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 grey,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.