⁷ “Let us build up these towns,” he said to Judah, “and put walls around them, with towers, gates and bars. The land is still ours, because we have sought the Lord our God; we sought him and he has given us rest^(A) on every side.” So they built and prospered.

⁶ He built up the fortified cities of Judah, since the land was at peace. No one was at war with him during those years, for the Lord gave him rest.^(A)

¹³ But encourage one another daily,^(A) as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.^{(B) 14} We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold^(C) our original conviction firmly to the very end.^{(D) 15} As has just been said:

³¹ Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria^(A) enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.^(B)

³⁵ Then Jesus told them, “You are going to have the light^(A) just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light,^(B) before darkness overtakes you.^(C) Whoever walks in the dark does not know where they are going. ³⁶ Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.”^(D) When he had finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from them.^(E)

⁴ As long as it is day,^(A) we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.

²⁸ “Come to me,^(A) all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.^{(B) 29} Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,^(C) for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.^(D)