10 I tested you in hard timesjust as silver is refinedin a heated furnace.
11 I did this because of who I am.I refuse to be dishonouredor share my praisewith any other god.
12 Israel, my chosen people,listen to me.I alone am the Lord,the first and the last.
13 With my own handI created the earthand stretched out the sky.They obey my every command.
14 Gather around me, all of you!Listen to what I say.Did any of your idolspredict this would happen?Did they say that my friendwould do what I want doneto Babylonia?
15 I was the one who chose him.I have brought him this far,and he will be successful.
16 Come closer and listen!I have never kept secretthe things I have said,and I was herebefore time began.By the power of his Spiritthe Lord God has sent me