Desert times. Barren. Alone. Dry. Have you ever thought of God leading you into the desert? I've always thought I've wandered away myself down dusty roads and felt the deep loneliness of abandonment.
It almost makes me weep to read of God's purpose for the desert. He draws me away, by myself, to speak tenderly to me. How precious. The Lord desires to spend some one-on-one time without the distractions of daily living. The routine, schedules, busyness, family, friends are all blocking my view of Him, so He leads and escorts me to a place of nothingness so that I can refocus, listen and be loved upon. It's about relationship. Mine and His.
The word 'tenderly' is so beautiful. It means lovingly, being considerate and protective, characterized by gentle emotions. Can't you just feel God's arms around you as you rest in His embrace down this weary road?
The verse goes on to say that God will transform her Valley of Trouble into a gateway of hope. God will take whatever circumstance or situation that is breaking your heart and make it become an entrance of possibility. It is a door that opens to better things ahead. God takes a negative situation and uses it as an opportunity.
Desert dwelling has a purpose and a plan. My sandals have walked this road. Sometimes by choice. Sometimes by necessity. When I'm parched by the drought, Lord shower me with your living water that brings cool refreshment. May I surrender to its walk and may Your Son always be the greatest blessing in this arid, lifeless land.
2 comments:
Encouraged to not waste a moment of time in His presence!
In many ways, I feel I'm in that place right now. Just today while driving home from the mountains, Billy and I were talking about a great many things going on in my heart and life right now. I told him I had a choice to make regarding one particularly difficult situation--I could either get bitter and mad and stomp my feet in retreat, or I could bow to the teaching. Doing so, will require a desert walk of sorts for the next little while.
Either way, the situation cannot be avoided; only prolonged in terms of my acceptance.
I've decided to bow and to allow myself all of the emotions tied into it and see what God might have for me.
Such a timely reminder, Joy. Thanks for all you are. I hope you are well. Would love to call sometime. Let me know when you'll be home.
peace~elaine
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