Daily Devotion, August 2, 2020

Devotion: Read Exodus 13:17-22.

  As we looked at yesterday, God’s people have a history of being on the move. And sometimes, they navigated off the map. They did not go the way most people expected. They didn’t always follow the usual route. The writer here in Exodus points out that God did not lead the people by the closer path. I don’t know if you have ever experienced a “backseat driver” but one of the things that earns them that title is “suggesting” that a different route be taken. I can only imagine how many of them Moses had along for this trip!

  When God was ready to choose a new king for Israel, Samuel was probably surprised when his “God’s Google Maps” app gave directions to Bethlehem. When Jesus was leading his disciples, they tried to tell him that he was supposed to walk around Samaria, but he led them “off their map” through that land. And when they tried to tell him it was too dangerous for him to go to Jerusalem, he said that’s exactly where he was going.

  

  The good news is that even when God directs us “off the map” to ways we don’t expect or want to go, God also promises to go with us and lead the way. “By day the Lord went ahead of them….to guide them on their way and by night….to give them light…” You may not see a “pillar of cloud or fire,” but be assured God is still leading the way! Personal Worship Option: Reflect on the people and ways by which God has led you at various times in your life. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for each of those.