Day Six – Fire Connection
They moved on from Succoth and then camped at Etham at the edge of the wilderness. God went ahead of them in a Pillar of Cloud during the day to guide them on the way, and at night in a Pillar of Fire to give them light; thus they could travel both day and night. The Pillar of Cloud by day and the Pillar of Fire by night never left the people. Exodus 13:20-22
When God led his chosen people away from the Egyptian slaveholders, He protected them by sending a fiery column. This pillar of fire stood between His people and their enemies. As they traveled further toward their destiny in the Promised Land, God continued to send the pillar of fire.
Instead of protecting them from an imminent enemy as it did from the Egyptian army, however, the fire provided three things: 1) it guided them as they traveled through the dark of night, 2) it gave them light to live by, and 3) it reminded the people that He was with them.
God sends His fire to cleanse and purify, and in these verses He sends His fire to connect Himself with His people. The New Testament tells us that the Holy Spirit connects us to God’s family. For us today, the fire of the Holy Spirit serves to give wisdom, direction, and light to live by. When we are surrounded by darkness, or can’t find our way out of an unclear situation, the fire of His presence shows us the way out. And the kindled flame of God’s Spirit within is the Presence that reminds us “he will never leave us or forsake us.” If it is dark in some places where you are, ask God to send the fire of wisdom and direction.
Practice worship today by singing aloud to Him, even if it seems you are in a dark place. A common refrain as a result of God’s deliverance in the Old Testament was: “For the Lord is good, and His mercy endures forever.” Worship Him, and He will meet you.
All For Him – Rick
Rick's studies and devotionals 
Great insight! Yeah, we were on the island, too, and noted their process. Just didn’t put it into words. The most fragile work gets strengthened by fire when handled by the Master Artist! Thanks for visiting again. Ciao.
Thanks, Elise. Miss you guys, too. Hear that the first service at the new bldg. was good. So, ready for a couple week vacation with your favorite Italy missionaries?
BTW, the fifteen “Fire Proof” devos were our follow up focus to our staff retreat. We had fourteen adults there (up from 4 in January!) A really good, refreshing time for the team.
See you in July when we come through. Can we get some time with you both? You’ve both been on our hearts.
Rick
Thanks. Our Father knew I needed that. Miss you guys.
One of the things that impressed me during a visit to the Murano glass factories in Venizia, when the glass blower finishes a piece, he puts it back in the fire – something metal workers also do! The reason — it strengthens the piece! Interesting because it is the same for the seemingly already strong metal – and for the delicate beautiful glass – God uses fire to cleanse, purify, and even strengthen!
Bonnie(valentinoswife)