The Shortest Longest Route
Thursday, January 19
The Shortest Longest Route
Then it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, “Lest perhaps the people change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt.” Exodus 13:17
As followers of God, we know that His ways are always best even when we don’t understand it. God frequently takes His people the long way round. It is just as true of the spiritual pilgrimage of Christians today as it was of the literal journey of the Israelites. In Exodus 13:17 we read ‘God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, “Lest perhaps the people change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt.”’
Nowhere is the truth of this more apparent than in the lives of outstanding men of God. Joseph’s progress towards his ultimate place of authority was anything but short. Moses moved to the responsibility of leadership via a lengthy period of “the far side of the desert.” David was God’s selected king who had to wait for the people’s selection, King Saul, reign to be over before stepping in.
Today, if you are looking at your life and questioning what God is up to, I’d like to remind you if this famous proverb, “The longest way round is the shortest way home.” If we look back on our own lives – on the progress of our sanctification or on our experience of service – we see the same principle at work.
The reasons for God’s dealing with us in this manner are to be found in his loving wisdom. He knows the circumstances which would be too much for his children. They are wise if they recognize his gracious method. Doing so will result in peace in the midst of his otherwise mysterious dealings, patience in the face of delays and perseverance in the weariness of the way.