“The Egyptians urged the people to hurry and leave the country. “For otherwise,” they said, “we will all die!” 34 So the people took their dough before the yeast was added, and carried it on their shoulders in kneading troughs wrapped in clothing. 35 The Israelites did as Moses instructed and asked the Egyptians for articles of silver and gold and for clothing. 36 The Lord had made the Egyptians favorably disposed toward the people, and they gave them what they asked for; so they plundered the Egyptians.” Exodus 12:35,36 NIV
“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.” 18 So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt ready for battle.” Exodus 13:17,18 NIV
Father God,
Change can be a challenge even when we know it has to come or we want it to come. To hit the road and live hand to mouth, not even having time to add yeast and make bread! And they left family homes where they had put down roots even if they had been worked hard. Places where loved ones had been born and died. That’s change alright! But the Lord blessed them and Egyptian neighbours provided them with wealth and clothes! How often You bless us amid difficulties with exactly what we will need. We don’t always see it at the time.
And as they went – following Moses. Those who knew the layout of the land from grazing the sheep and goats, may have wondered why they were going on a roundabout route. God knew what was ahead and knew sometimes detours are the best. Not really detours at all. And even though it says the Israelites went out ready for battle, God knew they were not. And the long way may have looked like a watery dead end but it was not to You, God. You made a way. Thank you that we can see You in our own lives. In the detours and making a way where none seems possible. We are learning to trust Your leading even when we do not see the sense of it!
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Friday 7th February 2025.
Absolutely had to be this song.
God will make a way
Where there seems to be no way
He works in ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me
He will be my guide
Hold me closely to His side
With love and strength for each new day
He will make a way, He will make a way
Repeat Chorus
By a roadway in the wilderness, He’ll lead me
Rivers in the desert will I see
Heaven and earth will fade but His Word will still remain
And He will do something new today
Oh, God will make a way
Where there seems to be no way
He works in ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me
He will be my guide
Hold me closely to His side
With love and strength for each new day
He will make a way, He will make a way
With love and strength for each new day
He will make a way, He will make a way
Yes, he will, he will make a way for you
Lyrics: Don Moen