Waiting for Clouds to Lift

"Now whenever the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle, the people of Israel would set out on their journey, following it. But if the cloud did not rise, they remained where they were until it lifted." Exodus 40:36-37

Guidance. Direction. We all seek it continually. What to do. Where to go. Is this the path to follow? Which choice is best? When should I make the move?

The Israelites seemed to have it "made in the shade". A cloud remained or rose indicating not only rate of movement, but route. There was no guesswork or uncertainty. The Israelites could move with assurance that they were following in obedience to the Lord. Their cloudy vision gave clarity.

Do you long for such obvious direction? Does your heart desire the assurance of knowing it is impossible to miss God's plan for you? I know I can sometimes feel almost envious of such precision of purpose. Yet, God, in His word, promises to guide us. Isaiah 58:1 begins, "The LORD will guide you always..." Our problem is more the "how". How Lord, how are You going to do it? And when? We listen to sermons, read books, tune in to podcasts but God acts beyond blueprints. Although He is the same yesterday, today and forever, He cannot be predicted. He comes to us in unexpected ways at unexpected times.

If we take a closer look at the verses above, yes God led His people, but they still also had the element of surprise. The Lord never allowed them to make His guidance into a formula. They didn't know when or where the cloud would move, but they trusted its timing and followed its leading.

Chris Tiegreen writes, "God is intensely relational, but principles aren't. In order to follow Him, His people must always watch Him attentively." 

Are you watching God? Is He your focus? The Lord longs for relationship. The way to more deeply know, trust, and love Him is time invested gazing at Him. When unknowns fill our life, our answers are found in Christ. In drawing near, seeking the Lord and spending time with Him, He leads us as our eyes remain fixed on Him.

What to do in the middle of watching and waiting? Rest and rejoice. Calm your heart in the confidence that God will come. Although you may feel surrounded by a cloud of confusion, it will lift and move at the Lord's command and you can celebrate His presence with you today and be thankful.