Because he is gracious and merciful, patient, and faithful in love. Here again you read God’s calling card (see already Exodus 34:6–7). From within, out of himself, he is the one who forgives and who cares for what he has created. The word merciful
in Hebrew indicates that it touches God right down to his bowels.
That is how deep and compassionate his love is in him. This is not only for a moment—no, he is incessant in showing his patience and his faithfulness in love. Love here is a love that gives, a love that is aimed at making his creation rejoice. To see what this love means, read 1 Corinthians 13:1–13; 1 John 4:7–10. Notice that God is called your God
twice. This points to his steadfastness. He does not break the bond, even though you do as a sinner.
13 Déchirez vos cœurs et non vos vêtements, Et revenez à l'Eternel, votre Dieu; Car il est compatissant et miséricordieux, Lent à la colère et riche en bonté, Et il se repent des maux qu'il envoie.