In the Desert

There are a number of people across this country who have entered into a 40 day fast.  They are seeking out God’s direction in their lives as well as wanting to be involved in meeting needs of people.  There is even a group of people going across America in the Starving Jesus campaign to encourage people to be more involved in doing something for the Kingdom.

As I read stories of people going through these times of fasting, it would seem that it would be easier to do what Jesus did, go into the desert for 40 days to fast.  Our culture has become so food centered that it is difficult to focus on resisting the urge to eat.  People even think it is strange to fast for a meal let alone for 40 days.  How do you get a chance to focus when there is so much temptation all around to break your fast?  Go to the desert.


Yes, that does sound like a strange thing to say but if we could find that desert place, we would find the solitude that we need to reflect and focus on God.  You see, the desert is someplace we usually steer away from, and yet it is the place that God shows up the most.  Perhaps when we are feeling dried out and wondering where God is because we are so thirsty, He has brought us to the desert to see His goodness and His provision.

Moses led the people out of Egypt and they ended up wandering around in the desert because they didn't trust God.  It was in the desert that the people of Israel saw the goodness of God as their clothes did not wear out, they were fed each day, and God led the way for them every where they went.  It was in the desert that they found a cleansing. 

Sometimes we need a desert experience to know that God is taking care of us and that He is leading our lives.  Out of the desert, we emerge changed and more readily willing to let God take control of our lives in the land of plenty. 

When have you experienced a "desert" in your life?  What did you learn from that experience?

 

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