Isaiah 45:11-18

Listen to what YAHWEH, the Holy One of Israel, the One who shaped him, has to say: “Why do you question me about the destiny of my children or tell me what to do with my children and what I have made? I created the earth and populated it with people. With my own hands, I spread out the cosmos and then commanded the starry host to shine! I am the one who raised him up in righteousness! I will make all his paths straight and level. He will build my city and release my exiled people, not because he was bribed or hired to do it, declares the Almighty YAHWEH!” YAHWEH This is what YAHWEH says to Cyrus: “Egypt’s wealth, Cush’s treasures, and the tall Sabeans will all be handed over to you. In chains they will walk behind you. They will be brought before you and they will bow down and address you reverently, saying, ‘Truly God is with you. He alone is God, and there is no other.’ ” Truly, O God of Israel, the Savior, you are a God who hides himself. All the idol-makers will be ashamed and disgraced, and each one will walk away in confusion. But YAHWEH saves Israel with everlasting salvation! You will not be put to shame nor disgraced for all eternity! This is what YAHWEH says, heaven’s Creator, who alone is God. He created the earth, shaped it, and established it all by himself. He made it fit and orderly and beautiful for its inhabitants. He says: “I am YAHWEH, and there is no other god.