Have you ever heard the saying, “it’s not about the destination but the journey”? Of course, we want the quickest way to our destination, but the extended journey has its benefits. Who knows what we avoid when we take the path designed for us versus the one used by others. As I’ve pondered my path, I know it’s not been what I expected; however, I wouldn’t change it. Each mountain and valley created the person I am today. Therefore, we benefit when we discover the purpose in the journey.
The Story: Exodus 13:17-22
In Exodus 13:17-22, Pharoah let the children of Israel go, but God didn’t lead them by way of the Philistines. Instead He led them by way of the Red Sea. He selected this path because they would’ve gone to war with the Philistines. As a result of the potential war, they might have returned to Egypt. Therefore, the way of the Red Sea was a better option. Although they were no longer in Egypt, God went with them as a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.
The Lesson
As the children of Israel had an extended journey, we have them as well. We don’t understand the reason for the detours, but we eventually learn that there’s a purpose in it all. I can hear you ask, “How do you know?” The experience of the children of Israel at the Red Sea (Exodus 14: 27-30) provides us with insight.
There were two purposes for the extended journey toward the Read Sea, which help us today.
- Prevent us from returning to the past – By going this way, the children of Israel walked across on dry land. Once they were safely across, God closed the Red Sea passage. Therefore, they wouldn’t be able to return to Egypt easily. The same goes for us. Unfortunately, we like to look back and even go back. Ask Lot’s wife (Genesis 19:26). Although it was expired, unproductive, and even harmful, it’s what we know. The familiarity gives us a sense of comfort despite the fact that it didn’t serve us well. Therefore, God seals off relationships, doors, and any other thing that would allow us to go back. Thus, we no longer have access.
- Destruction of our enemies – From their Red Sea experience, the children of Israel would never see Pharoah and his army again. Yes, there are some people we need to never see again. They may not be bad people, but they’re bad for us. They prompt bad behaviors and lead us away from God’s best. At times, they have a negative impact on our esteem and well-being because they’re not whole. When our love for them negatively impacts our love for ourselves, then they must go. If we refuse to let go of the ones who interrupt God’s plan, then He will remove them for us.
No, we don’t always understand the reason for the extended journey. Yet, there’s purpose in it all. Our job is to press forward knowing that everything will work together for the good when we love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Walk in step with God and watch the purpose come into view.
