1 The gods Bel and Nebo*

are down on their knees,

as wooden images of them

are carried away

on weary animals.*

2 They are down on their knees

to rescue the heavy load,

but the images are still taken

to 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 same

when you are old and gray,

and I will take care of you.

I created you. I will carry you

and always keep you safe.

5 Can anyone compare with me?

Is anyone my equal?

6 Some people hire a goldsmith

and give silver and gold

to be formed into an idol

for them to worship.

7 They carry the idol

on their shoulders,

then put it on a stand,

but it cannot move.

They call out to the idol

when 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 happened

many years ago.

10 From the very beginning,

I told what would happen

long before it took place.

I kept my word 11 and brought

someone from a distant land

to do what I wanted.

He attacked from the east,

like a hawk swooping down.

Now I will keep my promise

and do what I planned.

12 You people are stubborn

and far from being safe,

so listen to me.

13 I will soon come to save you.

I am not far away

and will waste no time;

I take pride in Israel

and will save Jerusalem.