And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but thou art a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not.
They refused to obey and didn't remember the amazing things you did for them. Instead, they became stubborn and rebellious, and even chose a leader to take them back into slavery. But you are a God who is ready to forgive, full of grace and mercy, slow to get angry, and incredibly kind, and you didn't abandon them.
This verse contrasts human rebellion and forgetfulness with God's patient, forgiving character, even when people turn away from him, God remains faithful and doesn't abandon them.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Nehemiah, the Israelites are gathered for a time of fasting and confession after rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, as part of their spiritual renewal following the Babylonian exile. They are recounting their ancestors' rebellion during the Exodus, where they ignored God's miracles, hardened their hearts, and even plotted to return to slavery in Egypt by appointing a leader. Despite this unfaithfulness, the prayer emphasizes God's consistent character as a forgiving and merciful God.
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