The Lighted Path

God always provides the signs we need to navigate our path. In Matthew 2:2, 9-11, the Wise Men followed a star to find the Christ child. That was their sign. Shepherds received a different one—a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. God’s guidance is always tailored to what we’re ready to see. Think about it: if the Wise Men, likely pagan astrologers, could recognize their deep need for worship and bow down before Jesus, what does that say about our own need to follow?

In Exodus 13:17-22, God leads His people with a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night. This wasn’t just about direction; it was about presence. The cloud and fire assured the Israelites that they were not alone, even when the journey took longer than expected. Sometimes God’s path for us isn’t the fastest, but it’s the safest. He sees what we can’t and steers us clear of dangers we’d never anticipate. Trust His timing. Delight in His presence.

Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Notice the word “my.” God’s Word speaks personally to you, with a power that never fades or expires. It’s as fresh and relevant today as it was when first written. Think of it as a love letter from God—always arriving right on time.

Light in Your Darkness

Life is full of dark moments. Even when we think we know the way, we often stumble. I’ll never forget the story of my grandfather navigating his own house in the dark, only to be stopped short by an open door he didn’t expect. That’s life, isn’t it? Just when we think we’ve got it figured out, something knocks us off course.

The truth is, Jesus never leaves us without light. His presence is always there, guiding us through the night. So why does it sometimes feel like His light isn’t enough? Often, it’s because we’re not following. Jesus is our full-time guide, but we’re part-time followers. The problem isn’t His leading; it’s our willingness to trust and obey.

The Israelites followed the cloud and fire wherever it went, trusting God to lead them. That’s what He asks of us—to follow wherever He leads, to do what He says, even when it’s hard. When we trust His light, we’re never truly lost.

Trusting the Fire

Here’s the challenge: if Jesus is leading, you’re not in charge anymore. Your money? It’s His. Your ego? His agenda takes priority. Your words? They’re meant to reflect His truth and love. Following Jesus means surrendering control and trusting His light to guide you through every decision, every moment.

So, put Jesus back at the front of your life. Let Him be your guide. Trust His light, His voice, and His presence. He will lead you—you just need to follow.

By Pastor Tim