And so it happens ...

The Lord's Power To Punish

1   The Lord says, “Children, I didn't divorce your mother or sell you to pay debts; I divorced her and sold you because of your sins.

2 I came and called out, but you didn't answer.

Have I lost my power to rescue and save?

At my command oceans and rivers turn into deserts; fish rot and stink for lack of water.

3 I make the sky turn dark like the sackcloth you wear at funerals.”

God's Servant Must Suffer

4 The Lord God gives me the right words to encourage the weary.

Each morning he awakens me eager to learn his teaching; 5 he made me willing to listen

and not rebel or run away.

6   I let them beat my back and pull out my beard. I didn't turn aside when they insulted me

and spit in my face.

7 But the Lord God keeps me from being disgraced.

So I refuse to give up, because I know God will never let me down.

8   My protector is nearby; no one can stand here to accuse me of wrong.

9 The Lord God will help me and prove I am innocent.

My accusers will wear out like moth-eaten clothes.

10 None of you respect the Lord or obey his servant.

You walk in the dark instead of the light; you don't trust the name of the Lord your God.

11 Go ahead and walk in the light of the fires you have set.

But with his own hand, the Lord will punish you and make you suffer.