Matthew Henry Commentary Hosea 3:4-5

"For the children of Israel shall abide many days without king, and without prince, and without sacrifice, and without pillar, and without ephod or teraphim: afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek Jehovah their God, and David their king, and shall come with fear unto Jehovah and to his goodness in the latter days." — Hosea 3:4-5 (ASV)

Here is the application of the parable to Israel. They must long sit like a widow, stripped of all joys and honors, but will eventually be received again.

Those who seek the Lord to find him must apply to Christ and become his willing people. Not only are we to fear the Lord and his greatness, but the Lord and his goodness; not only his majesty, but his mercy.

Even Jewish writers apply this passage to the promised Messiah; doubtless it foretold their future conversion to Christ, for which they are kept a separate people.

Though the first fear of God arises from a view of his holy majesty and righteous vengeance, yet the experience of mercy and grace through Jesus Christ will lead the heart to reverence such a kind and glorious Friend and Father, and to fear offending him.