1 “This is the end for Babylon's gods!Bel and Nebo once were worshipped,but now they are loaded on donkeys,a burden for the backs of tired animals.
2 The idols cannot save themselves;they are captured and carried away.This is the end for Babylon's gods!
3 “Listen to me, descendants of Jacob,all who are left of my people.I have cared for you from the time you were born.
4 I am your God and will take care of youuntil you are old and your hair is grey.I made you and will care for you;I will give you help and rescue you.
5 “With whom will you compare me?” says the Lord.“Is there anyone else like me?
6 People open their purses and pour out gold;they weigh out silver on the scales.They hire a goldsmith to make a god;then they bow down and worship it!
7 They lift it to their shoulders and carry it;they put it in place, and there it stands,unable to move from where it is.If anyone prays to it, it cannot answeror save him from disaster.
8 “Remember this, you sinners;consider what I have done.
9 Remember what happened long ago;acknowledge that I alone am Godand that there is no one else like me.
10 From the beginning I predicted the outcome;long ago I foretold what would happen.I said that my plans would never fail,that I would do everything I intended to do.
11 I am calling a man to come from the east;he will swoop down like a hawkand accomplish what I have planned.I have spoken, and it will be done.
12 “Listen to me, you stubborn peoplewho think that victory is far away.
13 I am bringing the day of victory near —it is not far away at all.My triumph will not be delayed.I will save Jerusalemand bring honour to Israel there.”