Day 6

January 15 // Kyle Hearn

Exodus 13:21-22 “And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people.” 

I remember walking through a forest at science camp with other students trying to have our eyes adjust to the night darkness. Hoping the light from the stars would be enough to guide us. We could see a little in front of us, but without our flashlights we still easily tripped over rocks and roots. There was a lack of clarity because a lack of guidance. 

In today’s passage, Israel was vulnerable to so many enemies and temptations. So, God went before them in this supernatural way of fire and clouds! But we have to realize that God’s guidance and presence comes in many different forms. I wish God’s guidance was this clear today, but instead it is unclear at times. God’s guidance HAS to be sought out. His presence HAS to be discovered. There is no guidance without the presence. 

God’s Word is our guide. We no longer need fire and clouds to guide us. 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” Psalm 119:105

Where do you feel you are walking in darkness? How has God guided you before? 

We cannot be guided by God if we are not present with God. If you feel you are walking in darkness, danger, or uncertainty, go back to following Jesus’ way. Jesus is our guide. He went before us just like God went before Israel in fire and clouds. When your life and your faith become unclear, look back to God’s word and re-learn the way of Jesus. I promise you will find all the guidance you need. For Jesus himself tells us, “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” -John 8:12

Pray to God today.

God, I’ve walked in darkness too long. Sometimes I look for signs to be my guide instead of  Jesus. For that, I repent. I want to live in your presence. Jesus, be my guide, show me your way, and remind me of your grace when I stumble. Thank you for being my guide, my light, and my God. Guide me today and this week, to see as clearly as you see.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.