Text: Deuteronomy 8:1-5, 14-16
Memory Verse: “Who fed you in the wilderness with manna, which your fathers did not know, that He might humble you and that He might test you, to do you good in the end” (Deuteronomy 8:16).
A wilderness experience can be described as a time of unpleasantness, where, instead of prosperity, you experience trials and pressure. A time when your peace is assaulted by all kinds of negative emotions and thoughts, a situation where you wonder if God ever cared for you and if you will ever have the fulfilment of all the promises of God in your life, a period of crisis. Experiences during this period can include thirst and hunger, abandonment, a time when one’s voice may not be heard. It is a time of humbling experiences, a test from God to know what’s in your heart, a time of chastening by God etc. However, it is important to note that, even in the midst of it all, as a child of God, you will still experience and enjoy His faithfulness as the children of Israel did.
You may be tempted to prove who you are, and worship Mammon and other gods. This will happen to know what is in your heart, but it is important to seek to know and learn whatever lessons God wants you to learn during this wilderness period. Remember that the end result is to do you good like the Israelite, Joseph, David and others. Therefore, get equipped and prepare for the opportunity ahead. Beware of what you do during and with your wilderness experience. If you murmur and complain, you may just miss its benefits or even be destroyed.
Prayer Points:
1. Father, grant me an understanding of my wilderness experience.
2. Holy Spirit, please help me to learn the necessary lessons in my wilderness experience.