Idolatry Brings Destruction
10 Hear the word that the LORD speaks to you, O Israel! 2 This is what the LORD says: even though other nations are terrified by them. 3 Their ways are futile and foolish. They cut down a tree, and a craftsman carves an idol. 4 They decorate it with gold and silver so it won’t fall over. 5 Their gods are like for they can neither harm you nor do you any good.” 6 LORD, there is no one like you! For you are great, and your name is full of power. 7 Who would not fear you, O King of nations? there is no one like you. 8 People who worship idols are stupid and foolish. The things they worship are made of wood! 9 They bring beaten sheets of silver from Tarshish made by expert tailors. 10 But the LORD is the only true God. The nations cannot stand up to his wrath. 11 Say this to those who worship other gods: “Your so-called gods, who did not make the heavens and earth, will vanish from the earth and from under the heavens.” 12 But the LORD made the earth by his power, he stretched out the heavens. 13 When he speaks in the thunder, and releases the wind from his storehouses. 14 The whole human race is foolish and has no knowledge! These idols have no breath or power. 15 Idols are worthless; they are ridiculous lies! On the day of reckoning they will all be destroyed. 16 But the God of Israel is no idol! The LORD of Heaven’s Armies is his name! 17 Pack your bags and prepare to leave; the siege is about to begin. 18 For this is what the LORD says: and at last you will feel my anger.” 19 My wound is severe, but I must bear it. 20 My home is gone, and I will never see them again. 21 The shepherds of my people have lost their senses. and their flocks are scattered. 22 Listen! Hear the terrifying roar of great armies and become a haunt for jackals. 23 I know, LORD, that our lives are not our own. We are not able to plan our own course. 24 So correct me, LORD, but please be gentle. Do not correct me in anger, for I would die. 25 Pour out your wrath on the nations that refuse to acknowledge you— making the land a desolate wilderness.