The Lord’s pointed, solemn, yet kind rebuke delivered by the prophet had the desired effect. The people repented of their ways, and brought forth fruits indicative that their repentance was genuine.

Literally, “was shortened.” Today we would say, “He became impatient.” That is, God could bear Israel’s distress no longer. His pity for Israel and His indignation against their oppressors, mingled together, caused Him to act. He would stand aloof no longer. Whenever, by prayer and sincere repentance, men call upon their merciful God, He, like a tender father, hears their plea.

 Men do not always display this attribute of God in their dealings one with another even though they may profess to walk in the footsteps of Christ. They continue to cherish anger when others are seeking reconciliation If God was moved with compassion toward rebellious Israel, how can they remain untouched by the pleas of those who are of like passions as they are Grudge bearing is an altogether too frequent characteristic of many seemingly pious Christians. The sinless God, who has been infinitely more mistreated, forgives, and continues to forgive, whereas God’s professed children so often cherish ill will and rancor for years Men ought to ponder seriously the petition in the Lord’s prayer, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors” (Matt. 6:12).