Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes.

~Proverbs 3:5-7a NKJV

When we are in a tough season like God’s people were in Exodus 13, and we’re separated from familiar comforts, we may get discouraged, but take heart.

When the journey is arduous, God in His goodness does not abandon us. He did not leave the Israelites in the wilderness, nor does He leave us there.

Day or night the Israelites were prepared to move when the pillar did. They were on a journey, but not yet at their destination. During their long wait, it may have been tempting to put down roots and settle in. But their focus needed to be on following the pillar. To resist following brought the risk of being alone in the darkness of the vast desert, without light.

So it can be in our lives.

We zealously receive God’s assignment, but then we shift our focus from Him to the assignment. We forget we are on a journey, and we settle into a routine. Consequentially, we become upset when the plan changes, leaving our project under-resourced and underutilized. This can leave us frustrated, resentful and shouting at the pillar to come back.

By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night.

~Exodus 13:21 NIV

Life withers when we persist in what worked in the past, in lieu of following God’s move. We too must follow the pillar. When seasons change, or when God’s grace for us in leading is being shifted to another, we must follow the peace He brings.

Beloved, is something withering? Has the pillar moved and you’ve lost sight of God? Is it time to catch fresh vision. Follow God’s lead.

Are you following your desires, or God’s?

Father God, I plunge my roots into Your life-giving presence. As I move with Your Spirit, may I release sorrow for what is left behind, and receive the challenge, promise and joy You provide in each new season. Help me to love You more than what strokes my ego or brings temporary fulfillment. Cause me to remember that each step away from the familiar, is a step closer to Your promised land. Lord, lead me. I will follow.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2021: Follow the Pillar: Julie Souza Bradley Lilly: All Rights Reserved