Moses and Exodus 30

Moses and the Israelites were leaving Egypt and heading for Mt. Sinai, which is the beginning of their wilderness experience. They were introduced to the "pillar of cloud" and the "pillar of fire" for the first time. What was the function of these "pillars" beyond guidance and direction? For that matter, why was the "wilderness experience" necessary at all? We will also see how some of the plagues of Egypt will reappear during the Great Tribulation of Revelation and how that day will be similar to the days of God's people in Egypt.