In the wilderness, God meets the people left of the sword. There He is gracious to them and gives them His everlasting love.

...........................Jeremiah 31:2-3
"Thus saith the LORD, The people which were left of the sword found grace in the wilderness; even Israel, when I went to cause him to rest.
The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee."