SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2
Exodus 13:17-22
Psalm 32:6-11

“… I will guide thee
with mine eye.”

TRUST GOD EVEN IF THE WAY SEEMS LONG

The LORD purposely would not lead the people through the land of the Philistines “although that was near” (Exod 13:17), i.e. it was a more direct and shorter route to Canaan. He took them on a detour instead through the way of the wilderness. Instead of just going eastward to Canaan, He led them out of Egypt from Succoth to Etham, i.e. southeasterly “through the way of the wilderness of the Red sea” (Exod 13:18). This route was unmistakably the LORD’s idea. “God led” is repeated in Exodus 13:17 and 18. Also, in Exodus 13:21, “the LORD went before them … to lead them the way.”

God gave the reason for this route: The children of Israel would have to encounter many wars in the other route. They would become fearful, and discouraged, and would change their minds about leaving Egypt as a result. The people were spiritually not ready. It is sad for God to say such a thing after having just displayed His power so mightily. May our faith be stronger! Yet, the LORD knows us well, and He remains patient.

Sometimes we see an easy and direct solution to a problem we face at work, at home, and in our personal life. But God does not seem to take us through that easy route. Instead, we seem to have to go through a much longer way. “Why can’t God do it this or that way?” It is not that God cannot. Rather it is because God knows we cannot take what might come as a result if He led us by that way. He knows when we are not ready for what is ahead. Is there something in your job, family, church, or ministry that makes you wonder why God does not just provide the direct solution? Perhaps it is because you will return to the world if He gave you the money you needed, or returned you to health quickly, or solved your family problem immediately. The more direct and obvious route is not necessarily better. Trust God to know best.

THOUGHT: “He leadeth me, O blessed thought!”
PRAYER: LORD, I am glad Thou knowest the future and leadest me based on that.