Isaiah 50

1 This is what the Lord says: Where is your mother’s divorce document, by which I sent her away? To which creditor did I sell you? Look, you were sold because of your sins, and I sent your mother away because of your lawless deeds.

2 Why did I come when no one was there? Why did I call when no one listened? Is my hand too weak to rescue, or am I unable to pull you free? Look, with my rebuke I will dry the sea and turn rivers into wilderness. Their fish will dry up because there is no water and will die of thirst.

3 I will clothe the sky with darkness and cover it with sackcloth.

4 The Lord gives me a trained tongue, so I know when it is right to speak a word. He wakes me early and gives me an ear to hear.

5 The Lord’s instruction opens my ears, and I neither disobey nor argue.

6 I gave my back to whips and my cheeks to blows. I did not turn my face away from the shame of being spit on.

7 But the Lord became my helper. Therefore I was not ashamed; I set my face like solid rock, and I know I will never be ashamed,

8 because the one who vindicates me is near. Who will argue with me? Let him stand against me now. Who will argue with me? Let him come near.

9 Look, the Lord will help me. Who will harm me? Look, all of you will wear out like clothing, and a moth will devour you.

10 Who among you reveres the Lord? Let that person listen to his servant’s voice. You who walk in darkness and have no light, trust in the Lord’s name and rely on God.

11 Look, all of you light a fire and feed its flame. Walk in the light of your fire and the flame you kindled. This happened to you because of me. You will lie down in sorrow.