It points back to the time in Egypt—the time when Israel was still a very small nation. God describes his relationship with them as that of a father and his child. He loved Israel as a father loves his newborn child. He raised him with that love. He carried him in his arms, taught him to take his first steps. A beautiful picture of a good upbringing. Only, Israel behaved like a disobedient child. The more God called and followed after them, the faster they ran away from him. They did not want to listen to the voice of God. Other fathers (gods) were much more interesting! What pain this must have caused this good Father!