2 Why, when I came, was there no one?when I called, why was there no one to answer?Is my hand shortened at all, that it can’t redeem?or have I no power to deliver?Behold, at my rebuke I dry up the sea.I make the rivers a wilderness:their fish stink, because there is no water, and die for thirst.
3 I clothe the heavens with blackness,and I make sackcloth their covering.”
4 The Lord GOD has given me the tongue of those who are taught,that I may know how to sustain with words him who is weary.He wakens morning by morning,he wakens my ear to hear as those who are taught.
5 The Lord GOD has opened my ear,and I was not rebellious.I have not turned back.
6 I gave my back to those who beat me,and my cheeks to those who plucked off the hair.I didn’t hide my face from shame and spitting.
7 For the Lord GOD will help me.Therefore I have not been confounded.Therefore I have set my face like a flint,and I know that I shall not be disappointed.
8 He who justifies me is near.Who will bring charges against me?Let us stand up together.Who is my adversary?Let him come near to me.