17 When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was nearer, for God thought, “If the people face war, they may change their minds and return to Egypt.” 18 So God led the people by the roundabout way of the wilderness bordering the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of the land of Egypt prepared for battle.
Prayer Focus: This morning we move from Jesus as the light of the world to the people of Israel on their Exodus journey from Egypt through the wilderness. If anyone was reading the map, they might have wondered why the Israelites did not go straight from Egypt to the Promised Land. These verses remind us that sometimes God leads us in ways beyond our understanding and yet with intention and purpose. To prevent the people from entering a war zone, God leads them by “the roundabout way.” Pray that you might have faith to follow and eyes to see even on the roundabout way. #FortMillUnity #GodsStory #OurStories #WeLiftOurSong #FortMillSC