1 This is what the Lord says:“People of Israel, you say I divorced your mother.Then where is the paper that proves it?Or do you think I sold youto pay a debt?Because of the evil things you did, I sold you.Because of the times she turned against me, your mother was sent away.
2 I came home and found no one there;I called, but no one answered.Do you think I am not able to save you?Do I not have the power to save you?Look, I need only to shout and the sea becomes dry.I change rivers into a desert,and their fish rot because there is no water;they die of thirst.
3 I can make the skies dark;I can make them black like clothes of sadness.”
4 The Lord God gave me the ability to teachso that I know what to say to make the weak strong.Every morning he wakes me.He teaches me to listen like a student.
5 The Lord God helps me learn,and I have not turned against himnor stopped following him.
6 I offered my back to those who beat me.I offered my cheeks to those who pulled my beard.I won’t hide my face from themwhen they make fun of me and spit at me.
7 The Lord God helps me,so I will not be ashamed.I will be determined,and I know I will not be disgraced.