The Long way Around

Yesterday, at the end of Exodus chapter 12, Pharaoh finally lets the people of Israel go. And he doesn't just let them go, he wants them gone. The Egyptians were so afraid that they begged them to leave quickly and gave them whatever they asked for. When God steps in, He doesn't do things halfway. He goes all out.

    So as we step into chapter 13, they are finally leaving Egypt after 430 years. And the first thing God tells them is to remember this day and to celebrate it every year. He wanted them to always remember the moment they were set free.

     And that made me think....how often do we celebrate the day the Lord set us free? How easily do we forget what He's already done for us?

     Then something else stood out. As the Lord leads them out of slavery, He doesn't take them down the main road or the shortest route, the one occupied by the Philistines. Scripture says it was because God knew that if they faced battle too soon, they might turn back and run to Egypt. So instead, God leads them through the wilderness.

     Sometimes God takes us the long way around to protect us. He leads us away from what we think is faster because we're not ready for what's on that road yet. That really changes how you see a wilderness season, doesn't it? What we see as extra struggle, wasted time, or unnecessary delay is often divine protection.

    And even on the long way around, God stayed with them. He didn't just send them out and wish them luck. He went ahead of them, cloud by day, fire by night. 

Direction. Presence. Protection. Provision.

    So maybe the wilderness isn't punishment after all, even thoughat times it may feel like it. Maybe it’s proof that God is still leading, still guarding, still preparing us for what's ahead. And one day we'll look back and realize the long way was actually the safest way all along.

Love Pastor Mandy

Ark of Hope Ministry 

Daily Reading Exodus 13