Today’s 333 Devotional: “God’s Detour”

Mathematics has proven that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. While this is true in math, it’s far from true in real life, especially in the way God deals with us. Often times, the shortest distance is an alternative route.

Take for instance these GPS devices; they give driving instructions on how to get from point A to point B.

These devices chart how to get somewhere based upon mileage, but unfortunately not always upon road conditions.

I remember going to men’s camp one year. The program charted a windy two-lane road. Now it may have been the shorter distance, but what it didn’t take into account were several slow-moving trucks and recreational vehicles. It would have been faster if I took the longer route, which was the freeway.

The Bible says that while a person may plan his or her own way, eventually it’s the Lord who directs their steps (Proverbs 16:9).

The Bible also says when we place our trust in God, not leaning upon our own understanding, but rather acknowledging Him in everything we do, then He’ll show us the way (Proverbs 3:4-5).

The prophet Isaiah aptly sets us straight by telling us that a difference exists between the way God thinks and our own thinking process.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9)

While we may think the way we are going is the better path to take, God’s way may be very different, so we need to plan on some detours along the way.

With God the shortest distance between two points is a detour, as He intentionally, knowingly, and purposefully takes us by alternative routes. But He also keeps and encourages us along the way, especially when it seems like we’re making little if any progress.