1. The Lord says, “People of Jacob, you are my servants. Listen to me!People of Israel, I chose you.”
2. This is what the Lord says, who made you,who formed you in your mother’s body,who will help you:“People of Jacob, my servants, don’t be afraid.Israel, I chose you.
3. I will pour out water for the thirsty landand make streams flow on dry land.I will pour out my Spirit into your childrenand my blessing on your descendants.
4. Your children will grow like a tree in the grass,like poplar trees growing beside streams of water.
5. One person will say, ‘I belong to the Lord,’and another will use the name Jacob.Another will sign his name ‘I am the Lord’s,’and another will use the name Israel.”
6. The Lord, the king of Israel,is the Lord All-Powerful, who saves Israel.This is what he says: “I am the beginning and the end.I am the only God.
7. Who is a god like me?That god should come and prove it.Let him tell and explain all that has happened since I set up my ancient people.He should also tell what will happen in the future.
8. Don’t be afraid! Don’t worry!I have always told you what will happen.You are my witnesses.There is no other God but me.I know of no other Rock; I am the only One.”
9. Some people make idols, but they are worth nothing.People treasure them, but they are useless.Those people are witnesses for the statues, but those people cannot see.They know nothing, so they will be ashamed.
10. Who made these gods?Who made these useless idols?
11. The workmen who made them will be ashamed,because they are only human.If they all would come together,they would all be ashamed and afraid.