Albert Barnes Commentary Jeremiah 10:18

"For thus saith Jehovah, Behold, I will sling out the inhabitants of the land at this time, and will distress them, that they may feel [it]." — Jeremiah 10:18 (ASV)

Sling out - A similar metaphor for violent ejection occurs in Isaiah 22:18 (see the note).

At this once - Or, “at this time.” Previous invasions had ended either in deliverance, or at most in temporary misfortune. God’s long-suffering is exhausted, and this time Judea must cease to be an independent nation.

That they may find it so - Omit “so,” and explain either:

1. “I will distress them” with the rigors of a siege “that they may feel it,” that is, the distress; or,
2. “That they may find” Me, God, that which alone is worth finding.