God of GenerationsNäide

Faithfulness That Frees

“God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter…” —Exodus 13:17, NIV

Freedom! Today’s verse from Exodus speaks of the day when the people of Israel were living what they had dreamed of for four hundred years: freedom. Their feet were crossing unknown borders, leaving behind the place where they had been enslaved, Egypt.

However, God chose to lead them on the long road, the road through the desert, because they would return to Egypt if they took the short path as they were not yet prepared for the battles they might encounter. God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt” (Exodus 13:17, NIV). This teaches us about God’s faithfulness and His wisdom in guiding both the Israelites and us. His perfect love will not only lead you to temporary freedom but to complete and lasting freedom. “We receive God’s promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ” (John 8:36, NIV).

Even if your reality today seems far from the promised land or if you feel lost in the desert, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will always be with you (John 14:16). It might take generations to see the fulfillment of promises—as it did for the Israelites to reach their destination; however, it’s our responsibility to remind ourselves and our descendants that God is indeed faithful (1 Corinthians 1:9).

Diego Delima

What areas of your heart or mind need freedom? How do you see God’s guidance in your life?

Father, I choose to believe in Your faithful love and path for me. Even though things may seem different from what I have imagined, I trust that You’re doing a good work in my life. You will fulfill Your promise over my life. Amen.