Isaiah 51:7-13

7Listen to me, you people who know what is right. You people who think carefully about my law, listen to me. When people speak against you, do not be afraid. Do not be upset, when they insult you.

8Those people will soon disappear, like clothes that moths have eaten, like wool that worms have eaten. But I will always rule with righteousness. I will keep my people safe for ever.’

9Wake up, Lord! Get ready to show your strength! Do great things, as you did in past days, when our ancestors were alive. Remember how you cut the monster, Rahab, into pieces.

10You made the sea become dry, so that there was a path through the deep water. The slaves that you rescued could then cross over.

11The people that the Lord has rescued will return from exile. They will sing with joy while they go into Zion city. Their joy will be like a crown that they wear on their heads for ever. They will continue to be very happy. They will never be sad or weep again.

12‘I am the Lord who comforts you. You do not need to be afraid of people who are only human. Remember that they will all die one day, like grass that only lives for a short time.

13Do not forget about the Lord who made you! I hung up the sky like a curtain. I made the foundation of the earth. So why are you always shaking with fear? Do not be afraid when your enemy is angry, and he is ready to attack you. Your enemy's anger is useless!