God’s love is evident in his faithfulness and mercy toward his chosen people. It is also seen in his punishments on those who attack his beloved people in a vile and cruel way. He has been patient with those enemies for a long time. But when they remain vicious enemies, his judgment comes. Their sins went beyond all bounds (see Joel 2:13b). In a sinful world, love can never be without punishment for those who stubbornly reject God’s love.
9 Proclaim this among the nations: Consecrate for war; stir up the mighty men. Let all the men of war draw near; let them come up.