«Then it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, ‘Lest perhaps the people change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt. ‘ So God led the people around by way of the wilderness of the Red Sea. And the children of Israel went up in orderly ranks out of the land of Egypt» (Exodus 13:17, 18).
The most common route from Egypt to Canaan at the time of the Exodus was the Via Maris (the sea route). This route, which bordered the Mediterranean coast, was the shortest and most preferred by merchant caravans; when taking it, one could get water and food easily. However, instead of choosing the sea route, which would take only eight or ten days to arrive, God guided His people through the desert, taking a great detour. This apparent inefficiency had a reason: God was protecting His people. The detour avoided a confrontation with the garrisons of Egyptian soldiers stationed along the way and with the Philistines, since the route crossed through their country. God knew the Israelites weren’t ready for war!
Sometimes God leads us on a zigzag deliberately and out of love. He knows that there are obstacles in the most direct path that we still cannot understand or face. In The Desire of Ages, Ellen G. White described this principle in the following words: «God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the purpose they are fulfilling as coworkers with Him.»—p. 224. Of course, understanding the glory of God’s plans takes time; we need the dust to settle in order to see clearly. This could take years! There are plans and purposes that we will only understand in heaven: In the meantime, it’s up to us to trust the Guide.
Your desert may have disappointments and loneliness, but even there, God comforts you with His presence; with the column of cloud by day and the column of fire by night. He is refreshing shade when the sun beats down and heat on cold nights. Although we will not always understand the reason for the detour, God promises that we will never be alone.
Lord, I’m attracted to shortcuts because I’m impatient.
Please help me believe that Your route is always the best, even if it’s not the most comfortable.
Hold me with Your presence when I don’t understand the way.
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Take From: Devotional Thoughts for Women 2022
«NO FEARS»
BY: VANEZA PISSUTO
Collaborators: Alexandra Pérez & Angelica Cuate.
