"Just as you, Judah and Israel, have been a curse among the nations, so I will save you, and you will be a blessing. Do not be afraid, but let your hands be strong." ~Zechariah 8:13, NIV
While Israel was still in exile in Babylon, God was giving Zechariah words and visions. God says in the chapter leading up to this verse that He will once again "dwell in Jerusalem" v3 and says He will bring his people back to Jerusalem v8. In verse 9, the subject changes, and God is describing how the Temple will be rebuilt. Verse 12 and 13 are the culmination of His promises to Israel concerning this.
God promises to give good things to "the remnant of Israel" v12. Then He proclaims the above message of hope: "Even though you've been utterly humiliated, I will save you and turn your situation around. It's going to take some effort on your behalf, but take courage, work hard, it'll pay off in the end!" (paraphrased) We can take the same advice, and start cracking at our challenges.
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