1. God says,“Be silent and listen to me, you distant lands!Get ready to present your case in court;you will have your chance to speak.Let us come together to decide who is right.
2. “Who was it that brought the conqueror from the east,and makes him triumphant wherever he goes?Who gives him victory over kings and nations?His sword strikes them down as if they were dust.His arrows scatter them like straw before the wind.
3. He follows in pursuit and marches safely on,so fast that he hardly touches the ground!
4. Who was it that made this happen?Who has determined the course of history?I, the Lord, was there at the beginning,and I, the Lord, will be there at the end.
5. “The people of distant lands have seen what I have done;they are frightened and tremble with fear.So they all assemble and come.
6. The craftsmen help and encourage one another.
7. The carpenter says to the goldsmith, ‘Well done!’The man who beats the idol smoothencourages the one who nails it together.They say, ‘The soldering is good’ —and they fasten the idol in place with nails.
8. “But you, Israel my servant,you are the people that I have chosen,the descendants of Abraham, my friend.
9. I brought you from the ends of the earth;I called you from its farthest cornersand said to you, ‘You are my servant.’I did not reject you, but chose you.
10. Do not be afraid — I am with you!I am your God — let nothing terrify you!I will make you strong and help you;I will protect you and save you.
11. “Those who are angry with youwill know the shame of defeat.Those who fight against you will die
12. and will disappear from the earth.
13. I am the Lord your God;I strengthen you and say,‘Do not be afraid; I will help you.’ ”