Led by the SpiritSample

Into the Unknown

The Lord replied, “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest — everything will be fine for you.” - Exodus 33:14

In his 1939 wartime Christmas speech, King George VI spoke to the anxious British Empire, encouraging its citizens with the poem “Gate of the Year” by Minnie Louise Haskins. In the poem, Haskins imagines standing at a gate leading into the new year and asking for a light to guide her. Instead of giving a light, the man standing at the gate urges her to “Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God.” She chooses to entrust herself to God, who leads her safely forward through the unknown.

Moses and the Israelites were heading into the unknown following their escape from Egypt. On the journey to the land God had promised, the people became impatient and worshiped a gold statue. Because of the nation’s rejection, God threatened not to continue accompanying them. Terrified at such a prospect, Moses cried out to God, “If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place” (Exodus 33:15). Because of Moses’ faith-filled plea, God agreed to continue accompanying them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, “so the whole family of Israel could see it . . . throughout all their journeys” (40:38).

When we face unknown futures, believers in Jesus don’t have to travel through life’s difficult journeys alone. One blessing that comes to us through Jesus is always having God’s Spirit with us. Each step of the way, God invites us to place our hand in His.

Lisa Samra

When have you faced an unknown path? How did you experience the Holy Spirit with you?

Heavenly Father, remind me that I am firmly secure in Your loving hand.