Hosea 2:8

She did not know. This reveals the sinful ignorance of God’s people and their ingratitude toward the true Giver of “every good gift and every perfect gift” (James 1:17).

Multiplied her silver and gold. The prosperity in trade and commerce with which Israel was favored, especially in the reign of Jeroboam II (see Vol. II, p. 83), resulted in this increase. Instead of using this wealth for the glory of God, apostate Israel employed it in idolatrous practices in rebellion against the ways of God. Tragically, “Jeshurun [Israel] waxed fat, and kicked” (see on Deut. 32:15). In return for His mercies God justly expects that we give Him thanks, and use His blessings for His praise.

In this materialistic age, when human knowledge and skill tempt us to be proud of our own self-sufficient productiveness, we must guard ourselves against the danger of being ungrateful to God for all His benefits (see Ps. 103:1, 2).

Prepared for Baal. The final irony of the situation is that these God-given benefits were attributed to Baal and used in service for him.