1. Our Redeemer--the Lord Almighty (1-6)

Babylon represents all those proud nations down through the ages who have ignored God and despised his people. The Holy One of Israel was angry with his people and let them fall into the hands of the Babylonians for a time. The Babylonians showed them no mercy. But God redeems repentant sinners, and Israel repented--Babylon did not!

2. Neither magic arts nor money can save (7-15)

The Babylonians lived in the dream that their empire would endure forever. They were confident in their wealth and easygoing comfort. They said, 'It can never happen to us.' They boldly practiced sorcery and trusted in their wickedness, saying, 'No one sees me.' They could not conjure away the disaster that would come upon them. Their star-gazing could not save them. God punishes proud and unrepentant people.

Application: Lord, save us from the easygoing complacency that comes from pride. Grant our nation a spirit of repentance.
One Word: God punishes proud sinners