"And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philis'tines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt: but God led the people about, through the way of the wilderness of the Red sea: and the children of Israel went up harnessed out of the land of Egypt." Exodus 13:17,18
The story of Israel's exodus from Egypt is not just a historical event, but is a sure lesson in spiritual growth and guidance. The route chosen was not the shortest or the easiest, but it was the most beneficial for Israel's spiritual development. This mystical detour illustrates how heaven-appointed learning often comes through the most inconvenient paths, leading to the most desirable outcomes.
Israel could have chosen a path through the land of the Philistines, which was a shorter route to their destination. However, Israel was led to choose the wilderness path. Why? The answer lies in understanding the living God’s purpose for our devotional character. The journey through the wilderness was not about reaching the destination quickly, but was about preparing Israel to inhabit the Promised Land with the right mindset and heart.
When the Israelites left Egypt, they first passed through Sin and pitched in Rephidim (Exodus 17:1), and then moved on to Horeb. From Horeb, it was an eleven-day journey to Kadesh-barnea (Deuteronomy 1:2), where they were to observe the land of Canaan. However, their lack of faith led to a forty-year sojourn in the wilderness. This delay was not due to the distance, but rather due to their refusal to trust and follow their Deity’s guidance and instruction.
The Israelites witnessed that Deity’s power at the Red Sea, where it annihilated the Egyptian army (Exodus 14:31). Yet, this miraculous deliverance did not instill lasting faith. Instead, their fear was superficial and did not translate into trust. They soon complained about their hardships and longed for the comforts of Egypt (Exodus 16:3). This highlights a critical lesson: miracles alone cannot sustain faith; it requires a deeper, personal relationship with the living God’s mind and intention.
The intention was not just to free Israel from physical bondage but to deliver them from spiritual enslavement. The wilderness journey was a time of testing and refinement. Their God used this period to teach Israel to depend on him for their daily needs, symbolized by the manna from heaven (Deuteronomy 8:2-3). This dependence was meant to cultivate a deeper understanding and relationship with him, moving beyond fear to love and trust.
The longer route through the wilderness was mentally and spiritually taxing, designed to humble Israel and teach them to rely on their God’s provision and guidance. This route was more honorable and profitable than the short path through the land of the Philistines, which would have led to immediate conflict and possible return to Egypt out of fear.
The story of Israel's exodus is a timeless lesson for us today. The Bible’s paths may not always be the shortest or the easiest, but they are designed for our ultimate growth and benefit. Our trials and hardships are opportunities to deepen our faith and understanding of the living God’s will. By embracing the long route, we can experience devotional transformation and develop a resilient belief that is not dependent on immediate miracles but sustained by a personal and intelligent relationship with the Bible.
The Bible’s guidance may lead us through unexpected and challenging paths, but these detours are meant to prepare us for the promises it’s character has in store. As we navigate life's wilderness, let us remember that our faith journey is about more than reaching a destination; it's about growing closer to the Bible’s mind, learning to trust its wisdom, and becoming more like its reasonable character in the process. By embracing the long route, we can find peace and purpose, knowing that the living God is with us every step of the way.