Painting pictures of Eqypt

I don't want you to think that I obsess about "playing the harlot" 365 days a year. But, I'm still studying the book of Hosea so what can I say? The truths from this precious book leave me scratching my head. How could God's people EVER want to return to Eygpt? How could they turn and keep turning from a God who loves them so much and went to such great lengths to save them? Why would they want what Egypt has to offer when the Almighty God has promised them so very much? The truths from Hosea also hit home. I know I have done and am capable of doing the very same thing. I can quickly and easily begin to "paint a picture of Egypt in my mind." Reminds me of a song by Sara Groves (see below).

Maybe it's not such a bad thing to remember the days (actually years) I played the harlot. Maybe in remembering, I'll never return to Egypt (so to speak). Oh, God forbid. As I read through chapter 11 of Hosea today, I was struck with the emotions expressed by the Almighty God. He says things like..."I took them in My arms, I bent down, How can I give you up, How can I surrender you, My heart is turned over within Me, my compassions are kindled." He says all of this in the context of their turning from Him and to Egypt. WOW. My human mind has a hard time grasping God's love. But, the truths from Hosea assure me that God's covenant of love with me will NEVER let me go. Double WOW.

"I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness."