We might expect the Israelites to harden their hearts against the reproofs of the prophet. We listen to hear them respond, "We do not wish to be continually reminded of our sins. Speak to us words of peace, encouragement, and hope, but do not keep ever before us the dismal relation of our backslidings." How often do the professed people of God at the present day turn away from instruction, and neglect oft-repeated warnings. They dislike to be reminded of their defects of character. They are unwilling to be reproved for their pride and idolatry in turning from the requirements of God to seek the gains, friendship, or pleasures of the world.

Vi må forvente at israelitterne forhærder deres hjerter imod profetens irettesættelser. Vi hører efter om de svarer: ”Vi ønsker ikke at hele tiden blive mindet på vore synder. Sig fredfulde, opmuntrende og håbefulde ord til os, men fremhold ikke altid det dystre forhold i vort frafald.” Hvor ofte vender Guds bekendende folk i vore dage sig bort fra belæringen, og forsømmer de ofte gentagede advarsler. De ønsker ikke at blive mindet om deres karaktermangler. De er uvillige til at lade sig irettesætte for deres stolthed og afguderri og vende sig fra Guds krav for at søge verdens vinding, venskab og fornøjelser.