Divine Night Light

“They set out from Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the wilderness. The Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to lead them on their way during the day and in a pillar of fire to give them light at night, so that they could travel day or night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night never left its place in front of the people.” (Exodus 13:20-22 CSB)

What a great comfort it must have been to have this shekinah cloud of glory with them. It evidently glowed brightly in the daytime and looked fiery at night. Israel had a “divine night light.” The presence of the Almighty was visible, objective, tangible.

We need to remember that these people had grown up all their lives under slavery. They were used to somebody else telling them what to do. Their lives were difficult and distressed. When folks are in that position or frame of mind, leaders cannot just turn them loose and expect everything to be all right. Being the greatest Leader of all, God provided a means whereby the people would know which direction to go, and a means which would also provide great comfort and peace.

The cloud of glory always stayed in front of the people. God never abandons His people. His people do sometimes abandon Him. These same Israelites did exactly that not much further down the road in fact. But God never abandons people. He keeps His word and His commitments. One of the characteristics of our God is integrity, and we know we can count on Him.

The Presence of the Almighty is different for us now. We might at times wish we had His shekinah with us, but in reality we have something better. We have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. He provides us with guidance, and He provides peace and comfort in any situation. He never abandons us.

Lord, Remind us today of Your call to walk with the Spirit and keep step with the Spirit. Thank You for putting Your Spirit in us. Amen.