Therefore this is what the Lord GOD of Hosts says:
Zion is told not to fear Assyria though it strikes with the rod like Egypt once did.
This verse begins the reassurance to God's people under threat.
20On that day the remnant of Israel 21A remnant will return — a remnant of Jacob — 22Though your people, O Israel, be like the sand of the sea, 23For the Lord GOD of Hosts will carry out 24Therefore this is what the Lord GOD of Hosts says: 25For in just a little while 26And the LORD of Hosts will brandish a whip against them, 27On that day the burden will be lifted from your shoulders, 28Assyria has entered Aiath 29They have crossed at the ford: 30Cry aloud, O Daughter of Gallim! 31Madmenah flees; 32Yet today they will halt at Nob, 33Behold, the Lord GOD of Hosts 34He will clear the forest thickets with an axe,