"Now when Pharaoh had let the people go, God did not lead them by the way of the land of the Philistines, even though it was near; for God said, 'The people might change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt.' Hence God led the people around by the way of the wilderness to the Red Sea; and the sons of Israel went up in martial array from the land of Egypt." -Exodus 13.17-18
Finally, Israel is free. Four hundred and thirty years and ten plagues later, Pharaoh has finally let the people go. As they prepare to leave God gives them favor in the sight of the Egyptians and they leave with gold and silver, the wealth of Egypt. And now as they begin their journey God takes them down the scenic road.
There is a faster, more direct past to where they need to go, but it's through the land of the Philistines, and if they go that way there could be war that overwhelms them and causes them to turn back and return to slavery. In order to protect their freedom and young faith God leads them along a different path. Until they are ready it is best to keep them away from war.
Men, there are times in life when God will intentionally lead us away from battle and danger. There are times He needs to strengthen our faith and trust in Him before we engage. There are times we need to get stronger and go through more training before we are ready for battle.
When God leads us along the scenic route it doesn't mean we're weak. It doesn't mean that we've failed. It's God saying "Not yet." As we'll see later in the Old Testament, Israel engages the Philistines over and over again. There comes a time to fight that battle, but it isn't until they are stronger and more ready. For four hundred and thirty years they have been slaves, not warriors.
There will come a time for the battles, but until God leads us into them, let's follow Him down the scenic path and soak in all that He has to teach us and the training He provides for when it's time to charge.
"Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
To God alone be the Glory!
Strength and Honor
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