15 For the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has said:

“You will be delivered by returning and resting;

your strength will lie in quiet confidence.

But you are not willing.”

16 You say, “No!

We will escape on horses”—

therefore you will escape!—

and, “We will ride on fast horses”—

but those who pursue you will be faster.a

17 One thousand will flee at the threat of one,b

at the threat of five you will flee,

until you remain

like a solitary pole on a mountaintop

or a banner on a hill.

THE LORD’S MERCY TO ISRAEL

18 Therefore the Lord is waiting to show you mercy,

and is rising up to show you compassion,c

for the Lord is a just God.

All who wait patiently for him are happy.