Divine providence looks far beyond the final results of human actions, piercing directly into a person's inner intentions and the direction of their life. Building upon the concept that empty rituals from corrupt individuals are rejected, human nature is defined by its core characteristics and inner drives [אמרי דעת].
When a person walks a path of wrongdoing, the corruption is not merely a matter of bad behavior, actions, or speech [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Rather, it reflects the deep-seated habits and inner traits of the soul from which all actions flow [מלבי״ם]. The primary approach among commentators is that God's rejection is aimed at the very intention to do evil and the steps taken toward it, even if the physical act has not yet occurred [מצודת דוד, אבן עזרא]. In fact, the inner sickness of the soul, characterized by arrogance and cruelty, is considered a far greater offense than the actual physical sin itself [מלבי״ם].
One might wonder why God would completely reject a wrongdoer when the doors of repentance are always open. This rejection specifically applies to someone who stubbornly clings to their impurity and destructive habits, attempting to approach God without any genuine desire to change [אלשיך]. Such a person remains in rebellion against God and fails to lead others toward an honest life [עמנואל הרומי].
On the opposite end of the spectrum is the continuous, lifelong pursuit of righteousness [מלבי״ם]. This involves a constant dedication to justice and good deeds [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The primary approach among commentators is that God loves a person for the sheer effort and deep desire to do good. Even if circumstances force a person to stop and they cannot complete the good deed, they are loved because the pure intention of the heart is what truly matters [מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד].
Furthermore, this pursuit is not just a private endeavor. It extends outward when a person seeks justice for others, guiding and encouraging them to walk the same honest path [אבן עזרא, עמנואל הרומי]. When an individual approaches God with this sincere drive and genuine repentance, they become deeply beloved by Him, as it is His nature to love those who truly return to Him [אלשיך].