Ironically, they were trying God’s patience by criticizing God’s patience. They felt that God did nothing to right the injustice that they were experiencing. They were not enjoying the freedom and prosperity that they believed they deserved as God’s people. God had not “restored their fortunes” as he had promised (Deuteronomy 30:1–3; Jeremiah 29:14; Ezekiel 39:25; Hosea 6:11; Amos 6:11). They were still dominated by Persians, and they still suffered financial hardship. The ungodly nations seem to prosper, while they themselves suffered.
17 You have wearied the LORD with your words. But you say, “How have we wearied him?” By saying, “Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delights in them.” Or by asking, “Where is the God of justice?”