The Lord GOD is my help

The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue,
that I might know how to speak to the weary
a word that will rouse them.

Morning after morning he opens my ear that I may hear;
and I have not rebelled, have not turned back.

I gave my back to those who beat me,
my cheeks to those who plucked my beard;
my face I did not shield from buffets and spitting.

The Lord GOD is my help,
therefore I am not disgraced;

I have set my face like flint,
knowing that I shall not be put to shame.

(Today's Old Testament reading Isaiah 50:4-7)