They were told that their messages were not for themselves, but for you. And now this Good News has been announced to you by those who preached in the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. It is all so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching these things happen. + +A Call to Holy Living + 13. So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 14. So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn't know any better then. @@ -38,10 +45,14 @@ May God give you more and more grace and peace.The Hope of Eternal Life 23. For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God. 24. As the Scriptures say, "People are like grass; - their beauty is like a flower in the field. + +their beauty is like a flower in the field. + The grass withers and the flower fades. + 25. But the word of the Lord remains forever." And that word is the Good News that was preached to you. + diff --git a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_02.md index 304ab033..4211df74 100644 --- a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_02.md @@ -1,14 +1,18 @@ # Chapter 2 1. So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech. 2. Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, -3. now that you have had a taste of the Lord's kindness.Living Stones for God's House +3. now that you have had a taste of the Lord's kindness. + +Living Stones for God's House + 4. You are coming to Christ, who is the living cornerstone of God's temple. He was rejected by people, but he was chosen by God for great honor. 5. And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What's more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God. 6. As the Scriptures say, "I am placing a cornerstone in Jerusalem, - chosen for great honor, + +chosen for great honor, and anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." @@ -21,22 +25,31 @@ and anyone who trusts in him the rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they do not obey God's word, and so they meet the fate that was planned for them. + 9. But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 10. "Once you had no identity as a people; - now you are God's people. + +now you are God's people. + Once you received no mercy; now you have received God's mercy." 11. Dear friends, I warn you as "temporary residents and foreigners" to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. -12. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.Respecting People in Authority +12. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world. + +Respecting People in Authority + 13. For the Lord's sake, submit to all human authority--whether the king as head of state, 14. or the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish those who do wrong and to honor those who do right. 15. It is God's will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. 16. For you are free, yet you are God's slaves, so don't use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. -17. Respect everyone, and love the family of believers. Fear God, and respect the king.Slaves +17. Respect everyone, and love the family of believers. Fear God, and respect the king. + +Slaves + 18. You who are slaves must submit to your masters with all respect. Do what they tell you--not only if they are kind and reasonable, but even if they are cruel. 19. For God is pleased when, conscious of his will, you patiently endure unjust treatment. @@ -48,20 +61,33 @@ Once you received no mercy; nor ever deceived anyone. 23. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, - nor threaten revenge when he suffered. + +nor threaten revenge when he suffered. + He left his case in the hands of God, - who always judges fairly. + +who always judges fairly. + 24. He personally carried our sins - in his body on the cross + +in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin - and live for what is right. + +and live for what is right. + By his wounds - you are healed. + +you are healed. + 25. Once you were like sheep - who wandered away. + +who wandered away. + But now you have turned to your Shepherd, - the Guardian of your souls. + +the Guardian of your souls. + diff --git a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_03.md index f720721e..e31ada3a 100644 --- a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_03.md @@ -7,25 +7,39 @@ Wives 3. Don't be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. 4. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. 5. This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful. They put their trust in God and accepted the authority of their husbands. -6. For instance, Sarah obeyed her husband, Abraham, and called him her master. You are her daughters when you do what is right without fear of what your husbands might do.Husbands +6. For instance, Sarah obeyed her husband, Abraham, and called him her master. You are her daughters when you do what is right without fear of what your husbands might do. + +Husbands + + +7. In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. + +All Christians -7. In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered.All Christians 8. Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. 9. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing. 10. For the Scriptures say, "If you want to enjoy life - and see many happy days, + +and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil - and your lips from telling lies. + +and your lips from telling lies. + 11. Turn away from evil and do good. - Search for peace, and work to maintain it. + +Search for peace, and work to maintain it. + 12. The eyes of the LORD watch over those who do right, - and his ears are open to their prayers. + +and his ears are open to their prayers. But the LORD turns his face - against those who do evil."Suffering for Doing Good + against those who do evil." +Suffering for Doing Good + 13. Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14. But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats. @@ -42,3 +56,4 @@ But the LORD turns his face 22. Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept his authority. + diff --git a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_04.md index 00f40338..aca78e5c 100644 --- a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_04.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ Living for God 9. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. 10. God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. -11. Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.Suffering for Being a Christian +11. Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen. + +Suffering for Being a Christian + 12. Dear friends, don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. 13. Instead, be very glad--for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. @@ -30,3 +33,4 @@ Living for God 19. So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you. + diff --git a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_05.md index cc073b82..5c0d488a 100644 --- a/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/60_1 Peter/Chapter_05.md @@ -17,12 +17,17 @@ Advice for Elders and Young Men 9. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are. 10. In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. -11. All power to him forever! Amen.Peter's Final Greetings +11. All power to him forever! Amen. + +Peter's Final Greetings + 12. I have written and sent this short letter to you with the help of Silas, whom I commend to you as a faithful brother. My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that what you are experiencing is truly part of God's grace for you. Stand firm in this grace. 13. Your sister church here in Babylon sends you greetings, and so does my son Mark. 14. Greet each other with a kiss of love. + Peace be with all of you who are in Christ. + diff --git a/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_01.md index f8051663..d10ce2c5 100644 --- a/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ Greetings from Peter 1. This letter is from Simon Peter, a slave and apostle of Jesus Christ. I am writing to you who share the same precious faith we have. This faith was given to you because of the justice and fairness of Jesus Christ, our God and Savior. -2. May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord.Growing in Faith +2. May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. + +Growing in Faith + 3. By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world's corruption caused by human desires. @@ -17,7 +20,10 @@ I am writing to you who share the same precious faith we have. This faith was gi 9. But those who fail to develop in this way are shortsighted or blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their old sins. 10. So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. -11. Then God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.Paying Attention to Scripture +11. Then God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. + +Paying Attention to Scripture + 12. Therefore, I will always remind you about these things--even though you already know them and are standing firm in the truth you have been taught. 13. And it is only right that I should keep on reminding you as long as I live. @@ -33,3 +39,4 @@ I am writing to you who share the same precious faith we have. This faith was gi 21. or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God. + diff --git a/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_02.md index d4227428..d7025ec2 100644 --- a/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_02.md @@ -29,3 +29,4 @@ These people are proud and arrogant, daring even to scoff at supernatural beings 22. They prove the truth of this proverb: "A dog returns to its vomit." And another says, "A washed pig returns to the mud." + diff --git a/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_03.md index 652553d4..83aa674a 100644 --- a/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/61_2 Peter/Chapter_03.md @@ -22,10 +22,15 @@ The Day of the Lord Is Coming 14. And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight. 15. And remember, our Lord's patience gives people time to be saved. This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him-- -16. speaking of these things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. And this will result in their destruction.Peter's Final Words +16. speaking of these things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. And this will result in their destruction. + +Peter's Final Words + 17. You already know these things, dear friends. So be on guard; then you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing. 18. Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. + All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen. + diff --git a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_01.md index 2265e45c..bbac1cc8 100644 --- a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,7 +4,10 @@ Introduction 1. We proclaim to you the one who existed from the beginning, whom we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and touched him with our own hands. He is the Word of life. 2. This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us. 3. We proclaim to you what we ourselves have actually seen and heard so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. -4. We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy.Living in the Light +4. We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy. + +Living in the Light + 5. This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all. 6. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth. @@ -15,3 +18,4 @@ Introduction 10. If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts. + diff --git a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_02.md index 72194ba9..3a0cf450 100644 --- a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_02.md @@ -5,7 +5,10 @@ 3. And we can be sure that we know him if we obey his commandments. 4. If someone claims, "I know God," but doesn't obey God's commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth. 5. But those who obey God's word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him. -6. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.A New Commandment +6. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did. + +A New Commandment + 7. Dear friends, I am not writing a new commandment for you; rather it is an old one you have had from the very beginning. This old commandment--to love one another--is the same message you heard before. 8. Yet it is also new. Jesus lived the truth of this commandment, and you also are living it. For the darkness is disappearing, and the true light is already shining. @@ -18,22 +21,39 @@ because your sins have been forgiven through Jesus. 13. I am writing to you who are mature in the faith - because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. + +because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. + I am writing to you who are young in the faith - because you have won your battle with the evil one. + +because you have won your battle with the evil one. + 14. I have written to you who are God's children - because you know the Father. + +because you know the Father. + I have written to you who are mature in the faith - because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. + +because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. + I have written to you who are young in the faith - because you are strong. + +because you are strong. + God's word lives in your hearts, - and you have won your battle with the evil one.Do Not Love This World + +and you have won your battle with the evil one. + +Do Not Love This World + 15. Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. -17. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.Warning about Antichrists +17. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever. + +Warning about Antichrists + 18. Dear children, the last hour is here. You have heard that the Antichrist is coming, and already many such antichrists have appeared. From this we know that the last hour has come. 19. These people left our churches, but they never really belonged with us; otherwise they would have stayed with us. When they left, it proved that they did not belong with us. @@ -47,10 +67,14 @@ God's word lives in your hearts, 25. And in this fellowship we enjoy the eternal life he promised us. 26. I am writing these things to warn you about those who want to lead you astray. -27. But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don't need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true--it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ.Living as Children of God +27. But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don't need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true--it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ. + +Living as Children of God + 28. And now, dear children, remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame. 29. Since we know that Christ is righteous, we also know that all who do what is right are God's children. + diff --git a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_03.md index 15f7cb99..8ce85cd3 100644 --- a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_03.md @@ -10,7 +10,10 @@ 7. Dear children, don't let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. 8. But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil. 9. Those who have been born into God's family do not make a practice of sinning, because God's life is in them. So they can't keep on sinning, because they are children of God. -10. So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God.Love One Another +10. So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God. + +Love One Another + 11. This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another. 12. We must not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and killed his brother. And why did he kill him? Because Cain had been doing what was evil, and his brother had been doing what was righteous. @@ -33,3 +36,4 @@ 24. Those who obey God's commandments remain in fellowship with him, and he with them. And we know he lives in us because the Spirit he gave us lives in us. + diff --git a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_04.md index d039dac6..684138e5 100644 --- a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_04.md @@ -7,7 +7,10 @@ Discerning False Prophets 4. But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. 5. Those people belong to this world, so they speak from the world's viewpoint, and the world listens to them. -6. But we belong to God, and those who know God listen to us. If they do not belong to God, they do not listen to us. That is how we know if someone has the Spirit of truth or the spirit of deception.Loving One Another +6. But we belong to God, and those who know God listen to us. If they do not belong to God, they do not listen to us. That is how we know if someone has the Spirit of truth or the spirit of deception. + +Loving One Another + 7. Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. 8. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. @@ -22,7 +25,9 @@ Discerning False Prophets 14. Furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15. All who declare that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. 16. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. + God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. + 17. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world. 18. Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. @@ -32,3 +37,4 @@ God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. 21. And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their fellow believers. + diff --git a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_05.md index b8345b92..8abcb964 100644 --- a/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/62_1 John/Chapter_05.md @@ -14,7 +14,10 @@ Faith in the Son of God 10. All who believe in the Son of God know in their hearts that this testimony is true. Those who don't believe this are actually calling God a liar because they don't believe what God has testified about his Son. 11. And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. -12. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God's Son does not have life.Conclusion +12. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God's Son does not have life. + +Conclusion + 13. I have written this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know you have eternal life. 14. And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. @@ -31,3 +34,4 @@ Faith in the Son of God 21. Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God's place in your hearts. + diff --git a/NLT/63_2 John/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/63_2 John/Chapter_01.md index e5d5b285..f95db8fa 100644 --- a/NLT/63_2 John/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/63_2 John/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,10 +1,14 @@ Greetings + 1. This letter is from John, the elder. I am writing to the chosen lady and to her children, whom I love in the truth--as does everyone else who knows the truth-- 2. because the truth lives in us and will be with us forever. -3. Grace, mercy, and peace, which come from God the Father and from Jesus Christ--the Son of the Father--will continue to be with us who live in truth and love.Live in the Truth +3. Grace, mercy, and peace, which come from God the Father and from Jesus Christ--the Son of the Father--will continue to be with us who live in truth and love. + +Live in the Truth + 4. How happy I was to meet some of your children and find them living according to the truth, just as the Father commanded. @@ -16,10 +20,15 @@ I am writing to the chosen lady and to her children, whom I love in the truth--a 9. Anyone who wanders away from this teaching has no relationship with God. But anyone who remains in the teaching of Christ has a relationship with both the Father and the Son. 10. If anyone comes to your meeting and does not teach the truth about Christ, don't invite that person into your home or give any kind of encouragement. -11. Anyone who encourages such people becomes a partner in their evil work.Conclusion +11. Anyone who encourages such people becomes a partner in their evil work. + +Conclusion + 12. I have much more to say to you, but I don't want to do it with paper and ink. For I hope to visit you soon and talk with you face to face. Then our joy will be complete. -13. Greetings from the children of your sister, chosen by God. +13. +Greetings from the children of your sister, chosen by God. + diff --git a/NLT/64_3 John/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/64_3 John/Chapter_01.md index 3c361bbf..40408458 100644 --- a/NLT/64_3 John/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/64_3 John/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,11 +1,17 @@ Greetings + 1. This letter is from John, the elder. + I am writing to Gaius, my dear friend, whom I love in the truth. + 2. Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit. 3. Some of the traveling teachers recently returned and made me very happy by telling me about your faithfulness and that you are living according to the truth. -4. I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.Caring for the Lord's Workers +4. I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth. + +Caring for the Lord's Workers + 5. Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you. 6. They have told the church here of your loving friendship. Please continue providing for such teachers in a manner that pleases God. @@ -17,12 +23,17 @@ I am writing to Gaius, my dear friend, whom I love in the truth. 11. Dear friend, don't let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God's children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God. -12. Everyone speaks highly of Demetrius, as does the truth itself. We ourselves can say the same for him, and you know we speak the truth.Conclusion +12. Everyone speaks highly of Demetrius, as does the truth itself. We ourselves can say the same for him, and you know we speak the truth. + +Conclusion + 13. I have much more to say to you, but I don't want to write it with pen and ink. 14. For I hope to see you soon, and then we will talk face to face. 15. Peace be with you. + Your friends here send you their greetings. Please give my personal greetings to each of our friends there. + diff --git a/NLT/65_Jude/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/65_Jude/Chapter_01.md index b3382e12..8016a7c7 100644 --- a/NLT/65_Jude/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/65_Jude/Chapter_01.md @@ -1,9 +1,13 @@ Greetings from Jude + 1. This letter is from Jude, a slave of Jesus Christ and a brother of James. I am writing to all who have been called by God the Father, who loves you and keeps you safe in the care of Jesus Christ. -2. May God give you more and more mercy, peace, and love.The Danger of False Teachers +2. May God give you more and more mercy, peace, and love. + +The Danger of False Teachers + 3. Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people. 4. I say this because some ungodly people have wormed their way into your churches, saying that God's marvelous grace allows us to live immoral lives. The condemnation of such people was recorded long ago, for they have denied our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. @@ -23,7 +27,10 @@ I am writing to all who have been called by God the Father, who loves you and ke 14. Enoch, who lived in the seventh generation after Adam, prophesied about these people. He said, "Listen! The Lord is coming with countless thousands of his holy ones 15. to execute judgment on the people of the world. He will convict every person of all the ungodly things they have done and for all the insults that ungodly sinners have spoken against him." -16. These people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want.A Call to Remain Faithful +16. These people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want. + +A Call to Remain Faithful + 17. But you, my dear friends, must remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ predicted. 18. They told you that in the last times there would be scoffers whose purpose in life is to satisfy their ungodly desires. @@ -33,9 +40,13 @@ I am writing to all who have been called by God the Father, who loves you and ke 21. and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love. 22. And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. -23. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.A Prayer of Praise +23. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives. + +A Prayer of Praise + 24. Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. 25. All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_01.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_01.md index 013af4f9..4cc4bafb 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_01.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_01.md @@ -4,22 +4,35 @@ Prologue 1. This is a revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants the events that must soon take place. He sent an angel to present this revelation to his servant John, 2. who faithfully reported everything he saw. This is his report of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. -3. God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near.John's Greeting to the Seven Churches +3. God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near. + +John's Greeting to the Seven Churches + 4. This letter is from John to the seven churches in the province of Asia. Grace and peace to you from the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come; from the sevenfold Spirit before his throne; 5. and from Jesus Christ. He is the faithful witness to these things, the first to rise from the dead, and the ruler of all the kings of the world. + All glory to him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by shedding his blood for us. + 6. He has made us a Kingdom of priests for God his Father. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen. 7. Look! He comes with the clouds of heaven. - And everyone will see him-- - even those who pierced him. + +And everyone will see him-- + +even those who pierced him. + And all the nations of the world - will mourn for him. + +will mourn for him. + Yes! Amen! -8. "I am the Alpha and the Omega--the beginning and the end," says the Lord God. "I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come--the Almighty One."Vision of the Son of Man + +8. "I am the Alpha and the Omega--the beginning and the end," says the Lord God. "I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come--the Almighty One." +Vision of the Son of Man + 9. I, John, am your brother and your partner in suffering and in God's Kingdom and in the patient endurance to which Jesus calls us. I was exiled to the island of Patmos for preaching the word of God and for my testimony about Jesus. 10. It was the Lord's Day, and I was worshiping in the Spirit. Suddenly, I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet blast. @@ -38,3 +51,4 @@ Yes! Amen! 20. *This is the meaning of the mystery of the seven stars you saw in my right hand and the seven gold lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.* + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_02.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_02.md index 6798660c..a997ee9a 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_02.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_02.md @@ -10,14 +10,18 @@ The Message to the Church in Ephesus 5. *Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to me and do the works you did at first. If you don't repent, I will come and remove your lampstand from its place among the churches.* 6. *But this is in your favor: You hate the evil deeds of the Nicolaitans, just as I do.* -7. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give fruit from the tree of life in the paradise of God.*The Message to the Church in Smyrna +7. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give fruit from the tree of life in the paradise of God.* +The Message to the Church in Smyrna + 8. *"Write this letter to the angel of the church in Smyrna. This is the message from the one who is the First and the Last, who was dead but is now alive:* 9. *"I know about your suffering and your poverty--but you are rich! I know the blasphemy of those opposing you. They say they are Jews, but they are not, because their synagogue belongs to Satan.* 10. *Don't be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life.* -11. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. Whoever is victorious will not be harmed by the second death.*The Message to the Church in Pergamum +11. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. Whoever is victorious will not be harmed by the second death.* +The Message to the Church in Pergamum + 12. *"Write this letter to the angel of the church in Pergamum. This is the message from the one with the sharp two-edged sword:* @@ -27,7 +31,9 @@ The Message to the Church in Ephesus 15. *In a similar way, you have some Nicolaitans among you who follow the same teaching.* 16. *Repent of your sin, or I will come to you suddenly and fight against them with the sword of my mouth.* -17. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give some of the manna that has been hidden away in heaven. And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it.*The Message to the Church in Thyatira +17. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give some of the manna that has been hidden away in heaven. And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it.* +The Message to the Church in Thyatira + 18. *"Write this letter to the angel of the church in Thyatira. This is the message from the Son of God, whose eyes are like flames of fire, whose feet are like polished bronze:* @@ -42,7 +48,8 @@ The Message to the Church in Ephesus 24. *"But I also have a message for the rest of you in Thyatira who have not followed this false teaching ('deeper truths,' as they call them--depths of Satan, actually). I will ask nothing more of you* 25. *except that you hold tightly to what you have until I come.* 26. *To all who are victorious, who obey me to the very end,* -*To them I will give authority over all the nations.* +* +To them I will give authority over all the nations.* 27. *They will rule the nations with an iron rod* *and smash them like clay pots.* @@ -52,3 +59,4 @@ The Message to the Church in Ephesus 29. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.* + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_03.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_03.md index 69b8d672..b1915cdc 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_03.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_03.md @@ -9,12 +9,17 @@ The Message to the Church in Sardis 4. *"Yet there are some in the church in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes with evil. They will walk with me in white, for they are worthy.* 5. *All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine.* -6. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.*The Message to the Church in Philadelphia +6. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.* +The Message to the Church in Philadelphia + 7. *"Write this letter to the angel of the church in Philadelphia.* -*This is the message from the one who is holy and true,* - *the one who has the key of David.* -*What he opens, no one can close;* +* +This is the message from the one who is holy and true,* + * +the one who has the key of David.* +* +What he opens, no one can close;* *and what he closes, no one can open:* 8. *"I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me.* @@ -24,7 +29,9 @@ The Message to the Church in Sardis 11. *I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take away your crown.* 12. *All who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of my God, and they will never have to leave it. And I will write on them the name of my God, and they will be citizens in the city of my God--the new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven from my God. And I will also write on them my new name.* -13. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.*The Message to the Church in Laodicea +13. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.* +The Message to the Church in Laodicea + 14. *"Write this letter to the angel of the church in Laodicea. This is the message from the one who is the Amen--the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God's new creation:* @@ -40,3 +47,4 @@ The Message to the Church in Sardis 22. *"Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches."* + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_04.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_04.md index 0de98428..99df68a4 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_04.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_04.md @@ -7,18 +7,26 @@ Worship in Heaven 4. Twenty-four thrones surrounded him, and twenty-four elders sat on them. They were all clothed in white and had gold crowns on their heads. 5. From the throne came flashes of lightning and the rumble of thunder. And in front of the throne were seven torches with burning flames. This is the sevenfold Spirit of God. 6. In front of the throne was a shiny sea of glass, sparkling like crystal. + In the center and around the throne were four living beings, each covered with eyes, front and back. + 7. The first of these living beings was like a lion; the second was like an ox; the third had a human face; and the fourth was like an eagle in flight. 8. Each of these living beings had six wings, and their wings were covered all over with eyes, inside and out. Day after day and night after night they keep on saying, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty-- - the one who always was, who is, and who is still to come." + +the one who always was, who is, and who is still to come." + 9. Whenever the living beings give glory and honor and thanks to the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever), 10. the twenty-four elders fall down and worship the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever). And they lay their crowns before the throne and say, 11. "You are worthy, O Lord our God, - to receive glory and honor and power. + +to receive glory and honor and power. + For you created all things, - and they exist because you created what you pleased." + +and they exist because you created what you pleased." + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_05.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_05.md index bd3cf0f9..7414ea6f 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_05.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_05.md @@ -13,26 +13,38 @@ The Lamb Opens the Scroll 8. And when he took the scroll, the four living beings and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they held gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of God's people. 9. And they sang a new song with these words: "You are worthy to take the scroll - and break its seals and open it. + +and break its seals and open it. + For you were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God - from every tribe and language and people and nation. + +from every tribe and language and people and nation. + 10. And you have caused them to become - a Kingdom of priests for our God. + +a Kingdom of priests for our God. And they will reign on the earth." 11. Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. 12. And they sang in a mighty chorus: "Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered-- - to receive power and riches + +to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength - and honor and glory and blessing." + +and honor and glory and blessing." + 13. And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang: "Blessing and honor and glory and power - belong to the one sitting on the throne - and to the Lamb forever and ever." + +belong to the one sitting on the throne + +and to the Lamb forever and ever." + 14. And the four living beings said, "Amen!" And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped the Lamb. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_06.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_06.md index 785f6a47..4685659b 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_06.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_06.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ The Lamb Breaks the First Six Seals 17. For the great day of their wrath has come, and who is able to survive?" + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_07.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_07.md index 9bd4a7e4..ae90ff3f 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_07.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_07.md @@ -5,19 +5,26 @@ God's People Will Be Preserved 2. And I saw another angel coming up from the east, carrying the seal of the living God. And he shouted to those four angels, who had been given power to harm land and sea, 3. "Wait! Don't harm the land or the sea or the trees until we have placed the seal of God on the foreheads of his servants." -4. And I heard how many were marked with the seal of God--144,000 were sealed from all the tribes of Israel:Praise from the Great Crowd +4. And I heard how many were marked with the seal of God--144,000 were sealed from all the tribes of Israel: +Praise from the Great Crowd + 9. After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. 10. And they were shouting with a great roar, "Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne - and from the Lamb!" + +and from the Lamb!" + 11. And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living beings. And they fell before the throne with their faces to the ground and worshiped God. 12. They sang, "Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom - and thanksgiving and honor + +and thanksgiving and honor and power and strength belong to our God - forever and ever! Amen." + +forever and ever! Amen." + 13. Then one of the twenty-four elders asked me, "Who are these who are clothed in white? Where did they come from?" @@ -25,16 +32,26 @@ and power and strength belong to our God Then he said to me, "These are the ones who died in the great tribulation. They have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and made them white. 15. "That is why they stand in front of God's throne - and serve him day and night in his Temple. + +and serve him day and night in his Temple. + And he who sits on the throne - will give them shelter. + +will give them shelter. + 16. They will never again be hungry or thirsty; - they will never be scorched by the heat of the sun. + +they will never be scorched by the heat of the sun. + 17. For the Lamb on the throne - will be their Shepherd. + +will be their Shepherd. + He will lead them to springs of life-giving water. - And God will wipe every tear from their eyes." + +And God will wipe every tear from their eyes." + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_08.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_08.md index 86fcab11..d1ab2415 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_08.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_08.md @@ -6,7 +6,10 @@ The Lamb Breaks the Seventh Seal 3. Then another angel with a gold incense burner came and stood at the altar. And a great amount of incense was given to him to mix with the prayers of God's people as an offering on the gold altar before the throne. 4. The smoke of the incense, mixed with the prayers of God's holy people, ascended up to God from the altar where the angel had poured them out. -5. Then the angel filled the incense burner with fire from the altar and threw it down upon the earth; and thunder crashed, lightning flashed, and there was a terrible earthquake.The First Four Trumpets +5. Then the angel filled the incense burner with fire from the altar and threw it down upon the earth; and thunder crashed, lightning flashed, and there was a terrible earthquake. + +The First Four Trumpets + 6. Then the seven angels with the seven trumpets prepared to blow their mighty blasts. @@ -23,3 +26,4 @@ The Lamb Breaks the Seventh Seal 13. Then I looked, and I heard a single eagle crying loudly as it flew through the air, "Terror, terror, terror to all who belong to this world because of what will happen when the last three angels blow their trumpets." + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_09.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_09.md index 9b3ba79a..3b3d91ca 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_09.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_09.md @@ -15,7 +15,9 @@ The Fifth Trumpet Brings the First Terror 10. They had tails that stung like scorpions, and for five months they had the power to torment people. 11. Their king is the angel from the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek, Apollyon--the Destroyer. -12. The first terror is past, but look, two more terrors are coming!The Sixth Trumpet Brings the Second Terror +12. The first terror is past, but look, two more terrors are coming! +The Sixth Trumpet Brings the Second Terror + 13. Then the sixth angel blew his trumpet, and I heard a voice speaking from the four horns of the gold altar that stands in the presence of God. 14. And the voice said to the sixth angel who held the trumpet, "Release the four angels who are bound at the great Euphrates River." @@ -30,3 +32,4 @@ The Fifth Trumpet Brings the First Terror 21. And they did not repent of their murders or their witchcraft or their sexual immorality or their thefts. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_10.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_10.md index 9eee3967..7653d23d 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_10.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_10.md @@ -19,3 +19,4 @@ The Angel and the Small Scroll 11. Then I was told, "You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, languages, and kings." + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_11.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_11.md index b2caaeaa..80985b2b 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_11.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_11.md @@ -19,29 +19,46 @@ The Two Witnesses 13. At the same time there was a terrible earthquake that destroyed a tenth of the city. Seven thousand people died in that earthquake, and everyone else was terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven. -14. The second terror is past, but look, the third terror is coming quickly.The Seventh Trumpet Brings the Third Terror +14. The second terror is past, but look, the third terror is coming quickly. + +The Seventh Trumpet Brings the Third Terror + 15. Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices shouting in heaven: "The world has now become the Kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, - and he will reign forever and ever." + +and he will reign forever and ever." + 16. The twenty-four elders sitting on their thrones before God fell with their faces to the ground and worshiped him. 17. And they said, "We give thanks to you, Lord God, the Almighty, - the one who is and who always was, + +the one who is and who always was, for now you have assumed your great power - and have begun to reign. + +and have begun to reign. + 18. The nations were filled with wrath, - but now the time of your wrath has come. + +but now the time of your wrath has come. + It is time to judge the dead - and reward your servants the prophets, - as well as your holy people, + +and reward your servants the prophets, + +as well as your holy people, and all who fear your name, - from the least to the greatest. + +from the least to the greatest. + It is time to destroy - all who have caused destruction on the earth." + +all who have caused destruction on the earth." + 19. Then, in heaven, the Temple of God was opened and the Ark of his covenant could be seen inside the Temple. Lightning flashed, thunder crashed and roared, and there was an earthquake and a terrible hailstorm. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_12.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_12.md index ca42f8e5..93573971 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_12.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_12.md @@ -16,24 +16,36 @@ The Woman and the Dragon 10. Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, "It has come at last-- - salvation and power + +salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters - has been thrown down to earth-- + +has been thrown down to earth-- the one who accuses them - before our God day and night. + +before our God day and night. + 11. And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb - and by their testimony. + +and by their testimony. + And they did not love their lives so much - that they were afraid to die. + +that they were afraid to die. + 12. Therefore, rejoice, O heavens! - And you who live in the heavens, rejoice! + +And you who live in the heavens, rejoice! But terror will come on the earth and the sea, - for the devil has come down to you in great anger, - knowing that he has little time." + +for the devil has come down to you in great anger, + +knowing that he has little time." + 13. When the dragon realized that he had been thrown down to the earth, he pursued the woman who had given birth to the male child. 14. But she was given two wings like those of a great eagle so she could fly to the place prepared for her in the wilderness. There she would be cared for and protected from the dragon for a time, times, and half a time. @@ -45,3 +57,4 @@ But terror will come on the earth and the sea, 18. Then the dragon took his stand on the shore beside the sea. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_13.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_13.md index 05966127..deb4e967 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_13.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_13.md @@ -13,13 +13,22 @@ The Beast out of the Sea 8. And all the people who belong to this world worshiped the beast. They are the ones whose names were not written in the Book of Life that belongs to the Lamb who was slaughtered before the world was made. 9. Anyone with ears to hear - should listen and understand. + +should listen and understand. + 10. Anyone who is destined for prison - will be taken to prison. + +will be taken to prison. + Anyone destined to die by the sword - will die by the sword. -This means that God's holy people must endure persecution patiently and remain faithful.The Beast out of the Earth + +will die by the sword. + +This means that God's holy people must endure persecution patiently and remain faithful. + +The Beast out of the Earth + 11. Then I saw another beast come up out of the earth. He had two horns like those of a lamb, but he spoke with the voice of a dragon. 12. He exercised all the authority of the first beast. And he required all the earth and its people to worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed. @@ -32,3 +41,4 @@ This means that God's holy people must endure persecution patiently and remain f 18. Wisdom is needed here. Let the one with understanding solve the meaning of the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. His number is 666. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_14.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_14.md index aa038933..3c6d34df 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_14.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_14.md @@ -6,7 +6,10 @@ The Lamb and the 144,000 3. This great choir sang a wonderful new song in front of the throne of God and before the four living beings and the twenty-four elders. No one could learn this song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. 4. They have kept themselves as pure as virgins, following the Lamb wherever he goes. They have been purchased from among the people on the earth as a special offering to God and to the Lamb. -5. They have told no lies; they are without blame.The Three Angels +5. They have told no lies; they are without blame. + +The Three Angels + 6. And I saw another angel flying through the sky, carrying the eternal Good News to proclaim to the people who belong to this world--to every nation, tribe, language, and people. 7. "Fear God," he shouted. "Give glory to him. For the time has come when he will sit as judge. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and all the springs of water." @@ -19,7 +22,9 @@ The Lamb and the 144,000 12. This means that God's holy people must endure persecution patiently, obeying his commands and maintaining their faith in Jesus. -13. And I heard a voice from heaven saying, "Write this down: Blessed are those who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they are blessed indeed, for they will rest from their hard work; for their good deeds follow them!"The Harvest of the Earth +13. And I heard a voice from heaven saying, "Write this down: Blessed are those who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they are blessed indeed, for they will rest from their hard work; for their good deeds follow them!" +The Harvest of the Earth + 14. Then I saw a white cloud, and seated on the cloud was someone like the Son of Man. He had a gold crown on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand. @@ -32,3 +37,4 @@ The Lamb and the 144,000 20. The grapes were trampled in the winepress outside the city, and blood flowed from the winepress in a stream about 180 miles long and as high as a horse's bridle. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_15.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_15.md index 620111ab..c34db702 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_15.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_15.md @@ -5,15 +5,23 @@ The Song of Moses and of the Lamb 2. I saw before me what seemed to be a glass sea mixed with fire. And on it stood all the people who had been victorious over the beast and his statue and the number representing his name. They were all holding harps that God had given them. 3. And they were singing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb: "Great and marvelous are your works, - O Lord God, the Almighty. + +O Lord God, the Almighty. + Just and true are your ways, O King of the nations. 4. Who will not fear you, Lord, - and glorify your name? - For you alone are holy. + +and glorify your name? + +For you alone are holy. + All nations will come and worship before you, - for your righteous deeds have been revealed."The Seven Bowls of the Seven Plagues + +for your righteous deeds have been revealed." +The Seven Bowls of the Seven Plagues + 5. Then I looked and saw that the Temple in heaven, God's Tabernacle, was thrown wide open. 6. The seven angels who were holding the seven plagues came out of the Temple. They were clothed in spotless white linen with gold sashes across their chests. @@ -21,3 +29,4 @@ All nations will come and worship before you, 8. The Temple was filled with smoke from God's glory and power. No one could enter the Temple until the seven angels had completed pouring out the seven plagues. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_16.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_16.md index 37512a6a..674b8c56 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_16.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_16.md @@ -8,16 +8,23 @@ 4. Then the third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs, and they became blood. 5. And I heard the angel who had authority over all water saying, "You are just, O Holy One, who is and who always was, - because you have sent these judgments. + +because you have sent these judgments. + 6. Since they shed the blood - of your holy people and your prophets, + +of your holy people and your prophets, you have given them blood to drink. - It is their just reward." + +It is their just reward." + 7. And I heard a voice from the altar, saying, "Yes, O Lord God, the Almighty, - your judgments are true and just." + +your judgments are true and just." + 8. Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, causing it to scorch everyone with its fire. 9. Everyone was burned by this blast of heat, and they cursed the name of God, who had control over all these plagues. They did not repent of their sins and turn to God and give him glory. @@ -40,3 +47,4 @@ you have given them blood to drink. 21. There was a terrible hailstorm, and hailstones weighing as much as seventy-five pounds fell from the sky onto the people below. They cursed God because of the terrible plague of the hailstorm. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_17.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_17.md index fed1f82d..76833212 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_17.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_17.md @@ -26,3 +26,4 @@ The Great Prostitute 18. And this woman you saw in your vision represents the great city that rules over the kings of the world." + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_18.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_18.md index 3276365b..69e323c4 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_18.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_18.md @@ -4,101 +4,165 @@ The Fall of Babylon 1. After all this I saw another angel come down from heaven with great authority, and the earth grew bright with his splendor. 2. He gave a mighty shout: "Babylon is fallen--that great city is fallen! - She has become a home for demons. + +She has become a home for demons. She is a hideout for every foul spirit, - a hideout for every foul vulture + +a hideout for every foul vulture and every foul and dreadful animal. 3. For all the nations have fallen - because of the wine of her passionate immorality. + +because of the wine of her passionate immorality. + The kings of the world - have committed adultery with her. + +have committed adultery with her. + Because of her desires for extravagant luxury, - the merchants of the world have grown rich." + +the merchants of the world have grown rich." + 4. Then I heard another voice calling from heaven, "Come away from her, my people. - Do not take part in her sins, - or you will be punished with her. + +Do not take part in her sins, + +or you will be punished with her. + 5. For her sins are piled as high as heaven, - and God remembers her evil deeds. + +and God remembers her evil deeds. + 6. Do to her as she has done to others. Double her penalty for all her evil deeds. + She brewed a cup of terror for others, so brew twice as much for her. 7. She glorified herself and lived in luxury, - so match it now with torment and sorrow. + +so match it now with torment and sorrow. + She boasted in her heart, - 'I am queen on my throne. + +'I am queen on my throne. + I am no helpless widow, - and I have no reason to mourn.' + +and I have no reason to mourn.' + 8. Therefore, these plagues will overtake her in a single day-- - death and mourning and famine. + +death and mourning and famine. + She will be completely consumed by fire, - for the Lord God who judges her is mighty." + +for the Lord God who judges her is mighty." + 9. And the kings of the world who committed adultery with her and enjoyed her great luxury will mourn for her as they see the smoke rising from her charred remains. 10. They will stand at a distance, terrified by her great torment. They will cry out, "How terrible, how terrible for you, - O Babylon, you great city! + +O Babylon, you great city! In a single moment - God's judgment came on you." + +God's judgment came on you." + 11. The merchants of the world will weep and mourn for her, for there is no one left to buy their goods. 12. She bought great quantities of gold, silver, jewels, and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet cloth; things made of fragrant thyine wood, ivory goods, and objects made of expensive wood; and bronze, iron, and marble. 13. She also bought cinnamon, spice, incense, myrrh, frankincense, wine, olive oil, fine flour, wheat, cattle, sheep, horses, wagons, and bodies--that is, human slaves. 14. "The fancy things you loved so much - are gone," they cry. + +are gone," they cry. + "All your luxuries and splendor - are gone forever, - never to be yours again." + +are gone forever, + +never to be yours again." + 15. The merchants who became wealthy by selling her these things will stand at a distance, terrified by her great torment. They will weep and cry out, -16. "How terrible, how terrible for that great city! - She was clothed in finest purple and scarlet linens, - decked out with gold and precious stones and pearls! +16. +"How terrible, how terrible for that great city! + +She was clothed in finest purple and scarlet linens, + +decked out with gold and precious stones and pearls! -17. In a single moment - all the wealth of the city is gone!" + +17. +In a single moment + +all the wealth of the city is gone!" And all the captains of the merchant ships and their passengers and sailors and crews will stand at a distance. + 18. They will cry out as they watch the smoke ascend, and they will say, "Where is there another city as great as this?" 19. And they will weep and throw dust on their heads to show their grief. And they will cry out, "How terrible, how terrible for that great city! - The shipowners became wealthy - by transporting her great wealth on the seas. + +The shipowners became wealthy + +by transporting her great wealth on the seas. + + In a single moment it is all gone." + 20. Rejoice over her fate, O heaven - and people of God and apostles and prophets! + +and people of God and apostles and prophets! For at last God has judged her - for your sakes. + +for your sakes. + 21. Then a mighty angel picked up a boulder the size of a huge millstone. He threw it into the ocean and shouted, "Just like this, the great city Babylon - will be thrown down with violence - and will never be found again. + +will be thrown down with violence + +and will never be found again. + 22. The sound of harps, singers, flutes, and trumpets - will never be heard in you again. + +will never be heard in you again. + No craftsmen and no trades - will ever be found in you again. + +will ever be found in you again. + The sound of the mill - will never be heard in you again. + +will never be heard in you again. + 23. The light of a lamp - will never shine in you again. + +will never shine in you again. + The happy voices of brides and grooms - will never be heard in you again. + +will never be heard in you again. + For your merchants were the greatest in the world, - and you deceived the nations with your sorceries. + +and you deceived the nations with your sorceries. + 24. In your streets flowed the blood of the prophets and of God's holy people - and the blood of people slaughtered all over the world." + +and the blood of people slaughtered all over the world." + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_19.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_19.md index 5e24ba88..6cf406c3 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_19.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_19.md @@ -3,40 +3,58 @@ Songs of Victory in Heaven # Chapter 19 1. After this, I heard what sounded like a vast crowd in heaven shouting, "Praise the LORD! - Salvation and glory and power belong to our God. + +Salvation and glory and power belong to our God. + 2. His judgments are true and just. - He has punished the great prostitute + +He has punished the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality. - He has avenged the murder of his servants." + +He has avenged the murder of his servants." + 3. And again their voices rang out: "Praise the LORD! - The smoke from that city ascends forever and ever!" + +The smoke from that city ascends forever and ever!" + 4. Then the twenty-four elders and the four living beings fell down and worshiped God, who was sitting on the throne. They cried out, "Amen! Praise the LORD!" 5. And from the throne came a voice that said, "Praise our God, - all his servants, + +all his servants, all who fear him, - from the least to the greatest." + +from the least to the greatest." + 6. Then I heard again what sounded like the shout of a vast crowd or the roar of mighty ocean waves or the crash of loud thunder: "Praise the LORD! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns. 7. Let us be glad and rejoice, - and let us give honor to him. + +and let us give honor to him. + For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, - and his bride has prepared herself. + +and his bride has prepared herself. + 8. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear." - For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God's holy people. + +For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God's holy people. + 9. And the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb." And he added, "These are true words that come from God." -10. Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said, "No, don't worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers and sisters who testify about their faith in Jesus. Worship only God. For the essence of prophecy is to give a clear witness for Jesus."The Rider on the White Horse +10. Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said, "No, don't worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers and sisters who testify about their faith in Jesus. Worship only God. For the essence of prophecy is to give a clear witness for Jesus." +The Rider on the White Horse + 11. Then I saw heaven opened, and a white horse was standing there. Its rider was named Faithful and True, for he judges fairly and wages a righteous war. 12. His eyes were like flames of fire, and on his head were many crowns. A name was written on him that no one understood except himself. @@ -53,3 +71,4 @@ For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, 21. Their entire army was killed by the sharp sword that came from the mouth of the one riding the white horse. And the vultures all gorged themselves on the dead bodies. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_20.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_20.md index b3bbc7c4..a9257b72 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_20.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_20.md @@ -8,13 +8,19 @@ The Thousand Years 4. Then I saw thrones, and the people sitting on them had been given the authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their testimony about Jesus and for proclaiming the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his statue, nor accepted his mark on their foreheads or their hands. They all came to life again, and they reigned with Christ for a thousand years. 5. This is the first resurrection. (The rest of the dead did not come back to life until the thousand years had ended.) -6. Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. For them the second death holds no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him a thousand years.The Defeat of Satan +6. Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. For them the second death holds no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him a thousand years. + +The Defeat of Satan + 7. When the thousand years come to an end, Satan will be let out of his prison. 8. He will go out to deceive the nations--called Gog and Magog--in every corner of the earth. He will gather them together for battle--a mighty army, as numberless as sand along the seashore. 9. And I saw them as they went up on the broad plain of the earth and surrounded God's people and the beloved city. But fire from heaven came down on the attacking armies and consumed them. -10. Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.The Final Judgment +10. Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. + +The Final Judgment + 11. And I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from his presence, but they found no place to hide. 12. I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God's throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. @@ -23,3 +29,4 @@ The Thousand Years 15. And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_21.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_21.md index 694eb0d7..d5d4c27b 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_21.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_21.md @@ -39,3 +39,4 @@ The New Jerusalem 27. Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty--but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. + diff --git a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_22.md b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_22.md index 48ff8df0..d8c05609 100644 --- a/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_22.md +++ b/NLT/66_Revelation/Chapter_22.md @@ -6,7 +6,9 @@ 4. And they will see his face, and his name will be written on their foreheads. 5. And there will be no night there--no need for lamps or sun--for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever. -6. Then the angel said to me, "Everything you have heard and seen is trustworthy and true. The Lord God, who inspires his prophets, has sent his angel to tell his servants what will happen soon."Jesus Is Coming +6. Then the angel said to me, "Everything you have heard and seen is trustworthy and true. The Lord God, who inspires his prophets, has sent his angel to tell his servants what will happen soon." +Jesus Is Coming + 7. *"Look, I am coming soon! Blessed are those who obey the words of prophecy written in this book."* @@ -31,6 +33,8 @@ 20. He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, *"Yes, I am coming soon!"* Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! + 21. May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's holy people. +