21 Yahweh went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, to lead them on their way, and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light, that they might go by day and by night:

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Exodus 13:21

Commentary on Exodus 13:21-22

(Read Exodus 13:21-22)

The Lord went before them in a pillar, or appearance of the Divine Majesty. Christ was with the church in the wilderness, John 14:6.