“And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so as to go by day and night. He did not take away the pillar of cloud by day or the pillar of fire by night from before the people.”
Exodus 13:21-22 NKJV
Off they go – being led through the wilderness (the long way) by a pillar of cloud before them and a pillar of fire behind them – THE physical, tangible, visible presence of G-d going before and behind them!!! Something about the imagery gives me great comfort!
As a Texan I know the relief that comes from clouds on a hot summer day. I also know the comfort a fire brings on cold winter days. Cloud by day – something they could see and look to, something to hide them, something to comfort them. Fire by night, something to light their way, something to warm them, something to hide them.
The imagery reminds me of what G-d spoke to my heart sometime last year about Psalms 23 – a Shepherd provides for His sheep, protects His sheep, and positions His sheep.
G-d used the cloud to hide the Israelites from Pharaoh and the Egyptians, and from the pillars of cloud and fire, He brought trouble and confusion on the Egyptians. (Exodus 14:19-24). He positioned and protected His people, and He provided a way of escape. He was a good, fierce Shepherd to them.
The Word says that G-d is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6), that He longs to be gracious to us (Isaiah 30:18), and that His ears are attentive to our prayers (Psalms 34:15).
Whatever we face today, may we rest in knowing deep in our hearts that G-d stands before us ready to protect us and to lead the way and G-d stands behind us to comfort us and to light the way, we only need to hold our peace and follow His voice.
Father – help me to trust in Your voice today. Forgive me when I’ve stepped outside of the protection of Your presence. Guide me and protect me. Make the way clear. You are good. You can be trusted and Your leadership in my life is perfect. Amen.
Daily reading: Exodus 13-15
If you don’t know His voice, or you don’t know Him, I’d love to tell you more.