DAY 9

“The LORD went ahead of them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by night.” Exodus 13:21 NLT

The first time I heard this verse was when my old pastors were returning to California. I’d only been a Christian for 4 years and they were the only pastors I’d known. I was anxious, sad, angry, and uncertain. I didn’t know whether to stay or find a new church. However, earlier that same morning, I’d heard a preaching from a guest pastor, Pastor Stephen, highlighting this verse. This verse and the message couldn’t have been more timely. I spent a lot of time praying on the decisions that were before me and I kept coming back to this verse and the message. Through that, I knew that God was guiding me and that my future was at the Graceplace.

The Israelites didn’t just walk around and hope God was going to bring them to their destination. They had to actively follow him, focusing on the pillars of fire and cloud to get to their destination. Just as the Israelites did, we need to do the same. What I mean by that is that we too need to focus on God to get to our destination. For me, when my old pastors told me they were leaving, that meant dedicated time for prayer. For you, it might be listening to worship music, serving in the church, reading the Bible, etc. — whatever has you focusing on God during a tumultuous time in your life. The Israelites left the only place they’d known to wander the desert and find their new home. Being slaves was bad but wandering in a desert still wasn’t good. Yet they continued to focus on God who ultimately led them where they had to go. Even in the bad times you need to focus on God, only then will you arrive at your destination.

I challenge you over this fast and this year to remain fully focused to God no matter what you’re going through, no matter how lost you might feel. When you focus on the Lord, you will arrive at your destination.