One lovely spring day, my brother and I were on a day trip, meandering along back country roads that followed the Columbia River, which divides the U.S. states of Oregon and Washington. On our route was a small, four-vehicle ferry crossing the river. After we boarded the ferry, it pulled away from the dock and then turned around in the middle of the river to back into the dock on the other side. I was still a novice at using my new GPS, so I was startled to hear the instructions that it squawked in response to this manoeuvre: "At the next legal opportunity, make a U-turn." My brother then growled in mock irritation, "Turn that thing off!"

Moses could have made good use of GPS — or even a good, basic atlas or map — when God directed him to lead the children of Israel from Egypt into the Promised Land. Moses didn't know the way through the wilderness, but God guided the people by providing a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. Moses was still unsure about the whole thing, however:

Exodus 33:12-14 – Moses said to the Lord, "You have been telling me, 'Lead these people,' but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, 'I know you by name and you have found favor with me.' If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people." The Lord replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." (NIV)

We do not have a pillar of cloud or fire to lead us today, but we who know and love God have both His Word, the Bible, and His Holy Spirit to lead and guide us each day of our lives. The same principle that applied to Moses applies to us: God knows us by name and promises to go with us.

Psalm 119:105 – Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. (NLT)

We might compare the Bible to a road map, for it is God's Word that gives us clear guidance for living a life that pleases Him.

John 14:26 – But the Father will send the Friend in my name to help you. The Friend is the Holy Spirit. He will teach you all things. He will remind you of everything I have said to you. (NIRV)

We don't have to navigate life on our own. Let's remember to call on what God has given us: His Word, the Bible, as our guidebook, and the indwelling Holy Spirit, Who provides guidance similar to an internal GPS.

Prayer: Dear Father, thank You for giving us the Bible and the Holy Spirit to direct and enable us to live a godly life. May we gladly and readily use these gifts that You have given us. Amen.

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About the author:

Gail Lundquist <gail10833@gmail.com>
Beaverton, Oregon, USA
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