Throughout Exodus, he shows his abiding love for the Israelites when he continues to help them after they disobey. Since God is eternal and good, this is the best thing anyone could ask for. Therefore those who don't want God don't really know what the good life is. His use of violence to correct those who are falling from the straight and narrow line does not hurt them in any way. But it is used to remind them how to get the good life they want. It seems that God assumes that if you love me and do what I tell you, everything will be okay and I will give you eternal life. But if you don't, I will have to destroy you. However, it should be seen as I will do everything I can do in my power to guide you towards good