Go The Right Way

Some things in life are hard to love, and one of those things for me is a roundabout. I am sure these are well thought out and make intersections quicker and safer, but all the same, I don’t’ like them. Is it my turn to go? Do I have the right away? Why is that guy mad at me? What exit did navigation say to take again? Maybe it is because I like a well determined path from point A to point B. But upon reflection, my path has never been clearly defined and definitely not straight. In fact, my path has included dead ends, detours and a wrong way in a one way. Maybe I could have benefited from a roundabout. How clear is the path in your faith journey? I know there are many times in my mind that I am following the straight road that is mapped out for my life. Truth be told I have no idea what path that is. Am I really listening to God’s direction? If I am truly following God’s directions, why does it feel like I am wondering in the wilderness? It reminds me of the Israelites journey in the wilderness. “When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, “If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea. Thus, the Israelites left Egypt like an army ready for battle.” Exodus 13:17-18.

God Guides My Path

There is a reason our paths are not clearly defined. God led the Israelites in a roundabout way for reason. He includes roundabouts in our path for a reason as well. It doesn’t necessarily mean it is because of sin and disobedience like the Israelites, but for strengthening of our relationship with Him. Other places in the Bible we learn about paths taken through a roundabout. Moses took the roundabout way to leading Israel, David took the roundabout way to becoming a king, Paul took the roundabout way to Rome, Jonah took the roundabout way to Nineveh. In each case God was guiding their path that would lead to a greater purpose. Moses learned steadfast obedience, David learned contrition, Paul learned patience, Jonah learned about forgiveness, all on the Roundabout Way. So, if you find yourself heading towards a roundabout, and are unsure of how to navigate it, you are not alone. There are many of us on the roundabout wondering what direction our life is going and what exit to take. But the good news is you and I are likely right where God wants us right now. Even though we might wonder what went wrong, or why we struggle to get on the right path, the lessons learned along the way is how God heals us in the roundabout way. Dear Lord, thank you for the path you have led us on, knowing you are preparing us as you did the Israelites, to be among the “army ready for battle.” Amen.