Hosea 11:8

Give thee up. The thought of v. 8 represents a transition from dire predictions of severe chastisement to comforting promises of mercy. Frequently in Hosea’s prophecy threats and promises alternate, and sometimes commingle. Although Ephraim merited complete destruction because of its iniquities, the Lord, because of His enduring love and mercy, continued to strive for repentance and reformation on the part of His people (see Jer. 31:20). Zeboim. Admah and Zeboim were among the cities of the plain that were destroyed by God (Gen. 14:8; Deut. 29:23). Although Israel had been as guilty and deserving of wrath as these cities (see Matt. 11:23, 24), God expresses His reluctance to deliver the northern kingdom into the hands of its enemies or to give it over to destruction. My repentings. See on Num. 23:19.