God’s Way is Better

Exodus 13:1-18 ESV
“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near. For God said, “Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt.”  But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. And the people of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt equipped for battle.”

It would have been easy for the Israelites to think that the Via Maris (the way by the sea)  was the way to go. It had good, easy roads, the shortest distance, it was a trade route so food and water could be bought. But the dangers of the way were too great. They could not see them, but God anticipated dangers they could not see.

Also, God was laying an inescapable trap for the Egyptians. He was also preparing another display of his power to rescue his people. God does not always work in the way that seems easiest to us. Many times, the road he leads us on is not the shortest, or the most comfortable, or the most convenient.

God looks at the trip from an eternal viewpoint. He sees where we were yesterday, where are today, and where we will be tomorrow. God is our only true guide. God will never allow us to face more than we are able to bear; He knows what we can handle. He is not a God that reacts, He is the God that has a perfect plan for you and me and custom designs each plan.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to trust You, even if the way seems obscure, too long or too rough. I know You have my best interest at heart and You know exactly what lies ahead and of course what will bring the greatest victory for You and me. Where You lead me, I will follow.