Circuitous

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My life has not been what I would call a ‘perfectly straight path’. There have been zigs and zags and loops back to points of starting over. How about you? But even in seasons that seem like I am repeating or sliding backwards in some way, God has imparted His Word, His will, and His wisdom that remains for the next season. Some people get discouraged if they are not ‘keeping up with the Joneses’, socially, financially, or relationally when really we should primarily be concerned with our relationship with God. He will allow us to journey on a circuitous path in order to bring about His redemptive plan. Jacob’s name means supplanter or could be understood as one who circumvents. When God gave him a vision in his old age that his family would move to Egypt (out of the promised land), it must have seemed like a major zig or zag. But notice, God calls him Jacob (not Israel = one who strives against God). Jacob obeyed understanding it was just a circuitous season that ultimately would allow the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham regarding the promised land! Don’t worry if you have to zig or zag today. He is still in control and faithful.

So Israel set out with all that he had, and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. God spoke to Israel in visions of the night and said, “Jacob, Jacob.” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you a great nation there. I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also surely bring you up again; and Joseph will [b]close your eyes.” 46:1-4 NASB

When have I seen God’s love and redemption when my ‘life plan’ has been seemingly off course? Have I learned to trust His voice when he calls me “Jacob” and wants to circumvent what I thought should happen?

God, as this day begins- I am grateful for the way You have led and guided me throughout my life. I can see moments when You redirected me for my own good and blessing or the redemptive work in the world. I cherish the people along on life’s journey, mostly my lovely wife, but also children and friends. Looking forward to the next zig or zag. Thank you for the seasons of ‘straight paths’!

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