Isaiah 41:2-10

2Tell me, who has woken up that king in the east? Who has chosen that king to serve him? He has given that king power over many nations, so that the kings of those nations must obey him. He uses that king's weapons to destroy other nations. He blows them away like dust or straw.

3That king chases quickly after them, and nothing hurts him. His feet do not seem to touch the ground!

4Tell me, who has caused these things to happen? Who has decided what should happen, from the beginning, century after century? It is I, the Lord! I was there at the beginning, and I will always be there, through to the end.

5The people on the islands see what I am doing, and they are afraid. People all over the world shake with fear. They join together and they come near.

6They help each other, and they say to one another, “Be strong!” ’

7The man who makes things with wood speaks to the man who works with gold and the man who works with iron. They help each other to work well. They say, ‘We have done a good job.’ Then they use nails to fix the idol that they have made, so that it does not fall over!

8‘But you, Israel, are my servant. Yes, I have chosen you, descendants of Jacob. You are descendants of my friend, Abraham.

9I led you back from the ends of the earth. I called you to come from places far away. I have said to you, “You are my servant. I have chosen you. I have not thrown you away.

10I am with you, so do not be afraid. I am your God, so do not be upset. I will make you strong and I will help you. My powerful right hand will keep you safe.”