We’ve heard the story…God led his people through the wilderness for forty years by a pillar of cloud during the day, and a pillar of fire at night.

The cloud provided shade and protective cover. The fire provided heat and light. Both provided direction. Those physical manifestations were signs to the Israelites that God’s Shekinah Glory, his very presence, was with them. When the cloud moved, the people moved. When the cloud stayed put, the people stayed put.

Many a time I’ve prayed for God to lead me by his cloud and fire. Don’t leave it up to me. I’ll get lost, or stay put too long, or move too quickly. Ever feel like that?

The good news is although we may not see a pillar of cloud or fire, God still provides direction. He still provides light, shade, protection and heat as needed.

When we feel surrounded by darkness he is with us showing the way. We are told Jesus is the Light in whom there is no darkness. Because God is not bound by time, he has already gone before us and shed light on our path.

When we are weary and worn out Jesus invites us to rest in the shade of his love. He wants us to turn over our cares, because he cares for us.

When our world seems cold and hopeless the fire of Christ’s love can warm us. He is the one who protects and gives hope.

The thing with the cloud and fire is this…when they moved, the people moved. When they stopped, the people stopped. If the people decided not to follow where the pillars led, or struck out on their own, they’d be lost. They’d end up separated from God. They’d die.

In our journey today those of us who claim Jesus as our Lord have the Holy Spirit as our pillar to guide us. He won’t force us to follow. It’s up to us to move when he tells us to move, and stay put when he tells us to stay put.

How has Jesus’ pillar of cloud and pillar of fire helped you through your wilderness wanderings?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on the subject. Leave a comment below. If you think others would appreciate reading this, please share it through the social media buttons.

During the day the Lord went in front of them in a pillar of cloud to show them the way, and during the night he went in front of them in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel night and day. Exodus 13:21 (GNT)

I wish you well.

Sandy

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