The request stated does not convey a genuine desire on Israel’s part to be made aware of their sin. Rather, this question conveys Israel’s denial of wrongdoing. They do not believe they have spoken harshly against the Lord. To be convinced of any wrongdoing, the evidence must be provided, which the Lord provides in the next verse.
13 “Your words have been hard against me, says the LORD. But you say, ‘How have we spoken against you?’