Today we are reading Exodus 13. In this chapter the Hebrews set out from Egypt toward the Red Sea. “When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near. For God said, “Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt.” But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. And the people of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt equipped for battle. Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for Joseph had made the sons of Israel solemnly swear, saying, “God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones with you from here.” And they moved on from Succoth and encamped at Etham, on the edge of the wilderness. And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people.” Exodus 13:17-22 ESV The fast way isn’t always the best way! Have you ever taken the long way home? Occasionally, when we go somewhere, we take the lesson direct route to enjoy the journey. God led the Hebrews to avoid the shortest route to the Promised Land. His purpose was that if they encountered war, they might give up and go back to being slaves. Have you ever felt like God was leading you the “long way”? In our eyes, the short, quick way often seems best. The long way forces us to depend on God. Our faith grows deeper and stronger when we spend a lot of time in prayer. May God grant you joy in the journey! Pastor Tim
