T he sermon Trust God’s Process: Two Unexpected and Amazing Reasons Why You Should begets the question: Have you ever wondered why life doesn’t always go the short, easy, straight way? And why does God sometimes take us through the long, difficult route instead?
Fortunately, Exodus 13:17-18 gives us a surprising answer. In God’s leading of Israel out of Egypt, He deliberately avoided the shortcut through Philistine territory and took them through the wilderness and the Red Sea.
”17 When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near. For God said, "Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt." 18 But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. And the people of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt equipped for battle.
Exodus 13:17-18 ESV
Trust God’s Process
Introduction
The road to destiny is rarely the straight, smooth one we imagine. More often, it’s unclear, winding, and difficult.
But the good news is that God has a purpose in this kind of road or process. Because this process is what sits between God’s promise and destiny for you. And there are at least two unexpected and amazing reasons why He may choose the long route for you.
1. To Keep War From You (Because War Is Bad for You)
If the Israelites had taken the shorter route, they would have faced the Philistines in battle. But they weren’t ready, even though they were equipped for battle. War at that stage would have crushed their courage and sent them running back to Egypt.
In the same way, God sometimes shields you from battles you are not ready for. He knows what would break you now, and He prepares you instead for future battles and victories.
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Later, Israel did face the Philistines and won.
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David faced lions and bears before Goliath.
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1 Corinthians 10:13 reminds us that God never allows us to face more than we can bear.
So if it feels like you’ve avoided a fight or a conflict, trust that God is protecting you until you’re strong enough. He withholds some battles now so you can conquer them later.
2. To Pass You Through the Wilderness (Because the Wilderness Is Good for You)
The wilderness wasn’t a mistake. It was God’s chosen route.
Deuteronomy 8:2-4 shows us that God used the wilderness to:
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Humble and test His people.
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Teach them dependence on Him.
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Show His provision — manna from heaven, clothes that didn’t wear out.
Wilderness seasons in life feel slow, unclear, and painful. But they are purposeful.
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Joseph endured betrayal, slavery, and prison before reaching the palace.
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Romans 5:3-5 says suffering produces endurance, character, and hope.
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James 1:2-4 says trials lead to maturity and completeness.
The wilderness is not wasted! It’s a training ground.
Trust God’s Process
The Bigger Picture
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 describes our present struggles as “light and momentary afflictions,” which are preparing us for eternal glory. The long route, the wilderness, and the delays are not punishments. They are part of God’s process to prepare you for your destiny.
So if you feel delayed, hidden, or stretched, embrace it. Trust God’s process. He knows the battles you’re not yet ready for and the growth you desperately need.
➡️ Watch the Full Video
This post is based on my sermon on 31st August 2025 at my local Church and posted on YouTube:
👉 https://youtu.be/Lw-zChv6bko
In the video, I unpack these two unexpected reasons in more depth and share encouragement for your own journey.
