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.”