LONG WAY TO THE PROMISE LAND

The Long Way to the Promised Land 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. (Exodus 13:17-18a) How could an eleven-day trip end up to be a forty-year journey? Many of us don't give the Israelites much credit for taking so long to make such a short trip. We fail to remember that while murmuring and complaining and fighting among themselves did hold them back for long periods of time, God was the first to hold them back. And God had a good reason to do so. When the Israelites first left Egypt, they surely were not equipped to fight the Philistines. Therefore, God put them on a longer but safer path by the desert road to the Red Sea. Perhaps you are wondering why it is taking so long for you to reach your Promised Land. Maybe you feel like you are going around in circles. Perhaps you think you know a short cut. It is wise to allow God to guide you even though He might lead you in a round about way for your own safety and protection. God doesn't use MapQuest to chart the shorter distance or the quickest time. [MapQuest sometimes takes you in a round about way also]. God takes us by the desert roads, through the seas, over the hills, through the valleys, and on the mountains for a reason. Wherever you are today is where God wants you to be. It might be a long way to the Promised Land, but remember if your destination is the Promised Land, you will certainly get there -- God's way and not your way!

Thanks for posting that Tink. I needed to read it this morning. I've been through a lot especially over the last year and I keep asking why so this has helped me tremendously to look at things differently. Shel

I know what you mean.. been there .. but I keep to HIS promise that I will get through it . Take care and God Bless .. Tink

How perfect this was for our situation trying to get to CO since 2000. But God is faithful to encourage us when we feel overwhelmed. I really do not feel overwhelmed though so I know it is the peace that passes all understanding that God promises. So maybe..just maybe we will see a breakthrough in all these situations in our lives. Thanks for posting this and please know the Lord wants to use each of us no matter if we think.."oh I don't need to share this" or "maybe no one cares or sees this the way I did"..we all are better off when we obey that still small prompting from the Lord to share something..because He wants our hearts to not be troubled. Love you all and praying for each of you and your families..even those who are just lurkers....be encouraged...whether it is in waiting for approval for surgery, the surgery daye or just in your life in general...God loves you and He proved it through the giving of His Son Jesus Christ...May His peace flood over each of you today as you wait for your "Promised Land". In His palm, Joan M