The “wilderness” is not typically a location many of us choose to venture into. We may like to go camping occasionally, or maybe for a weekend backpacking trip. Some of us have been on retreats or mission trips in remote places, and some of us might think sleeping in a Motel 6 is roughing it. The “wilderness” can conjure up many different images and experiences for all of us; some good, some not so good!

But what about those experiences or situations in our lives that leave us feeling empty, alone, scared, in shock, in disbelief? Or, those unexpected and uncomfortable moments that leave us wondering “why?” Oftentimes, like the women and men of the Bible, we question where God is or what He is doing, or whether He cares at all about our circumstances.

At some point, we will all discover that God is the One who leads us into the wilderness, and eventually through it. In the wilderness, God meets with us, speaks to us, encourages us, and challenges us to rely on Him and put our complete trust in Him. In the wilderness, God provides for us and reminds us of His promises and His power. In the wilderness, God prepares us for what’s next and strengthens us to persevere.

May these words from the prophet Isaiah give you hope in the midst of your “wilderness” wanderings… “The wilderness will become a fertile field, and the fertile field will yield bountiful crops. Justice will rule in the wilderness and righteousness in the fertile field. And this righteousness will bring peace. Yes, it will bring quietness and confidence forever. My people will live in safety, quietly at home. They will be at rest.” (Isaiah 32:15b-18)

In the wilderness, the Lord speaks to us, challenges us, provides for us, protects us, and prepares us for what’s next.