“Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.”
(Deuteronomy 8:2)
When we read the Word of God, we can see that the wilderness is not only an uncultivated, uninhabited, and inhospitable region, but it is also an inevitable place Christians to go through at certain moments in their lives and an ideal setting for God’s presence and provision to be displayed.
The wilderness is where you are when nothing seems to be working and you’re not sure how to fix it. This is where we are introduced to the huge contrasts of life and invited to dive into deep waters where there is no water. It is not a desirable, pleasant, and comfortable place to be. However, it sure is the spot where the faithful Yahweh speaks and responds to the needs of his chosen people with sustenance, making bitter water sweet and raining food from heaven.
Where He replaces approval and admiration with compassion and intimacy. Where you learn you’re not all that impressive, and you don’t need to be. It’s only you and your creator. The only one who knows you deep inside. A place where what matters is your heart, not your brains. Your feelings; not your good-looking appearance. It is the perfect place for God to show you who you really are, for you don’t know.
The wilderness reveals you don’t need much to live a balanced life. After going through it, your wishes change. Your thoughts change. Your attitudes change because you are not the same. You recognize all you have, all you do and all you are come from God. More than food, more than blessings or possessions, you want His presence. You end up understanding what being dependent on God means.
So, it’s worth going through all that because when you leave it, you feel joy in keeping His commands and obeying Him. But keep your eyes on Him, for you not to forget the Lord your God failing to observe His commands when you eat and are satisfied. Remember that your joy is in Christ who died and rose again to save you for himself — the one who is your life, your pleasure, your milk and honey, your everything.Prayer: Heavenly Father, I do want to keep in mind all you’ve done for me and to have a humble heart to follow your instructs at all times. Help me be sensitive to the voice of your Holy Spirit and obey His guidance. In Jesus’ name, amen.
