The writer appeals to the people to repent by the testing and examining of their ways and turning to the Lord. The first two verbs, test and examine,
imply a careful, thorough review of a matter.1 A thorough investigation into their actions, as well as the inner motivation for them, should be undertaken. This was necessary for them to turn to God with the right frame of mind and attitude.2 Although the testing and examining is a command to the people, it is clear from the Word of God that no man can do this himself. The heart is callous and only God can do this for a person and for his people (see Jeremiah 17:9–10). Still, the people should turn to God and call to their God, as the psalmist did to search their hearts (see Psalm 139:23–24). It was necessary that their lives should be inspected, and then to turn to God in repentance.3
40 Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the LORD!