[49:1] Listen to me, distant nations, you people who live far away! Before I was born, the Lord chose me and appointed me to be his servant.
[49:2] He made my words as sharp as a sword. With his own hand he protected me. He made me like an arrow, sharp and ready for use.
[49:3] He said to me, “Israel, you are my servant; because of you, people will praise me.”
[49:4] I said, “I have worked, but how hopeless it is! I have used up my strength, but have accomplished nothing.” Yet I can trust the Lord to defend my cause; he will reward me for what I do.
[49:5] Before I was born, the Lord appointed me; he made me his servant to bring back his people, to bring back the scattered people of Israel. The Lord gives me honor; he is the source of my strength.
[49:6] The Lord said to me, “I have a greater task for you, my servant. Not only will you restore to greatness the people of Israel who have survived, but I will also make you a light to the nations— so that all the world may be saved.”
[49:7] Israel's holy God and savior says to the one who is deeply despised, who is hated by the nations and is the servant of rulers: “Kings will see you released and will rise to show their respect; princes also will see it, and they will bow low to honor you.” This will happen because the Lord has chosen his servant; the holy God of Israel keeps his promises.