Take the Long Way

Scripture:
Exodus 13:17, “Now when Pharaoh had let the people go, God did not lead them by the way of the land of the Philistines, even though it was near; for God said, ‘The people might change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt.’”

Observation:
God’s ways are not our ways. If I had been leading the Exodus, I would have taken the shortest, easiest, quickest road to the Promised Land. The goal in my mind would have been just to get where I was going as fast as possible. God had a different goal. He wanted the people to be prepared when they got to the Promised Land so they would stay there. That’s a different goal and required a different approach. In His wisdom, God knew the people weren’t prepared for the challenges waiting in the Promised Land. So He chose to take them the long way home — a way that seemed to make no sense to those who traveled. But to God, it made perfect sense. It was on the long way that the people would develop the character, faith and desire they needed to press on amidst the threat of war waiting for them.

Application:
There are times in my life when I need to trust God’s leading even if it doesn’t make sense to me. He not only knows the future — my future — but He also knows my character and if my heart is prepared for what is ahead. If and when God leads me to take the long way, I don’t need to resist Him and fight Him. I need to trust Him and His wisdom. I need to trust Him in the long way financially, the long way at work, the long way in my marriage or with my kids. I often want God to snap His fingers and solve my problems or make provision instantly, quickly, the easiest way I can see. But it is in trusting God and learning to walk with God in the long way that I am prepared for His answers and provision when they come.

Prayer:
Father, You are all wise. I know You are smarter than I am. I know You know me and what lies ahead. God would You please grant me trust in You when You take me the long way. Grant me patience. Keep my eyes on You. Don’t let me run ahead or complain or lose faith. Grow in me the character of Christ —likeness I need. Thank You for caring enough about me to do what is best for me, not just what is easiest for me. Forgive me when I don’t get it, and when in my short —sightedness and selfishness I grumble against You or lose faith. You are wise. You are good. I lay my life before You in trust.

— Chip Henderson, senior pastor