Good News Bible

Isaiah 51:4-16 Good News Bible (GNB)

4. “Listen to me, my people,listen to what I say:I give my teaching to the nations;my laws will bring them light.

5. I will come quickly and save them;the time of my victory is near.I myself will rule over the nations.Distant lands wait for me to come;they wait with hope for me to save them.

6. Look up at the heavens; look at the earth!The heavens will disappear like smoke;the earth will wear out like old clothing,and all its people will die like flies.But the deliverance I bring will last for ever;my victory will be final.

7. “Listen to me, you that know what is right,who have my teaching fixed in your hearts.Do not be afraid when people taunt and insult you;

8. they will vanish like moth-eaten clothing!But the deliverance I bring will last for ever;my victory will endure for all time.”

9. Wake up, Lord, and help us!Use your power and save us;use it as you did in ancient times.It was you that cut the sea monster Rahab to pieces.

10. It was you also who dried up the seaand made a path through the water,so that those you were saving could cross.

11. Those whom you have rescuedwill reach Jerusalem with gladness,singing and shouting for joy.They will be happy for ever,for ever free from sorrow and grief.

12. The Lord says,“I am the one who strengthens you.Why should you fear mortals,who are no more enduring than grass?

13. Have you forgotten the Lord who made you,who stretched out the heavensand laid the earth's foundations?Why should you live in constant fearof the fury of those who oppress you,of those who are ready to destroy you?Their fury can no longer touch you.

14. Those who are prisoners will soon be set free;they will live a long lifeand have all the food they need.

15. “I am the Lord your God;I stir up the seaand make its waves roar.My name is the Lord Almighty!

16. I stretched out the heavensand laid the earth's foundations;I say to Jerusalem, ‘You are my people!I have given you my teaching,and I protect you with my hand.’ ”