81 “Put the trumpet to your lips!
Something like an eagle is over Yahweh’s house,
because they have broken my covenant,
and rebelled against my law. 2 They cry to me, ‘My God, we Israel acknowledge you!’ 3 Israel has cast off that which is good.
The enemy will pursue him. 4 They have set up kings, but not by me.
They have made princes, and I didn’t approve.
Of their silver and their gold they have made themselves idols,
that they may be cut off.
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?