God will never lead you astray.
Let him be your compass.
When we see the glory and power of God it is easy for us to allow him to lead us here and there. We’re more compliant and easy going because we can SEE his doing, we can SEE his hand at work. What happens when that doesn’t feel as obvious, when we’re struggling to see God, when his ways don’t seem as clear to us? Let’s dive into the word.
“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.” Exodus 13:17-18.
The Lord just freed the Israelites out of Egypt, they just came out of oppression, mistreatment, harsh labour. They also witnessed the plagues set against Pharaoh they saw the Lords mighty hand. The first thing to take notice of is that it is God who is leading the Israelites we see this in the beginning of the verse. God with his wisdom chose not to lead the Israelites through the Philistine country even though it was shorter. God was concerned that the Israelites might change their mind if they faced war so soon after exiting Egypt, and because God is the one who created us he knows us best, he knew the Israelites tendencies, their state of mind. God created security for the Israelites even when they didn’t know they needed it.
How many times has God redirected us and we’ve maybe murmured, we have maybe even disobeyed? We have to trust that God is leading us, 'And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.' Romans 8:28. To love God is to trust God. The Israelites were called for Gods purpose, so he had to redirect them so;
They wouldn’t return to their bondage - God wants you kept free.
They’d learn to continue to trust God - knowing Jesus is your foundation.
They would be ready for battle - endurance for future trials.
Where ever God has you right now, wherever you’re being redirected or if it seems God is taking you through something that doesn’t make sense or even seems unfair, know that the Lord Almighty will never lead you astray, he will never put you in what you cannot handle because he is there with us. We’re reminded of this in Isaiah 41:10 'So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.'
Take your concerns to the Lord, however you’re feeling about a situation, however you may be thinking or viewing God right now, speak to him let him know your heart, Jesus will bring you comfort and clarification, stay at his feet. ‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.’ Philippians 4:6-7.