The Israelites find themselves in a dire situation, oppressed by their enemies due to their own actions of abandoning God for other deities. In their distress, they confess their sins, acknowledging that they have forsaken the Lord by worshiping the Baals and the Ashtoreths, which were common pagan deities of the time. This confession is crucial as it marks a turning point where they recognize their need for God's intervention.
Their plea is not just for immediate relief but also a commitment to change their ways, promising to serve God faithfully. This reflects a deeper understanding that true repentance involves both a change of heart and a change of action. The verse underscores the theme of God's mercy and willingness to forgive when His people turn back to Him with sincerity. It also serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how far one strays, returning to God with a contrite heart can lead to restoration and deliverance.