1. Idols burden; God rescues (1-7)

Bel and Nebo were Babylonian idols. Made of stone, they were heavy and had to be transported, burdening their worshipers. Enemies attacked, and the idols had to be protected by the people, but they could not rescue them from captivity. In contrast, the Lord sustains his people. He does not burden us, but carries us. Those who cry out to idols will hear no answer; an idol cannot save us from trouble. But the Lord promises: "I will sustain you and I will rescue you."

2. "I will do all that I please" (8-13)

The Lord has proved himself in history, so we should remember all he has done. All that has happened he has foretold, indeed he has planned it. His purpose will stand; he will do all that he pleases, bringing about his plans on the earth. He planned salvation for all people in Jesus, and just as he planned, so it has happened. Let's trust in him.