The Lord was not being vengeful toward Israel in their rebellion against Him.  They broke the covenant and received the consequences that they had agreed to.<p>When a person or society is crushed by their rebellion, it appears that the Lord is angry with them and is wreaking judgment upon them.   <p>However, our Lord is gracious and plenteous in mercy.  But we must repent to be able to access those blessings.  Without repentance, the broken law has its effect.