Tuesday 2nd January 2024
Let God lead the way, woman
Scripture Reading: Exodus 13:17-22
And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so as to go by day and night. (Exodus 13:21)
We find ourselves in a new year, aptly named ‘new’ because it is yet to be experienced. To make the most of this year, we need to let the Lord take the lead as we follow Him.
This reflects how God guided Israel after their departure from Egypt. The Lord paved the way, and the people followed closely.
Today’s passage illustrates how the Lord directed Israel through the wilderness, appearing as a pillar, both day and night. This was one pillar that served two purposes, providing guidance in different forms at different times.
During the day, it took the shape of a cloud, guiding them with clarity and light. Daytime represents clarity—when God’s Word is explicit regarding our circumstances, revealing His general will. When we receive clear guidance from Scripture, we should obey it.
If God has already illuminated a situation for us, there’s no need for further enlightenment; we simply need to act. There are many aspects of our lives where God’s will is clearly expressed in the Bible—examples include the prohibition of sins like adultery, stealing, lying, and killing, as well as the importance of prayer, Bible study, worship, and financial giving.
In these matters, we need not pray for direction; rather, we must obey the light already provided. Remember that the cloud serves to guide, not illuminate; it signals us to move forward in obedience to God’s revealed will.
At night, however, the pillar of fire illuminated their path. Nighttime represents the moments when clarity is lacking, and the will of God seems uncertain. Each of us faces decisions that don’t have explicit Scriptural guidance, such as whether to accept a job offer, whom to marry, or when to take specific actions.
In times like these, where direct answers aren’t available, it is essential to seek clarity through prayer. We should turn to the Lord and ask for His guidance through the Holy Spirit. To thrive in this new year, we must listen to the Holy Spirit, our guide for the journey ahead. He understands the route we should travel and the steps we should take.
The Holy Spirit acts as our pillar of fire at night, illuminating our way through the darkness.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, guide me both day and night throughout this year. Let Your Holy Spirit lead me, in Jesus’ Name.