“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.’ 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)
Sometimes, God chooses for us the longer path, not because He wants to inconvenience us or to delay our progress, but because of perils unseen, unknown, or unappreciated. In the case of the Israelites, they “went up out of Egypt ready for battle,” but they were in no way ready to take-on the mighty Philistines.
So, do not fret the fact that the path to your desired goal may be lengthened; or the fact that your many preparations may go untapped. However, be sure of your relationship with your heavenly Father and always trust in His all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful nature. These qualities benefit us when we walk with God. – Luther
