³⁸ Yet he was merciful;^(A)
    he forgave^(B) their iniquities^(C)
    and did not destroy them.
Time after time he restrained his anger^(D)
    and did not stir up his full wrath.

⁴³ Many times he delivered them,^(A)
    but they were bent on rebellion^(B)
    and they wasted away in their sin.
⁴⁴ Yet he took note of their distress
    when he heard their cry;^(C)
45 for their sake he remembered his covenant^(D)
    and out of his great love^(E) he relented.^(F)

⁸ “How can I give you up,^(A) Ephraim?^(B)
    How can I hand you over, Israel?
How can I treat you like Admah?
    How can I make you like Zeboyim?^(C)
My heart is changed within me;
    all my compassion^(D) is aroused.^(E)

“Although they have allies and are numerous,
    they will be destroyed^(A) and pass away.
Although I have afflicted you, Judah,
    I will afflict you no more.^(B)