The whole Israelite community set out from the Desert of Sin, travelling from place to place as the Lord commanded. They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for the people to drink.

I can honestly say that I want all my movements to be ordered by the Lord. As I look back on the years since being in Bible College, I believe God took me to Southport, then led me to Lancaster, then to Leeds, and then to Boston Spa, where I have served for the majority of my years in Christian ministry. I’m grateful that I don’t look back with regrets or ‘What if’s?’ I’m sure the Divine Guide led me “from place to place.” This doesn’t mean it’s always been easy. At times it’s felt like a ‘wilderness.’ But I wouldn’t change my route through life because I believe it’s been ordained by God, and I’m profoundly grateful for the journey – right up to this point of coming to another ‘fork in the road.’

This passage, though, is primarily about a “community” of people, and so it causes us to think about the Lord’s leadership of His church. He does guide individuals, but He also directs the church of which He is the Lord.

But here’s the thing: in the walk of faith, we may well be led to places where our faith is tested. It’s not unusual. Remember, the children of Israel were not out of the will of God at “Rephidim”, but very much in it; and He was going to graciously prove Himself to them once again.