“When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, “If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea. Thus the Israelites left Egypt like an army ready for battle. Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for Joseph had made the sons of Israel swear to do this. He said, “God will certainly come to help you. When he does, you must take my bones with you from this place.” The Israelites left Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the wilderness. The Lord went ahead of them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by night. And the Lord did not remove the pillar of cloud or pillar of fire from its place in front of the people.”
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Exodus‬ ‭13‬:‭17‬-‭22‬ ‭NLT

The beauty of God’s character isn’t found in his mere providence but in the way that he provides. No better is this demonstrated than in his juxtaposed embodiment of a cloud and pillar of fire. The context is clear. The Israelites were now a nation, but they weren’t an organized people. They had lived in splendor too long and had lost their homeland in the process. They didn’t know how to get there with so many goods and frail passengers along the way. It was not only their birthright to return to Canaan, but it was God’s commitment to them. Freeing them wasn’t enough. He knew that the journey would require help, not just physically, but emotionally. So he chose two forms that would provide both things. Each would protect against the physical elements of day and night. The cold and dark would be offset by the heat and light of the pillar of flame. And the cloud by day would offset against the scorching heat and brightness. These things would also be constant reminders of providence. They didn’t merely say to Israel that God had brought them out and left them. They established his ongoing presence at all times. This is important while establishing trust of care. God understood proper attachment and human development. His providence is always, not what we need, but also how we need it.

God’s Provision: God’s character is demonstrated in how He provides, not just in what He provides.

Israelites’ Journey: The Israelites, after being freed, needed guidance and protection on their journey back to Canaan.

God’s Presence: God’s presence, manifested as a cloud and pillar of fire, provided protection, reminded them of His providence, and established trust.