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. He made you.He formed you when you were in your mother’s body.And he will help you.The Lord says, “People of Jacob, my servants, don’t be afraid.Israel, I chose you.
3. I will pour out water for the thirsty land.I will make streams flow on dry land.I will put my Spirit into your children.My blessing will be like a stream of water flowing over your family.
4. Your children will grow like a tree in the grass.They will be like poplar trees growing beside streams of water.
5. One person will say, ‘I belong to the Lord.’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 is the king of Israel.The Lord of heaven’s armies saves Israel.The Lord says, “I am the beginning and the end.I am the only God.
7. There is no other God like me.If there is, then that god should come and prove it.Who has announced coming events from the beginning?He should 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.I know of no other Rock. I am the only One.”
9. Some people make idols, but they are worth nothing.People love them, but they are useless.Those people are witnesses for the statues. But those people cannot see.They know nothing. They don’t know enough to be ashamed.