In the old dispensation, God expressed his disapproval and rejection of his people by bringing troubles and calamities upon them (Deuteronomy 28:15–68), which would in turn move God’s people to cry out to God for deliverance. It may be that the Lord displayed his displeasure of his people and their offerings by destroying their crops (Malachi 3:11–12). As long as they did not repent from their sin, God would not hear their pleas for deliverance (see also Jeremiah 11:11, Ezekiel 8:18 – 9:1, Micah 3:1–12, Isaiah 15:2–3). Neither would God accept their worship.
13 And this second thing you do. You cover the LORD’s altar with tears, with weeping and groaning because he no longer regards the offering or accepts it with favor from your hand.