Re-Calculating...

When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, “If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea. Thus the Israelites left Egypt like an army ready for battle. Exodus 13:17-18 (NLT)

"Why did it happen this way? Why does it have to be like this? Couldn't He have found another way to deal with this issue and deliver me? Why is this journey to what God promised taking so long?" Do those questions sound familiar? Have you ever found yourself wondering the same thing? Ever prayed for deliverance, saw evidence of God's benevolence, yet question His approach? I have.

That's why I was really excited today to get this glimpse into the mind of God. Moses reveals something in Exodus 13 that I found to be very encouraging when I reflect on my own experience. As God leads me along my Christian journey He takes into consideration the condition of my faith and relationship with Him when determining the route. If He were to take me on the express route to my destination / place of promise, I won't be spiritually equipped to handle the challenges associated with the "express lane" and would likely bailout, give up or turn around. This means that the delay resulting from taking the "long way around" is actually His loving concern for my well-being! The drama at the Red Sea is actually the "lesser of two evils". Rather than complain about it, or being afraid of it, I should really be thankful for it, since it really could be much worse!

I can't imagine though, that the Israelites could picture anything more distressing than just being liberated from Egypt only to be stuck at the Red Sea with nowhere to go and the Egyptians in hot pursuit! Most times, in our own situations, neither can we. Who hasn't wondered "why did God provide X and then turn around and then lead me to this place that threatens to make it useless or take it away?" when trapped at the Red Sea? According to today's verse He does this because we are better able to handle the Red Sea than the alternative. God has power to deliver in either situation but in the land of the Philistines being unprepared spiritually might prevent us from sticking around long enough to actually experience it.

I am soooooo grateful that in His loving wisdom and despite my vociferous protests, God leads me on the roundabout route EVEN when it is through the wilderness. It's not at all comfortable and at times can be incredibly challenging, but it's never been more than I can bear. Like the children of Israel, my limited perspective doesn't allow me to know that this is better suited for my current condition; there's no way I can see that. But God sees and knows and lovingly guides me through congruous challenges until I'm prepared and ready to face my Philistine Giants! I will face the Philistines eventually, they are on the way to the Promised Land, but in His mercy it won't be until I'm ready to trust Him enough to stay the course.

Thank You Lord For Daily Bread!

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