Finding Strength in the Wilderness
As I sit in my home, surrounded by the same familiar walls, I feel a sense of monotony wash over me. The days blend together in a never-ending cycle of work, childcare, and news that seems to only bring despair. I’m exhausted, and my heart is tempted to grumble against the circumstances.
A Lesson from Israel’s Wilderness
I think back to the Israelites, who wandered in the desert for 40 years, facing the same barren landscape and struggling to survive. They had witnessed God’s mighty power, yet still complained against Him. I used to judge them, wondering how they could be so ungrateful. Now, I empathize. I’m reminded that even in the midst of a pandemic, I have comforts they could only dream of – a warm home, access to food and water, and the promise of God’s presence.
A Greater Promise
Exodus 15:17 reminds me that God promised Israel a land where they would be planted, dwelling alongside His temple presence. But as Christians, we have an even greater promise – a heavenly promised land where we’ll dwell in God’s glorious, immediate presence. Our journey to this promised land requires perseverance, sustained by the Bread of Life, Jesus, and rested in a hope that surpasses our current struggles.
Fixing Our Eyes on Heaven
If this season of hardship lifts our gaze to Heaven, strengthening our resolve and deepening our trust in God, then we’ll have reason to rejoice. I pray that God will forgive my grumbling heart, restore my hope, and nourish me with His presence. May I fix my eyes beyond the fleeting comforts of this world, to the glorious inheritance He’s given me through Jesus.
A Prayer for Perseverance
Heavenly Father, I confess my weariness and my tendency to grumble against You. Forgive me, restore my hope, and sustain me with Your presence. Fix my eyes on You and the inheritance You’ve given me through Jesus. Amen.
From Despair to Hope
How would our thoughts and actions change if we focused on the promise of Heaven, rather than our current circumstances? Would we find strength in the wilderness, and emerge stronger, more radiant, and more hopeful?
Leave a Reply