4 Who has performed and done this,calling the generations from the beginning?I, Yahweh, am the first,and with the last — I am He.”
5 The islands see and are afraid,the whole earth trembles. They approach and arrive.
6 Each one helps the other,and says to another, “Take courage! ”
7 The craftsman encourages the metalworker; the one who flattens with the hammersupports the one who strikes the anvil,saying of the soldering, “It is good.”He fastens it with nails so that it will not fall over.
8 But you, Israel, My servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, descendant of Abraham, My friend —
9 I brought you from the ends of the earthand called you from its farthest corners.I said to you: You are My servant;I have chosen you and not rejected you.
10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you;I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.