מלכים ב, פרק י״ז, פסוק ל״ו

The covenant established with the Israelites demands absolute and exclusive loyalty to God [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This requirement for undivided worship is deeply rooted in the way God rescued the people from Egypt. The rescue was accomplished through a supernatural display of power, an act that completely separated the Israelites from all other nations on earth. Because of this miraculous event, the people are no longer subject to the influence of the stars or any natural forces. Instead, they are guided by God alone [מלבי״ם].

The dramatic nature of this redemption is pictured as a warrior stretching out his arm in the middle of a battle [מצודת ציון]. By recognizing the sheer greatness of this miraculous rescue and God's exclusive protection, the expected response becomes clear. The Israelites must dedicate all their fear, bowing, and worship entirely to Him and to no one else [מלבי״ם].