Isaiah 50:4-9

The Lord YAHWEH has equipped me with the anointed, skillful tongue of a teacher — to know how to speak a timely word to the weary. Morning by morning, he awakens my heart. He opens my ears to hear his voice, to be trained to teach. The Lord YAHWEH has opened my ear, and I did not resist; I did not rebel. I offered my back to those who flogged me and my cheek to those who tore out my beard. I never hid my face from demeaning insults or from those who spit on me. The Lord YAHWEH empowers me, so I am not humiliated. For that reason, with holy determination, I will do his will and not be ashamed. The One who makes me righteous is close to me. Who would dare challenge me now? Who would be my opponent? Let him stand before me! Who is my accuser? Let him confront me! It is the Lord YAHWEH who empowers me; who would condemn me? My accusers will all fade away like worn-out, moth-eaten clothes.