God with us as He Leads | Dec. 11
Exodus 13:21-22
Dolly Oliech | Missions Pastor
When do you notice the clouds in the sky? For the most part, clouds are so much part of our everyday lives that we don’t give them much thought. That changes when you are hoping for sunshine or rain! There are times when a cloud looks unusual and it is noticed. I remember one morning in Uganda being awestruck by the beauty of an ominous cumulus cloud with glorious sunbeams radiating from behind. When seeing this, today’s text came to mind:
“21 And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. 22 The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people.”
– Exodus 13:21-22
This must have been a sight to behold for the Israelites. This cloud was a manifestation of God; a physical evidence to the people that God was with them and leading them. The Israelites had just left Egypt. God would direct them to cross at the Red Sea miraculously on dry ground. This pillar of cloud would continue to lead them throughout their wilderness journey into the Promised Land.
In order to be led, the people needed to follow. The cloud leading Israel would be pointless if the people did not actually follow in obedience. It would be a difficult journey for them in the wilderness and they needed to trust His direction. And yet God’s presence was ever in front of them, reminding them that He was with them, guiding them along the way.
This image is relevant for us today as well. While we do not physically see the presence of God as the Israelites did, as believers we have the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. God has given us His Word to lead and guide us.
PRAYER: Lord, we are thankful that you are always with us. We are also grateful for your Word to guide and lead us. We confess that we do not always follow your lead, as we rely on our own wisdom. Help us to look to you: would your Holy Spirit guide, convict, encourage and lead us as we follow you in obedience.