Believe it or not, I have had my share of wilderness experiences. The wilderness can be a difficult place. You physically see no end in sight. There are times it seems unbearable. Think about the Isrealites. An 11 day trip took 40 years!!! At some point they would have rather been back in Egypt than go through the wilderness process. How often do we get frustrated, and want to go back to a certain point in our life due to hard times and frustrations? Or do you wish you could fast-forward past the process so the pain can end? I know that feeling all too well.
Those hard times shaped me into who I am today. I am not a finished process, but I thank God I am farther than I was some years ago. As I look back, my wilderness experiences were worth it. 1 Peter 4:12, says, “Think it not strange concerning the fiery trials which is to try you as though some strange thing has happened to you.” Sometimes we feel alone, like we are the only one going through hard times. This is why we must be mindful of who we surround ourselves with. There is no time for negativity or evil reports.
During this time, we can be vulnerable, and our guards are down. Remember, the enemy prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. (1Peter 5:8) God was all I had. I was broken emotionally, and I felt alone. The Holy Spirit was my comforter. I cried till I couldn’t cry anymore. I was angry, hurt, betrayed, and disappointed to name a few. He turned all of that around! My favorite scripture is Roman’s 8:28, “For we know all things work for the good of those who love the Lord and are the called according to his purposes.” This scripture was true for me. He turned around!
I’ve been attacked in my faith in more than one area. My marriage, identity, divorce, business, jobs, and finances. All it did was make my faith stronger, and build me up spiritually! Trails are difficult, but we can’t give up! We have no idea of the glory on the other side! Many have no made it through what we been through! Count it all joy when we go through various trials. (James 1:2) Fasting and prayer is the key! Digging in his word, and seeking his face is vital. We should not only seek him during hard times. Praise and worship music is a blessing also.
Are you in the wilderness? Does it seem like it will never end? Have others around you discouraged you? Trust God that he will bring you through, and you won’t smell like smoke! I look back on it all and know God was with me! I am amazed at how he strengthened me. Some had no idea I was going through.
Father in Jesus name, this process I am in is difficult. You know all about adversity, and warfare. Your words says the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds. (2 Corinthians 10:4) I thank you that to everything there is a season! I ask that you strengthen me, and guide me through this process. I know I will, come out stronger and closer to you! You know that I am able to handle this process. In Jesus name, Amen!
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