Psalms 126

1 A Song of degrees. When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.

A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. When the Lord brought his people back from captivity to Zion, it was as if we were dreaming!

2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.

We laughed so much, we sang for joy. The other nations said, “The Lord has done wonderful things for these people.”

3 The LORD hath done great things for us; for which we are glad.

The Lord certainly has done wonderful things for us. How happy we were!

4 Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the south.

Please return and help us again, Lord. Renew us like streams of water that renew the Negev desert.

5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy!

6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless return with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

Those who weep as they go out to sow their seed will be singing in celebration when they carry the harvest home.