Physical circumcision of males was the mark of God's covenant with Israel (Genesis 17:9–14; Exodus 4:25–26). Uncircumcised hearts are stubborn hearts that do not love God. The people show this through continual disobedience. God promised to "circumcise" Israel's uncircumcised hearts so the people could love Him (see also Deuteronomy 10:16; 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4; Ezekiel 36:25–27).