Jeremiah 31:20

God is represented as the speaker. He asks Himself whether Ephraim is still beloved by Him. The answer is contained in the words that follow. As often as He makes mention of him, His affection towards him is stirred. The picture is of course adapted to human modes of thought and feeling, and represents God as acting in the same way in which a man would, when thinking upon the ingratitude and rebellion of a son, whom he nevertheless cannot but continue to love.

pleasant child lit. a child of delights, a beloved child.

as often as I speak against him or, as often as I speak of him.

my bowels are troubled lit. as mg. sound. The meaning is, my heart yearns. See on Jeremiah 4:19.