15. I was the one who chose him.I have brought him this far,and he will be successful.
16. Come closer and listen!I have never kept secretthe things I have said,and I was herebefore time began.By the power of his Spiritthe Lord God has sent me
17. with this message:People of Israel,I am the holy Lord God,the one who rescues you.For your own good,I teach you, and I lead youalong the right path.
18. How I wish that youhad obeyed my commands!Your success and good fortunewould then have overflowedlike a flooding river.
19. Your nation would be blessedwith more peoplethan there are grains of sandalong the seashore.And I would never have letyour country be destroyed.