We are told from the time we are young to be efficient in how we go about life. The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. Well, that may not always be the best path to take. Determining the best path is something all of us need to take time and seek God over. The most straightforward answer may not be the best. The shortest distance may do more harm than good. The Israelites didn’t take the easy path coming out of Egypt because God knew they would turn and run at the first sign of resistance.
Exodus 13:17-18
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 toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt ready for battle.
The Longer Way
It’s interesting that God led the Israelites through the long way. There was a well-established highway between Egypt and Israel but God knew the Israelites would lose heart and turn back because of resistance. Often God will lead us along the longer path because he knows it’s better for us. Easier isn’t always better. Often the shortest route has the most competition. Trust God and where he is leading you.
Walk in the Spirit
Part of our Daily Walk is following the Spirit’s leading. God will often test our trust by taking us on a path that makes no sense. He wants to see if we will follow him or turn and go back. Paul tells us in Romans to walk by the Spirit. This means doing what God leads us to do. Abraham followed God’s leading several times in his life. David was known as a man after God’s own heart. We may not know what is going to happen when we take the first step but we can be confident that He will be with us through it all. Israel took the long way and ended up in the promise land.