And I shall have compassion on my holy name, which the house of Israel have profaned among the nations where they have come in.’”​—Ezek. 36:16-21.

It seemed as if the true God was not on their side and was not protecting them. This brought reproach upon the name of the God to whom they were dedicated. Hence, Jehovah was obliged to show self-respect by having compassion on his own name. It was a holy name and did not deserve to be profaned by worldlings. Because he had a devoted remnant who were connected with his name, then whatever he did in compassion on his name would call for compassion on that remnant.