To continue browsing while you listen, play the audio in a new window.

The essential issue in this story is that the Israelites want to worship gods other than Jehovah, and they think they'll be happier doing so. We can fall into the same trap, the same delusion thinking that we can be happier doing it our way as opposed to God's way. Eventually when we come running back to God, He'll still help and take us back, but unfortunately for us we still have to live with the regret.

(References: Arcana Coelestia 458; Divine Providence 112; Judges 2:11-19)