Parting The Red Sea

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

This story of God delivering His people from the oppressive Egyptians is very encouraging. God gave Moses instructions, and the Israelites followed Moses the long way around via a desert road toward the Red Sea!

I have a quirky attraction to this passage because I have my own Red Sea parting in the back of my scalp, created by a very determined cowlick! When Kali was younger, I’d frequently ask her, “Is my Red Sea showing?” Every hairdresser I went to heard the same mantra: “Will you please cut my hair to hide the Red Sea?”

Like my own Red Sea, this passage can be a visual reminder to us that we can trust God’s route, whatever it is. Maybe we feel as if we are on a desert road heading toward the unknown, or maybe we’ve reached the Red Sea, and we are trapped in front of extremely rough waters with no place to go.

Rest assured that God always sees what is ahead. For Moses and the Israelites, there was a shorter route out of Egypt, but it meant they would have to travel through enemy territory. God directed them to the desert for their protection. The shorter, easier way is not always better for us, either. If we belong to God and desire His direction, we can be sure no matter what His route, He is guiding us safely toward His best for us!

Only God can part the Red Sea and lead us on the right route, roundabout or not. If you are struggling with an important decision, ask Him to show you the next faith step He wants you to take. Even if you can’t see what’s ahead, He can.