81 Set the trumpet to your lips, for a vulture is over the house of the Lord, because they have broken my covenant, and transgressed my law. 2 To me they cry, My God, we Israel know thee. 3 Israel has spurned the good; the enemy shall pursue him. 4 They made kings, but not through me. They set up princes, but without my knowledge. With their silver and gold they made idols for their own destruction.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Hosea 8:1-4
Commentary on Hosea 8:1-4
(Read Hosea 8:1-4)
When Israel was hard pressed, they would claim protection from God, but this would be disregarded. What stead will it stand in to say, My God, I know thee, if we cannot say, My God, I love thee, serve thee, and cleave to thee only?