“Then it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, “Lest perhaps the people change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt.”

– Exodus 13:17 (NKJV)


If you determine, by yourself, the path for your journey, you’ll take the path that’ll get you to your destination the fastest, not the path for which you’re best prepared. God directs us along the path we’re best prepared for. Not the quickest or easiest path. This doesn’t mean the path won’t be easy, but neither ease nor speed are the priority. The chosen path is based on the preparedness (capacity) of the one being led (us). If you’re not prepared and you face opposition along the path that is seemingly easier than others, you’ll return to bondage (Egypt), which is worse than taking the longer path. It’s better to embark on a long journey to freedom than on a short journey to bondage. Sometimes, we’re not self-aware enough to see our shortcomings (philistines in the land). All we see is “this path is near”. This is the importance of following God every step of the way. He sees ahead and instructs us on the best way to go. (Ps. 32:8). We must rely and lean on God to discover the best pathway for our lives.