Psalm 136:16

Psalm 136:16

He leads His people through the wilderness

The Lord God knew the Israelites better than they knew themselves! For instance, when they first left Egypt, He deliberately led them south on an elongated route towards the desert rather than have them head off on the obvious road to Canaan, that headed directly northeast. Why? “When Phraoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led the people around by the desert road towards the Red Sea.” Exodus 13:17-18. Psalm 78:52-53 says, “But the Lord brought His people out like a flock; He led them like sheep through the wilderness. He guided them safely, so they were unafraid.”

Our spiritual lives should never be static, and the Lord certainly does not want us to turn around and head back towards Egypt. That is why we sometimes find ourselves on a torturous route that seems to be heading completely in the wrong direction. These verses are instructing us that there are times when the Lord deliberately leads us through the wilderness rather than allow us to take the straight road to the next destination. The Israelites not only went off course, but they had their journey time extended by 40 years so that they might learn how to trust in the Lord and prepare themselves for the challenges of conquering Canaan. The point is, that if we allow the Lord to lead us, He will take us on the route that is particular to us and that is best for us. Yes, we may not head directly towards our destination, but we will learn a lot of valid lessons along the way. Every step is meant to be a step of faith, and every lesson is a preparation for what is to come. Why? Because His love for us endures forever! 

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