The Bible says, ‘When Pharaoh 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’ (vv. 17-18 NIV). There is a lesson here for you. God knows where you are on your spiritual journey, and He is directing you accordingly, even when it seems like a roundabout way. ‘The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives’ (Psalm 37:23 NLT). The shortest route from Egypt to the promised land was through enemy territory, and God knew His people were not ready for battle. ‘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.’ Getting God’s people out of Egypt proved to be the easy part; getting Egypt out of God’s people proved to be the hard part. After forty generations of depending on Pharaoh, they needed to know God, learn His ways, and trust Him. So, He arranged their journey accordingly. Are you having a wilderness experience at the moment? Be encouraged. The fulfilment of what God promised you may be taking longer than you thought, but it’s not time wasted. And God is not punishing you; He is training you for your destiny. What should you do? 1) Spend time with Him in prayer and His Word. 2) Lean less on yourself and more on God. 3) Draw on His grace and follow His guidance.
