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
17 with this message:People of Israel,I am the holy Lord God,the one who rescues you.For your own good,I teach you, and I lead youalong the right path.
18 How I wish that youhad obeyed my commands!Your success and good fortunewould then have overflowedlike a flooding river.
19 Your nation would be blessedwith more peoplethan there are grains of sandalong the seashore.And I would never have letyour country be destroyed.