Gems of Knowledge

Today’s One Year Bible Verses: Exodus 13:17-15:18, Matthew 21:23-46, Psalm 26:1-22, Proverbs 6:16-19

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He Is Our Cloud and Fire

In Exodus 13:18, Scripture tells us that God did not lead Israel through the land of the Philistines, even though it was the shortest route. He knew that if they faced battle too soon, they might lose heart and return to Egypt. The land ahead was filled with giants. The people were newly freed, still healing from bondage, and still learning how to walk with God. A battle at that moment could have driven them right back into the arms of their former captors out of fear.

So in His love, God chose another way.

He went before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. He never removed it. He guided them. He protected them. He stayed with them every step of the journey.

Yet even with this divine covering, fear rose up when Pharaoh’s army approached. Trapped between the sea and the enemy, the people panicked. But Moses spoke faith into their fear: “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today… The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”

Then God spoke again.

“Why are you crying out to Me? Tell the people to keep moving! Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea.”

In other words, trust Me—and take the next step.

Moses obeyed. The sea parted. The people crossed on dry ground. And the very waters that made a way for them became the place where their enemy was defeated.

God was teaching them that faith is not passive. Yes, we are called to stand firm. Yes, we are called to trust Him fully. But we are also called to move forward in obedience. Fear tells us to freeze or retreat. Faith tells us to walk.

As believers, we will face moments when the road looks impossible. We will feel surrounded. We will wonder how God will make a way. In those moments, we must remember that the same God who led Israel leads us today.

We have the Holy Spirit as our guide and protector. He goes before us to lead us and behind us to guard us. He is our covering in the heat of the day and our light in the darkness of night.

We belong to God. We have been bought and paid for by the blood of Jesus. No enemy, no circumstance, and no fear can take us from His hand.

We are His.

And He loves us. Never forget. 💎

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Action (5 Minutes with God)

Think about an area in your life where fear has made you hesitate, doubt, or want to turn back. Bring it before the Lord in prayer. Ask Him for courage to trust Him and wisdom to take the next step in obedience. Today, choose one small act of faith—one step forward—that says, “Lord, I trust You.”

Step forward today by taking 5 minutes to be with the Lord. Ask Him:

• “What do You want me to know about this today, Lord?”
  • Journal what He whispers by His Holy Spirit.
• Then ask, “What do You want me to do?”
  • Journal what He whispers – then say, “Lord, I trust you.” and do it!

Let today be a day He not only covers and protects you, but gives you the courage to step forward in faith so He can show you His miracles!

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Prayer

Lord, thank You for going before me and surrounding me with Your presence. When I feel afraid, remind me that You are fighting for me. Help me to stand firm in faith and move forward in obedience. Teach me to trust You even when I cannot see the way. I choose to follow You with confidence, knowing that I belong to You and that You love me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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