3 I clothe the heavens with darknessand make sackcloth its covering.’
4 The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue,to know the word that sustains the weary.He wakens me morning by morning,wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed.
5 The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears;I have not been rebellious,I have not turned away.
6 I offered my back to those who beat me,my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard;I did not hide my facefrom mocking and spitting.
7 Because the Sovereign Lord helps me,I will not be disgraced.Therefore have I set my face like flint,and I know I will not be put to shame.
8 He who vindicates me is near.Who then will bring charges against me?Let us face each other!Who is my accuser?Let him confront me!
9 It is the Sovereign Lord who helps me.Who will condemn me?They will all wear out like a garment;the moths will eat them up.