1Thus says the LORD: “Where is your mother's divorce certificate, by which I have put her away? Or to which of My creditors did I sell you? By your own transgressions have you sold yourselves, and for them your mother is put away. 2When I came, why was there no one there? When I called, why was there no answer? Was it because you think I am unable to redeem you? Or have I no power to rescue? Behold, at My mere rebuke I dry up the sea, I turn the rivers into a desert; its fish die and stink for lack of water. 3I clothe the heavens with darkness, and I make sackcloth their covering.”

4“The sovereign LORD God has given Me (Christ) His words of wisdom, that I should know how to comfort the weary; He awakens Me morning by morning; He wakes My ear and opens My understanding to His will. 5The LORD God has opened My ear, and I was not rebellious, nor have I turned away. 6I gave My back to those who beat Me, and My cheeks to them that plucked off My beard; I did not hide My face from mocking and spitting. 7For the LORD God helps Me; I shall not be disgraced; therefore, have I set My face like flint, and I know that I shall not be put to shame. 8He Who justifies is near Me. Who, then, will accuse Me? Who is My adversary? Let him confront Me. 9The sovereign LORD God is He Who helps Me. Who will condemn Me? All My enemies wear out like old clothes; the moth shall eat them up.”

10“Who among you fears the LORD, and obeys the voice of His Servant. Let those who walk in darkness with no light trust in the name of the LORD, and rely upon their God. 11But go on now, all you who light your fires that provide torches for your light, go, walk in the light of your torches. This you shall receive from My (Christ’s) hand: you shall lie down in a place of sorrow.”