Knowing our limits

Is the shortest way always the best?

"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." (Exodus 13:17)

This verse helped me realize something today. God knew the limits of the Israelites those many years ago. He realized that war with the Philistines would send them running back to Egypt. (Even with his presence and protection, they threatened to a few times anyways!) But He knew that running back to Egypt would mean running right back into slavery, which was never his plan for them. So He took them by the longer route around the Philistine nation.

Why is this so reassuring?


Because God knows my limits, too. Sometimes it feels like God is taking me on the long route - maybe even through a desert time. But it is helpful to know that even in the desert, God has me on a path that allows for my temptations, my personality, my well being. He knows what dangers may lay on the "short cut". And He knows my limits.

"There isn't any temptation that you have experienced which is unusual for humans. God, who faithfully keeps his promises, will not allow you to be tempted beyond your power to resist. But when you are tempted, he will also give you the ability to endure the temptation as your way of escape." (1 Corinthians 10:13 GWT)

Even if it is the long way around.