2.1.26 – The Prepared Route

 Yesterday was Shabbat Shirah—the Sabbath of the Song; the Song of the Sea and the song of Miriam (Ex. 15). And though we did not spend any time on this section, our belated birthday celebration highlighted amazing truths of Miriam's leadership.

Within our morning study, however, we uncovered why the Israelites—who had witnessed ten miraculous signs acknowledging that the Lord God is the only God—had to be driven out (beshalach) of Egypt (Ex. 10:2; 11:7; 14:4; which leads to 31:13). And why would 80% of God's people choose to stay in Egypt (Ex. 13:18)? Very puzzling. Puzzling until we begin to consider our own lives and how we get comfortable in our misery.

Why would God declare that He did not want Israel to go the way of the Philistines, lest they see war and want to return to Egypt, when the Torah portion is bookended with war at the sea and war with Amalek?

"And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt."
(Ex. 13:17)

And why would He take Israel the long way to the Promised Land instead of a shortcut? Did He have an established plan from the beginning (Ex. 3:12)?

"And he said, Certainly I will be with thee; and this shall be a token unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain."
(Ex. 3:12)

We learn that God provides a Comforter to His firstborn children that He never takes away (Ex. 13:21–22). And we find that His military leadership, which appears to be questionable at best, is actually genius when it comes to destroying the enemies of life that ensnare us in a slave reality. There is a time to pray and a time for action!

When we recognize that the journey of the Israelites—God's firstborn people—is the pattern for our 21st-century journey in Messiah (1 Cor. 9:24–10:12), we will begin to recognize the patterns of what to do and what not to do. Though there would be differing opinions on "details," a bottom-line question should arise in all of our hearts and minds: "Am I willing to follow the cloud?" And if you are, then ask yourself, "How can I stay consistent with my spiritual walk—in step with His movement?" (Ex. 40:36–37). Let me suggest keeping in the forefront of your mind that all of your words and actions are watched by an audience of One, while you are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, including the angelic realm.

It would solve the murmuring/"loon" problem that many have when it comes to the essentials of the faith—e.g., bitter circumstances, daily bread, essential water for the journey, etc.

The Torah portion for this coming week is Yitro (Ex. 18:1–20:23).

I have a challenge for you to prepare you for next Shabbat. Each day, read Exodus 19 and 1 Peter 1 & 2. See how Yahweh speaks to your heart and mind!

Happy first day of the week!

Shalom!
Alan