₆The LORD, who rules and protects Israel,

the LORD Almighty, has this to say:

“I am the first, the last, the only God;

there is no other god but me.

₇Could anyone else have done what I did?

Who could have predicted all that would happen

from the very beginning to the end of time?

₈Do not be afraid, my people!

You know that from ancient times until now

I have predicted all that would happen,

and you are my witnesses.

Is there any other god?

Is there some powerful god I never heard of?”

₁₁Teach me, LORD, what you want me to do,

and I will obey you faithfully;

teach me to serve you with complete devotion.

₁₂I will praise you with all my heart, O Lord my God;

I will proclaim your greatness for ever.

₁₃How great is your constant love for me!

You have saved me from the grave itself.

₁₄The proud are coming against me, O God;

a cruel gang is trying to kill me —

people who pay no attention to you.

₁₅But you, O Lord, are a merciful and loving God,

always patient, always kind and faithful.

₁₆Turn to me and have mercy on me;

strengthen me and save me,

because I serve you, just as my mother did.

₁₇Show me proof of your goodness, LORD;

those who hate me will be ashamed

when they see that you have given me comfort and help.