Craig T. Owens

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Now when Pharaoh had let the people go, God did not lead them by the way of the land of the Philistines, even though it was near; for God said, “The people might change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt.” (Exodus 13:17 NASB)

The age-old maxim has been, “The shortest distance between two points is a straight line.” It might be the shortest route, but not necessarily the best route. 

God always knows the best path for us. This is what David means when he says to his Good Shepherd, “You guide me in paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake“ (Psalm 23:3). This is also what Solomon means when he tells us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight“ (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Our idea of “straight“ isn’t necessarily the best for us. God can see better and farther than we ever can, so we need to always trust His guidance. 

He will speak to us, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a Voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it’“ (Isaiah 30:21). 

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