1 The gods Bel and Neboare down on their knees,as wooden images of themare carried awayon weary animals.
2 They are down on their kneesto rescue the heavy load,but the images are still takento a foreign country.
3 You survivors in Israel,listen to me, the Lord.Since the day you were born,I have carried you along.
4 I will still be the samewhen you are old and gray,and I will take care of you.I created you. I will carry youand always keep you safe.
5 Can anyone compare with me?Is anyone my equal?
6 Some people hire a goldsmithand give silver and goldto be formed into an idolfor them to worship.
7 They carry the idolon their shoulders,then put it on a stand,but it cannot move.They call out to the idolwhen they are in trouble,but it doesn't answer,and it cannot help.
8 Now keep this in mind,you sinful people.And don't ever forget it.
9 I alone am God!There are no other gods;no one is like me.Think about what happenedmany years ago.
10 From the very beginning,I told what would happenlong before it took place.I kept my word
11 and broughtsomeone from a distant landto do what I wanted.He attacked from the east,like a hawk swooping down.Now I will keep my promiseand do what I planned.
12 You people are stubbornand far from being safe,so listen to me.
13 I will soon come to save you.I am not far awayand will waste no time;I take pride in Israeland will save Jerusalem.