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 Red Sea. (13:17-18)
And HaShem went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people. (13:21-22)
God is sovereign, but people also have choice. God is omniscient (all-knowing) and he knew that the people would freak out if they had to deal with war with the Philistines and would return to Egypt, so God led them another way.
God led them! God led them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night so they could see. That is pretty awesome – wouldn’t you love to be led in such an obvious way?
Good news! We have the Word of God and the Spirit of God. With this combination, we, too, can be led by God. But we need to avail ourselves of these. We need to continue to read the Scriptures, from beginning to end, and again and again! Being saturated with God’s Word helps us make wise, godly choices. It helps us know which is God’s way when we are in a dilemma. Then, of course, God gives His Holy Spirit to His children to help us discern and to guide us. We also have the community of God, and we can bounce things off them. But what they say should be submitted to God by knowing His Word and in prayer.
My husband and I have endeavoured to humbly seek the advice of others, often of older believers, when making big decisions, whether it be regarding buying a house, making a big move, or family concerns. While we have often heeded and benefited from the input of others, occasionally after seeking God about their advice we believed He was directing otherwise and have followed how we believed God was leading. May God help us all to humbly seek him.
Prayer: I thank You God that You have given us Your Word and Your Holy Spirit to lead and to guide us. Help me to faithfully humbly come before You to lead and guide me. Amen.
