Reign Check: The Roundabout Way
Read
'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 (NLT)
We often talk about waiting well on God…but sometimes the real assignment is to journey well with Him.
When God first chose to take the Israelites the “roundabout way through the wilderness,” the longer route wasn’t a punishment.
The dry place wasn’t a disruption.
He saw dangers they couldn’t see and hearts that still needed shaping.
He wasn’t fixated on when they’d receive the promise. He was more concerned about who they’d be upon arrival.
It was in the wilderness that the Israelites witnessed the power and love of God — through guidance, protection, discipline, and providence. Every moment, an invitation to respond with honor, faith, and obedience.
But the Israelites couldn’t see the good in a journey that:
tested their obedience
challenged their preferences
revealed their idolatry
exposed their weaknesses
and forced them to rely completely on a power they couldn’t see.
They complained. They rebelled. They preferred the comfort of their bondage over the discomfort of pursuing freedom.
And then, they arrived at the edge of their promise lacking the faith, courage, and character to take hold of it.
Maybe you’re here, too — between “not anymore” and “not yet.” Where it feels like everyone else is on the fast track. And the way forward seems longer than you imagined.
Remember: your “roundabout” route to your promise was designed for your good and God’s glory. But how you thrive there depends greatly on how well you steward here.
God’s not just there – the moment you finally receive what you’ve been waiting for – He’s here, too.
Refining is here.
Revelation is here.
Redemption is here.
Restoration is here.
Here is holy ground.
Don’t let the discomfort of being here make you forfeit the transformative power of being here with Him.
Release and Reclaim
Before we rise, we must release. Name the lies the enemy has tried to make you believe about this area of your life—and then speak back with truth. Here’s an example to help declare what you're releasing, and what you’re reclaiming through God’s Word.
Lie to Release
“This season is a waste of time.”
Truth to Reclaim
God is doing deep work in me right here, right now. (Phil. 1:6)
Reflect
Seasons of transition often surface both tension and invitation. Use the prompts below to gently explore where you are—and what God may be developing in you as you walk the “roundabout way.”
Gratitude list: Name 10 things you’re thankful for about your current season.
What are three areas of discontentment in this season that could shift if you focused on honoring God’s will and timing above your own?
In the words of Denzel Washington, declare to “leave here with something!” In what ways would you like to grow, heal, or prepare before stepping into your next season?
